Memorial Donations for Maryjane Blizzard Thurston

Maryjane Blizzard Thurston
Sept. 6, 1927 - Nov. 2, 2014

On Nov. 2, 2014, our founder's mother died after a long illness. Karen Thurston Chavez's mother was an avid, longtime supporter and contributor to Broken Hearts of Florida.

Karen's mother, Maryjane Blizzard Thurston, requested that donations be made in her memory to her daughter's organizations. Maryjane's obituary ran Nov. 5, 2014: Maryjane Blizzard Thurston Obituary.

Broken Hearts was near-and-dear to Maryjane's heart because her youngest grandson, William -- Karen's younger son -- was born with a congenital heart defect. A few months after his diagnosis in spring of 2005, Maryjane's daughter, Karen Thurston Chavez, founded BHF as a way to connect and help families affected by CHD. Throughout the years, Maryjane regularly and faithfully attended a variety of Broken Hearts of Florida events, including its regional forums and monthly family dinners.

We've established a giving page through JustGive.org to accept donations in Maryjane's memory.

Please visit Maryjane Thurston Memorial Donations to make your memorial contribution to Broken Hearts of Florida, a nonprofit organization that supports, educates and connects families affected by congenital heart disease.

Thank you for your thoughtfulness.

Volunteer Staff Changes

Dear Broken Hearts of Florida Families:

It is with a heavy heart that we announce Kim Rooks’ resignation from Broken Hearts of Florida. Kim's resignation letter is included below. 

Rest assured, Broken Hearts of Florida will continue to do what it does best – support, educate and connect families affected by congenital heart defects and other pediatric heart diseases.

Sincerely,

Your BHF Board of Directors/Advisory Board Members

Board of Directors

• Tammie H.
  Eldred
• Fran Gilbert
• Suzanne Owen
• Samantha H. Padgett

Advisory Board

• Alyssa Brown
• Rachel Lawley
• Connie Nixon, RN

Chapter Leaders/Key Volunteers

• Candice Pridemore
• Jessica Demino-Maier
• Samantha Roberts

 Volunteer Staff

• Karen Thurston Chavez
  Founder/Executive Director of Operations and Outreach

Radio Montage Still Makes Me Cry

One of our heart families is recording their story today for an upcoming radiothon for Children's Miracle Network. It made me think of the montage I recorded for a long-ago radiothon in Tallahassee. Even after six years, William's montage still brings me to tears.

William's Story: Listen here.

Now if you'll excuse me, I need to go find some tissues.

Karen