There is no doubting the depth of heartfelt appreciation the family of little Maggie Rudnicki of Levant has for the kindness and generosity extended them as they traverse the difficult path of caring for this little one born last August with diamond blackfan anemia, a rare blood disorder that causes Maggie’s bone marrow to fail.
As a result of this incurable condition, Maggie does not produce enough red blood cells to survive, and must have a blood transfusion every two to three weeks.
Simply saying, or writing, the words “thank you doesn’t seem to be enough for all that everyone has done for Maggie and her family,” her parents wrote recently.
They greatly appreciate what they describe as the incredible generosity and support, both financial and emotional, they have received from family, friends and co-workers.
They are doing their best, I have been told, to make sure everyone is thanked personally for any contribution, but know there is always the possibility they’ve missed someone and want everyone to know how grateful they are for each and every kindness.
Part of that support, for example, is scheduled to take place each Thursday in July from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. beginning Thursday, July 2, at the Maine Blood Center, 992 Union St., Bangor.
Heather Babcock reports the blood center will conduct “a wristband blood drive” each Thursday in July “in honor of Maggie.”
“All presenting donors, who come … in honor of Maggie … will receive a free ticket for admission-rides to the Bangor State Fair,” Babcock explained.
This drive is by appointment, which you can make by calling 262-8797.
Readers are reminded donors must be at least 16 (16-year-olds must have parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, are in general good health and present a photo identification.
The Rudnickis express thanks to the Maine Blood Center for this and previous blood drives; to “everyone who has supported the various fundraisers for Maggie”; for the efforts of business owners, Brewer school personnel, community organizations and the media for all their support; and to their medical staff “for the wonderful care they continue to give Maggie,” they wrote.
“Maggie is, truly, a lucky girl to have so many people helping to make a difference in her life.”
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Walter and Janice Boomsma report “the public is invited” to the Piscataquis Pomona Grange annual “fun and fundraiser,” starting with a potluck picnic at 6 p.m. and the auction at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 2, at their Abbot home.
Arrive a bit early “and help feed the mosquitoes, play some horseshoes and listen to the birds,” they wrote.
The event helps “fund our community service programs,” and more information is available by calling 876-4131.
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The United Methodist Women’s Club hosts its annual pie sale at 8 a.m. Friday, July 3, at Gray Memorial United Methodist Church on the corner of Prospect and Sweden streets in Caribou.
The sale continues “until pies are gone,” Connie Ennis wrote.
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The Greater Bangor Convention & Visitors Bureau reminds you space is limited for its “TommyKnockers & More Bus Tour,” at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 4, in the Front Street parking lot next to the harbor master’s office on the Bangor Waterfront.
Reservations are required and may be made by calling Greater Bangor CVB at 800-91-MOOSE or 947-5205. The cost is $12.
Jessica Donahue reports the “tour is based on similarities between the city of Bangor and many of Stephen King’s novels,” and “is sure to entertain with a mix of educational, historical and interactive sights.”
The other tour dates, at the same time, are Aug. 16, Sept. 20 and Oct. 25.
Joni Averill, Bangor Daily News, P.O. Box 1329, Bangor 04402; javerill@bangordailynews.net; 990-8288.