Hello everyone! We are back from our trip and it was a giant success!
First and foremost we would like to express our gratitude to the all of you for making this potentially once in a lifetime experience possible. We recognize without your help it would not have happened and we are beyond grateful. I construct this email with tears in my eyes as I reflect on the magnitude of what we all took part in and I thank you. You ALL truly make a difference.
The trip went very well: basically perfect! A lot of behind the scenes planning was done here at PAL to ensure the success of this trip and Officer Walker and Officer Swaggart worked diligently in making this happen. The evening prior Officer Walker took all of our kiddos for a haircut while Officer Swaggart ensured all bags were packed and all clothes were clean.
The trip went very smooth starting with all of the children staring out their windows, some already outside, waiting intently for us to pick them up! Everyone loved the train ride, the outings and of course the hotel. There were many opportunities for teaching moments and each child returned home safe, full of memories, new experiences, and maybe most importantly, rest.
On the final ride home I asked each child what their favorite part of the trip was. One said “the arch”, one said “the train”. The others said “the sleep” and “the beds”. These words left me speechless.
We do not always know what our PAL kiddos home lives are like. We do not know how our kiddos sleep or the chaos that surrounds them as they lay their heads down at night. But we do know that for two nights, these children slept peacefully in clean beds surrounded with loving and caring police officers who ensured their safety. They loved it and you made that happen.
It would be almost impossible to put into words the level of excitement, awe, and gratitude the children had so instead I will share pictures that capture some very special and unforgettable moments. There are so many great ones that it is difficult to chose so I have included all that I could! We were fortunate to take a member of our media crew with us (thank you Officer Whitelaw) and video of the event will be available soon!!!
Again, thank you for all that you have done and continue to do.
Respectfully,
Sgt. Susie Fabian
KCPD Police Athletic League
(816) 413-3621
1801 White Avenue
KCMO 64126
