I just wanted to let everyone know that VolinArizona and I visited with Yvonne this evening. While there we handed over a check well in excess of $10,000. She was so appreciative and said how touched she was that complete strangers came through in their time of need. She showed us a huge box full of cards and letters that she claimed many from people she didn't even know. She said she plans on responding to each and every one, but she said it may take her a year to get to all of them.
She also said that Rubin's funeral was a little over $10,000 so it looks like we covered the funeral expenses 100%. I think that is huge and Volnation should be very proud as I certainly am to know that we took care of that expense for Yvonne and the kids.
While there we reminisced about Rubin and and his love for the Big Orange and Volnation. The word addicted came up a time or two as Arizona and I admitted that we probably spend too much time on the site. She said she intends to join Volnation if she can figure out the process.
She mentioned StoVol and how much it meant to her for him to make the trip to the funeral knowing that he had never met Rubin in person. She also talked about how she had went through this thread and was touched by the comments and the general caring that was obviously on display.
As to how they are doing, they appear to be doing well. Yvonne said she is finally getting to feel better from the flu. She said she's coping with the loss better but said reality will catch up to her from time to time. She mentioned they are trying to stay busy and with sports it's not too difficult. When they do have a minute, she said they head to Chucky Cheese or something fun for the kids. Her sister was there tonight also and I think she's been a huge help to Yvonne both emotionally and with the extra things that she needs help with.
Finally, after speaking with Arizona, he's going to keep the donation site active indefinitely, so feel free to donate if you like. When a significant amount of funds accumulate we'll get her the funds.
Again, I would like to reiterate how proud I am to be a part of this fan base. To think that the original goal was $1000 and within just a few minutes we met that and kept raising the goal till we exceeded $11,000. How unbelievable it was to hand over a check for that kind of money to someone that really needed and appreciated it. Each one of you made that possible! And, please do not underestimate the non-monetary support through prayer, notes, and cards and how that had such a huge impact.
God Bless and Go Big Orange!