Arriana Bedgood's Cochlear Implant Benefit

Many thanks!!!

2009-08-02T23:30:00.003-04:00

First – words cannot begin to express the level of gratitude we feel for all of the outpouring of support from each of you. Some of you have extended a helping hand, offered a ride, a meal or a financial contribution. We are truly humbled and extremely grateful!

Some of you have been asking if it is too late to donate to help cover some of the out of pocket expenses! It is not too late... below is the info on how to contribute.

Current Ways To Make Financial Contributions

Blog / PayPal

www.arrianabedgood.blogspot.com

- Click on the Donate button (left hand side of the page)

PayPal log-in page launches. Follow the prompts.

Please Note:

When PayPal launches, enter the amount you wish to donate.

Then click the Update Total button.

Failure to click Update Total will continue to kick you back

to the log-in screen.

National City Bank

- Personal checks may be made payable to The Arriana Bedgood Benefit

- Visit any National City Bank* location nationwide

*In person, cash donations may be made anonymously

Out with the old...

2009-06-19T13:30:00.008-04:00

Today is the BIG day. We are eagerly waiting.

This girl is excited (and so is Ari... smile)!

The "happy cocktail" helped tremendously before going into the surgery "sterile" room – I asked for one too and they apologized and kindly vetoed my request.

Ari – Take one last good look!

Ari – Safety Check. A smiley and initials mark the spot...

Ari & "Courage" aka "Braveheart"

Furry friends are the best...

and so is Ari's interpretor, Mrs. Stenger!

And yes, even the pet had an ID bracelet –

taking extra special precautions today!

Can you hear me now???

2009-07-10T12:30:00.003-04:00

So. Here we are. It is the BIG day... (yesterday – Thursday, July 9th).

Ari is getting her Cochlear Implant "plugged" in and set to program...

Daddy, Kristie and Poetrie eagerly look on –

Getting the magnet into position was a challenge – this child needed GORILLA GLUE strength magnets to get through her "thick head" and / or hair! LOL.

Are YOU ready?

Here we go... crank it up!!!

SUCCESS!

We LOVE you, Arriana!!!

So the night was filled with "What was that?" – "Did I just hear Parker laughing?" – "Was that Poetrie playing out back?"

Sweet sounds we take for granted... the tick tock of a clock... a knife cutting through an onion... a truck driving by outside... the music on a Nintendo DSi... Michael Jackson's little mouth noises between lyrics... hearing "I LOVE YOU" loud and clear. These are SOME of the things Ari got to experience for the first time last night.

I have promised to take Arriana to a New Kids On The Block concert if they come back around... she has decided to become a Blockhead, like ME! Makes a Momma proud!!! I'm sure a concert will just blow her away... she will not only FEEL the music... she will HEAR the music.

Thank you to each of you have been following and supporting us through this amazing journey!
God Bless -

Happy 2nd Birthday

to my Little Man, P-Styles...

Mommy loves you!

xoxo

It's Showtime, Baby!!!

2009-07-09T13:15:00.003-04:00

Today's post is brought to you by the word, "BELIEVE..."

Today is Thursday, July 9th – 2009.

Good-bye silent ear, hello NOISE!!! We are headed to the Doctor's office to get Arriana's Cochlear Implant turned on... 20 days post-surgery.

Ari is pretty much over her RED compression head band that has helped her head heal and keep the CI in the appropriate place. BIG INHALE... check back later today for more updates!

Today. Is A Sad. SAD. Day. RIP King of Pop.

2009-06-25T19:00:00.001-04:00

I. Am. Speechless.

Talented. Treasure. Tormented. Tired. Tragic.

I heart MJ.

You've done a FABULOUS job – now, go fly away and get some rest.

Long live the King.

Mommy gets a BREAK!

2009-06-28T12:00:00.004-04:00

Kristie (finally) gets a big girl night out to stalk and gawk at some very yummy man-candy called Donnie Wahlberg... NKOTB forever! This is like my 8th time seeing them... last time was in 1989 – shut your face!!! I'm just saying. We had LOTS of fun – good times.

Next goal – get D-Dub to FOLLOW ME on twitter. Stay tuned, girlfriend is determined! And, hey. Crazier things have happened, right?

Kristie (20 year old concert tee and Donnie button on zebra purse), Erin B. (drove in from the Windy City - congrats on the engagement), Tammy, Jamie and Erin G.R. – NKOTB gets the girls to reunite 15 years post High School graduation!!! Now that's what's up!

RIP MJ - tribute make me teary. Was rocking my black remembrance ribbon and MY ADIDAS... "walk through concert doors and roam all over coliseum floors..." LOL. So sad that Donnie didn't get to appreciate the throw-back attire.

D-Dub in the Nasti Nati... holla atcha girl!!!

Click. Click. Click. The boys have grown up nicely...

