Pat's O'Connell's wife, Vivian, who is also working to help more babies reach the First Hugs nannies, writes:

Pat's marathon training has been going well, although he's nursing a sore foot right now after doing 15 miles this past weekend. He ran his first marathon in 2001 (Chicago) and has completed a total of 5. He told me the other day he's NOT running another one after this is over, but he's said that every time he's trained for a marathon. It's an incredible amount of time and energy and can seem overwhelming.

He's motivated by visions of the Fuling Social Welfare Institute and all of the beautiful children we left behind. The "Babies in Walkers Brigade" will forever be etched in our minds. Our family has been so blessed by our daughter Emily, and we want every parent that adopts to have the same experience we had.

Photo: Babies and nanny in Gracie's Room at the orphanage.

Bracelets Too! Vivian O'Connell is helping make "first hugs" possible for the infants at the orphanage by selling bracelets. They come in 4 colors - Blue, Purple, Pink and Multi. Made of pewter and colored beads, they cost $16 each, plus $1.50 shipping.  $10 from the purchase of each will be directly donated to First Hugs! It's not too early to think about holiday gifts. These would make a unique present to benefit a wonderful cause!

To order a bracelet, please contact Vivian directly at:
voconnell@sbcglobal.net                                                                                   The O'Connell Family

Please support Pat and the other parents
running for the children!
Together we can be the difference in their lives.

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