Footprints

With the 5k just around the corner, we're all in high gear with planning/managing the race. I like being in this mode because it deflects those helpless feelings of anguish and sorrow for Kieron. The website is nearly done and will be up and live by tomorrow. All the elements of the race are falling into place and I'm looking forward to another weekend where Kieron's loved ones, friends and supporters can gather and share about Kieron and the disease.

Sometimes I'm overwhelmed by the showing of support and generosity for this cause. I've been thinking about a particular gesture by a friend this week that exemplifies this type of kindness and care.

Brad Strenger and I have played together in basketball and softball leagues in and around Frisco for the last three or four years. This past weekend I was telling him about the 5k and the post-party at the Tipp Inn afterwards. Then I told him a little bit about Kieron and the disease. Genuinely, he expressed care and sadness, and I could tell he was struck. I haven't told many who did not know Kieoron...probably because it is so completely depressing, and why drop such sorrow on others. Because of Brad's reaction, and what ensued, I have a different opinion...

I got a call from Brad the next day...he wanted to talk more about Kieron. Brad's a psychology student at UTD and has an upcoming presentation. His assignment, a very broad one, is to discuss for 20 minutes any health matter. He chose to speak on Pick's Disease and The Kieron Go Bragh Foundation. At the end of his talk, he is going to pass out information on the Nov 8th 5k and the foundation.

It all gels because the clinic that diagnosed Kieron is the UTD Center for Brain Health. But more than that, Kieron and Brad would have hit it off. Kieron spent lots of time fishing and watching/playing sports with me and my friends. In turn, my buddies became his buddies. Kieron would have liked Brad because he's unpretentious, plays hard-nose defense, drinks beer, and is serious about his studies. I write this with a smile, but ask anyone close to Kieron and they would agree.

One last thought...Debbie Francis is the Board Chair at the UTD Center for Brain Health. In our first meeting last year to discuss the Kieron Go Bragh Foundation and 5k, she said something to me that left an indelible impression. In dealing with a terminal disease of a loved one, she mentioned how important it was to leave "footprints". When educating people on a disease, especially a rare one like Pick's, it's vital to spread the word whenever appropriate. The message behind footprints is this: the positive results are immeasurable, because who knows what may become of the footprints you leave. Brad's initiative reminds me of Debbie's thoughtful insight.