Today is one of my favorite days of the year, and not just because it's my birthday! Halloween in our household means an evening with friends, warm cider and toasted pumpkin seeds, and creative group costumes — and our family likes to go all out.

But today has even more significance than in years past. It's also John's October deadline tonight at midnight. Will you ensure he hits his $10,000 goal by contributing what you can?

Just like our Halloween costumes, John’s campaign is a family endeavor. Our daughters and I are proud to do everything we can to show our support. So please, I hope you’ll help me celebrate my birthday/Halloween/the October fundraising deadline by pitching in any amount before midnight.

And later today, be sure to check out John's Twitter for photos of this year's group costume! I won’t spoil the surprise, but this Halloween will definitely be one for the photo albums.

Thank you so much for your support,

Melissa