I have been anxiously awaiting making this blog post for several weeks (so fundraising can begin), but we had to jump through a few hoops to get everything approved and squared away before we could get rolling. When the EWF Board got together to discuss applicants and decide on a 2017 beneficiary, it was an emotional meeting. It was decided by the board that the foundation would support two beneficiaries this year (as was done in 2015). This decision was fueled by optimism....that fellow Montanan's would be as taken by these two adorable children and their needs for financial support as the board was.....and also by the fact that our Marathon swim fundraiser this year will be done by TWO swimmers. So here's hoping our community of loving and giving folks in our state can join the Enduring Waves Foundation in wrapping our arms around these two families to offer them some much needed support.
ENDURING WAVES FOUNDATION BENEFICIARY SCOTTIE MARIE
Age: 2 years old
Diagnosis: Stage 4 Neuroblastoma
Hometown: Joplin, MT
Scottie Marie Woods was diagnosed with Stage 4 Neuroblastoma on April 10, 2017, her second birthday. She is currently being treated at the Children’s Hospital in Denver. Scottie Marie lives on a ranch 30 miles north of Joplin Montana with her Mom, Dad and baby sister.
This country girl has a flare for adventure, with an ever present smile and a can do attitude. Scottie Marie is quick to smile when she returns to the outdoors to explore, visit the cows, ride the horses, chase the chickens or simply get dirty in the mud. Scottie Marie loves her dogs and cats, often when you see her you will also find a small herd of dogs and cats trailing. She picked up the knack for farming/ranching from a very early age (or maybe even birth). She can often be found riding combine and fixing fences with her parents or milking the cow with her Grandparents all with the same huge smile, boundless energy and enthusiasm.
On tough days Scottie Marie is the one to be your sunshine. There is no cookie she can’t crack with her mile wide grin. She chases away the darkest cloud, warms your heart and keeps you smiling with her enduring zest for life.
To make a donation to support Scottie Marie, click here.
ENDURING WAVES FOUNDATION BENEFICIARY MONTE
Age: 5 years old
Diagnosis: Congenital heart defect, malrotation, asplenia and club feet
Home town: Big Fork, MT
Monte W. Matt is an energetic, caring, loving, amazing 5 year old from Bigfork, MT. He was born in Seattle, WA to mother, Laura Matt and father, Michael Matt, on April 19, 2012. Even though Monte is a special needs child with medical issues, nothing in this world can slow him down! He was born with a congenital heart defect known as single ventricle with dextrocardia, along with malrotation, asplenia, and club feet. The first heart surgery, he was 2 weeks old, the second he was 7 months old and his last, he was 3 years old. With all three surgeries, he was a fighter, gained his strength back quickly and used his charm on all the nurses. Because of Montes medical diagnosis, he is globally delayed, such as speech and communication, gross motor and fine motor skills, and sensory issues. We have been seeing therapists to help him since he was 6 months old. The hard work of these therapists, has made Monte grow and jump over hurdles and reach milestones. Monte currently attends a special education preschool at East Evergreen Elementary. In the fall, he will be attending Bigfork Elementary for early kindergarten. School is one of Montes favorite places, to see his friends, learn new things and have fun. One look at Monte, you'll fall head over heals! His compassion and love for his parents, step father, grandmas and grandpas, and even strangers we pass in the grocery store, is above and beyond. Monte is a fighter and a lover, with a strong personality. He will light up any room and make everyone smile.
To make a donation to support Monte, click here.
