Invitation to Participate

May 1st, 2009

Dear Colleagues,

It is with great hope and humility that I contact you today. For 17 years, you have been an integral participant in our efforts to eradicate Cystic Fibrosis for our son Liam and for the 30,000 children and young adults who continue to fight the devastating effects of Cystic Fibrosis.  Together we have celebrated the accomplishments of the doctors and researchers, while at the same time, struggled to understand the depth of suffering each child must undergo. 

Now more than ever we need your participation.  Yes, the economy is not cooperating with our goals and aspirations, but the children and young adults battling this disease on a daily basis do not have the luxury of waiting out the economy.  They need your financial support today.

Vertex is a local company who is on the brink of the CURE for CF.  For the first time in Liam's lifetime, I am optimistic that he will live long enough to see the cure.  To say that this is exciting science is an understatement.  We cannot stray from our focus of funding this research.

In our industry, we understand how vital it is to have a team approach to every project.  We must keep in mind the vision of the owners, the creativity of the architects, the craftsmanship of the subcontractors, and the commitment of the team managers.  The concept of teamwork crosses over into every aspect of life, none more prevalently than that of a child, dreaming of a future which may never be.  Motivated by that dream, we invite you to join us, as we continue to "Build A Cure" for Cystic Fibrosis.

In Liam's name, together, we have raised over $1,230,000 to fund the research, which has lead to the creation of new medications, treatments and therapies, substantially prolonging and improving the quality of life for CF patients.  In August 2007, Liam received the gift of a new liver.  Although he had several episodes of liver rejection and kidney failure, his prognosis becomes more positive with the passing of each day.  Unfortunately, Cystic Fibrosis is taking a greater hold of Liam's lungs, his pancreas, his spleen and his digestive system.  His condition is even more complex than before, as many of his anti-rejection medications have brought unavoidable side effects.  As Liam continues to provide us the face of perseverance, the spirit of gratitude and a determination unparalleled, we ask you to fight along side him.

Our request is simple. I have selected 150 business associates to join me in "Building A Cure" for Cystic Fibrosis.  My hope is that as you read this letter, you recognize the need to move more quickly than ever before, as time is of the essence.  If each person who receives this letter would donate $1,000, we will have exceeded our contributions from last year.  If you are not in a position to donate at that level, we do understand.  These are tough times.  But, if you expand the team approach by contacting your corporate bank, your business associates, your suppliers, your vendors, your neighbors, your family and your friends, you will impact the cure in a much more direct way.  Your generosity of spirit will allow our team awareness to grow.  The $1,000 that you bring in may be the final donation needed to fund the cure.

Thank you in advance for your consideration, your compassion, your prayers and your continued support.

Please visit www.LiamFoundation.com to acknowledge those companies and individuals within our industry who joined us in our 2008 Build A Cure drive, raising $31,625 for research!