fundraiser

Good morning, good afternoon, good evening my name is Veronica Gaston and I'm a Grand Ronde Tribal Elder with The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde. I'm the daughter of Oren George Pichette and Donna Casey Warren and direct descent of Chief Bogus Warren. I'm embarking on a feat that I never thought I would be able to even try, that feat/ goal is to walk a marathon this year. What makes it even more special is 4.5 years ago I was unable to walk even 10 steps and was basically confined to a power wheelchair. my back which was/is fused in several spots ( in fact it was actually fractured in 2 spots )was giving out causing me to be in severe pain, and I was in agony.! I had surgery in Seattle, Washington ( as this happened during the pandemic and the wait list for surgery was way to long at OHSU, plus the Dr. who did my prior back surgery was at Swedish Medical Center.) now 4 years later I'm able to not only stand tall but, also walk with the assistance of a pneumatic walker. ( for long distance walking) I've been losing weight as well since I've been able to walk more now and went from 285 pounds to 114 pounds in 2.25 years. ( at my heaviest I was 325 pounds) I would love to do my first marathon in Honolulu, Hawaii as they do not stop the clock till every participant is across the finish line.( the only marathon I know to do this) I've already paid the entry fee of $200, and airfare is paid. I just need a little help with room accommodations room in Honolulu. any amount you can help with would be greatly appreciated. The hotel I'm staying at provides breakfast and I'll be bringing my protein shakes. those who donate will be entered into a special drawing to be held in December.. Grand Prize is one of my handmade crochet blankets. Please consider helping me reach my goal. Some of the other waffle prizes consist of a toaster oven, a George Foreman small grill, gift cards, garden kit, mini donut maker kit, & towels, just to name a few of the exciting prizes you could win by donating. I'm also collecting recyclable cans and bottles and if you live in the Grand Ronde area I can pick up your cans. ( oh and by the way most of the trip was paid for by recyclable cans and bottles)

my favorite shoes are of course Nike.. I found most of my walking shoes and attire at local Goodwills. one final note I'm walking in honor of the Missing Murder Indigenous Women.. no more stolen sisters.

hayu masi ( many thanks) for taking the time to read this.

also on another side note I'm battling a rare form of cancer called Poly Cythemia Vera a rare form of blood cancer. it's kinda in the leukemia family but, instead of not producing enough red blood cells I produce too much making me high risk for stroke or heart attack..

do I let this get me down absolutely NO way. I actually have a few theme songs I listen to while I walk.