A Story For Your Heart And Spirit

"You are one friend away from your destiny" - this statement has proven true in many ways in my life, and I hope it has in yours too.

No matter how fast our world moves, one thing that will never change is the need for human connection. 

We all need relationships, both professional and personal, and we can all be that one friend in the lives of others.

This story is a shining example of that truth. It began with a small, unassuming gesture that could end up having a long-lasting impact on many lives.

Through our decade-long partnership with Columbus, Ohio-based Christian music radio station 104.9 The River, we received a message from Rich Gandarillas, a donor to the station who had received a dulci sweets chocolate gift package during the past Christmas season as a thank you.

Rich immediately connected with our product and wanted to learn more about us. He read our story and purpose and signed up for our newsletter, joining our community. He then contacted us to share something extraordinary and heartbreaking.

His wife Karen had recently passed away from breast cancer, but she had been forever strong in her faith, love for God, life, and chocolate-making.
In honor of Karen, Rich wanted to make a large purchase of chocolate gifts to express gratitude and honor the many great caregivers for his wife. This included nurses, doctors, and many other individuals they met at oncology and treatment centers throughout her 32-month journey.

Rich further shared that he was involved in the planning committee for the Columbus Susan G. Komen Race For the Cure, one of the largest breast cancer fundraising events in the country.

He started the Karen Gandarillas Legacy in honor of his wife, and at the event, there is a special section called "Hope Village" that recognizes and celebrates survivors. Over 1,500 survivors are expected at this year's event, and each one of them, courtesy of Karen Gandarillas Legacy, will receive a special dulci sweets gift.

A gift delivered in our signature box that says “You Are Worthy.” You Are Loved. You Are Wonderfully Made. 

There’s so much more to unwrap and celebrate here. For that, let me stop and share with you the words from Rich, himself. 

“I delivered the chocolates this morning to the team at the Columbus Oncology and Hematology Center and the Riverside Radiology Center.  The staff was thrilled and are very excited about sharing the samples with patients and guests today and tomorrow.  It was an emotional visit since it is the first time back at each Center since Karen's passing - but it was also very satisfying to share our love using Dulci Sweets.

From me and Teddy (our dynamic golden doodle), thank you!  Today, we made grateful memories with the gift of Dulci Sweets!”

Much more of this story is not yet fully known. But, I do know this – God Is Good. God Is Moving. And We are called to Shine His Light. 

We would absolutely love and invite you to JOIN US – with your donation and/or in person at the event Saturday, May 20th, downtown Columbus. 

If you want to learn more about Karen's life, the Race, the KG Legacy, and make a donation, please read the important details listed below. 

Thank you for your support and shining God’s light in your unique way. 

Your Friend,

Brock 

 

CALLING FOR YOUR SUPPORT TO END BREAST CANCER FOREVER!

 

We are continuing to celebrate Karen by participating in this year’s Komen Columbus Race for the Cure.  

 

Will you join us and/or donate?

 

Karen was victorious.  She remained about more than her 32-month breast cancer journey.  Karen will always be known as the person that valued family, friends, professionalism, pets, quilting, chocolate-making, fun, church, crafts, sports, Mustangs, prayer, flowers, inspirational messages, cards, gifts, bible study, tea parties, good restaurants, travel, shopping, hugs, smiles, laughter, and so much more.  All that Karen represents is wrapped into FAITH – HOPE – LOVE.

 

For the past two years, we have participated in the Komen Columbus Race for the Cure.  This year’s race will happen on Saturday, May 20. 

If you wish to donate to our mission to end breast cancer forever:

• Visit komencolumbus.org and select “Komen Columbus” or “2023 Komen Columbus Race for the Cure.”

• Select “Donate” at the top of the screen (you may need to select “Register” first before seeing the “Donate” button).

• Next to the “Participant” box, enter “Richard Gandarillas” (first and last name) and click the “GO” button.

• Scroll down and select “Richard Gandarillas” or “Team Karen Gandarillas” to donate.

• All donors will receive a special Karen Gandarillas Legacy t-shirt.

If you wish to participate at the Race, remotely or virtually:

• Visit komencolumbus.org and select “Komen Columbus” or “2023 Komen Columbus Race for the Cure.”

• Select “Registration” or “Register Today” and then select “Join a Team.” 

• Follow the prompts to “Create an Account” or, if you registered/donated in the past, “Log In.”

• Join “TEAM KAREN GANDARILLAS” and at the question about discount code, enter “tenoff2023” for a $10 discount.

• Our thanks to all the glorious prayer warriors that never failed us.  Our thanks to the outstanding warriors at Riverside Hospital, the Columbus Oncology Center, and the Bing Cancer Center.  And, our continued thanks to Susan G. Komen Columbus as they offer tremendous support to survivors, patients, caregivers and health professionals through research, care, community, and action initiatives.