Buddy was many things to many people, and everything to our family. When cancer took him from us this year it was one of the most heart wrenching losses we have ever had to endure. We still have not been able to bring ourselves to scatter his ashes or hold a memorial service but he lives on in our hearts and memories every single minute of every day.

This year, on Giving Tuesday, we are honoring him with this campaign because in addition to the unconditional love he brought to every member of our family he also loved every lacrosse ball he ever encountered and gave kisses to every single child he ever met. I can't tell you the number of lacrosse balls Buddy chased or the hundreds of unsuspecting babies and toddlers that were surprised by a big kiss on the face during our thousands of walks in Chicago but I can tell you that his soul was the kindest I have ever met and he brought happiness everywhere he went.

Many of you know that Buddy was abandoned with a significant injury to his eye when he was just a little puppy. Someone decided that he wasn't worth their time or effort and I thank God every day for that person. Everyone says that adopting a rescue dog can save their life but Buddy rescued us in so many ways for so many years. He was there through every one of our saddest days and difficult times, never wavering in his unconditional comfort and support. I hope he knows how much we appreciate everything he gave to our family, I don't know where we would be without him.

Buddy would have wanted every child in the world to have the same opportunities he had to overcome obstacles and find the people that helped him realize his best life. He would also have wanted them all to know the pure joy that comes from chasing your dreams (and a lacrosse ball). I know Buddy is looking over us all now in support of this amazing cause and I hope you will join us in honoring his memory this year.