Raffling off a project for a cause

Jim,

Sorry to hear about your BIL's condition. A number of our woodworkers
have contributed items to charities and non-profits to raise cash for
that organization. Perhaps the best thing to do would be to contact a
non-profit that might fit in with your BIL's condition and see if THEY
would hold the auction.

Another thing would be to use ETSY.Com where people sell all sorts of
handmade items.

And finally, I don't know what your expecting to get for your piece,
but given what expenses might have to made with your BIL's care, and
his family's needs, unless you're an exquisite woodworker, you might
find that the public might not value that item as much as you'd hope.
I would try to use the non-profit route. They have the mailing lists,
publicity contacts, etc. that would spread the news of the auction
widely.

Best of luck.

MJ.

On 2/28/2013 10:20 PM, jtpr wrote:

> You all touched me very deeply with your donations. But I cannot tell you the effect this will have on Mel's wife.

You just got to the very heart of the matter with that last above, Jim.

From what I can tell, and having just been given the opportunity to
observe the effect of a gift/donation on the recipient, it has made me
understand that the monetary element, regardless of the size and while
of necessary importance, turns out to be about half the benefit.

These folks are sick, or tired, or both, and their energy levels and
ability to carry on are being taxed to the utmost.

When seeing folks, sometimes complete strangers, willing to help _them_,
you observe in the recipient the other half of that gift of kindness and
generosity: a renewed energy to carry on.

Gives that old saying, "The milk of human kindness.", a new meaning and
understanding, eh? :)

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KarlCaillouet@ (the obvious)

Swingman wrote:
>
> Reason for some very cautious optimism today with regard to my
> youngest daughter. Too early to be jumping for joy, but after a
> month of Interferon treatment, an MRI yesterday (yep, on Easter
> Sunday) indicated that tumors appear to be slowly regressing, and
> that bone growth is progressing.
>
> Once again, thanks to all of you here who donated on her behalf,
> can't tell you how much that means to all of us.
-------------------------------------------------------------
SUPER!!!!

Lew

"Swingman" <[email protected]> wrote
>
> As I've said before, that was instigated by a family friend without my
> knowledge or input, but from what I understand I don't think it is
> possible for donations to an individual for medical purposes to be tax
> deductible for the donor without the recipient being some kind of
> registered 501(c) charitable organization.
>
> I'm fairly certain that any donation is treated as a "gift" to the
> recipient and as a result would not be taxable as income to the recipient
> for Federal purposes.
>
As explained to me by my accountant, I am certainly not one, this is how it
works.

You have a limit to how much you can "gift" anybody per year and per
lifetime. Anything above that means you have to pay tax. The recipient
rarely pays this tax. But you can make a "direct contribution" toward
tuition and medical expenses. These do not count against the above
mentioned limits. But the funds must be paid DIRECTLY to the educational
institution or medical facility/provider. There is no tax write off
involved in any of these scenarios. You would need to make a donation to a
federally (IRS) recognized charity for that to happen.

Again, I am not an accountant nor do I play one on television.

On Thursday, February 28, 2013 8:58:32 PM UTC-5, Swingman wrote:
> On 2/28/2013 7:12 PM, Brian Hoyt wrote:
>=20
>=20
>=20
> >
>=20
> > +1
>=20
> >
>=20
> > another grain of sand
>=20
> >
>=20
> > brian
>=20
> >
>=20
> >
>=20
> > --
>=20
> > Brian Hoyt
>=20
> > Stillwater Lake, Nova Scotia
>=20
> > Canada, B3Z 1G2
>=20
>=20
>=20
> Wow! ...Actually, Michelle is at the hospital as we speak getting one of=
=20
>=20
> those weekly shots administered (done late in the evening on Thursday=20
>=20
> and Friday so she at least has the weekend to crash) ... I texted her an=
=20
>=20
> update based on your above and her exact words: "You have no idea how=20
>=20
> much that means ... and Thank all of them for me!"
>=20
>=20
>=20
> --=20
>=20
> eWoodShop: www.eWoodShop.com
>=20
> Wood Shop: www.e-WoodShop.net
>=20
> https://plus.google.com/114902129577517371552/posts
>=20
> http://www.custommade.com/by/ewoodshop/
>=20
> KarlCaillouet@ (the obvious)

Mel received a couple of donations to his site the day after I posted my or=
iginal question. Funny how these things affect somebody but it actually ma=
de me cry to think people that I have never even met would take not only th=
e funds but the time to do this.

You all touched me very deeply with your donations. But I cannot tell you =
the effect this will have on Mel's wife. She has been totally dedicated to=
him throughout this ordeal, spending 6-8 hours a day with him, every day, =
in hospitals and now a nursing home. The staff has told her that many spou=
ses in this situation actually walk away from it. I have been married to h=
er sister for 32 years, and never knew what inner strength she had. Her ov=
erwhelming fear at this point is how she will care for him once he get's ho=
me. I can help build the mechanics of it, but the day to day is just too m=
uch to think about. =20

Anyway, thank you so much for the donations and the thoughts, you have rene=
wed my faith in people.

Your advice was good, I'm going to pursue that website.

-Jim

On 4/3/2013 9:12 AM, Han wrote:

> Because this is to help a specific individual, rather than a charitable
> cause, it is not tax deductible. That does not imply that Give Forward
> isn't a noble and charitbale way to give, just that tax law doesn't let
> it be "charitable" for tax purposes.

Perfect example of the unfortunate necessity of laws to govern human
behavior. If this were somehow allowed, the plethora of dickheads in the
gene pool (starting with the lawyers?), would be abusing it for their
own, other than charitable, benefit.

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Wood Shop: www.e-WoodShop.net
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KarlCaillouet@ (the obvious)

On 4/2/2013 10:43 PM, Mike M wrote:
> On Mon, 01 Apr 2013 18:14:02 -0500, Swingman <[email protected]> wrote:
>
>> On 3/1/2013 7:38 AM, Swingman wrote:
>>> On 2/28/2013 10:20 PM, jtpr wrote:
>>>
>>>> You all touched me very deeply with your donations. But I cannot tell
>>>> you the effect this will have on Mel's wife.
>>>
>>> You just got to the very heart of the matter with that last above, Jim.
>>>
>>> From what I can tell, and having just been given the opportunity to
>>> observe the effect of a gift/donation on the recipient, it has made me
>>> understand that the monetary element, regardless of the size and while
>>> of necessary importance, turns out to be about half the benefit.
>>>
>>> These folks are sick, or tired, or both, and their energy levels and
>>> ability to carry on are being taxed to the utmost.
>>>
>>> When seeing folks, sometimes complete strangers, willing to help _them_,
>>> you observe in the recipient the other half of that gift of kindness and
>>> generosity: a renewed energy to carry on.
>>>
>>> Gives that old saying, "The milk of human kindness.", a new meaning and
>>> understanding, eh? :)
>>
>> Reason for some very cautious optimism today with regard to my youngest
>> daughter. Too early to be jumping for joy, but after a month of
>> Interferon treatment, an MRI yesterday (yep, on Easter Sunday) indicated
>> that tumors appear to be slowly regressing, and that bone growth is
>> progressing.
>>
>> Once again, thanks to all of you here who donated on her behalf, can't
>> tell you how much that means to all of us.
>
> Happy to hear that. It would be nice if there was a way to contribute
> and have it tax deductible. I've gone 4 years now with out paying
> income tax, and I enjoy not paying into the Ponzi scheme anymore then
> necessary. Just a thought but might help her raise more money.
>
> Mike M
>

You have to discount the fact that you may not get a tax advantage when
helping some one else out. I don't like paying taxes either but I won't
let that stop me from helping someone. sometimes you just have to think
of how much help you would be giving.

On 3/1/2013 10:20 AM, Han wrote:
> Swingman <[email protected]> wrote in

>> Thus far I have found no reason, personal or business wise, to succumb
>> to "tweeting" ... too busy chasing kids off my lawn. ;)
>
> I'm just lurking on twitter ...
> What's a lawn?? My spouse claims she has the rights to the outside, and
> is steadily diminishing the area where there are still weeds growing ...

Ask -MIKE- ... :)

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KarlCaillouet@ (the obvious)

On 4/2/2013 10:43 PM, Mike M wrote:

> Happy to hear that. It would be nice if there was a way to contribute
> and have it tax deductible. I've gone 4 years now with out paying
> income tax, and I enjoy not paying into the Ponzi scheme anymore then
> necessary. Just a thought but might help her raise more money.


