As of February 2005
Summery of the last 9 months

The good news:

1. A successful Carolyn's Camp was held July 30-Aug. 1, 2004. Twelve children (ages 4-8) with sensory integration issues came to Kid Power with their parents. The parents had a separate seminar led by some of Carolyn's O T and teacher friends. This was the beginning of a parent support group. The children were treated to therapy that was fun with each child having their own occupational therapist. The theme was nature and visitors included a pet rabbit, tadpoles, a frog, and over 30 animals from the rain forest including snakes and parrots. The camp will always be held the last weekend in July.

Live life with passion.

2. Petroglyph Elementary was one of the schools where Carolyn Worked. A new playground for children with special needs was dedicated to Carolyn's memory in May of 2004. A huge climbing rock with a plaque with Carolyn's name and slogan was placed on the playground. Children and their parents from Carolyn's Camp went to play there the last day of the camp.

3. A second playground at Child Find was dedicated to Carolyn. A sunflower plaque with Carolyn's name marks the area.

4. Carolyn graduated from Occupational Therapy School at the University of New Mexico in 2000. The school will give out the Carolyn Thurman Rustvold Community Spirit award to one member of the graduation class in May. Carolyn was well known for volunteering in the community: Rape Crisis Center, Humane Society, center taking care of abused women and children, helping the poor, etc.

5. A poor family with disabled children were “adopted” for Christmas by Carolyn's Causes. They were given food, clothes and toys.

Show compassion to others

The bad news:

The trial of the accused murderer has been postponed at least 3 times. Although we lost Carolyn two years ago, we are just now facing the trial. Carolyn's family and friends want to close that chapter of Carolyn's story so that we can continue to focus on the way Carolyn lived and plan the camp and other children oriented programs.

Believe you can make a difference.

The ugly news:

Jury selection took 2 days. The trial began February 2. The trial could take 3 weeks as the state prosecutor painstakingly presents the evidence gathered. There is a lot of forensics in this trial. The defense will be next. The family and friends sit in the court room with heavy hearts and at times must get up and leave when the information is too graphic and painful. This is a parent's worst nightmare.