I want to thank Jim and Christine Petrillo for spearheading a drive to help out with my medical expenses. For those not familiar with the basic history, nearly three months ago I was carving a tree, fell from the scaffolding, and sustained a compound fracture of my right lower leg. I had tried to get health insurance in the past, but mostly due to being on my own, they always denied coverage. So the medical bills are plenty. Am still on crutches, but hopefully can start bearing weight on my leg soon. The doctors are still concerned about infection, and warn me of the worst case scenario being that I could lose my lower leg.

Jim and Christine organized the effort to sell carvings through their shop, Earth Works (in NY state), where proceeds would be contributed to help with the medical bills. I recently received a check for over $800, from
carvings being sold (and a few cash donations)that were contributed by;
James Link
Pat Holbert
Lynn Randall
Kevin Black
Mike Reed
Chuck Haugh
Rick and Sue Cox
Ed Stutzgage

And these are just the carvings that sold already, there are many more in inventory. I am aware that some of the
carvings in inventory were done by:
Brian Harnett
Joe Rego
Ken Packie
Fred Avila
Tone Wrobel
Gini Cook
Grandpa Elf

I apologize if I've left anyone's name out. Jim and
Christine supplied me with a few pics that I'll attach.

I am deeply moved by your efforts. I hope to someday do for others what you have done for me. Your generosity has given me a different perspective on things.

In spite of some personal differences that sometimes appear on these forums, I maintain that our carving "family" is overall close knit, supportive of
each other, and the best group of friends I could ask
for! I love ALL you guys (even when you're crabby, A.J.
and R.D.....) Gary Keenan

Hey gary,glad to hear ya comming along.Those petrillos are alright. Hey jim and Chris,see ya next week,maybe the ninth late or the tenth around noon.might have something cool for ya,of course you will have to finnish it jim.

Gary, We are glad you are on the mend. We are on the road til Nov.. If you need something call. cowboy rick