ToddAndGenerosity

During the middle of last week, Todd Andrlik and I were swapping e-mails about how we should collaborate on promoting "Talk Like a Pirate Day" in September. Silly stuff. On Friday morning, I (among Todd's other blogger friends) woke up to an e-mail from Todd explaining that his sister Tricia would require immediate major surgery. He asked simply for ideas to raise money to help the family pay for the exorbitant costs associated with such a procedure and the lengthy treatment that will follow. Serious business.

When I arrived at the office, I sent an e-mail to the Mullen PR team explaining the situation, and I asked that before the day's events begin to take over their lives to think about Todd's sister and offer their ideas. To Todd, I hope even one of those ideas is helpful, and to the Mullen PR team, I can't thank you enough for stepping up and responding as you did.

I don't have to explain to anyone how quickly life can change. We've all experienced it. But it was refreshing to witness the depth and breadth of human kindness I saw yesterday. That said, Todd is an extraordinary young man who personifies generosity. Just look at his blog to see how much of himself he pours into it for our collective benefit. Because of who he is as a person, the heartfelt response to Todd was not surprising. There were many bloggers, most of whom have far more reach than I, who really stepped up. It was wonderful to watch.

As many of you know, Tricia's surgery is scheduled for today. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers, and consider reaching out to your team next week. Ask them to read Todd's post and visit 4Tricia. Anything they could offer will be deeply appreciated. You can donate at 4Tricia, send ideas to Todd via e-mail, or leave your ideas as comments on his post so as to trigger others to respond as well. Every little bit helps.

Mother Teresa once said, "We cannot do great things on this earth, only small things with great love."