Dear Editor,

There is no more perfect time of year to give thanks! St. Mary Catholic Parish in Shadyside recently held a fundraiser for Camden Brown of Powhatan. This 21-year-old young man was recently diagnosed with Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy, which is a rare disorder causing complete vision loss in young males. It was quickly decided that this young man could greatly benefit from our help.Sfter a few meetings of interested people, it was decided that a pasta fundraiser would be held. Many individuals in the communities of Powhatan, Shadyside and Bellaire immediately came forth and worked tirelessly to make this fundraiser a success.

It would be impossible to than the companies, the schools, the businesses, the restaurants, the establishments who offered their services. Many gift cards were requested and received. As important as the large institutions were, many more individuals also became involved. The (Shadyside) head football coach Mike Kernik scheduled his team to help during the event. They helped so much with the cleanup and other tasks. Dom DeFelice and his dedicated crew offered their time and resources. A drive-through was set up for people who could not easily come in but wanted to order dinners. None of this could have been a success without every single person who worked before, during and after. The huge number and variety of baked goods were brought to the fundraiser without even requesting them. There were many who donated baskets and auction items that were beautiful. We also had a generous anonymous donor of two authentic Steeler jerseys. Because of the generous donations, Camden was able to benefit greatly to help with his heath expenses and transportation.

There is no better place to live than our Ohio Valley. I thank every one of you from the bottom of my heart!

Janey Ruskowski

Shadyside