As I've said before, that was instigated by a family friend without my
knowledge or input, but from what I understand I don't think it is
possible for donations to an individual for medical purposes to be tax
deductible for the donor without the recipient being some kind of
registered 501(c) charitable organization.

I'm fairly certain that any donation is treated as a "gift" to the
recipient and as a result would not be taxable as income to the
recipient for Federal purposes.

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KarlCaillouet@ (the obvious)

On 2/28/2013 10:37 AM, Han wrote:

> I had tried searching on your last name at the main site, without seeing
> a result. Hence my question.

I noticed that myself ... it's kinda out of my hands, but I did mention
it to Linda to bring it up to the friend who is administering the site.
(I'm not real comfortable with the concept myself, but it is neither my
call, nor my decision)

> The costs of these treatments (even for a long-known and long-used
> compound such as interferon) is beyond what regular people can sustain.
> I hope my little contribution will help.

I'll pass that on, and hereby Thank You for her, Han. It's like grains
of sand ... combined, they can make a beach.

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KarlCaillouet@ (the obvious)

On 2/27/2013 6:03 PM, jtpr wrote:
> My brother in law and closest friend (fellow woodworker) suffered a massive brain bleed back in September. Anyway he is currently in a skilled nursing facility and will probably be coming home in June. This will be tough on his wife financially as there are a lot of things that need to be done to accommodate his needs. Plus, he was the primary bread winner, and he is only 55 so she could be looking a a LOT of years of care.
>
> So, I was thinking; what if I made something and either raffled it or auctioned it off to help raise funds for her? I was looking around online but not really finding what I need. Also, how would people know I was legit? Has anybody done this sort of thing with something they have made? Any suggestions?
>
> I could use the web site I made her (http://www.careformel.org) to advertise it, but they don't really have a huge number of people visiting it.

If you know some folks online and particularly in social networking
sites, you might want to consider doing this for them:

http://www.giveforward.com

A family friend set up a medical fund at that site for my youngest
daughter, 27, and has raised $4k+ in the space of a couple of weeks to
help her pay for experimental drugs to treat a rare, disfiguring disease
that the insurance company will not pay.

She is pretty much overwhelmed with the support she has received from
that quarter, and it has proven to be a godsend for both her morale, and
well as helping pay her bills.

I think they take a 10% fee, but the donor can also pay that if they wish.

If you want to leave no stone unturned for your BIL, give it a shot, and
then let _everyone_ know about it. There's a lot of generous folks out
there ...

--
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Wood Shop: www.e-WoodShop.net
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KarlCaillouet@ (the obvious)

On 4/3/2013 10:00 AM, Han wrote:
> Swingman <[email protected]> wrote in
> news:[email protected]:
>
>> On 4/3/2013 9:12 AM, Han wrote:
>>
>>> Because this is to help a specific individual, rather than a
>>> charitable cause, it is not tax deductible. That does not imply that
>>> Give Forward isn't a noble and charitbale way to give, just that tax
>>> law doesn't let it be "charitable" for tax purposes.
>>
>> Perfect example of the unfortunate necessity of laws to govern human
>> behavior. If this were somehow allowed, the plethora of dickheads in
>> the gene pool (starting with the lawyers?), would be abusing it for
>> their own, other than charitable, benefit.
>
> Would be a long, long discussion if we are going to talk about what
> should or should not be deductible. <BIG GRIN>
>
> Just for those who don't realize it, deductions such as chariable
> deductions, reduce your taxable income only, they are NOT credits
> against a tax bill. This makes deductions highly regressive in their
> benefits: Example: If I give $1000 to the food pantry, which is a
> deductible expense, the benefit I get depends on my top marginal tax
> rate. Therefore giving is most "profitable" for those whose income is
> highest. Tax rates for 2013 for married filing jointly:
>
> 10% on taxable income from $0 to $17,850, plus
> 15% on taxable income over $17,850 to $72,500, plus
> 25% on taxable income over $72,500 to $146,400, plus
> 28% on taxable income over $146,400 to $223,050, plus
> 33% on taxable income over $223,050 to $398,350, plus
> 35% on taxable income over $398,350 to $450,000, plus
> 39.6% on taxable income over $450,000.
>
> Obviously my $1000 cost me only ~$600 if I have the highest income, but
> costs me $900 if I earn less than $17,850.
>

Another reason that the poor should be under the 39.6" tax rate and the
rich under the 10% rate, The poor would benefit more than the rich for
charitable contributions. :~O

On 4/3/2013 9:20 AM, Leon wrote:

> You have to discount the fact that you may not get a tax advantage when
> helping some one else out. I don't like paying taxes either but I won't
> let that stop me from helping someone. sometimes you just have to think
> of how much help you would be giving.

His was simply a remark on how much more could be raised if that were
the case ... and I agree that could be a large factor in any decision to
donate.

That said, and judging from Mike's generous donation to a complete
stranger, I'm absolutely certain, and without doubt whatsoever, that tax
destructibility wasn't a factor in his decision to do so ... but
instead, an act of big heart and an inherent kindness. :)

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KarlCaillouet@ (the obvious)

On 2/28/2013 10:20 PM, jtpr wrote:

> Anyway, thank you so much for the donations and the thoughts, you have renewed my faith in people.

And likewise ...

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KarlCaillouet@ (the obvious)

On 3/1/2013 9:50 AM, Han wrote:

> Karl, you know how much continuing communication has helped Rob & Angela,
> and I am now referring to Facebook in large part. May I suggest that M
> does something like that? At least I would not mind encouraging her on FB,
> if (and only if) she so desires.

As far as I know she, and all her college friends, shut down their FB
accounts a couple of years back.

She was on Facebook when you and I were saying "Face ..what??", but
apparently many of this particular age group no longer use Facebook
(probably because us old fogies started using it?) and, I"m guessing
here, have moved to Twitter? :)

Thus far I have found no reason, personal or business wise, to succumb
to "tweeting" ... too busy chasing kids off my lawn. ;)

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KarlCaillouet@ (the obvious)

Swingman <[email protected]> wrote in
news:[email protected]:

> On 2/27/2013 6:03 PM, jtpr wrote:
>> My brother in law and closest friend (fellow woodworker) suffered a
>> massive brain bleed back in September. Anyway he is currently in a
>> skilled nursing facility and will probably be coming home in June.
>> This will be tough on his wife financially as there are a lot of
>> things that need to be done to accommodate his needs. Plus, he was
>> the primary bread winner, and he is only 55 so she could be looking a
>> a LOT of years of care.
>>
>> So, I was thinking; what if I made something and either raffled it or
>> auctioned it off to help raise funds for her? I was looking around
>> online but not really finding what I need. Also, how would people
>> know I was legit? Has anybody done this sort of thing with something
>> they have made? Any suggestions?
>>
>> I could use the web site I made her (http://www.careformel.org) to
>> advertise it, but they don't really have a huge number of people
>> visiting it.
>
> If you know some folks online and particularly in social networking
> sites, you might want to consider doing this for them:
>
> http://www.giveforward.com
>
> A family friend set up a medical fund at that site for my youngest
> daughter, 27, and has raised $4k+ in the space of a couple of weeks to
> help her pay for experimental drugs to treat a rare, disfiguring
> disease that the insurance company will not pay.
>
> She is pretty much overwhelmed with the support she has received from
> that quarter, and it has proven to be a godsend for both her morale,
> and well as helping pay her bills.
>
> I think they take a 10% fee, but the donor can also pay that if they
> wish.
>
> If you want to leave no stone unturned for your BIL, give it a shot,
> and then let _everyone_ know about it. There's a lot of generous folks
> out there ...

I don't mind giving for causes like this. What is your giveforward site,
Karl?

