Anna Wilkerson – Strength Beyond Years
By Larry McGovern
Co-Chair, Big Hearts under the Big Sky

I went on the hunt for buffalo at the Flying D last week with Anna, the beautiful little 13 year old from Flagstaff, Arizona. The trip was provided by MOGA’s Big Hearts under the Big Sky program in partnership with Catch-A-Dream Foundation. It was a life changing event for me and everyone else involved. It was an experience from which I have not quite recovered (and hope I never do).

During the evening meal Anna share this with me: She said “Larry, I have been sick for the last four years but during the last four days I have not felt sick at all.” I wept on my way home that evening.

What a remarkable privilege it is to be involved with such an event and with such a spectacular child. I offered my Mass Sunday to her and will offer many more. The Catch-a-Dream host was terrific, very fine man of excellent character.

MOGA Outfitter Rob Arnaud who provided the hunt did an extraordinary job and Anna collected a fine bison. Rob, as you know, is one of the most generous people in all aspects of life that I have ever met.

The partnership between Big Hearts under the Big Sky and Catch-a-Dream Foundation is an unbeatable combination in service to children and their families. This program has truly affected me, and I intend to be here for the long haul!.

Editors note:

Anna, the precious little girl that touched the lives of so many, went to heaven on Nov 27, 2010. She battled courageously Ewings Sarcoma, a bone cancer in her left shoulder blade, until the very end. Although we know her pain is now gone, and she in the arms of Jesus, we will miss her forever but we also know that her legacy lives on!

In one of her last posts on CaringBridge Anna wrote:

I have a favorite scripture that I have claimed for my life:
Is. 41:10

Fear thou not, for I am with thee; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen thee I will help thee; I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

Please believe with me and pray for me daily.

Love, Anna Wilkerson