Goal #2 (after the twitter goal, smile) is to get me and the boyfriend / hubby, Brent, a grown folks vacation!!!

Shout out to Heather & Shannon – my sister in laws... they had better seats than me (hissssssssssssss), so I am taking advantage of their photos... I was front row (...of the LAWN) and my photos are not as HAWT and tasty. Shannon has 5* passes for Vegas (including a meet and greet) – I'm trying to get in where I fit in... ha!

Feeling Better on Daddy's Day!

2009-06-21T20:30:00.000-04:00

Up and out with Daddy on Father's Day... Ari is feeling MUCH better today. Now. The countdown to when the device actually gets turned on and Ari will experience "HEARING"! Yea!

Ari gets to wear this fashionable compression head band to keep the cochlear implant in place while she is healing... She cannot wait to wash her hair – about 10+ days, baby girl!!!

All about Daddy today – breakfast at Perkins. Coffee with Daddy (Brent) and Parker Styles aka P-Styles!

Daddy's Little Girl – Poetrie.

Parker and Poetrie, sharing the love...

In With The New...

2009-06-20T05:30:00.000-04:00

At 4:36PM on Friday, June 19th – surgery was complete and Ari was moved into Recovery. Surgery began at approximately 12:15PM. The Cochlear Implant procedure is typically a 3-4 hour surgery... she ran a little long because she had some "stubborn" veins that needed to be carefully moved out of the way. We are thankful for her surgical staff and Dr. John for taking such wonderful care of Arriana.

Baby Brother, Parker was pleased to see Ari in her room. Parker brought her a big, red heart balloon that read, "Love You!" He walked so proudly through the halls with his gifts! Little sis, Poetrie, was spending the weekend with Grandma – but called often and told Ari that she loved her too!

Oh Snap! Benefit Photos...

2009-06-12T17:30:00.001-04:00

Some random benefit photos – I will organize and add captions later. My connection is a bit slow today! Also have more to add – coming soon. Check back!

Public Service Announcement.

2009-06-09T23:00:00.002-04:00

Here she is... the hostess with the mostess, Kristie "O.C.D." Bedgoooood.
Yep, we even had staff uniforms – just in case you missed it!

More photos and updates to come – please bear with me while I take a few days to re-energize and get my Thank You's in order. There are quite a few. Please check back later this week for more happenings in the Bedgoooood Household.

Feel free to send me photos from our event – kristie.bedgood@gmail.com

Thanks again for each of you who took a moment out of your busy schedules to find a way to show up and support Arriana. Even though we did not hit our target, our event was still successful.

Donations can be made via PayPal or at any National City Bank location nationwide – operators are standing by. Please make checks payable to the Arriana Bedgood Benefit. Thank you for your time... Bedgood. Out.

"Good Times. Good Food. Good Friends."

2009-06-08T00:00:00.000-04:00

Thank YOU for coming out today to support Arriana and her very special cause.
With your support and generosity, today was a good day.

Mmm, cake! Thanks Busken!!!

Family, friends and co-workers gathered to eat, drink, mingle... some of us were lucky and went home a winner...

Ari, Ann, Granny and Poetrie

Brent & Parker

P–Styles

If you were there, you were impressed with the raffled items. If you were not, here's what you missed:

Mary Kay Grab Bag & A Tiffany Necklace
- Donna H.

Hanging Plant compliments of Moeller Greenhouse
- Vickie S.

Christmas in June Basket
- Diane D.

Biolage Spa Hair Products Basket & Haircut
- Vickie S.

Life is Good Basket
- Andre P.

Pet Supply Basket #1
- Chico

Bath & Body, Yankee Candles, Lip Gloss & Old Navy Gift Card ($10)
- Lori D.

Shower Time Dorm Bath Set Basket
- Shirley B.

Starbucks Gift Basket & Mary Kay Gift Set & Shimmer Powder
- Mike D.

Coach Umbrella
- Sheila B., then re-gifted to Kristie B. (smile!)

Ice Cream Basket, Graeter's Gift Card ($10) and Kroger Gift Card ($10)
- Heather T.

Cincinnati Reds (4) Field Box Tickets ($160 value)
- Angie M.

Jeff Ruby's Gift Card ($50)
- Wendy A.

ShadowBox Theater compliments of Newport on the Levee
- Stephanie S.

Museum Center Tickets (4, good at all 3 Museums)
- Sheila B.

Potbelly Box o' Sandwiches (10 sandwiches, approx. $50 value)
- Wendy A.

Cheesecake Factory Gift Card ($50)
- Andre P.

BlackFinn Gift Card ($75)
- Heather T.

Robe/Bath Set & Heidelberg Gift Certificate ($25)
- Granny

LaRosa's Gift Card ($25) and Mr. Softee Gift Basket
- Shirley B.