--
Best regards
Han
email address is invalid

jtpr <[email protected]> wrote in
news:[email protected]:

> On Wednesday, February 27, 2013 7:54:52 PM UTC-5, Swingman wrote:
>> On 2/27/2013 6:03 PM, jtpr wrote:
>>
>> > My brother in law and closest friend (fellow woodworker) suffered a
>> > mas
> sive brain bleed back in September. Anyway he is currently in a
> skilled nursing facility and will probably be coming home in June.
> This will be tough on his wife financially as there are a lot of
> things that need to be done to accommodate his needs. Plus, he was
> the primary bread winner, and he is only 55 so she could be looking a
> a LOT of years of care.
>>
>> >
>>
>> > So, I was thinking; what if I made something and either raffled it
>> > or a
> uctioned it off to help raise funds for her? I was looking around
> online but not really finding what I need. Also, how would people
> know I was legit? Has anybody done this sort of thing with something
> they have made? Any suggestions?
>>
>> >
>>
>> > I could use the web site I made her (http://www.careformel.org) to
>> > adve
> rtise it, but they don't really have a huge number of people visiting
> it.
>>
>>
>>
>> If you know some folks online and particularly in social networking
>>
>> sites, you might want to consider doing this for them:
>>
>>
>>
>> http://www.giveforward.com
>>
>>
>>
>> A family friend set up a medical fund at that site for my youngest
>>
>> daughter, 27, and has raised $4k+ in the space of a couple of weeks
>> to
>>
>> help her pay for experimental drugs to treat a rare, disfiguring
>> disease
>
>>
>> that the insurance company will not pay.
>>
>>
>>
>> She is pretty much overwhelmed with the support she has received from
>>
>> that quarter, and it has proven to be a godsend for both her morale,
>> and
>
>>
>> well as helping pay her bills.
>>
>>
>>
>> I think they take a 10% fee, but the donor can also pay that if they
>> wish
> .
>>
>>
>>
>> If you want to leave no stone unturned for your BIL, give it a shot,
>> and
>
>>
>> then let _everyone_ know about it. There's a lot of generous folks
>> out
>>
>> there ...
>>
>>
>>
>> --
>>
>> eWoodShop: www.eWoodShop.com
>>
>> Wood Shop: www.e-WoodShop.net
>>
>> https://plus.google.com/114902129577517371552/posts
>>
>> http://www.custommade.com/by/ewoodshop/
>>
>> KarlCaillouet@ (the obvious)
>
> Actually I did do that just the other day
> (http://www.giveforward.com/careformel).
>
> But now I'm not sure where to go with it. I mean we let people know
> in his original circle when I set up the website and most either gave
> something or helped out in some other way. But none of these are
> wealthy people and I feel odd using this Giveforward site to solicit
> more. So I heard about regarding another cause and looked it up and
> created the page, then kind of hit a wall as to how to get it out
> there. Maybe I could use it as sort of a second phase, his coming
> home. I guess where I'm going is trying to reach out beyond the
> people in his immediate world. I just don't want to see him in
> nursing home the rest of his life, the cost of which would probably
> cause his wife to lose the house. Better he come home and she can
> care for him with some help. Damn guy is 6'5" and hard to move
> around;+}

Put it on FB ...

--
Best regards
Han
email address is invalid

Swingman <[email protected]> wrote in
news:[email protected]:

> On 2/27/2013 8:54 PM, Han wrote:
>
>> I don't mind giving for causes like this. What is your giveforward
>> site, Karl?
>
> Actually, I found out about it after the fact, Han. It was setup
> without my input, or her knowledge, by a family friend, strictly for
> her benefit. She's very independent and had a problem with accepting
> it at first, but the reality of her bills piling up so fast has
> tempered that reluctance. Just so you know, this young lady has lived
> with this since birth (with a wise and kind inner strength beyond her
> years), had to recently undergo surgery to save her eyesight and,
> despite being dealt a 'tough row to hoe' in life for young woman (it
> took fifteen years of research and a team of doctors to diagnose and
> decide upon a treatment, which may or may not work), has never failed
> a self imposed obligation to help those even less fortunate by
> volunteering, since her early teens to help children with disabilities
> at MD Anderson here in Houston. She is driven to do this for those
> kids, and who better than someone who can empathize with persona
> experience? AAMOF, while currently undergoing this experimental
> treatment, which is so debilitating that many who embark upon on it
> stay in bed for the entire year of its course, or quit, she has the
> fortitude to both continue to work, as well as to be back in school
> working on an Education Certificate to better teach kids with
> disabilities ... if anyone is worthy ... nuff said.
>
> So, since you asked:
>
> http://www.giveforward.com/michellecaillouetmedicalfund?utm_source=face
> book&utm_medium=fb_wall&utm_campaign=hug&og_action=hug&fb_ref=690176
>
I had tried searching on your last name at the main site, without seeing
a result. Hence my question.

The costs of these treatments (even for a long-known and long-used
compound such as interferon) is beyond what regular people can sustain.
I hope my little contribution will help.

--
Best regards
Han
email address is invalid

"Mike Marlow" <[email protected]> wrote in
news:[email protected]:

> Swingman wrote:
>
>>
>> I'll pass that on, and hereby Thank You for her, Han. It's like
>> grains of sand ... combined, they can make a beach.
>
> You are right about that Karl - grains of sand. We help out on an
> ongoing basis, with a friend who has a child with OI. He's 15 now and
> has broken bones well over 200 times now. It's a very frustrating
> life for him since he can't do what everyone else does - simply
> getting up or a trival bump can and does result in a broken bone. But
> - you do what you can, when you can, and hope it helps.

We lived next to the mother of a true pioneer of American law, Paul
Hearne, who was instrumental in passing the Americans with Disabilities
act. He had OI too. A wonderful, loving and dear person who succumbed
to the horrible disease at 48.

I'll be thinking of your friend's boy. Paul's life story and
accomplishments should be an inspiration for his parents and him.
--
Best regards
Han
email address is invalid

Swingman <[email protected]> wrote in
news:[email protected]:

<snip>
> Wow! ...Actually, Michelle is at the hospital as we speak getting one
> of those weekly shots administered (done late in the evening on
> Thursday and Friday so she at least has the weekend to crash) ... I
> texted her an update based on your above and her exact words: "You
> have no idea how much that means ... and Thank all of them for me!"

Makes me feel even better now!

--
Best regards
Han
email address is invalid

Swingman <[email protected]> wrote in
news:[email protected]:

> On 2/28/2013 11:07 PM, Mike M wrote:
>
>> and another grain, I appreciate all that you post here.
>
> That's a bucketful, Bubba! :)
>
> Thank you, Mike. Shot #6/208 last night, #7 tonight. Ya gotta know how
> much seeing those donations yesterday meant to her in facing the
> remaining 207.

Karl, you know how much continuing communication has helped Rob & Angela,
and I am now referring to Facebook in large part. May I suggest that M
does something like that? At least I would not mind encouraging her on FB,
if (and only if) she so desires.

--
Best regards
Han
email address is invalid

Swingman <[email protected]> wrote in
news:[email protected]:

> On 3/1/2013 9:50 AM, Han wrote:
>
>> Karl, you know how much continuing communication has helped Rob &
>> Angela, and I am now referring to Facebook in large part. May I
>> suggest that M does something like that? At least I would not mind
>> encouraging her on FB, if (and only if) she so desires.
>
> As far as I know she, and all her college friends, shut down their FB
> accounts a couple of years back.
>
> She was on Facebook when you and I were saying "Face ..what??", but
> apparently many of this particular age group no longer use Facebook
> (probably because us old fogies started using it?) and, I"m guessing
> here, have moved to Twitter? :)
>
> Thus far I have found no reason, personal or business wise, to succumb
> to "tweeting" ... too busy chasing kids off my lawn. ;)

I'm just lurking on twitter ...
What's a lawn?? My spouse claims she has the rights to the outside, and
is steadily diminishing the area where there are still weeds growing ...

