Hi everyone,

It's hard to believe it's been 7 years since my mother, Kathryn, passed away. I still manage to feel connected to her, perhaps even more so as I get older and more understanding of just how difficult life can be. In moments of clarity, I sense her presence in my heart and know just how proud she would be to see the love that surrounds me.

As many of you know, one of our many challenges we faced together was not knowing when or where our next meal came from. For a couple of years, I relied on free school meal programs and the generosity of my neighbors to keep me fed.

To honor her life and remind myself of the current privilege I'm blessed to have, every year since her passing I've decided to fast the day of her death and fundraise for a local non-profit, Full Plates Full Potential , who's mission is to combat child hunger in Maine. Last year, through all of your generous support, we obliterated our goal and raised over $2,125! With Unum's company match, I was able to double this into a sizable $4,250.

I'm so grateful for all of the love my "village" has shown and continues to show me. I understand now might not be the right time for you to contribute, and that's perfectly alright!

With love and peace,

Ben