Has it only been 24 hours?

I cannot believe how much has happened over the last 24 hours. Was it seriously only Sunday evening when we began organising this? That's an incredible thought, but is also truly comforting. For if we can do this much in one day, imagine how much we're going to be able to do by 2011!

The most exciting news is that we were approached by a fellow CRPS sufferer, who also has experience in working with marketing and finances. He is keen to help us with the fundraising aspect of this event, and also the organisation involved with creating bank accounts, bills, and everything like that. That has taken such a huge weight off our shoulders, and we are so grateful for his offer!

This evening we've been throwing ideas around in regards to the line up for the event. We are conscious of the fact that after flying long distances some people may be additionally sore and need some rest, so we're thinking the first day can be a really low key meet and greet sort of day. Kaylee had the awesome day of hiring one of the function rooms at a hotel, so that we're able to have a big space to hang out in, and play music. Those reading this, what do you think about that as a starting plan? From there, we're going to arrange to have a bus as transport, so we'll be able to move around easier, and go out and about for short trips. The goal is for us to have a stress-free, mobility friendly time together, where for once, nobody feels like they're holding everybody up by walking slowly, and noone has to be embarrassed if they have to stop because of pain. For the first time we'll all be surrounded by people who face the same challenges every day. That thought is absolutely amazing, and such a comfort.

The thing that we are pondering over the most at this stage is the problem with money. We understand that this is not going to be a cheap trip, and it would be horrible if someone misses out because of the price. Kaylee and I have been discussing ways to raise money, and we have a few options to pursue. Here in New Zealand, we'll be approaching the Lions Foundation, to see if they are able to pledge support for us, and also we are planning to apply for the Toyota Scholarship, which goes to a charity doing work in the community. It's all based upon which charity gets the most votes, so if we choose to apply for this, I will post the link here, so everyone is able to help vote for us!

Anyway, I have a doctor appointment in the morning, bright and early at 8am, so I best wrap up this entry here. Please keep reading as more details will be added soon!

xx Ailsa and Kaylee xx