--
Best regards
Han
email address is invalid

"[email protected]" <[email protected]> wrote in news:a878a8a1-
[email protected]:

> All the nice things Karl said about his young daughter cut it short to
> me. Having met her and talked with her she is one of the sweetest,
> nicest young ladies I have met in a long time. She really impressed
> my significant other with these same qualities, and that doesn't
> happen much.
>
> Kathy and me have had the pleasure and privilege of staying in Karl's
> house with him and his lovely wife and their noisy puppies for the
> last three years now. That is how I met Michelle. She is charmingly
> shy, and never has there been a time when we visiting that she wasn't
> respectful and polite to her parents. We visit at Christmas time, and
> as Karl said, besides her employed work she has always seemed to be
> working on a couple of projects to help others in need enjoy the
> season.
>
> Having just finished a prolonged illness with a family member, I think
> it is also important to remember how important the support group is
> around the person victimized by illness. I can't imagine how hard
> this is for Karl and Linda, but then I can't imagine having a better
> team around Michelle than Karl and Linda.
>
> With all that in mind Karl, Kathy and I sending all the positive
> energy and prayers we can to all three of you. Please tell Michelle
> she is in our thoughts, to be strong, and that we are looking forward
> to seeing all of you soon.
>
> Robert

I haven't met anyone in the Caillouet family in person, but admire them
greatly from interactions with Karl, and hearing the respectful way the
treat each other and (most) others. My spouse's family has gone through
a similar disaster, compressed into 5 months, as Robatoyand did and we
know how both families have suffered and persevered. Thankfully Michelle
has a disease that doesn't have the same prognosis (I think), but
nevertheless she will need all the assistance anyone can give. I hope
Karl and Michelle will not forgo to ask for help, virtual, mentaal and
financial.

--
Best regards
Han
email address is invalid

Swingman <[email protected]> wrote in
news:[email protected]:

> On 3/1/2013 7:38 AM, Swingman wrote:
>> On 2/28/2013 10:20 PM, jtpr wrote:
>>
>>> You all touched me very deeply with your donations. But I cannot
>>> tell you the effect this will have on Mel's wife.
>>
>> You just got to the very heart of the matter with that last above,
>> Jim.
>>
>> From what I can tell, and having just been given the opportunity to
>> observe the effect of a gift/donation on the recipient, it has made
>> me understand that the monetary element, regardless of the size and
>> while of necessary importance, turns out to be about half the
>> benefit.
>>
>> These folks are sick, or tired, or both, and their energy levels and
>> ability to carry on are being taxed to the utmost.
>>
>> When seeing folks, sometimes complete strangers, willing to help
>> _them_, you observe in the recipient the other half of that gift of
>> kindness and generosity: a renewed energy to carry on.
>>
>> Gives that old saying, "The milk of human kindness.", a new meaning
>> and understanding, eh? :)
>
> Reason for some very cautious optimism today with regard to my
> youngest daughter. Too early to be jumping for joy, but after a month
> of Interferon treatment, an MRI yesterday (yep, on Easter Sunday)
> indicated that tumors appear to be slowly regressing, and that bone
> growth is progressing.
>
> Once again, thanks to all of you here who donated on her behalf, can't
> tell you how much that means to all of us.

Wonderful news!! Sorry she had to suffer the interferon therapy, but it
is the good result that she'll remember mostly, soon anyway!

--
Best regards
Han
email address is invalid

Mike M <[email protected]> wrote in
news:[email protected]:

> On Mon, 01 Apr 2013 18:14:02 -0500, Swingman <[email protected]> wrote:
>
>>On 3/1/2013 7:38 AM, Swingman wrote:
>>> On 2/28/2013 10:20 PM, jtpr wrote:
>>>
>>>> You all touched me very deeply with your donations. But I cannot
>>>> tell you the effect this will have on Mel's wife.
>>>
>>> You just got to the very heart of the matter with that last above,
>>> Jim.
>>>
>>> From what I can tell, and having just been given the opportunity to
>>> observe the effect of a gift/donation on the recipient, it has made
>>> me understand that the monetary element, regardless of the size and
>>> while of necessary importance, turns out to be about half the
>>> benefit.
>>>
>>> These folks are sick, or tired, or both, and their energy levels and
>>> ability to carry on are being taxed to the utmost.
>>>
>>> When seeing folks, sometimes complete strangers, willing to help
>>> _them_, you observe in the recipient the other half of that gift of
>>> kindness and generosity: a renewed energy to carry on.
>>>
>>> Gives that old saying, "The milk of human kindness.", a new meaning
>>> and understanding, eh? :)
>>
>>Reason for some very cautious optimism today with regard to my
>>youngest daughter. Too early to be jumping for joy, but after a month
>>of Interferon treatment, an MRI yesterday (yep, on Easter Sunday)
>>indicated that tumors appear to be slowly regressing, and that bone
>>growth is progressing.
>>
>>Once again, thanks to all of you here who donated on her behalf, can't
>>tell you how much that means to all of us.
>
> Happy to hear that. It would be nice if there was a way to contribute
> and have it tax deductible. I've gone 4 years now with out paying
> income tax, and I enjoy not paying into the Ponzi scheme anymore then
> necessary. Just a thought but might help her raise more money.
>
> Mike M

Because this is to help a specific individual, rather than a charitable
cause, it is not tax deductible. That does not imply that Give Forward
isn't a noble and charitbale way to give, just that tax law doesn't let
it be "charitable" for tax purposes.

--
Best regards
Han
email address is invalid

Swingman <[email protected]> wrote in
news:[email protected]:

> On 4/3/2013 9:12 AM, Han wrote:
>
>> Because this is to help a specific individual, rather than a
>> charitable cause, it is not tax deductible. That does not imply that
>> Give Forward isn't a noble and charitbale way to give, just that tax
>> law doesn't let it be "charitable" for tax purposes.
>
> Perfect example of the unfortunate necessity of laws to govern human
> behavior. If this were somehow allowed, the plethora of dickheads in
> the gene pool (starting with the lawyers?), would be abusing it for
> their own, other than charitable, benefit.

Would be a long, long discussion if we are going to talk about what
should or should not be deductible. <BIG GRIN>

Just for those who don't realize it, deductions such as chariable
deductions, reduce your taxable income only, they are NOT credits
against a tax bill. This makes deductions highly regressive in their
benefits: Example: If I give $1000 to the food pantry, which is a
deductible expense, the benefit I get depends on my top marginal tax
rate. Therefore giving is most "profitable" for those whose income is
highest. Tax rates for 2013 for married filing jointly:

10% on taxable income from $0 to $17,850, plus
15% on taxable income over $17,850 to $72,500, plus
25% on taxable income over $72,500 to $146,400, plus
28% on taxable income over $146,400 to $223,050, plus
33% on taxable income over $223,050 to $398,350, plus
35% on taxable income over $398,350 to $450,000, plus
39.6% on taxable income over $450,000.

Obviously my $1000 cost me only ~$600 if I have the highest income, but
costs me $900 if I earn less than $17,850.

--
Best regards
Han
email address is invalid

Leon <lcb11211@swbelldotnet> wrote in
news:[email protected]:

> On 4/2/2013 10:43 PM, Mike M wrote:
>> On Mon, 01 Apr 2013 18:14:02 -0500, Swingman <[email protected]> wrote:
>>
>>> On 3/1/2013 7:38 AM, Swingman wrote:
>>>> On 2/28/2013 10:20 PM, jtpr wrote:
>>>>
>>>>> You all touched me very deeply with your donations. But I cannot
>>>>> tell you the effect this will have on Mel's wife.
>>>>
>>>> You just got to the very heart of the matter with that last above,
>>>> Jim.
>>>>
>>>> From what I can tell, and having just been given the opportunity
>>>> to
>>>> observe the effect of a gift/donation on the recipient, it has made
>>>> me understand that the monetary element, regardless of the size and
>>>> while of necessary importance, turns out to be about half the
>>>> benefit.
>>>>
>>>> These folks are sick, or tired, or both, and their energy levels
>>>> and ability to carry on are being taxed to the utmost.
>>>>
>>>> When seeing folks, sometimes complete strangers, willing to help
>>>> _them_, you observe in the recipient the other half of that gift of
>>>> kindness and generosity: a renewed energy to carry on.
>>>>
>>>> Gives that old saying, "The milk of human kindness.", a new meaning
>>>> and understanding, eh? :)
>>>
>>> Reason for some very cautious optimism today with regard to my
>>> youngest daughter. Too early to be jumping for joy, but after a
>>> month of Interferon treatment, an MRI yesterday (yep, on Easter
>>> Sunday) indicated that tumors appear to be slowly regressing, and
>>> that bone growth is progressing.
>>>
>>> Once again, thanks to all of you here who donated on her behalf,
>>> can't tell you how much that means to all of us.
>>
>> Happy to hear that. It would be nice if there was a way to
>> contribute and have it tax deductible. I've gone 4 years now with
>> out paying income tax, and I enjoy not paying into the Ponzi scheme
>> anymore then necessary. Just a thought but might help her raise more
>> money.
>>
>> Mike M
>>
>
> You have to discount the fact that you may not get a tax advantage
> when helping some one else out. I don't like paying taxes either but
> I won't let that stop me from helping someone. sometimes you just
> have to think of how much help you would be giving.

