Gwendolyn Strong Foundation

When my mother died of brain cancer, I was 22 and resentful. I spent the majority of her last year bitter that it was happening. That my kind, amazing rock was so suddenly stripped of her future. That I was robbed of a future with her. That my young life was interrupted by tragedy. I was a mess. Sullen, depressed, lost, so very sad and filled with regret. When my baby was diagnosed with SMA and our doctor told us we would be lucky to get a year with her, I immediately knew I ...had to spend it differently. I was shattered and shocked, but I had matured enough to see this wasn’t an interruption to life this WAS life and I knew every day together would be a gift that I would cherish. When a life-altering experience that is beyond our control happens to us, it is indeed devastating. But within grief, we each have the opportunity to choose how we will frame our days and shape our perspectives. And those choices change everything. I miss Gwendolyn with all of myself ~ but I don’t have regrets. We lived BIG when we could and cherished the miracle of the simple beauty in every day. I hope in the struggle, you find the gifts too. They will carry you through the pain. NEVER GIVE UP. Victoria Withey Strong

While we can’t all be together just yet ~ join me for a Zoom Happy Hour, a virtual wine tasting event from the comfort of your own home! @onehope has curated a group of four wines for us to taste and learn about together. 10% of each wine is donated to support our work, and another 10% is donated to another wonderful cause. Buy one wine or all four. Can’t wait to see you soon! {Important Details} WHEN: 2/9 6pm PST Order by 2/2 to receive wine in time... HOW: Use this link onehopewine.com/event/74955 WHAT: Order these, 5% discount for 4 (Beth can assist if needed) -Vintner Collection California Sparkling Brut -Vintner Collection Rutherford Limited Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc -Vintner Collection Red Blend (96 points) -Paso Robles Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (90 points) WHY: Fun, friendship + giving back

I am Strong. I am Brave. I am Love.

You will rise again, dear friend. You have it within you to rise and to be strong and to NEVER GIVE UP.