One year ago, on March 16, 2011, I woke up in ICU after nearly dying of pneumonia. I had made it through eight days on a ventilator because of the love and strength of my family and friends. You held my hands, read to me, played music for me, lit candles, and told me to fight and not give up. When I woke up you welcomed me home with an outpouring of love that I will never forget.

This last year of recovery has been… well kinda hellish, to be honest. But spring is finally (almost) here and I want to remember and celebrate the fact that I am here too!

I got hit so hard by the pneumonia because I live with the chronic illness Chemical Sensitivity which, in addition to making me allergic to darn near everything, weakens my immune system on a regular basis. It also means that I am constantly fighting against the toxins and chemicals in our world. One of the best defenses I have against my illness and disease in general is water – fresh, clean water. Living where I do in California, I have easy access to as much water as I need. Not everyone is so lucky. In too many places in the world water is in short supply and clean water is almost impossible to get, allowing disease and toxins to spread unchecked.

In honor of my LifeDay - the day I was given back my life and my birthday on April 7th-I’d like to do something about that, and with your help I can. I’m donating my LifeDay to Project Water, because I’ve already been given the best present anyone can– life and love. Instead I want to raise money for Project Water so that people around the world receive clean water and abundant health. I hope you’ll join me.

Blessings and thank you. I love you all so much!

Kate