Lady Linda's Moon Dance at the Hartford Elks
April 21, 2010
Linda Blakeman loved her family and friends. She was a devoted mom. She loved music and dancing. She was full of life, and drew people to her. When she died of cancer in January at the age of 58, people were taken by surprise. Linda hadn’t wanted people to know how sick she was. She was intent on living every minute of her life to the fullest, totally devoid of a “why me” attitude.
Linda and her family chose hospice care provided by the Visiting Nurse & Hospice of VT and NH, so that she could remain at home, in familiar and comfortable surroundings. Linda’s husband, Kevin, says that having the hospice staff there for support made an unimaginable situation tolerable, and credits the VNA & Hospice team for helping make Linda’s last days as happy as they could possibly be.
One of Linda’s wishes was that friends and family enjoy a huge party in her memory. Kevin and a close-knit group of friends embraced that idea as a fitting memorial, but also wanted to give back to the non-profit hospice that provided so much to the Blakeman family. After months of work, the party is a reality.
On Saturday, April 24 from 8-11 pm, the entire Upper Valley is invited to attend Lady Linda’s Moon Dance and Silent Auction. Many generous sponsors have collaborated to make this a memorable occasion. The Hartford Elks Club has donated their space. Automatic Rooster, a classic rock band from Vermont and a favorite of Kevin and Linda, has donated their services. Businesses and individuals from many communities have generously donated auction items, ranging from Red Sox tickets with VIP parking and a $500 travel voucher from Milne Travel to a savings bond from Randolph National Bank, decorative pillows from Pompanoosuc Mills, restaurant gift certificates, and much more – nearly 50 auction items in all. Admission is $10, and all proceeds will benefit the hospice program of the Visiting Nurse & Hospice of VT and NH. For information about hospice, please call the Visiting Nurse & Hospice at 888-300-8853.