On MLB Players & Money, From The Charity-Asking & Parent Angle

I am the mother of one of the children at The Rocky Mountain Deaf School. Jason deserves respect and so much more regarding how he is making the difference in the lives of many deaf children. He is serving a cause much greater than himself. He is an excellent example of a true role model for children, and us adults can also learn a thing or two from Jason's actions.

Almost a year ago, I was planning a fundraiser for The Rocky Mountain Deaf School. I spent almost every minute of my spare time planning for the Septemeber 13, 2008 benefit "It Takes A Nation". I purchased out of my own personal money over one thousand sports items. I wrote to about 1000 athletes and stars across the world, sending them an item to sign and a self addressed stamped envelope to return the item in. The response was amazing, I received so many items and notes of encouragement. I only received one phone call and that call was from Jason Grilli. During our first phone conversation he made it very clear to me that my letter touched him and his family. He wanted to know what he could do to help our school. We shared many life experiences and stories during our first conversation. It was like we were old friends catching up. What was even more amazing after the first conversation he made it a point to stay in close contact and put the effort forward to help the school. One of the very first things he did was hook up my family and son to a portable video phone, he set The Rocky Mountain Deaf School up with the same equipment. Our family had no clue this kind of technology even was available prior to Jason Grilli coming into our lives. This has been life changing for our family and my dear son. To take it a step further, during Jason's off season he made my son a promise that he would keep in touch with him. Sure enough Jason would call on the Video Phone so he could talk with Troy.

One person alone cannot build The Rocky Mountain Deaf School. I have been trying for years to raise enough money to get this school built. It is like moving a mountain with a tablespoon and a bucket. The attitude that ballplayers are rich and they can just cough up a few bucks and get the school built is so closed minded. The school needs the help of everyone to make this dream happen. The school needs millions of dollars to start construction. Maybe a few of the fella's have millions but I understand and respect the fact that if they got hurt next week they may never collect another paycheck as a ballplayer for the rest of their live. Years ago I worked as a Social Worker at a spinal cord and brain injury center. I saw my share of athletes who would never walk again or wipe their own ass. They need to manage and save for their families and the future. The more logical solution to getting the school built is having many people give $5, $10 $20 towards the cause. Everyone then has ownership that they changed the lives of generations of Deaf Children beyond their own lifetime.

Jason Grilli spent hours helping plan the May 30th event at The Mount Vernon Country Club. His time is very limited but yet he gave so much of it and most important he has connected with the children of The Rocky Mountain Deaf School. Yes, I do agree that it has been hard to get people to donate money for the Deaf School. I believe we would have much better luck if we were raising money for deaf puppies. This has nothing to do with Jason not being popular or known in baseball. Last week a little boy came running up to me in a store prior to the benefit, asking "is Jason Grilli really coming to the benefit"? This little fella is hearing and his little eyes and voice said it all " I love him" he's really nice! Being involved in the lives of children and changing a child's life for the better should be important to all of us. Instead of bashing Jason's efforts please join us to get this school built!