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John, I was doing some decluttering at the house last night, and I came across the funniest thing — two old pairs of roller skates: mine, and Jordan’s. As a single mom, I needed to find affordable ways to keep my high-energy boy busy. Well, our local roller rink was the perfect solution: It was just $1 to get in, plus $1 each for pizza and drinks. So, it became our little Monday after-school ritual from 4-8PM. Pretty soon, I started recognizing some of the other single moms there with their kids. We formed our own little community together as the weeks went by. Then, the girls showed up — or, to be more accurate: Jordan started noticing the girls showing up. I remember our conversation in the parking lot vividly: “Mom, don’t acknowledge me. Don’t act like you know me! Just skate on by.” So, I did: I skated right on by as Jordan held hands with his new crush. Then, naturally, I turned right back around and gave the most over-the-top “Oh, Jordan! Come skate with Mommy!” performance I could without falling over laughing. I wonder how many first crushes are still skating around the rink these days. I hope it’s still a place where single parents and their kids can find community, too. I was so touched when some of those moms reached out after Jordan’s funeral, and to still see their names to this day on our campaign supporters’ list. Your support means everything to me as we build our own movement and community together, too. So, thanks for letting me share these memories — and for everything else you’re doing to help keep us moving forward. I promise, I won’t embarrass you like I embarrassed Jordan! — Lucy
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