Gateway Girl Weekend!
Hey Everyone! I had a busy, very fun and productive weekend in the STL area. I arrived in St. Louis early Friday morning at Cardinal Glennon Medical Center along with Miss Gateway St. Louis Erika and Miss Gateway St. Louis OT Shelby. We spent the morning doing arts and crafts with several patients. We had a fun and messy time making tambourines and bunny ears as Mrs. Steingraber played her guitar for the children. My heart hurt seeing these children suffer through their illnesses and afflictions. I immediately connected to one little girl in particular, Haley. Her mother explained to me how she’s often mistaken for a boy because of her short hair and because she can’t wear her favorite girly clothes because of treatment. Haley and I worked together decorating her tambourine with glitter and Hello Kitty stickers. I could tell how much Haley emotionally and physically hurt. As a five year old girl, she should never have to feel this way. By the end of my visit Haley and I were taking pictures together, she was talking and smiling. I truly felt that my time there was time well spent. She seemed like a different little girl. We had such a good time and she left such an impression on me. I feel more blessed for getting to know Haley. For anyone who has had a chance to work with Children’s Miracle Network, they know and understand the significant importance of the Miss America partnership. I am so blessed to be apart of two wonderful organizations.
After our visit at the Children’s Hospital we met with Miss Gateway to the West OT Kensie and spent the afternoon visiting sponsors. Thank you to Service Metal Products, The Hampton Inn, and Steak N’ Shake for your continued support. We ended our day with dress shopping and then met at The Stottlemyer’s beautiful home for a round table discussion in preparation for the Miss Missouri pageant. We had a great discussion with many differing opinions which helped me greatly.
The next day we met early for Gateway Sister Queen photo session! I had such a fun time with my sister queens. I’m sure I’ll be posting pictures soon. The rest of the day was spent doing mock interviews, talent practice, wardrobe discussion, and just getting to spend time with our wonderful board and director, Gary. Thanks so much to everyone who participated and helped out.
Orientation is quickly approaching and will be here in a week. I will update everyone on things to come. Thanks for checking in.
Your Miss Gateway to the West,
Katy Reed
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