+1

--
Best regards
Han
email address is invalid

Leon <lcb11211@swbelldotnet> wrote in
news:[email protected]:

> On 4/3/2013 10:00 AM, Han wrote:
>> Swingman <[email protected]> wrote in
>> news:[email protected]:
>>
>>> On 4/3/2013 9:12 AM, Han wrote:
>>>
>>>> Because this is to help a specific individual, rather than a
>>>> charitable cause, it is not tax deductible. That does not imply
>>>> that Give Forward isn't a noble and charitbale way to give, just
>>>> that tax law doesn't let it be "charitable" for tax purposes.
>>>
>>> Perfect example of the unfortunate necessity of laws to govern human
>>> behavior. If this were somehow allowed, the plethora of dickheads in
>>> the gene pool (starting with the lawyers?), would be abusing it for
>>> their own, other than charitable, benefit.
>>
>> Would be a long, long discussion if we are going to talk about what
>> should or should not be deductible. <BIG GRIN>
>>
>> Just for those who don't realize it, deductions such as chariable
>> deductions, reduce your taxable income only, they are NOT credits
>> against a tax bill. This makes deductions highly regressive in their
>> benefits: Example: If I give $1000 to the food pantry, which is a
>> deductible expense, the benefit I get depends on my top marginal tax
>> rate. Therefore giving is most "profitable" for those whose income
>> is highest. Tax rates for 2013 for married filing jointly:
>>
>> 10% on taxable income from $0 to $17,850, plus
>> 15% on taxable income over $17,850 to $72,500, plus
>> 25% on taxable income over $72,500 to $146,400, plus
>> 28% on taxable income over $146,400 to $223,050, plus
>> 33% on taxable income over $223,050 to $398,350, plus
>> 35% on taxable income over $398,350 to $450,000, plus
>> 39.6% on taxable income over $450,000.
>>
>> Obviously my $1000 cost me only ~$600 if I have the highest income,
>> but costs me $900 if I earn less than $17,850.
>>
>
> Another reason that the poor should be under the 39.6" tax rate and
> the rich under the 10% rate, The poor would benefit more than the rich
> for charitable contributions. :~O

Yeah, sure ... You go first, mate :)

--
Best regards
Han
email address is invalid

On 4/1/2013 6:14 PM, Swingman wrote:
> On 3/1/2013 7:38 AM, Swingman wrote:
>> On 2/28/2013 10:20 PM, jtpr wrote:
>>
>>> You all touched me very deeply with your donations. But I cannot tell
>>> you the effect this will have on Mel's wife.
>>
>> You just got to the very heart of the matter with that last above, Jim.
>>
>> From what I can tell, and having just been given the opportunity to
>> observe the effect of a gift/donation on the recipient, it has made me
>> understand that the monetary element, regardless of the size and while
>> of necessary importance, turns out to be about half the benefit.
>>
>> These folks are sick, or tired, or both, and their energy levels and
>> ability to carry on are being taxed to the utmost.
>>
>> When seeing folks, sometimes complete strangers, willing to help _them_,
>> you observe in the recipient the other half of that gift of kindness and
>> generosity: a renewed energy to carry on.
>>
>> Gives that old saying, "The milk of human kindness.", a new meaning and
>> understanding, eh? :)
>
> Reason for some very cautious optimism today with regard to my youngest
> daughter. Too early to be jumping for joy, but after a month of
> Interferon treatment, an MRI yesterday (yep, on Easter Sunday) indicated
> that tumors appear to be slowly regressing, and that bone growth is
> progressing.
>
> Once again, thanks to all of you here who donated on her behalf, can't
> tell you how much that means to all of us.
>


Yeah!!!!!1

On Wednesday, February 27, 2013 7:54:52 PM UTC-5, Swingman wrote:
> On 2/27/2013 6:03 PM, jtpr wrote:
>=20
> > My brother in law and closest friend (fellow woodworker) suffered a mas=
sive brain bleed back in September. Anyway he is currently in a skilled nu=
rsing facility and will probably be coming home in June. This will be toug=
h on his wife financially as there are a lot of things that need to be done=
to accommodate his needs. Plus, he was the primary bread winner, and he i=
s only 55 so she could be looking a a LOT of years of care.
>=20
> >
>=20
> > So, I was thinking; what if I made something and either raffled it or a=
uctioned it off to help raise funds for her? I was looking around online b=
ut not really finding what I need. Also, how would people know I was legit=
? Has anybody done this sort of thing with something they have made? Any =
suggestions?
>=20
> >
>=20
> > I could use the web site I made her (http://www.careformel.org) to adve=
rtise it, but they don't really have a huge number of people visiting it.
>=20
>=20
>=20
> If you know some folks online and particularly in social networking=20
>=20
> sites, you might want to consider doing this for them:
>=20
>=20
>=20
> http://www.giveforward.com
>=20
>=20
>=20
> A family friend set up a medical fund at that site for my youngest=20
>=20
> daughter, 27, and has raised $4k+ in the space of a couple of weeks to=20
>=20
> help her pay for experimental drugs to treat a rare, disfiguring disease=
=20
>=20
> that the insurance company will not pay.
>=20
>=20
>=20
> She is pretty much overwhelmed with the support she has received from=20
>=20
> that quarter, and it has proven to be a godsend for both her morale, and=
=20
>=20
> well as helping pay her bills.
>=20
>=20
>=20
> I think they take a 10% fee, but the donor can also pay that if they wish=
.
>=20
>=20
>=20
> If you want to leave no stone unturned for your BIL, give it a shot, and=
=20
>=20
> then let _everyone_ know about it. There's a lot of generous folks out=20
>=20
> there ...
>=20
>=20
>=20
> --=20
>=20
> eWoodShop: www.eWoodShop.com
>=20
> Wood Shop: www.e-WoodShop.net
>=20
> https://plus.google.com/114902129577517371552/posts
>=20
> http://www.custommade.com/by/ewoodshop/
>=20
> KarlCaillouet@ (the obvious)

Actually I did do that just the other day (http://www.giveforward.com/caref=
ormel).

But now I'm not sure where to go with it. I mean we let people know in his=
original circle when I set up the website and most either gave something o=
r helped out in some other way. But none of these are wealthy people and I=
feel odd using this Giveforward site to solicit more. So I heard about re=
garding another cause and looked it up and created the page, then kind of h=
it a wall as to how to get it out there. Maybe I could use it as sort of a=
second phase, his coming home. I guess where I'm going is trying to reac=
h out beyond the people in his immediate world. I just don't want to see h=
im in nursing home the rest of his life, the cost of which would probably c=
ause his wife to lose the house. Better he come home and she can care for =
him with some help. Damn guy is 6'5" and hard to move around;+}

All the nice things Karl said about his young daughter cut it short to
me. Having met her and talked with her she is one of the sweetest,
nicest young ladies I have met in a long time. She really impressed
my significant other with these same qualities, and that doesn't
happen much.

Kathy and me have had the pleasure and privilege of staying in Karl's
house with him and his lovely wife and their noisy puppies for the
last three years now. That is how I met Michelle. She is charmingly
shy, and never has there been a time when we visiting that she wasn't
respectful and polite to her parents. We visit at Christmas time, and
as Karl said, besides her employed work she has always seemed to be
working on a couple of projects to help others in need enjoy the
season.

Having just finished a prolonged illness with a family member, I think
it is also important to remember how important the support group is
around the person victimized by illness. I can't imagine how hard
this is for Karl and Linda, but then I can't imagine having a better
team around Michelle than Karl and Linda.

With all that in mind Karl, Kathy and I sending all the positive
energy and prayers we can to all three of you. Please tell Michelle
she is in our thoughts, to be strong, and that we are looking forward
to seeing all of you soon.