Holiday Basket
- Vickie S.

Games & Steak 'n Shake Gift Cards ($20)
- Angie M.

Flame Blanket & Lake Nina Gift Card
- Mike D.

Garden Basket and Olive Garden ($10)
- Angie M.

Royal Crown Bottling Gift Basket, Ear Phones and Walt's BBQ ($20)
- Aaron T.

Bunn Beverage Server & Showcase Cinema Tickets (2)
- Aaron T.

Treat Yourself O.P.I. Spa Basket
- Sheila B.

Pet Basket #2
- Damon C.

B&B Riverboat Cruises (2 Lunch/Brunch or Dinner Cruises, 2 Sightseeing Cruises and 4 BYGO Free)
with Travel Box
- Ranell S. (sp?)

Puppy Dog – Yes! A real live Puppy Dog
- DJ Luved 1

Congratulations on your new addition,
Donald & LaShaon!

Many thanks – more donors added today!!!

2009-06-03T17:17:00.006-04:00

Wow! We're blushing...

Blackfinn Restaurant and Saloon
Frisch's
Mr. Softee
Newport on the Levee - Shadowbox

Showcase Cinemas

It's not too late to get involved!

kristie.bedgood@gmail.com

Final Stretch! Cochlear Benefit Party – 1 Week Away!

2009-05-31T19:30:00.007-04:00

A very special thank you to each of the local businesses (and individuals) that have chosen to support our cause in some way shape or form!

It's not too late get involved... donate to the prize pool or to the benefit!
Kristie Bedgood
kristie.bedgood@gmail.com

Participating businesses include, but not limited to (and growing daily)...
Busken Bakery
The Cheesecake Factory
The Cincinnati Museum Center
The Cincinnati Reds
Heidelberg Distributing Family of Companies
LaRosa's Pizzeria
The Olive Garden
Potbelly's
The School for Creative & Performing Arts, Dance Department
Starbucks
Walt's BBQ

Please let me know if you are planning to attend, and the number of guests in your party – we need a rough estimate of supporters coming out on June 7th in order to make the final party preparations!

RSVP on Facebook

RSVP via eMail

kristie.bedgood@gmail.com

Oh Snap!!! (Calling all cameras...)

2009-06-02T19:27:00.008-04:00

If you are planning on attending the Benefit Party, please bring a camera and help take photos... I'd like to make a scrapbook for Ari to have as a keepsake! We can make arrangements to swap photos, I am also hoping to post a few on the blog / facebook event page.

Today's donors included...
Lake Nina
Moeller Greenhouse & Garden Center
Royal Crown Bottling
Western Hills Kroger
...Whoo-hoo!

It's not too late to get involved –
kristie.bedgood@gmail.com

"May the force be with you..."

2009-06-03T12:30:00.002-04:00

Great news! The Delhi Township Police Department will be taking an active roll in our event on Sunday...

Why is this so "great" you ask? Because. My (Kristie's) late Grandfather, Jack Stranzin, was one of the original Constables for The Delhi Township Police Department. We are excited to include our extended family at our event!

Throwback photo of my Grandpa...

Heavy hearts... Update on Kristie's younger brother, Michael "Moe" Thamann.

2009-05-28T22:00:00.005-04:00

Flashback...
Photo Left : 1981 - Michael Moe
Photo Right : Brian, Michael and Kristie

Today's Facebook Status: Kristie Bedgood has a heavy and sad heart... the cardiologist wants to talk "life expectancy" next week with her younger brother, "Michael Moe". One day at a time. One. Day. At. A. Time.

Michael has "complete transposition of the great vessels". At 20 months old he had "corrective surgery" aka a "mustard" procedure. Essentially, this means his heart works opposite from yours and mine. When he was born, the doctors would not discuss his chances of living. At 3 months old, they informed my mother that he had a 50/50 chance to make it to his first birthday. His everyday reality has been not knowing if there would be a "tomorrow". Michael had an MRI of his heart today. We have been informed that his right ventricle is becoming weaker by the day... and "things do not look good".

Michael was told that he is one of the oldest living patients in the Country with this specific procedure. He is referred to as the "Miracle Baby" at Children's Hospital. The doctor's at Children's are keeping detailed statistics about my brother and documenting Michael's progress... he is, essentially, a case study in hearts and medicine. He has continually defied any and all odds placed before him. He wasn't supposed to walk... or talk... or live long enough to see age 1... or 2... or 10... or 16... or 18... or 21... you get the point!

Despite all of the odds against him, Michael is now 29 (February 19, 1980), and married to Rebecca ("Becca") with two beautiful children... my handsome nephew, Dominic and my beautiful niece, Destiny.

I pray that Michael hasn't lost his fight. He is my true inspiration – or very hard headed (like me?)!!! Smile.

