Today is such an EPIC day for all of us here at Our EPIC Project and Outer Banks Boil Company. Today is the day we get to announce the recipient of our 2nd annual EPIC Outer Banks Family Vacation Retreat. Through numerous submissions, filled with incredible stories of so many deserving individuals and families, one in particular rose to the top.
This year's winner is Dianne Young, from Gambrills Maryland. Here's what her nominator had to say...
This family has had an unforgiving domino effect year. I’ve observed such strength in this family to keep things going, even with so much stress put upon their shoulders. They lost their mother, father and ex-husband (the children’s father) all within the year.
Dianne is the mom, she has MS and a defibrillator in her heart yet still goes strong trying to keep the family strong. Amanda is amazing. She’s Dianne's daughter and she’s so supportive and works really hard to keep her family together. Travis is an exceptional young man who would be there for anyone if they would need them, Evan is Amanda’s 12 yr old son, who has endured these losses on his birthday. Walt holds the whole family up like a brick house and then there’s aunt Barbie who’s the matriarch , since Momma & Pop passed.
This story seems unbelievable, yet there is so much more to tell.
This family needs strength, ,a mental health break & laughter."
After speaking with Dianne, we learned that there was a lot more to her story. And....not only was she EPICALLY deserving of this Vacation Retreat - it was long overdue! The last time she took a family vacation was in the 1990's to Nags Head, here in the Outer Banks.
We are so excited to be able to give Dianne and her family a break from the sorrow, grief and everyday struggles that have consumed their lives over the past few years. We cant wait to turn this week into one filled with incredible family memories, relaxation, healing and hope.
Again, we'd like to thank everyone who submitted nominations. There are so many folks and families out there who could use a break, and it's always difficult to have to choose just one. We'll continue to grow our mission in hopes that we will be able to help more families enjoy the mental health benefits of a good ole fashioned summer beach vacation.
As always thank you for your support and kindness, we couldn't do it without you!
Much Love and Many Thanks!
Be EPIC
-All of us at Our EPIC Project, Inc.
Comments