Robert

On 10/5/2013 8:57 AM, Swingman wrote:
> On 4/1/2013 6:14 PM, Swingman wrote:
>> On 3/1/2013 7:38 AM, Swingman wrote:
>>> On 2/28/2013 10:20 PM, jtpr wrote:
>>>
>>>> You all touched me very deeply with your donations. But I cannot tell
>>>> you the effect this will have on Mel's wife.
>>>
>>> You just got to the very heart of the matter with that last above, Jim.
>>>
>>> From what I can tell, and having just been given the opportunity to
>>> observe the effect of a gift/donation on the recipient, it has made me
>>> understand that the monetary element, regardless of the size and while
>>> of necessary importance, turns out to be about half the benefit.
>>>
>>> These folks are sick, or tired, or both, and their energy levels and
>>> ability to carry on are being taxed to the utmost.
>>>
>>> When seeing folks, sometimes complete strangers, willing to help _them_,
>>> you observe in the recipient the other half of that gift of kindness and
>>> generosity: a renewed energy to carry on.
>>>
>>> Gives that old saying, "The milk of human kindness.", a new meaning and
>>> understanding, eh? :)
>>
>> Reason for some very cautious optimism today with regard to my youngest
>> daughter. Too early to be jumping for joy, but after a month of
>> Interferon treatment, an MRI yesterday (yep, on Easter Sunday) indicated
>> that tumors appear to be slowly regressing, and that bone growth is
>> progressing.
>>
>> Once again, thanks to all of you here who donated on her behalf, can't
>> tell you how much that means to all of us.
>
> To the many of you here on the wRec who helped to make this possible,
> thought I would share this.
>
> MRI's this week show a significant reduction in tumors, and the bone
> replacement shots, though extremely painful, are visibly working; the
> doctors have gone from cautious optimism, to full blown optimism, to the
> point of reducing the number of further treatments, and are now saying
> that surgery may not be needed.
>
> Michelle texted this from the hospital last night, just before the 49th
> treatment:
>
> https://picasaweb.google.com/111355467778981859077/EWoodShopJustStuff#5931263444507445314
>
>
> (in typical female fashion, that unicorn has been through every one of
> the 49 treatments with her and, instead of a long face and a 'woe is me'
> attitude, she has dressed as if going to a birthday party for most of
> them ... the young lady has as much fortitude and bravery has any Navy
> SEAL).
>
> Thanks again guys ... you know who you are.
>


Great news! And is that a unicorn???? I thought it was Pandy in pink!
:~)

On 2/27/2013 8:54 PM, Han wrote:

> I don't mind giving for causes like this. What is your giveforward site,
> Karl?

Actually, I found out about it after the fact, Han. It was setup without
my input, or her knowledge, by a family friend, strictly for her
benefit. She's very independent and had a problem with accepting it at
first, but the reality of her bills piling up so fast has tempered that
reluctance. Just so you know, this young lady has lived with this since
birth (with a wise and kind inner strength beyond her years), had to
recently undergo surgery to save her eyesight and, despite being dealt a
'tough row to hoe' in life for young woman (it took fifteen years of
research and a team of doctors to diagnose and decide upon a treatment,
which may or may not work), has never failed a self imposed obligation
to help those even less fortunate by volunteering, since her early teens
to help children with disabilities at MD Anderson here in Houston. She
is driven to do this for those kids, and who better than someone who can
empathize with persona experience? AAMOF, while currently undergoing
this experimental treatment, which is so debilitating that many who
embark upon on it stay in bed for the entire year of its course, or
quit, she has the fortitude to both continue to work, as well as to be
back in school working on an Education Certificate to better teach kids
with disabilities ... if anyone is worthy ... nuff said.

So, since you asked:

http://www.giveforward.com/michellecaillouetmedicalfund?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=fb_wall&utm_campaign=hug&og_action=hug&fb_ref=690176

--
eWoodShop: www.eWoodShop.com
Wood Shop: www.e-WoodShop.net
https://plus.google.com/114902129577517371552/posts
http://www.custommade.com/by/ewoodshop/
KarlCaillouet@ (the obvious)

On Fri, 01 Mar 2013 07:02:19 -0600, Swingman <[email protected]> wrote:

>On 2/28/2013 11:07 PM, Mike M wrote:
>
>> and another grain, I appreciate all that you post here.
>
>That's a bucketful, Bubba! :)
>
>Thank you, Mike. Shot #6/208 last night, #7 tonight. Ya gotta know how
>much seeing those donations yesterday meant to her in facing the
>remaining 207.

Glad I could help. I've been fortunate but truely try to look after
others. One never knows when one may be in need. I've mentioned my
legs being shattered so I do understand what looking at a long healing
process takes. It is a full time job. Some day maybe the medical
field will be all about healing and not profit. Now I sound
delusional.

On 4/3/2013 11:25 AM, Han wrote:
> Leon <lcb11211@swbelldotnet> wrote in
> news:[email protected]:
>
>> On 4/3/2013 10:00 AM, Han wrote:
>>> Swingman <[email protected]> wrote in
>>> news:[email protected]:
>>>
>>>> On 4/3/2013 9:12 AM, Han wrote:
>>>>
>>>>> Because this is to help a specific individual, rather than a
>>>>> charitable cause, it is not tax deductible. That does not imply
>>>>> that Give Forward isn't a noble and charitbale way to give, just
>>>>> that tax law doesn't let it be "charitable" for tax purposes.
>>>>
>>>> Perfect example of the unfortunate necessity of laws to govern human
>>>> behavior. If this were somehow allowed, the plethora of dickheads in
>>>> the gene pool (starting with the lawyers?), would be abusing it for
>>>> their own, other than charitable, benefit.
>>>
>>> Would be a long, long discussion if we are going to talk about what
>>> should or should not be deductible. <BIG GRIN>
>>>
>>> Just for those who don't realize it, deductions such as chariable
>>> deductions, reduce your taxable income only, they are NOT credits
>>> against a tax bill. This makes deductions highly regressive in their
>>> benefits: Example: If I give $1000 to the food pantry, which is a
>>> deductible expense, the benefit I get depends on my top marginal tax
>>> rate. Therefore giving is most "profitable" for those whose income
>>> is highest. Tax rates for 2013 for married filing jointly:
>>>
>>> 10% on taxable income from $0 to $17,850, plus
>>> 15% on taxable income over $17,850 to $72,500, plus
>>> 25% on taxable income over $72,500 to $146,400, plus
>>> 28% on taxable income over $146,400 to $223,050, plus
>>> 33% on taxable income over $223,050 to $398,350, plus
>>> 35% on taxable income over $398,350 to $450,000, plus
>>> 39.6% on taxable income over $450,000.
>>>
>>> Obviously my $1000 cost me only ~$600 if I have the highest income,
>>> but costs me $900 if I earn less than $17,850.
>>>
>>
>> Another reason that the poor should be under the 39.6" tax rate and
>> the rich under the 10% rate, The poor would benefit more than the rich
>> for charitable contributions. :~O
>
> Yeah, sure ... You go first, mate :)
>
LOL!!!

On 4/3/2013 11:13 AM, Swingman wrote:
> On 4/3/2013 9:20 AM, Leon wrote:
>
>> You have to discount the fact that you may not get a tax advantage when
>> helping some one else out. I don't like paying taxes either but I won't
>> let that stop me from helping someone. sometimes you just have to think
>> of how much help you would be giving.
>
> His was simply a remark on how much more could be raised if that were
> the case ... and I agree that could be a large factor in any decision to
> donate.
>
> That said, and judging from Mike's generous donation to a complete
> stranger, I'm absolutely certain, and without doubt whatsoever, that tax
> destructibility wasn't a factor in his decision to do so ... but
> instead, an act of big heart and an inherent kindness. :)
>


Totally agree but some times you "just do" rather than think. Did not
mean that to sound derogatory!

On 2/28/2013 7:12 PM, Brian Hoyt wrote:

>
> +1
>
> another grain of sand
>
> brian
>
>
> --
> Brian Hoyt
> Stillwater Lake, Nova Scotia
> Canada, B3Z 1G2

Wow! ...Actually, Michelle is at the hospital as we speak getting one of
those weekly shots administered (done late in the evening on Thursday
and Friday so she at least has the weekend to crash) ... I texted her an
update based on your above and her exact words: "You have no idea how
much that means ... and Thank all of them for me!"

--
eWoodShop: www.eWoodShop.com
Wood Shop: www.e-WoodShop.net
https://plus.google.com/114902129577517371552/posts
http://www.custommade.com/by/ewoodshop/
KarlCaillouet@ (the obvious)

Swingman wrote:

>
> I'll pass that on, and hereby Thank You for her, Han. It's like grains
> of sand ... combined, they can make a beach.

