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Life is hectic and life gets in the way, however the safety of our children should be our top priority. Each year thousands of children are left unattended in and around cars and most people underestimate the potential consequences. Harrison’s Hope is a national, nonprofit organization committed to educating children and caregivers about the dangers of children being left alone in and around cars.

I’m not sure what the year was when I met Terrill Struttmann. But, it was a tough one. Both of us participating in a program that allowed us the fortunate opportunity to work through some of the grief and life’s struggles we were dealing with. Me, the loss of my father and sister. For Terrill, it was the tragic death of Harrison.

I related so much to his grief and I began to learn about the strong-willed woman he called his wife. Her name, Michelle. I agreed to participate in the second level of the program and I knew that Michelle would be in it. I also knew that we would be partnered up with someone in this group. I told myself, and my friend, I hope to God that I was not being partnered with Michelle. I had never met her before. All I had to go on was the tough, feisty description that Terrill had given of her. But, he loved her so much and I knew there had to be more to her than that. I just wasn’t up to finding out about that through a partnership.

The forces obviously heard my plea and that first day, sure enough, Michelle and I were partnered together. Ironic, right?

We shared more than I’ve ever shared with anyone in my life. She helped me in so many ways and I hope that I did the same for her. Both Terrill and Michelle are what I would call life-long friends. Even though we don’t see each other often, over the years, I can count on the events of their charity honoring their son, Harrison, to see them. It’s such a small part I play, but I can’t imagine not doing it.

This is my third time photographing their annual dinner auction. It’s an amazing event. And, I come away meeting some remarkable people. At our table were some amazing ladies with the magazine, C3 Magazine. It was an honor to meet them, and get to know them. Their magazine is something to be talked about. It focuses solely on philanthropic spirit and it’s FREE!

I’m pleased to share this charitable organization with you all – please visit their website and give, volunteer, and become aware about the dangers of children being left alone in and around cars.

My apologies, the video is a little low quality. I’m learning a new program and trying to get the compression just right to meet the maximum upload guidelines at Vimeo!

Harrison’s Hope 8th Annual Dinner Auction from Holly McCaig Designs on Vimeo.