To: Hailey Chittick

This Thanksgiving I wanted to let you know how thankful I am for you and your consistent efforts to serve Northwest Gold Star Families. Your emails are always so helpful and informative. It's because of your emails that I'll be running my first marathon, next Sunday, in memory of my brother (Ryley Gallinger-Long) as part of the San Antonio Rock N'Roll Marathon. All of my coaching, my running gear, my travel, my race fees, and my hotel are being paid for by the Wear Blue: Run to Remember program...which you told me about! For the last three months I've been training diligently and the big day is nearly here! When I cross that finish line after 26.2 miles in memory of my brother, please know that you had a part in that! ??

Furthermore, I learned (from another email of yours) that I can help rebuild homes in Puerto Rico in January as part of the Travis Manion Foundation. And...I recently received news that I have been accepted into this program as well. I'll be flying out in about 7 weeks to serve alongside other gold star family members as we help people in need. This is yet another opportunity I would not know about if not for your consistent work and dedication! Thank you for all that you do! Your work is making a difference in my life and the lives of many others.