CZC Camper Mom Runs & Reflects

When I first found out about CZC forming a team for the Disney Marathon, I didn't hesitate the least bit. I knew I had to be a part of it! CZC has meant so much to my children and I over the years, that I would do anything I could to help them, help others, like us.

When I found myself widowed with two young children, CZC knew how to help me take care of my children's needs. They gave them comfort by letting them experience the camp with other kids just like them. My children could tangibly see that they were not alone in their grief experiences. As a mother, you want to do all you can for your children to provide them with love, understanding, compassion, comfort, security, and guidance through the difficult times in life. Unfortunately, for a grieving child, innocence is lost by the very experience of lossing a parent or sibiling. The world becomes darker, scarier, and uncertain. 

The love, support, guidance and security, that Comfort Zone Camp provided for my children is immeasurable. I will be forever greatful to the people who give their time. energy and efforts to provide a safe place for children to grieve..AND have the fun experiences associated with attending camp.

I am NOT an athlete by any means. My training was often very interrupted and not nearly as stringent as it should have been. (In fact, part of my "training" included eating a Reeses Peanut Butter Cup before bed, the night before the race!) I also suffer from my own health issues, but nothing was going to stop me from participating in such a wonderful way to raise funds and awareness for CZC. I am blessed by the mere fact that I am alive! I walked 13.1 miles in honor of my beautiful children, Caroline and Thomas, and in memory of my husband, and their father, Greg. His time here on Earth was far too short. I walked because he could not. I do know though, that he carried me through this amazing experience!(Something I did not tell the team...Greg and I were engaged at the Magic Kingdom! What a fitting place to honor him)

I crossed the finish line on the wings of many Angels in Heaven and on Earth! I think ALL those who give of themselves to CZC are Angels on Earth! God Bless you all. As a camper parent...Thank You. 

With deepest appreciation, Kelly Hart-Thames