You are right about that Karl - grains of sand. We help out on an ongoing
basis, with a friend who has a child with OI. He's 15 now and has broken
bones well over 200 times now. It's a very frustrating life for him since
he can't do what everyone else does - simply getting up or a trival bump can
and does result in a broken bone. But - you do what you can, when you can,
and hope it helps.

--

-Mike-
[email protected]

On 2013-02-28 12:37 PM, Han wrote:
> Swingman <[email protected]> wrote in
> news:[email protected]:
>
>> On 2/27/2013 8:54 PM, Han wrote:
>>
>>> I don't mind giving for causes like this. What is your giveforward
>>> site, Karl?
>>
>> Actually, I found out about it after the fact, Han. It was setup
>> without my input, or her knowledge, by a family friend, strictly for
>> her benefit. She's very independent and had a problem with accepting
>> it at first, but the reality of her bills piling up so fast has
>> tempered that reluctance. Just so you know, this young lady has lived
>> with this since birth (with a wise and kind inner strength beyond her
>> years), had to recently undergo surgery to save her eyesight and,
>> despite being dealt a 'tough row to hoe' in life for young woman (it
>> took fifteen years of research and a team of doctors to diagnose and
>> decide upon a treatment, which may or may not work), has never failed
>> a self imposed obligation to help those even less fortunate by
>> volunteering, since her early teens to help children with disabilities
>> at MD Anderson here in Houston. She is driven to do this for those
>> kids, and who better than someone who can empathize with persona
>> experience? AAMOF, while currently undergoing this experimental
>> treatment, which is so debilitating that many who embark upon on it
>> stay in bed for the entire year of its course, or quit, she has the
>> fortitude to both continue to work, as well as to be back in school
>> working on an Education Certificate to better teach kids with
>> disabilities ... if anyone is worthy ... nuff said.
>>
>> So, since you asked:
>>
>> http://www.giveforward.com/michellecaillouetmedicalfund?utm_source=face
>> book&utm_medium=fb_wall&utm_campaign=hug&og_action=hug&fb_ref=690176
>>
> I had tried searching on your last name at the main site, without seeing
> a result. Hence my question.
>
> The costs of these (even for a long-known and long-used
> compound such as interferon) is beyond what regular people can sustain.
> I hope my little contribution will help.
>

+1

another grain of sand

brian


--
Brian Hoyt
Stillwater Lake, Nova Scotia
Canada, B3Z 1G2

Swingman wrote:
> On 4/2/2013 10:43 PM, Mike M wrote:
>
>> Happy to hear that. It would be nice if there was a way to contribute
>> and have it tax deductible. I've gone 4 years now with out paying
>> income tax, and I enjoy not paying into the Ponzi scheme anymore then
>> necessary. Just a thought but might help her raise more money.
>
>
> As I've said before, that was instigated by a family friend without my
> knowledge or input, but from what I understand I don't think it is
> possible for donations to an individual for medical purposes to be tax
> deductible for the donor without the recipient being some kind of
> registered 501(c) charitable organization.
>
> I'm fairly certain that any donation is treated as a "gift" to the
> recipient and as a result would not be taxable as income to the
> recipient for Federal purposes.
>

The last time I checked (about 3 years ago), gifts up to $14,000 (per
year) were not taxable. IIRC, there may also be a cummulative limit.

On 05/10/2013 10:57 AM, Swingman wrote:
> On 4/1/2013 6:14 PM, Swingman wrote:
>> On 3/1/2013 7:38 AM, Swingman wrote:
>>> On 2/28/2013 10:20 PM, jtpr wrote:
>>>
>>>> You all touched me very deeply with your donations. But I cannot tell
>>>> you the effect this will have on Mel's wife.
>>>
>>> You just got to the very heart of the matter with that last above, Jim.
>>>
>>> From what I can tell, and having just been given the opportunity to
>>> observe the effect of a gift/donation on the recipient, it has made me
>>> understand that the monetary element, regardless of the size and while
>>> of necessary importance, turns out to be about half the benefit.
>>>
>>> These folks are sick, or tired, or both, and their energy levels and
>>> ability to carry on are being taxed to the utmost.
>>>
>>> When seeing folks, sometimes complete strangers, willing to help _them_,
>>> you observe in the recipient the other half of that gift of kindness and
>>> generosity: a renewed energy to carry on.
>>>
>>> Gives that old saying, "The milk of human kindness.", a new meaning and
>>> understanding, eh? :)
>>
>> Reason for some very cautious optimism today with regard to my youngest
>> daughter. Too early to be jumping for joy, but after a month of
>> Interferon treatment, an MRI yesterday (yep, on Easter Sunday) indicated
>> that tumors appear to be slowly regressing, and that bone growth is
>> progressing.
>>
>> Once again, thanks to all of you here who donated on her behalf, can't
>> tell you how much that means to all of us.
>
> To the many of you here on the wRec who helped to make this possible,
> thought I would share this.
>
> MRI's this week show a significant reduction in tumors, and the bone
> replacement shots, though extremely painful, are visibly working; the
> doctors have gone from cautious optimism, to full blown optimism, to the
> point of reducing the number of further treatments, and are now saying
> that surgery may not be needed.
>
> Michelle texted this from the hospital last night, just before the 49th
> treatment:
>
> https://picasaweb.google.com/111355467778981859077/EWoodShopJustStuff#5931263444507445314
>
>
> (in typical female fashion, that unicorn has been through every one of
> the 49 treatments with her and, instead of a long face and a 'woe is me'
> attitude, she has dressed as if going to a birthday party for most of
> them ... the young lady has as much fortitude and bravery has any Navy
> SEAL).
>
> Thanks again guys ... you know who you are.
>

Thanks for the update, and it is even better that it is good news. I
often think about her when I see your posts (I am a father too.) What a
marathon of treatment she is enduring.

cheers ...

brian

Brian Hoyt
Stillwater Lake, Nova Scotia
Canada, B3Z 1G2

Change the world one loan at a time - visit Kiva.org to find out how

On 3/1/2013 7:38 AM, Swingman wrote:
> On 2/28/2013 10:20 PM, jtpr wrote:
>
>> You all touched me very deeply with your donations. But I cannot tell
>> you the effect this will have on Mel's wife.
>
> You just got to the very heart of the matter with that last above, Jim.
>
> From what I can tell, and having just been given the opportunity to
> observe the effect of a gift/donation on the recipient, it has made me
> understand that the monetary element, regardless of the size and while
> of necessary importance, turns out to be about half the benefit.
>
> These folks are sick, or tired, or both, and their energy levels and
> ability to carry on are being taxed to the utmost.
>
> When seeing folks, sometimes complete strangers, willing to help _them_,
> you observe in the recipient the other half of that gift of kindness and
> generosity: a renewed energy to carry on.
>
> Gives that old saying, "The milk of human kindness.", a new meaning and
> understanding, eh? :)

Reason for some very cautious optimism today with regard to my youngest
daughter. Too early to be jumping for joy, but after a month of
Interferon treatment, an MRI yesterday (yep, on Easter Sunday) indicated
that tumors appear to be slowly regressing, and that bone growth is
progressing.

Once again, thanks to all of you here who donated on her behalf, can't
tell you how much that means to all of us.

--
eWoodShop: www.eWoodShop.com
Wood Shop: www.e-WoodShop.net
https://plus.google.com/114902129577517371552/posts
http://www.custommade.com/by/ewoodshop/
KarlCaillouet@ (the obvious)

On Thu, 28 Feb 2013 19:58:32 -0600, Swingman <[email protected]> wrote:

>On 2/28/2013 7:12 PM, Brian Hoyt wrote:
>
>>
>> +1
>>
>> another grain of sand
>>
>> brian
>>
>>
>> --
>> Brian Hoyt
>> Stillwater Lake, Nova Scotia
>> Canada, B3Z 1G2
>
>Wow! ...Actually, Michelle is at the hospital as we speak getting one of
>those weekly shots administered (done late in the evening on Thursday
>and Friday so she at least has the weekend to crash) ... I texted her an
>update based on your above and her exact words: "You have no idea how
>much that means ... and Thank all of them for me!"

and another grain, I appreciate all that you post here.

