TO THE EDITOR:

So many times in today's society we hear the negative, especially in relation to the rich and famous. I would like to share a positive and, hopefully, a word of encouragement to others in similar situations. Let me start at the beginning.

Earlier this year, my friend's daughter was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a horrible form of bone cancer that attacks the long bones in children and teens. After recovering from the shock of the diagnosis, friends and family gathered around to offer love, prayers, and support for the fight to come.

Calli has forged ahead bravely, enduring isolation, extended road trips to doctors, heavy rounds of chemo, surgery to remove the tumor and reconstruct her arm and rotator cuff, and physical therapy. She will hopefully complete her chemo two weeks before Christmas.

Calli assures us that the Lord has a reason for her cancer and some good will come from it. She is an awesome young lady!

During all her trials, Calli came to the attention of the "Make a Wish" Foundation and, through her representative there, country music singer Ty Herndon. After hearing of this young girl's brave battle and the financial duress extensive treatments have caused her family, Mr. Herndon offered to come to a small town in rural Georgia on Thursday, December 3rd, and perform a benefit concert for Calli. I think it says a lot for this performer that he is willing to donate his time and talents to such a worthy cause, especially to do so voluntarily.

I am sure so close to the holidays there are many other things he could choose to do. In a world full of people who do so many horrid things, I am truly blessed to know such a modernday hero exists. I applaud Ty Herndon and his willingness to help others! There is still goodness out there. I guess we just have to look a little harder to find it. Thank you for sharing this story.

For anyone interested in concert information, they can contact the Washington-Wilkes Chamber of Commerce at 706-678-2013 or visit www.WashingtonWilkes.org.

Carol McTier