Thanks
Kurt Weaver
Melissa Fortener McLaughlin was a 1996 Fairmont High School graduate. She LOVED being a Firebird! Fort was a talented member of the FHS varsity volleyball and basketball teams. She also participated in USB government as the Commissioner of Communications, where she was pivotal in raising funds to open a Battered Women’s/ Children’s Shelter in Dayton. In the years after high school, Melissa attended numerous FHS athletic events and planned both her 5 and 10 year high school reunions. Fort was a devoted Firebird who truly loved her alma mater.
Just over five years ago, Melissa was diagnosed with stage IIb breast cancer. She was 25 years old. In the years that passed, through chemo, hair loss, a myriad of physical ailments, and the loss of her son...one thing remained the same...Fort’s positive spirit and outlook on life. She lived more in the past five years of her life than most us will do in our lifetimes. She was able to put a positive spin on anything and she always said that, “No matter how bad it gets, there is always someone out there who would love to have your problems.”
On January 3, 2009, just two days before turning 31, Fort passed away ending a five and a half year struggle with breast cancer. This world will never be the same without her, but it has been forever changed because of her. Fort inspired hundreds of people to smile and laugh. She made us all remember that life is precious and should be lived to its fullest no matter how tough it gets. Your outlook on your life is what you choose it to be...Fort chose to be happy...period. She was an example to all who knew her and our hope is that her story and life will continue to be examples for years to come.
To honor her legacy, we are starting the Melissa “Fortener” McLaughlin Fairmont Scholarship Fund. Our hope is to annually reward students with a financial need who exemplify spirit, a positive attitude, athleticism, and are active in philanthropy/service... all of the traits that Fort embodied during her time at Fairmont and throughout her adult life. You can read more about her life and legacy at www.fortscancersux.blogspot.com and www.fortscancersux1.blogspot.com
Our request is for a donation/gift to add to the success of the 1st Annual Firebirds for Fort Scholarship Fundraiser which will occur on October 17, 2009 from 6-midnight at 1675 Woodman Drive, Dayton, OH. Donations can come in the form of gift certificates, apparel, services, food, sponsorship of event t-shirts,cups or monetary contributions. Any donation would be greatly appreciated and valuable to this worthy cause. Thank you very much for taking the time to read this and for your consideration in honoring Melissa Fortener McLaughlin. If you are interested in making a contribution please contact: Angie Warner at (513) 295-2423 or awarner24@yahoo.com OR Pam Fortener at (937) 238-4075 or pfort@erinet.com
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