www.accfcb.org

Pictured L to R: Connor age 16, Kirsten Age 4 1/2- Sister & Christina- Siena College student

Connor Moran is from Wynantskill and is 16 years old. He was diagnosed at age 12 with Crohn's Disease & Osteoporosis. He recently underwent Bowel Resection Surgery, and had 3.5 feet of bowel removed. Connor is home-schooled and his friends are minimal. He has limited mobility and is easily fatigued. His mother prepares his food in a blender and is fed via G-Tube.

ACCFCB met with the family in their home for the first time on Saturday, Dec 1, 2007. ACCFCB will be supporting Connor and his family. To help this family get on stable ground financially, ACCFCB will pay $1500 to bring their utility bills up to date with the help of a $500 donation from Local 775. We will also pay all of Connor's outstanding medical bills at a cost of about $2600. . We plan to help cover future medical expenses for Connor not covered by Medical Insurance. We will assist the family with future travel expenses with regard to Connor's medical needs. Christina Sillery pictured above is a Siena College student who befriended Connor after learning of his plight through ACCFCB- Christina also has Crohn's disease.

John,

First and foremost, thanks for all you have done for us. My family was at the breaking point and ready to disintegrate under the strain of Connor's deteriorated health. The bills kept piling up and the health of our son was in perpetual degradation. We were silently sinking. My boss and mentor, Lt. James Karam from Rensselaer Co. Sheriff's Department was instrumental in seeking your help for my family. We reached a point of not knowing how to even begin addressing the numerous problems mounting, compounding, and ultimately stemming from the medical issues Connor faces. The strain imposed by my recent deployment in Kuwait, only further estranged my family relationship, which was already compromised after years of stresses derived from our common struggle. You, your staff, and the CERT team under Captain Foley have all been the blessing we are most grateful for in our lives. The ACCF officers union Local 775, Mr.Charlie Diamond ACCFCB Board member, and the ACCF Mental Health Unit were equally a Godsend. We've been truly blessed by their presence in our lives. I would also like to thank Mr. Ed Remmilard of ACSD. Yesterday on Christmas eve he came to my home, to assess a broken drainage pipe in my basement. To our shock, over the next few hours, he singlehandedly replaced the pipes at no charge for us. This act saved us potentially thousands of dollars we currently do not possess. As we sit down to dinner tonight we will thank our new friends, and all who extended their hearts and hands. I thank you for all of your help. I have been unable to address all of the needs of my family, but you have been placed in my path offering assistance. I am forever in your debt. This I happily declare. May the new year bring Connor health and blessings to all of the members mentioned in this letter as well as their families.

Sincerely,
Len Smith

Response from John Smith, ACCFCB President

Posted on 01.01.2008 by wjs3

Dear Len,

I will certainly share your very thoughtful and kind words which undoubtedly came from your heart.

You have given us a great gift, a sense of knowing the collective difference that we have made. We are blessed to have been guided to help your lovely family.

Please continue to keep John W. posted on Connor's progress and any help or questions you and your family may have. We wish you a very happy holiday and Happy New Year, which will hopefully bring you further relief in your struggles.

Warm regards,
John R Smith, President
Albany County Correctional Facility for Children's Benefit, Inc.
(518) 588-5055
www.ACCFCB.org