Issaquah Undressed

It is almost Thanksgiving. What are you thankful for?

One thing I am thankfull for is the town I live in, Issaquah. As mentioned in our description of Issaquah at the begining of our blog, Issaquah is a town with a big heart. This big heart has certainly been evident in many events that have occurred during the summer. The Issaquah Press has been instumental in writing articles about these things. Also Caring Bridge has allowed access (through their website) to updates on the condition of people we care about. See www.caringbridge.org

Chandler Balkman, an Issaquah High School student, who suffered the loss of a leg in a terrible boating accident and almost lost his life is becoming an inspiration to us all. There have been many in our community who rejoice in his recovery and have rallied behind Chandler and his family. 100 classmates greeted him on the day he finally got to go home from his long stay in the hospital. He was voted Junior class Prince for Homecoming. Many gave blood, helped arrange an exhibit and sale of Chandler’s photograpy work at the Sept 8 ArtWalk. Evening Magazine on Channel 5 did a feature article about Chandler’s ordeal, recovery and continuing triumphant spirit. To view this video go to: www.king5.com/eveningmagazine

Mora Haggerty Shaw, another Issaquah highschool student who recently graduated, was injured severely in a car accident, has also been able to return home. We didnt know Mora but were touched by her plight and thankful that there were countless friends and community who have rallied around and helped Mora and her family. As reported by the Issaquah Press, a sign in her hosiptal room stated “Courage does not always roar. Sometimes, it is a quiet voice at the end of the day saying, ‘I’ll try again tomorrow.’” We wish her well.

We have personally witnessed an outpouring of concern and care and sorrow at the passing of Alexa Jensen. Alexa, 13 was a bright light to all who knew her. Even in their grief, her parents gave tribute to Alexa’s teachers and educational assistants at Cougar Ridge Elementary and Issaquah Middle schools who had an impact on her life. She will be missed greatly by her friends in our church youth group. People like ourselves who no longer have children at home, but rejoice in the goodness of youth we see around us, will miss her too.

We also are thankful that our friend, Chris Callans, a young wife and mother is going to be OK after an almost fatal ordeal. Again, the community, in Issaquah and family and friends wanted to do all they could to help.

There are many other reasons we are thankful, but these are just a few that are on our mind.

Kathleen Cragun