DonateThe holiday season is here, and this is the time of year when I think about my Aunt Barbara and most keenly feel her absence in my life. Christmas was, by far, Barbara’s favorite holiday. Her home was like a Christmas wonderland this time of year and near the end of her life she would leave the decorations up year-round. She had a Christmas stocking for every dog and cat she had, so as you can imagine, her entire living room was covered floor to ceiling in stockings. Barbara hosted every Christmas Eve and Day for our family. Her house was filled with lights and tinsel, the smell of delicious food cooking and, of course, a lot of barking. My Aunt made sure to make the holidays special for the animals at Hillside as well. I know she always made them feel the happiness and hope of the season even if they didn’t have the comfort of a home. She had a unique gift of making every person and animal feel special, important and cared about. During this holiday season, I hope you will consider donating to the Joe and Caroline Memorial Fund. Barbara lost both her children before passing away from cancer just before Christmas in 2018 and this fund is a huge part of her legacy. Donations help fund emergency medical services for our animals, as well as our Spay and Neuter Clinic which is critical to reducing the epidemic of homeless animals. I was very close to my cousins as well and miss them every day; therefore, their legacy is dear to my heart as well. So, I ask you, please don’t forget Joe and Caroline’s fund. In closing, I wish for all of you to feel special, hopeful and cared for during this season and into the new year.
Natalie Avenoso
Niece of Barbara Umlauf
Hillside SPCA Board of Directors
https://www.hillsidespca.com/donate/
