PROJECTS

Local Artist and cancer survivor Joni Relyea has again led 47 children to create an artistic work of charity to raise funds for the mothers at Georgetown Hospital in Guyana. The finished mural project known as “Hope For Our Children” was Unveiled last month at a special celebration and recognition event at St Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church.

The children had already contributed to participate in the painting which was delayed by the blizzards and the unveiling recognized their contributions and kicked of a raffle for the work which will also support the hospital.

The raffle drawing will be June 6 at the Church on “donut Sunday” so opportunities to compete in this charity are running short.
The celebration included musical performances with Jim Canfield who gently strummed hymns of encouragement, the musical light of Ken Smith of Lorton playing his “Second Chances”, and Don Holcombe with the Kingsly-Winter Band playing “Waiting For a Change” specially written for this occasion by Don. This tune was played as the festively lighted scarlet drape was removed from the painting and the video of the event is visible on Joni’s web site at: http://jonirelyea.com/guyana2video.html

Speakers include Fr. David Meng, Pastor of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church who shared the hope, Ambassador Bayney Karran, of Guyana, Dr. Susan Boylan, Radiation Oncology Center of Potomac Hospital reflecting on treatment progress, Supervisor PWCB. Corey Steward Chairperson, Michale May PWCB , dear friend Howard Tucker, Vice President from NYC Business Capital traveled from the big apple to speak of feelings of compassion that we all keep in our hearts for the change. Andrea Roane, WUSA9 news spoke of the Buddy Check 9 A trailer of Andrea’s message in a nutshell is visible at http://jonirelyea.com/buddycheck.htm

Other dignitaries, though unable to come, sent messages of encouragement which Joni shared with the assemblage of Parents, members and other contributors.

Joni is moved by the love that was poured out in support of this project and she doesn’t forget the support of her son Brock, daughter Danielle and friends for encouragement and support.