Fortunate To Live

In A Special Town

To the Editor:

Our son Cary was seriously burned on Halloween when his costume caught fire from a candle. Although we would like nothing more than to turn back time, this experience has enriched our lives in ways we never could have imagined — in large part due to the actions and prayers of so many caring and kind individuals in this community.

We moved to Newtown just over a year ago. The selfless outpouring of love and concern from not only our newfound friends, but from the entire community was overwhelming. We feel so fortunate that we live in this special town. We would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to some of those people and places; please know that you all played a pivotal role in Cary’s (and our) healing.

The teachers, staff, and students of Hawley Elementary School. Your cards, cheer-grams, books and artwork filled Cary’s room with life and love.

Gina Wolfman and Nancy Duffy for remembering the little things, which weren’t so little.

Jo-Ann Peters — so much more than a principal. Your many touching shows of support meant so much to us and to Cary.

Kathy Leja and Mary Walsh. Thanks for knowing Cary so well. Your kindness made Cary smile many times throughout this ordeal

The parents and staff of Wesley Learning Center. Especially Randi Rote and Jessica Lee for the sensitivity and support you have shown Cary’s little brother.

The Children’s Adventure Center. Rose Luizzi — a true friend!

The Toy Tree.

Couch Ray and all the players, parents, and assistant coaches from Cary’s soccer team.

Girl Scout Troop number 433.

Cub Scouts: Den 61. Our yard never looked so good. Thanks for giving us a pleasant place to return each evening.

Doctors Laura Nowacki and Richard Auerbach — thanks for the perfect gift and all your personal concern.

Newtown Volunteer Ambulance and Newtown paramedics. Your quick thinking afforded Cary the best care possible.

Sergeant Stormer and Newtown Police.

Stephen Lawrence Productions.

Peter Bernsen of Reed Intermediate School.

Fun Kuts in Sandy Hook.

Nick’s Restaurant & Catering: four stars!

Visiting Connecticut Firefighters. Thanks for bringing laughter to Cary’s room.

Everyone at Temple B’nai Israel in Southbury. Rabbi Eric Polokoff’s support and regular visits were always a comfort.

Liz Luzietti and Betsy Kraushaar. We will think of you often this spring!

Cap and Suzanne Pryor: the definition of friendship!

Richard Bieder and Koskoff, Koskoff & Bieder.

Our neighbors (Amy Pare, an angel!), fellow parents and playgroup friends who came together (thanks to Amy), with a force not to be believed! Our family would barely have been fed, let alone fed so well had it not been for you all.

Michelle and Charles Wright, for being there.

St Rose Parish and religious school.

Hawley Brownie Troop #763.

Newtown Junior Women’s Club.

Everyone, both friends and strangers, who sent gas and food cards, checks, gift certificates, and touching personal stories. Each piece of correspondence gave us the energy to keep going.

Friends and neighbors who took our other two children into their homes, gave them rides, and kept their routines as normal and enjoyable as possible.

Children from not only Newtown but all over Connecticut. Your cards, letters, and pictures adorned the walls of Cary’s hospital room.

The Burn Center, pediatric staff, nurses, and doctors of Bridgeport Hospital. The medical care and emotional support you offered not only Cary, but also our whole family, sustained us throughout. Doctors Harvey Bluestein and Phil Fidler — our deepest gratitude.

Cary came home on November 30 and continues to recover. Wishing everyone a beautiful holiday season.

Sincerely,

Suzy and Neal DeYoung

9 Gopher Road, Newtown                                         December 7, 2004