Once again the staircase in the entry hall of Anne and Steve Stodghill’s mansion became a speakers corner for a nonprofit pep rally. Last Wednesday the LaunchAbility patrons were mingling and gathering at the base of the stairway to hear about plans for “A Special Evening 2013.” Event Co-chairs Cecily and Scott Gooch reported that LaunchAbility’s 50th anniversary celebration would feature Vince Gill on the evening of April 2 at the Meyerson. Since it’s going to be the organization’s golden anniversary, Cecily wore a gold tunic top. How appropriate.
They also heard from Hannah Wilkerson, who is a LaunchAbility client working part time at Blue Cross Blue Shield. In her talk, Hannah told of a lesson about personal boundaries that she learned at LaunchAbility. She decided to practice at home on her mom, who was sitting on the couch. Hannah got very close to her mom. “My mom said, ‘Do you have a problem?'” Hannah responded, “Am I making you uncomfortable?” Her mom said, “Yes.” Hannah’s response? — “Check. Homework done!”
LaunchAbility CEO Cathy Packard was next up on the staircase and opened with, “No way I can top Hannah!” However, she did a fine job in trying by reporting that they’re expecting 2,000 guests at the 50th anniversary celebration.
Another person receiving recognition on the stairway was Dr. Richard Adams. The medical director of pediatric Developmental Disabilities at Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children was awarded the Milton P. Levy Jr. Outstanding Volunteer Award.
BTW, next time you luck into visiting the Stodghills’ home, check out the saddle in the library. It belonged to Steve’s paternal grandfather, who, along with his wife, would ride in parades atop white stallions. Steve got this one and his sister got the grandmother’s saddle.