By DONALD and AUDREY STOYLE
Unbelievable. That is the only word to describe Oct. 6. That day the RO Foundation held the Patrick K. Coughlin Walk and West Fest in Fredonia.
The RO Foundation was founded in 2010 by Joseph Russo Jr. and Margaret Owen. Their mission is to assist patients and families with unexpected transportation expenses when medical emergencies happen unexpectedly.
It was through their own medical misfortunes that they realized the need for assisting families financially who were faced with unexpected travel expenses.
Joe and Maggie are so dedicated to this foundation. Their enthusiasm and hard work is unbelievable. Their foundation also consists of six members who are on their steering committee.
For their first organized walk, the response was overwhelming. More than 500 walkers participated. Pizza, soda, and cookies were served after the walk in Barker Common with countless volunteers around. It was wonderful to see so many people giving of their time and effort.
West Fest, held in downtown Fredonia, was a huge success. Good times, great music and great people were plentiful.
Most importantly, the RO Foundation assists families locally - within a 20-mile radius. All fund-raising and donations are helping those you might know - friends, neighbors, and even coworkers.
We felt the need to recognize and salute this wonderful organization, because we, as a couple, faced some very unexpected traveling and medical expenses as a result of surgical complications.
We wish to thank Joe and Maggie, their spouses Dot and Doug, the RO steering committee, the never-ending volunteers, all of the participants and all of the various businesses who contributed to this event. A special thank you to staff and students from Cassadaga Job Corps, who participated and who have stood behind their fellow coworker during a very trying time.
With a heartfelt thank you ...
Donald and Audrey Stoyle
are Dunkirk residents.
