May 2024
by Shadene and Doug Butchart
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Team Gleason staff for their invaluable assistance with organizing our trip, as well as to all the supporters of Team Gleason. Our recent journey took us to Savannah, Georgia, where we embarked on a meaningful adventure to visit family and attend two significant events.
Upon our arrival in Savannah on Friday evening, we checked into our hotel and took a moment to unwind.
We then drove to Shadene’s cousin’s house to reunite with her extended family, where we were delighted to meet her cousin’s three new children. The evening and the following day were spent getting acquainted with these newest additions to our family circle.
On Sunday, we gathered at the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, a historic landmark dating back to 1876, for the baptism of Shadene’s cousin’s youngest child. Following the ceremony, we enjoyed a delightful brunch at the Pirates House, which has been welcoming guests since 1753.
It was a wonderful opportunity to share a meal and cherish moments with loved ones.
Monday brought us to our second event, a high school graduation held at Enmarket Arena. We were pleased to find excellent handicap accessibility at the venue, affording us a prime vantage point to witness the proceedings. After the graduation, we headed to Cheddar’s for dinner, where an unexpected event—though brief—provided a memorable conclusion to the day. Despite a minor alarm prompting everyone outside, it turned into a lighthearted moment when firefighters handed out plastic helmets to children and posed for photos, adding a unique touch to the graduation memories.
Tuesday was spent with the graduate at Tybee Island for lunch, offering us a chance to enjoy each other’s company amidst the beautiful ocean scenery. Wednesday found us strolling along Savannah’s River Walk, soaking in the charm of the historic city. On Thursday, we ventured to Charleston, South Carolina, accompanied by Shadene’s aunt and the graduate, where we savored another pleasant lunch and explored the city together.
The final two days of our stay in Savannah were dedicated to spending quality time with Shadene’s cousins, allowing them to witness Shadene’s ALS progression and providing Shadene with cherished moments to connect with her extended family.
In conclusion, our trip was a resounding success, characterized by smooth travels and cherished experiences. Navigating travel with ALS requires meticulous planning, a challenge we meet with determination. With seven years of experience living with ALS, we have honed our travel skills, thanks in part to the invaluable support from Team Gleason.
Thank you once again to Team Gleason for your unwavering assistance and support.
Warm regards,
Shadene and Doug Butchart
