We have begun the New Year with news of Linda’s breast cancer diagnosis. The Board and, I’m sure, the entire congregation will work together to support Linda and to support each other as she moves through this difficult journey. I know she will feel our collective strength supporting her optimism and hope-filled outlook in the weeks and months ahead. Rest assured that the Board is an effective team ready and willing to do whatever we can to ensure that the weeks ahead go smoothly. Linda has also worked hard to make sure support clergy are available as we need them.
I have already had several calls from people asking “What can I do?” I have asked Linda what would be most welcome from her family’s perspective. She suggested that gift certificates to certain restaurants would be helpful. Please don’t buy these on your own. It will be more powerful if we collect monetary donations, then pool our resources and purchase larger gift certificates for restaurants they favor. Any of us who have had surgery know that food isn’t very appealing for a while afterwards, so it’s nice to be able to choose what appeals at the moment.
Cards should be addressed to Linda at the church, Tahoma UU Congregation, 1115 South 56th St, Tacoma, WA 98408. Any contributions you choose to make (cash or checks made out to TUUC with “Linda” in the memo line) should be directed to Church Administrator, Libby Ball, in the church office, or can be placed in the collection basket. I will work with her to buy the restaurant gift certificates as needed and wanted.
Linda’s husband, Peter, has my phone number programmed into his directory and has promised to keep me updated. I will try to keep you posted through the weekly Caring Community, as news comes to me. Linda has also set up a Caring Bridge page.
As to the business of the church, the Board is already beginning to focus on budget planning for next year. More about that next month. I encourage any of you who wish to become more involved to please come to the Collaboration workshop on January 27th. All committee members are encouraged to attend, but anyone is welcome. I hope to see you there.
I know Linda can feel our collective healing wishes. Please be sure to send them her way Monday and in the weeks to come.
Barbara Tripp
Board President
