Sunday, March 15, 2009



Kelley has been spending more time in her leg braces, as you can see in the picture. But the last couple months have also been preoccupied with her fathers failing health. After visiting him for a week several weeks ago, he passed away last Sunday from cancer. She went back up to Montana to try and see him before he went, and has spent the last week with her Mom. We also just found out a good friend of both of ours has also passed away from a very aggressive cancer. A very sad time.

I would also like to let everyone know about a river trip that is planned this year as a fundraiser for Kelley, through Canyon REO, on the San Juan River. We had a very successful fundrasing trip last year with OARs, and Donnie wants his shot at contributing too. However the focus of this years trip will be different. For one thing Kelley is going to make every effort to go, accompanied by her Mom and a family friend, and hopefully Kurt and Sean. So besides doing a trip with Kelley and her loved ones, we are going to make the focus of this trip, a parent trip, for those of us who are realizing we may not have much time left to do this kind of cool thing with our parents. The San Juan, for those who don't know, is a beautiful and mellow southwestern river canyon. The launch date is June 16th, with 3, 4 and 7 day options, the price is $800, and Donnie is donating all profit to Kelleys fund. If you would like more information about the river, please google the Canyon REO website. If you are interested in signing up for the trip, just email me (susannorman@att.net) , and I will send you the waiver forms, and deposit invoice needed to get you started. We are looking for a $250 deposit by mid April. Remember to tell those you love, that you do.... Love, Sue

3 comments:

MEF said...

Kelley, my heart is with you during this sad time. I am glad to hear you made the trips to visit your dad. The struggle was worth it. It was good for your dad to see that you are rising above all these physical limits and doing the things that are important to you. As always you are in my heart, Mary Ellen

Tara B Sweeney said...

Kelly,
You are one of the strongest women that I both admire and respect. I paddled one of the greatest races with you ever in my lifetime. I recently was in email contact with Sue Norman. In an Irish Spirit, we say fly swiftly and the angels will lighten the journey.
Tara Sweeney

Heather Brooks Freer said...

Kelley,
So, so sorry to hear about your dad.
The pictures on the webpage are amazing! So glad to hear of the progress. Lotus/Coloma is beautiful right now, it'd be even more beautiful if you were here! We think of you often and send you love & strength constantly!
Heather Freer