There Are No Two Galas Alike
Today we are happy to once again have the powerful words of Beth Craver grace our little space on the web. If you joined us for the 2017 ‘i have a Voice’ gala, you know Beth has become a real hero at GiGi’s and we are so excited to see Judah grow, he has great examples! If you did not make it this year you will be sure to want to make it in 2018!
This was my second Gala. There was one when Judah was about 4 months old but I didn’t know it existed. Even if I did, I probably would’ve passed. Make up was not my friend quite yet because tears still often were. They popped up without warning and could be found trickling or as a monsoon; I wouldn’t have risked it
I wrote about last year’s Gala HERE. When I compare it to this year, I recognize how they were each somewhat like snowflakes. That is , they were breathtaking miracles that were not at all alike. Last year, I was newly and surprisingly pregnant. I didn’t feel too good and exhaustion was a constant companion. I realized I wouldn’t be much fun and so I didn’t really reach out to anyone about joining us. Bobby and I sat in the back, relishing the unusual opportunity to be alone, while celebrating our incredible gifts. I was surprised to find a story of mine in the program and giddy to see the beautiful photograph of my boys in the gallery. We were there in quiet solidarity with everything GiGi’s. We listened to Nancy Gianni speak and Bobby and I both sprung leaks. It was all heart warming and eye opening. To be honest, I left wanting to do more and a little star struck.
This year, I was asked to be the star. Make no mistake, I was no coveted speaker with a green room signing autographs, but nevertheless, for me it was a moment. I was asked to give a parent testimonial about what GiGi’s has meant for me and my family. When I was asked, my gut screamed “nooooooo, you are petrified of this,” my heart screamed louder and so it would be. For weeks leading up to the event I did my best two things; I panicked and I prepared. Both done as if to cancel out the other I suppose. I was torn about wanting support in the crowd. On one hand my people had the potential to make me cry hard, on the other hand I couldn’t have done any of it without them. They deserved to be there for the open thank you I was going to deliver. In the end, I made my decision too late and so the plan was to be joined by my brother, sister in law and best friend. At the last minute my parents were able to make it and I was even surprised by two more dear friends; one who happened to help me deliver Judah. It was a magical moment seeing them. I am hard to surprise and so when someone pulls it off, I become beautifully bemused .
We were already 7 people deeper than we were the last year and our table was right next to the stage. There was no blending in. I was front row and privy to some delicious stuff. People from GiGi’s who now hold a place in our hearts were winning awards. People with Down syndrome were giving us a rare glimpse into our future. I saw young men and women with Down syndrome doing karate and my heart was soaring. A young lady who sat at our table last year also spoke. Like me, she was out to prove something and to conquer her fear of speaking. It’s marvelous how more alike than different we really all are. The MC was sitting at our table as was the auctioneer. The MC brought his son with him. He happened to to tote an extra chromosome and the love his dad felt for him was palpable. For me, it was the first moment that I realized this crazy ,over the top, enchanted feeling isn’t going anywhere. This love is not the result of pudgy toddler hands or sloppy silly kisses. This love is here to stay!
My speech was later in the evening and so I admit, I had trouble taking it all in like I like to do. I was nervous and I was focused. The banter between my brother and the auctioneer was a welcome diversion. As my debut was nearing, the live auction was focused around a wagon of wine. My husband bid. The auctioneer pointed and confirmed, my brother chuckled, my husband was outbid and so the cycle continued. It was a delightful distraction. I took the bidding paddle from my husband as the wine wagon reached a fantastic amount… but my husband used his cookie instead. I feigned anger because I’m frugal. My brother made a logical appeal, reminding me of how I enjoy wine, and I conceded . Ultimately we won a very expensive wagon of wine in the name of my very favorite cause and I was entertained before it was my turn to entertain.
In the end, my speech was a success. I didn’t trip or shake or even cry. I knew this speech as well as I know Judah’s almond eyes and the way his hair swirls just so in the back. I looked up appropriately and I picked a few people to look at who wouldn’t make me cry; my dad was one of them. There is no better feeling then making your dad proud by the way. I spoke my truth. I told my story; a story I can tell in my sleep. Honestly, I don’t remember too much because of nerves, concentration and the intoxication of bravery and pride for my son and GiGi’s. What I do know is that many people came up to me after. Many people shared their story with me. This was my reward for sharing. It is my favorite part of all of this . There were so many similarities and bonds were formed. It was a night of big bonds, big dreams and big fears being conquered. It was a Gala for the books and I can barely wait for the next Gala snowflake to fall.
You can read my speech Here.
Thank you Beth! To see all the beautiful images provided by Christina Bregou Photography can be see Here
educate.inspire.believe
