LOVE IN ACTION

Life is full. Life is busy. Life is complex. Nobody has a whole lot of time these days.

When the recovery from an illness is a long-standing fight, friends often are at a loss as to what they can do. When the need is great, friends often feel ill-equipped to come alongside and support.

I know it's hard to know how to help or what to do; and you know what? It's hard for the Goertzens to ask for it! But that is where Partners in Lyme can help.

HERE'S SOME SIMPLE WAYS THAT YOU CAN PUT YOUR LOVE IN ACTION:

• If you have an established relationship with the Goertzens, why not take one of the kids out for ice cream or coffee or a special activity? Living and battling with Lyme is all consuming. At the end of the day, there is little energy left to do fun things and they are hard pressed for funds to involve the kids in extra-curricular activities. The boys don't have a lot of energy to burn but their little sister does! And she would revel (and needs) a little extra attention.

• Are you a spur of the moment person? So are the Goertzens! Life with Lyme is so unpredictable that it is often hard to plan ahead. You don't need to plan it or ask them if you could help, just show up. Do the dishes. Throw in a load of laundry. Drop off a dinner or drop in for a visit.

• Babysit so mom and dad can take a break. The kids don't bite! I promise! 

• Got a car, mini van, hot rod or motorbike and like to drive? Offer to be a chauffeur extraordinaire! The Goertzen's are a one vehicle family and sometimes Shannon is too ill to drive herself or the kids to their multiple medical appointments.

• Drop them a line. A card. A phone call. Help them stay connected. Living with Lyme is isolates and restrictive. Don't be afraid your call will bug or disturb them. After all, if their not up to talking, that is what answering machines are for.

• Pick up some extra fruit or vegetables during your own shopping trip and drop them off. The kids favorites are honey dew, cantaloupe, grapes, carrots, peppers, and celery. And okay, just so you don't think they are completely abnormal, they also love Lays Plain Potato chips, Miss Vickies Jalapeno chips and Mozza Cheese strings.

HERE'S SOME OTHER WAYS:

• GIFT CARDS for groceries
• DONATE through pay pal
• FUNDRAISING

WISH LIST

• A HYPOALLERGENIC DOG
• PIANO LESSONS
• BALLET LESSONS
• A JUICER

  

 Anything helps. A simple thing is NOT too little. 
By partnering together through prayer and practical helps we can make a difference