CHRIS AND THE NEW YORK MARATION

Nephew Chris is training to run the New York City Marathon in November. He is taking this on as a fund raiser for ALS, the disease that claimed his mother's life last May. Anyone interested in reading Chris' tribute to his mother (Martha Spreitler Boaz) or in contributing, please visit crowdrise.com, enter Spreitler in the search field. You might consider also sharing on Facebook.

Chris is dedicated to his training and just recently completed a half marathon in St. Louis.

UPDATE FROM STEPHANIE SCHMITT nee' Abbott

Niece Stephanie, daughter of Margaret and Norman Abbott, sent a short update on her health issue for posting here:

"I had my 4 month check up today.  I developed some new lumps in the muscles and the lymph glands, so the doctor ordered a CT/PET scan to take a look yesterday.  I got the results of the scan today as well. Looks like they are simply lumps and bumps...the scan showed no cancer activity in them!!! Praise God! I don't have to go back for another 6 months AND they are going to take out my port!!! Hallelujah!

Thank you all for your support and prayers the last 16 months.  They have meant the world to Dan and me, and at times were the only thing that kept us going.  May God bless each and every one of you as abundantly as you have blessed us!"

This is wonderful news, and we celebrate Stephanie's victory with her!