In reply to Mike / Toiletoctopus's son death I'd like to throw this out to the Epinions Community. If there was a way to donate part of your Income Share – say $5.00 or $10.00 to a specific cause or for flowers etc – would you go for it? When I was in the hospital last year I got flowers and it was a most unexpected event.

A lot of the time people grumble over the smallest of things, when something like this happens you are given a gentle reminder that sometimes the little things are pretty insignificant when compared to what others are going through.

I am continually impressed with how the community responds when members are in a time of need. As others have said, there are no words to say when a life is lost but it hurts more when it is a child.

The basic idea behind this would be a small donation, completely voluntary, dedicated from Income Share, that would be used for a "group" donation to a cause, charity or for flowers. I'm just tossing this out for discussion, I don't know if this is something that could even be implemented but I just wanted to see what people think about this type of idea.

I don't have enough to cash out, can I still do it?
-kim

I am still fairly new and just returned after a long absence. I don't know Mike very well but if possible I would like to donate some money to him as well. Not from IS because I don't have enough yet, but if some one is going to start any kind of fund I would like to know about it. I will send a check or use paypal. Please feel free to email me any information on this matter. Bless this poor guy and his family for all that they are going through.

Paul

Me too. When you think about all Mike and his family are going through, it sure puts everything else into perspective.

I'm in. Tell me how much, when and where. Epinions was very supportive to me during my mother's death; Mike was one of the most vocal males to express his condolences. I certainly will return the favor.

Talyseon.

I think this is a fabulous idea, and would also be interested in participating, if something were to come together here.

For people who are concerned with helping Mike in a financial way right now, he's most interested in helping the Angelman Syndrome Foundation with a donation in Tommy's name: www.angelman.org


Grace

I was thinking maybe we could also ask on our Facebook and Myspace pages that people donate to an organization which is trying to further research into this disorder and do so in his son's name? Sort of a way to let his legacy live on and help others.

Paul

Uh oh, I want to donate but am maxed on my cards. They don't take paypal, money order or checks...I use gift card Visa to order on line a lot. I wonder if any one knows if this will work? If not I wonder if there is a way to call this place and give them my debit number.

~Michelle

Michelle, before that link was up I mailed a check to the address on the website with a note for who it was in memory of. I am sure they will figure it out as there will likely be a number of donations in his name over the next few weeks.

I think it would be pretty safe to do that - from someone who worked in a church office and handled such issues from time to time.

Patti