Today. I want the world to know.... I love me some Michael Moe.

When in doubt, look up!

Outback with "Charlie Hustle"!

2009-06-01T21:15:00.011-04:00

A special shout out to Pete Rose! Thanks for your hospitality tonight... this will be framed and placed in a very special location inside of our home. Man, my Grandpa Jack would be so proud!!! I'm sure he's smiling...

Today, we've added to our list of donors...
Jeff Ruby's, Steak 'n Shake & *possibly* Outback Steak House – awesome!

It's not too late to get in where you fit in!
Please contact me directly, if you'd like to donate,
kristie.bedgood@gmail.com!

Folks, we are "rounding third and headed for home..."
6 days until THE benefit!

Are you in??? Please RSVP... if you haven't already!

2009-05-29T12:15:00.005-04:00

Please let me know if you are planning to attend, and the number of guests in your party – we need a rough estimate of supporters coming out on June 7th in order to make the final party preparations!

RSVP on Facebook

RSVP via eMail

kristie.bedgood@gmail.com

I have 13 folks RSVP'ed!? Is that it, really???

2009-05-29T17:10:00.005-04:00

So. If you are one of the lucky 13 who have already RSVPed – thanks! And, your odds of winning something fantastic are looking GREAT...

Some of the donated raffle items to date include

(but are not limited to...):

- 4 Cincinnati Reds Field Box Tickets

- A Tiffany Necklace

- A Coach Umbrella

- 4 Cincinnati Museum Tickets (good at all 3 museums)

- Professional Hair Care Basket

- Spa Basket

...you get the idea!

Interested In Donating To The Prize Pool???

Do you or someone you know have something that you would like to donate to be auctioned / raffled off for our cause? Perhaps you are able to put together a themed basket or can have a connection that can donate gas cards or gift cards... no idea is too small. Anything helps and everything is appreciated. Please contact us with your donations / ideas!

Please contact me directly at kristie.bedgood@gmail.com if you would like a form letter to take with you while you are approaching local businesses for donated items.

Attention Bakers...

Feel free to bake up a goodie and donate it to our Bake Sale Table at the benefit. No need to ask, just show up with the sugar... we'll direct you to the appropriate location.

Saying Prayers For Michael "Moe"...

2009-05-29T06:00:00.000-04:00

March 11, 1980
Brian (6 1/2 years old), Michael (3 weeks old) and Kristie (4 1/2 years old)

Please remember Michael "Moe" and our family in your prayers tonight...
Thank you and God Bless!

Standing Tall : Last Day of School – Congrats Ari!

2009-05-27T20:30:00.000-04:00

Ari looked amazing today during her year end performance in dance... way to shine! See you next year... or hopefully on June 7th for her benefit!

WinMo said... You gotta be kiddin, Who is Luved 1?

2009-05-22T22:34:00.006-04:00

Kristie says... WinMo, Maybe you ain't ready!?

Photo of the Luved 1 is also compliments of the DJ (Luved 1, of course...) Thanks for the hook up!

Wanna see more? Well then. You've gotta be there! Sunday. June 7th. 1-4 PM. Delhi Park Lodge. 5125 Foley Road. 45238. Wessst Siii-eeeede. (Smile!)

If you are not the patient type, and you'd like to connect with the DJ directly, or to book him for your upcoming event, he can be contacted at oneluved1@hotmail.com!

DJ Luved 1... on the 1's and 2's!

2009-05-20T12:05:00.005-04:00

It's confirmed!!!

DJ Luved 1 will be in the house (go Julie – go Julie!)!

You can check him out LIVE at our benefit... and, if you'd like to connect

with the DJ directly, or to book him for your upcoming event, he can be

contacted at oneluved1@hotmail.com

Stay tuned... (smile)

Long Distance Donation Landed This Morning! (((kram)))

2009-05-22T06:00:00.009-04:00

It's official – Arriana has gone GLOBAL!

Ari's first donation from "across the water" (Älmhult, Sweden) has arrived this morning! Watch out now! Thank YOU (and, you know who YOU are)!!! xoxo

A Special Thanks!

2009-05-18T19:30:00.001-04:00

Mrs. Rozow & SCPA Dance Department!
Simply amazing... and super "sweet" of you – I was completely blown away by the amount of participation this morning while I was dropping off our baked goods. It was overwhelming. A very special thank you to each of you for initiating the idea and hosting the Benefit Bake Sale for Arriana... not to mention all of the hard work and effort behind it. My family will be forever touched and inspired by your acts of kindness! SCPA is our extended family. We hope to see you at the Party on June 7th (1-4) at the Delhi Lodge!

Also a very special shout-out to all of the super sweet consumers!
Thank you for sparing an extra dollar or two at lunch today and supporting a very important cause. Hope you enjoyed the goods.

Warmest, warmest regards,
The Bedgood's