To the FBC CrossWalk Men's Softball Team:
June 2009
We want to thank you for the "Dizzle" sleeve patch that you added to your team jerseys in Derek's memory this year. What a great way to keep #24 on the field! He is surely happy to be there with you, and our hearts are deeply touched by the thoughtful tribute.
Derek loved softball season and playing on the Team. It wasn't just recreation or something to fit into his schedule. Every spring his eyes would light up as he pulled out his glove and cleats and posted the game times. He did everything he could to arrange for Friday evenings off work so he could play. And it wasn't just the sport that he loved. It was you guys on the team. The feeling that he belonged, that he was part of the group, that he was valued and appreciated. You gave that gift to him and he cherished it, year after year.
In his final season, he played when he could between chemo treatments. You prayed for him and with him, showing him that you cared and that he was not alone. We could see how much it meant to him. Your compassion and support gave him cheer and strength. Thank you for taking time to stop by and lift his spirits with some extra encouragement. He savored every message, every call, every visit. Your 2009 team picture accompanied him during hospital stays and was prominently displayed at home for a constant reminder of your friendship. Even in his last weeks, after breaking his shoulder, he talked about his plan for physical therapy so he could play ball next spring. Faith and Hope were his constant companions. Jesus supplied the Love, through family and friends, that carried him, and continues to sustain us.
Thank you for honoring Derek in this meaningful way - for wearing his friendship on your sleeves, and for keeping his memory in play on and off the field. What a special blessing it is to us.
Have a fun and rewarding 2010 season! You are already winners in the game that matters the most. We know that Dizzle #24 will be cheering you on from the best seat in the ballpark!
With love and gratitude,
Donna and Keith
Derek loved softball season and playing on the Team. It wasn't just recreation or something to fit into his schedule. Every spring his eyes would light up as he pulled out his glove and cleats and posted the game times. He did everything he could to arrange for Friday evenings off work so he could play. And it wasn't just the sport that he loved. It was you guys on the team. The feeling that he belonged, that he was part of the group, that he was valued and appreciated. You gave that gift to him and he cherished it, year after year.
In his final season, he played when he could between chemo treatments. You prayed for him and with him, showing him that you cared and that he was not alone. We could see how much it meant to him. Your compassion and support gave him cheer and strength. Thank you for taking time to stop by and lift his spirits with some extra encouragement. He savored every message, every call, every visit. Your 2009 team picture accompanied him during hospital stays and was prominently displayed at home for a constant reminder of your friendship. Even in his last weeks, after breaking his shoulder, he talked about his plan for physical therapy so he could play ball next spring. Faith and Hope were his constant companions. Jesus supplied the Love, through family and friends, that carried him, and continues to sustain us.
Thank you for honoring Derek in this meaningful way - for wearing his friendship on your sleeves, and for keeping his memory in play on and off the field. What a special blessing it is to us.
Have a fun and rewarding 2010 season! You are already winners in the game that matters the most. We know that Dizzle #24 will be cheering you on from the best seat in the ballpark!
With love and gratitude,
Donna and Keith
"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love.
But the greatest of these is love."
1 Cor. 13:13
1 Cor. 13:13
June 2009
August 2009
April 2010, new team jerseys with Dizzle patch
4 comments:
A wonderful letter to a wonderful bunch of guys!
I remember Derek calling me after he broke his shoulder. One of the first things he asked was, "Will I be able to play softball?" I still laugh about that! He was so determined to find the best treatment that would allow him to get on the field asap!
Hey team you will never know how you have blessed us all and especially Derek. You have been such support to Keith and Donna as noone else can. Thank you
What a beautiful tribute!!!! Those guys are awesome!!!!
Post a Comment