So often we hear of “islanders helping islanders”.

It’s been said many times before how our community comes together in times of crisis. Our family has come to realize how true this really is. I’ve never had to face such a challenge that has given me the true meaning of community helping each other. I’m so glad to have given in the past to the needs of others, more than ever before.

In this time there has been more support than we could have ever imagined. Giving thanks to everyone by name would be impossible.

Our kids, and Karina and I would especially like to thank the girls at Blackthorn Insurance for their time and efforts. And to Tina Teilmann for setting up a medical account for Karina at Islander’s Bank, and coordinating a fund raiser at the flea market last month. The girls at the book club for their dinners every night at the time of surgery. Yum. (grandma’s chicken soup wasn’t as good as Lisa’s).

To all who have helped in so many ways, and to Phil McKee for being the best of inspiration. You and Lance Armstrong are her hero’s.

Thanks to Peter and Brenda, and Chuck and Pat for the fish.

The Soroptimist club for the ferry tickets, we thank dearly. To Dick and Nancy, Charlie and Jodi Clark, we thank you for being the most wonderful people we’ve ever met in our travels. Your support is one of a kind.

Karina has been fighting breast cancer since July, and has three more months of chemotherapy to finish before we can know more.

Thanks to all for your prayers and support, and to all who have not been mentioned.

Anthony Serna/family

San Juan Island