One of our goals while in Romania was to finish the playroom for the kids. With 11 kids and cold weather coming, the kids needed a place to release some energy. Rachel picked out several items for the playroom including a bounce house that almost fills the room, a tent, tunnel, and some other fun stuff for the kids. When we heard that Rachel wanted to do a playroom at the Isaiah Center, our first thought was to do this playroom in loving honor and memory of Jerry Ashabranner. Jerry and his wife Peggy traveled to Romania in 2007 with a team from First Baptist Church of Jeffersonville. Anybody that knows Jerry knows all about the kids and families in Tinca because he loved to share his experiences. His (and Peggy's) life was forever changed after spending time in Romania. Jerry's health deteriorated in the last two years, and it was the thought of coming back to Romania that he held on to, that kept him going through this time.
Jerry has gone home to be with the Lord, and what better way to pay tribute to him, his heart and his inspiration to many than to dedicate the playroom in his honor and memory. There are pictures of Jerry and some of the kids who's lives were touched by Jerry that will hang in the playroom as a reminder of his and Peggy's love and support. This playroom is another gift from all of those who were part of Christmas in Romania, and from those who gave money in memory of Jerry.
Peggy, we love you!
1 comment:
You can not imagine how touched I am that you dedicated the children's playroom to Jerry. Jerry's daughter, Kim, and I were just talking about Romania and we just knew his spirit was there with you all this week, and probably would continue to watch over these children. I know he is well pleased with this recognition. How can I ever thank you for this honor?
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