I gave this coin to my sister, Victoria Elabd, who has been my champion, my hero, and my source of truth my entire life. I gave it to her on June 1, 2019, as we were embarking on a special Sisters' Day, shopping, lunching, and taking in a craft fair. There's no way I can ever repay her for all she's done for me, but I'm blessed to be able to thank her and for our sisterhood to be part of this coin's story.

This coin was given to Kristin, a dear friend and co-worker, to kick off Hope Days 2019. Kristin has embraced Hope Days with such enthusiasm!! She is my sounding board and trusted advisor.

Kristin was also a key support to me during my own cancer journey. A gift I can never repay.

I made her some handmade cards so she can brighten a few people's lives during Hope Days and sent her a heartfelt note to send my love across the miles. I am hoping the coin arrives today, May 1 so this coin's journey may begin!

This coin was purchased for Hope Days 2019. Hope Days was founded on May 1, 2015 to celebrate what would be Hope Cookis-McCarthy’s last birthday. She was turning 49 and was nearing the end of a two year battle with stage IV colon cancer. Her tribe of family and friends wanted to show her she was cherished and to bolster her courage to continue the fight as long as she could. Hope’s entire life was based on kindness and empathy for people and animals, always taking care of others and adopting strays from the time she was a child. She put others above herself.

Between May 1-13, we invite you to spread kindness. This can be anything YOU are comfortable doing, for ANYONE you wish to do it for. You are invited to pay it forward and make the world a nicer place in memory of Hope.

Find us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/HopeDays13/ or @HopeDays13