My Norwood

More Than Just a Day

The Day of Hope Carnival and all it stands for.

I was pleasantly surprised last week when I was roused from my sleep Friday morning by the welcoming chime of my doorbell rather than the irritating hum of an alarm clock. Friday was a day I couldn't wait for yet simultaneously dreaded. I was going to celebrate life, hope and youth at the Day of Hope Carnival, energy I would need to carry me through the rest of the day. Later that evening I was to meet family at Concannon's for a benefit for my cousin, an amazing drummer who embodies life and happens to be battling liver cancer - nothing he can't handle. We were told to put on our dancing shoes and show up ready to celebrate. I didn't think twice. I also know too well that life can change in a minute and Friday morning I woke (pulling my …

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Day of Hope, Community and Remembrance

The 7th annual Day of Hope Carnival continues to capture the essence of Michelle Kennedy's life and legacy — laughter, music, giving and hope.

A potential for rain did not dampen the spirits of those who took part in the 7th annual Day of Hope Carnival at Hawes Pool to benefit the Norwood Circle of Hope Foundation on Friday. The smiles of children throughout the day — many of whom were directly impacted by the generosity of the Circle of Hope — served as a subtle reminder that although life might not always be perfect, or fair, there is always hope and room for a little fun. The Circle of Hope was founded in 1998 in memory of Norwood resident Lee Kennedy’s daughter, Michelle, after she lost a battle with leukemia. People rallied behind the family during Michelle’s illness, and it was Michelle’s wish to quietly give back to the town that so graciously helped her and her mother. …

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