APRIL 6, 2006

Dear Friends,

Worth a risk? I'm sitting in my living room listening to Aretha Franklin's rendition of "Amazing Grace" and at the same time hearing in my head my own fears that this small but mighty ministry of REACH cannot sustain itself. Obstacles pile up against our efforts to create a good and safe path for families exhausted, and often ostracized, by the demands of terminal illness.

I listen and am bombarded by thoughts of the many children who have come and gone from the family of REACH. Then, I see her, Rebecca, a child of sixteen whose smile so large and eyes so brilliant always commanded my attention. Rebecca, who after losing a breast to AIDS related cancer, locked those eyes on me and asked for words of hope. Rebecca, who succumbed to AIDS after a brutal fight for life. I think of the grace she received through this small and mighty ministry.

I see eighteen-year-old Christopher and remember feeling his thin long arms wrapped around me as I lay in his bed, my head against his chest, waiting together for him to take his final breath. He followed his mother, Barbara, who in caring for him had herself contracted AIDS. I see the small, severely swollen body of Alicia; I see her strong smile conquering imminent death. I hear the words of grace and I remember all those who have passed: children, fathers, mothers and I hear the sorrow of those they leave and the brokenness the living feel.

The work of REACH is paramount in the Northwest, offering comfort, hope, mentoring and education; bringing the reality of God's loving kindness and justice to individual lives, and forever establishing treasured relationships.

Worth a risk? Honestly? This past week I thought not. That is, the financial risk seemed overwhelming. Money remains the massive obstacle in our path. But, my underlying faith challenges me. Good is always worth risk and more importantly, good is what Jesus requires of us, it is a prevailing theme of scripture, "do justice . . . love kindness . . . walk humbly with your God." Micah 6:8.

So I risk boldness. Please continue to sustain this ministry of REACH, it is a worthy investment. Our present goal is this: to raise $100,000 within eight months. In fact, we urge you to commit to sharing the story and needs of REACH with two or three people you know who might join in our support. Amazing, what the touch of grace can do for people and we are so privileged to extend it. Join us.

Blessings my friends,

Susan K. Slonaker