Thank you: my sisters

Judi Sanders Silvey and Dr. Elaine Sanders Bush, my Sisters:
No paddler could have a better support crew. This was especially true in the early stages leading up to and through the entire paddle journey it self. Judy was most instrumental in helping me select the theme -Juvenile Diabetes. She actually took the lead and organized the fund raising venture, donations to JDRF for research; hopefully researchers will be finding a cure for diabetes someday. She set the goals, which I might add, were smashed even before arrival at the Gulf of Mexico, some 22 miles south of Venice LA. on August 15, 2015. Down the South Pass to South Pass Island. Finishing in the salt water.
Without Judi and Elaine the first sixth miles on the river would have been very difficult to impossible. The early start on 15 May, 2015, we were the first group out of Lake Itasca the Headwaters that year on the Mississippi River. It was very cold, sometimes miserable conditions. My sisters actually met us by vehicle along the way to re-supply, set up camp and plan the next days journey. I truly don’t know how we would have been able to tolerate the blizzard conditions, snow, sleet and rain coming in sideways without Judi and Elaine being at each river crossing awaiting our arrival. Thank you both.
Additionally, Judi and Elaine, beyond the upper sections of the river, actually met us at strategic location in Missouri, Tennessee, and Louisiana. As anyone that has paddled weeks on end knows, seeing a friendly face on the river bank is vital to moral. Both my sisters went far and beyond the norm in their efforts to provide support - and for that I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I love you both.
Judi and Elaine arrived in Venice early, before we paddlers arrived. Fortunately they did for at the last minute the shuttle boat driver pulled out at the last minute. Someone had to locate a replacement boat. I was on the water and could’t give it the time needed. Judi and Elaine first hand, with many others River Angels, sat out o find a replacement shuttle boat. They enthusiastically took on ownership of this issue, a seemingly impossible task , and sat out to located a boat that could shuttle 20 - 30 supporters from at Gulf of Mexico, South Pass Island, back to Venice. With the Help of Cody Portie and others, a Shrimper was found that made his boat available for only the cost of the fuel. What a blessing.
FaceBook played a major role in getting the word out, Judy is a master at effectively using this social media as a means of spreading the word., promoting events and fund raising. No doubt her efforts, supporting the Cruising for a Cure paddle were instrumental in my meeting or beating every single goal set. We also thank all those that donated. A special article will be released later thanking all donors and voters personally. Judi and Elaine, I could not have pulled it off without your hard work, support and sincere, dedication of love. Judi Sanders Silvey's Picture below: