Love Notes

After our daughter passed on Valentine’s Day of 2018, we wanted to do something that would keep her memory alive while serving others, particularly, women in recovery. We formed Leah’s Legacy.

While Leah was living in a sober living home, a small church group would visit the home the first Sunday of each month to sing worship songs and share in a small service. It was the first Sunday of December 2017 when Christmas gifts were brought in for the women who resided in the home. All the ladies were grabbing the pretty decorated packages and gift bags while a garbage bag lay on the floor. Leah waited and then selected the garbage bag for herself. A large purse was concealed inside the bag, filled with all kinds of toiletries, a Wet hairbrush, winter hat, scarf & glove set, socks, an umbrella, small dollar gift cards, and much, much more. Leah called home that day to tell us what she had received. She was so excited, telling us all about the wonderful treasures she had found within that purse. Leah barely took a breath between sentences.

In memory of our daughter, we have recreated the bag she received that day. The only change is that it is a reusable purple drawstring bag filled with essentials and given to women seeking change and who have taken steps to reclaim their lives from the trauma of addiction.

So many of us take for granted the little things we have. One resident commented as she opened her bag that she did not have a hairbrush. Another did not have deodorant and yet another was in need of a toothbrush. These bags are not only providing basic necessities, but also giving hope, joy and love, and a sense of caring. Something Leah always exhibited with the many women she came in contact with while in recovery. She would be proud that her name is attached to such an outreach ministry.

If you would like Mike and Robin Straley to speak at your sober living home, rehab center, counseling center, church or organization, please call: Mike Straley 717-552-8885