here is a copy of the letter that I sent to the paper. I'm not sure if I"ll make it Thursday or Friday but I will definately try. I'm heading to the dr this evening, might have pneumonia but hoping not.





Approximately 12,400 children are diagnosed with cancer each year. Out of those 12.400 children, over 2000 will lose their battle and cancer will take their lives. Standing beside my son during his battle with cancer, I met many families living the same nightmare that we were in. The day I buried my son, I personally know one other mother who buried her only child that same day. Before chemotherapy, hospitalizations, and heartache because a part of my life, I had no idea the battle others were fighting. These children deserve to have a happy childhood, not one of pain & needle sticks. They deserve to grow up here in our arms, but so many do not get that chance. Along our journey we've the oppurtunity to meet so many wonderful people, the bravest children, and the biggest hearts. We learned that there are still people in this world that go out of their way just to put a smile on a child's face. I am grateful beyond words for these people.

Each year, United Performance Racking select a Dream Child. This child is a local child battling a life threatening illness. All to often these children end up on the losing end of their battle. But United Performance is there for them. They raise money to send these children on vacations, which is very much needed and appreciated after months, sometimes years, of living in hospitals. Last year, my son, Kyle Smith, was their 2009 Dream Child. While Kyle was never healthy enough to take that vacation, United Performance continued to support our family in his fight against cancer, even making Kyle an honorary member. Even through the tragedy that has fallen upon us recently, Kyle's battle being over, I am glad that I have the oppurtunity to be associated with such a wonderful group of horsemen. This year's World Celebration on September 9, 10, and 11th will raise funds to support the 2010 Dream Child. It is being held at Prestonsburg Equine Center, Prestonsburg KY. Festivities start at 7 pm.

I've had the priviledge to get know the members of the Broken Trail Horse Club. They are an amazing group of people who's concern is for the kids here locally. They found out about Kyle's relapse and surrounded him in love. I'll never forget the day they met Kyle. It will be forever burned into the fabric of my heart. These “strangers” came in, presented Kyle with a trophy, offered him horseback rides while Kyle shared his love of music with them by playing guitar. The memory puts a smile on my face. The Broken Trail Horse Club is having a trail ride on September 24, 25, and 26, with all proceeds going toward a Christmas shopping trip for children. There will be games for the whole family, even if you do not bring a horse.

The love and concern for these children I have witnessed first hand in my life, and my son's. They were here for him, praying for him, fighting alongside him and helped to put smiles on his precious face during his last months. They walked that “Last Mile” with Kyle on August 5, 2010 and they are still walking with my family.

Kyle might have rode his “Last Mile” on August 5th, but it was our first, our first of many miles to run together. Kyle has been healed and he is free now, but there are still children out there who need us. They cannot fight this alone. Will you support them? Let them know that you care? I will, along with United Performace, Broken Trail Horse Club, and Kyle's Wish.

Sincerely,
Shelly Adams
Elkhorn City, KY