On Mon, 01 Apr 2013 18:14:02 -0500, Swingman <[email protected]> wrote:

>On 3/1/2013 7:38 AM, Swingman wrote:
>> On 2/28/2013 10:20 PM, jtpr wrote:
>>
>>> You all touched me very deeply with your donations. But I cannot tell
>>> you the effect this will have on Mel's wife.
>>
>> You just got to the very heart of the matter with that last above, Jim.
>>
>> From what I can tell, and having just been given the opportunity to
>> observe the effect of a gift/donation on the recipient, it has made me
>> understand that the monetary element, regardless of the size and while
>> of necessary importance, turns out to be about half the benefit.
>>
>> These folks are sick, or tired, or both, and their energy levels and
>> ability to carry on are being taxed to the utmost.
>>
>> When seeing folks, sometimes complete strangers, willing to help _them_,
>> you observe in the recipient the other half of that gift of kindness and
>> generosity: a renewed energy to carry on.
>>
>> Gives that old saying, "The milk of human kindness.", a new meaning and
>> understanding, eh? :)
>
>Reason for some very cautious optimism today with regard to my youngest
>daughter. Too early to be jumping for joy, but after a month of
>Interferon treatment, an MRI yesterday (yep, on Easter Sunday) indicated
>that tumors appear to be slowly regressing, and that bone growth is
>progressing.
>
>Once again, thanks to all of you here who donated on her behalf, can't
>tell you how much that means to all of us.

Happy to hear that. It would be nice if there was a way to contribute
and have it tax deductible. I've gone 4 years now with out paying
income tax, and I enjoy not paying into the Ponzi scheme anymore then
necessary. Just a thought but might help her raise more money.

Mike M

On 4/1/2013 6:14 PM, Swingman wrote:
> On 3/1/2013 7:38 AM, Swingman wrote:
>> On 2/28/2013 10:20 PM, jtpr wrote:
>>
>>> You all touched me very deeply with your donations. But I cannot tell
>>> you the effect this will have on Mel's wife.
>>
>> You just got to the very heart of the matter with that last above, Jim.
>>
>> From what I can tell, and having just been given the opportunity to
>> observe the effect of a gift/donation on the recipient, it has made me
>> understand that the monetary element, regardless of the size and while
>> of necessary importance, turns out to be about half the benefit.
>>
>> These folks are sick, or tired, or both, and their energy levels and
>> ability to carry on are being taxed to the utmost.
>>
>> When seeing folks, sometimes complete strangers, willing to help _them_,
>> you observe in the recipient the other half of that gift of kindness and
>> generosity: a renewed energy to carry on.
>>
>> Gives that old saying, "The milk of human kindness.", a new meaning and
>> understanding, eh? :)
>
> Reason for some very cautious optimism today with regard to my youngest
> daughter. Too early to be jumping for joy, but after a month of
> Interferon treatment, an MRI yesterday (yep, on Easter Sunday) indicated
> that tumors appear to be slowly regressing, and that bone growth is
> progressing.
>
> Once again, thanks to all of you here who donated on her behalf, can't
> tell you how much that means to all of us.

To the many of you here on the wRec who helped to make this possible,
thought I would share this.

MRI's this week show a significant reduction in tumors, and the bone
replacement shots, though extremely painful, are visibly working; the
doctors have gone from cautious optimism, to full blown optimism, to the
point of reducing the number of further treatments, and are now saying
that surgery may not be needed.

Michelle texted this from the hospital last night, just before the 49th
treatment:

https://picasaweb.google.com/111355467778981859077/EWoodShopJustStuff#5931263444507445314

(in typical female fashion, that unicorn has been through every one of
the 49 treatments with her and, instead of a long face and a 'woe is me'
attitude, she has dressed as if going to a birthday party for most of
them ... the young lady has as much fortitude and bravery has any Navy
SEAL).

Thanks again guys ... you know who you are.

--
eWoodShop: www.eWoodShop.com
Wood Shop: www.e-WoodShop.net
https://plus.google.com/114902129577517371552/posts
http://www.custommade.com/by/ewoodshop/
KarlCaillouet@ (the obvious)

On 2/28/2013 11:07 PM, Mike M wrote:

> and another grain, I appreciate all that you post here.

That's a bucketful, Bubba! :)

Thank you, Mike. Shot #6/208 last night, #7 tonight. Ya gotta know how
much seeing those donations yesterday meant to her in facing the
remaining 207.

--
eWoodShop: www.eWoodShop.com
Wood Shop: www.e-WoodShop.net
https://plus.google.com/114902129577517371552/posts
http://www.custommade.com/by/ewoodshop/
KarlCaillouet@ (the obvious)

On 10/5/2013 9:57 AM, Swingman wrote:
> On 4/1/2013 6:14 PM, Swingman wrote:
>> On 3/1/2013 7:38 AM, Swingman wrote:
>>> On 2/28/2013 10:20 PM, jtpr wrote:
>>>
>>>> You all touched me very deeply with your donations. But I cannot tell
>>>> you the effect this will have on Mel's wife.
>>>
>>> You just got to the very heart of the matter with that last above, Jim.
>>>
>>> From what I can tell, and having just been given the opportunity to
>>> observe the effect of a gift/donation on the recipient, it has made me
>>> understand that the monetary element, regardless of the size and while
>>> of necessary importance, turns out to be about half the benefit.
>>>
>>> These folks are sick, or tired, or both, and their energy levels and
>>> ability to carry on are being taxed to the utmost.
>>>
>>> When seeing folks, sometimes complete strangers, willing to help _them_,
>>> you observe in the recipient the other half of that gift of kindness and
>>> generosity: a renewed energy to carry on.
>>>
>>> Gives that old saying, "The milk of human kindness.", a new meaning and
>>> understanding, eh? :)
>>
>> Reason for some very cautious optimism today with regard to my youngest
>> daughter. Too early to be jumping for joy, but after a month of
>> Interferon treatment, an MRI yesterday (yep, on Easter Sunday) indicated
>> that tumors appear to be slowly regressing, and that bone growth is
>> progressing.
>>
>> Once again, thanks to all of you here who donated on her behalf, can't
>> tell you how much that means to all of us.
>
> To the many of you here on the wRec who helped to make this possible,
> thought I would share this.
>
> MRI's this week show a significant reduction in tumors, and the bone
> replacement shots, though extremely painful, are visibly working; the
> doctors have gone from cautious optimism, to full blown optimism, to the
> point of reducing the number of further treatments, and are now saying
> that surgery may not be needed.
>
> Michelle texted this from the hospital last night, just before the 49th
> treatment:
>
> https://picasaweb.google.com/111355467778981859077/EWoodShopJustStuff#5931263444507445314
>
>
> (in typical female fashion, that unicorn has been through every one of
> the 49 treatments with her and, instead of a long face and a 'woe is me'
> attitude, she has dressed as if going to a birthday party for most of
> them ... the young lady has as much fortitude and bravery has any Navy
> SEAL).
>
> Thanks again guys ... you know who you are.
>
That's good news, I hope more good news to come.. Good luck.

--
Jeff

On 2/28/2013 11:45 AM, Mike Marlow wrote:
> Swingman wrote:
>
>>
>> I'll pass that on, and hereby Thank You for her, Han. It's like grains
>> of sand ... combined, they can make a beach.
>
> You are right about that Karl - grains of sand. We help out on an ongoing
> basis, with a friend who has a child with OI. He's 15 now and has broken
> bones well over 200 times now. It's a very frustrating life for him since
> he can't do what everyone else does - simply getting up or a trival bump can
> and does result in a broken bone. But - you do what you can, when you can,
> and hope it helps.

My prayers for the child and the parents. It tough on both, but to have
a wounded puppy, with little hope of ultimate resolution ... that's hard
to express/put into words.

It's when a child handles a disability with all the grace and wisdom
worthy of a Solomon, and an inherent desire to go out of their way to be
kind and considerate to those even less fortunate, that makes you
realize just how lucky you are, despite the circumstances.

You gotta, know Mike, that what you continue to do, and have done, means
the world to all of them. Bless you and your family for it.

--
eWoodShop: www.eWoodShop.com
Wood Shop: www.e-WoodShop.net
https://plus.google.com/114902129577517371552/posts
http://www.custommade.com/by/ewoodshop/
KarlCaillouet@ (the obvious)