Pam Carlson's Made in the Shade

When the H1N1 virus struck Michelle, she nearly died from complications. At the end of a 3 1/2 month hospitalization, she returned home to her housemates without the use of her arms and legs and unable to care for herself as she had before. But it didn't take long for Michelle to get back in the swing of things, thanks to determined Wingspan staff and Michelle's own drive. Accommodations were made to the house, home care equipment was brought in, and staff learned how to care for Michelle's new needs. A huge help was a new wheelchair-accessible van, underwritten by Wingspan donors, which not only transports Michelle to medical care and therapy but makes more excursions possible for everyone at her home.

This is just one of many touching stories demonstrating the excellent care Wingspan staff provides. Your donation can help them continue to live a full, happy life.

Made in the Shade is a walk, run roll to raise money for our programs. How can you help you ask...

Made in the Shade will be held on Saturday, September 24, at 10:00 a.m. at Thomas Beach on Lake Calhoun. It’s a beautiful 5K (3-mile) trail around the lake. Wingspan collaborates on the event with seven other nonprofit organizations that support people with developmental disabilities. All proceeds raised by Wingspan stay at Wingspan. Check out all the details at www.madeintheshade.org.

Come along and walk with me! You’ll get a free t-shirt, coffee, pop, water and lunch afterward, plus music by the Moss Piglets. Just collect $25 and you’re on my team! Register by going to the above Web site, or just let me know

Can’t make it? Then pledge me! Go to our Web site – www.wingspanlife.org , click on the “Donate Online” button, then scroll down to the Donate Now button. When completing the form, use “MITS” as the “Designation” and put my name in the “Dedication.” If you’d rather send a check, just send to my attention at Wingspan Life Resources, 2954 Rice Street, St. Paul, MN 55113-2229.