Chelsey’s dream can live on

Early in October, KCRG-TV9 featured a story entitled 'Woman's Dying Wish Leads to Creation of Adoption Assistance Foundation.” The feature highlighted how the recent death of 23-year-old Chelsey Bildstein resulted in the funds originally raised to offset the cost of her medical treatment for ovarian cancer being used to provide financial relief to the families of adopted children - specifically the adoption of little Calvin by Libby and Andy Ortmann.

Like many of you, this story had a profound emotional impact on me. I must admit however, that I am partial to the story because I knew Chelsey personally.

Because this story is so near and dear to my heart, I wanted to shed a little more light on this amazing foundation.

In the early stages of her battle with cancer, Chels confided in me the sadness it brought her that she would never be able to have children of her own. It was then that her passion for adoption became evident to me.

She spoke of the children she would one day adopt as though she already loved them.

Throughout her treatment, I saw in her a strength I hadn't previously known was there. After 18 consecutive weeks, she received news that chemotherapy had not been successful. Yet, I continued to see positive changes in her.

She became exceptionally focused on the needs and well-being of those around her. I believe it was her newfound sense of strength, her unconditional love for children, and her heightened awareness of those around her that led to her desire to play a role in the adoption of children.

I can only imagine the joy Chelsey's Dream Foundation has brought to Calvin and his family. But, as for the joy it brings the Bildsteins, I have seen it firsthand.

Losing Chelsey has created a forever hole in their hearts. Fulfilling Chelsey's dream and making those of adoptive parents and children come true has been a great way for them to begin the healing process. Getting to know the Ortmanns has impacted them so deeply that they felt the need to share this new found joy with their loved ones.

Recently, Chelsey's parents, Chuck and Carol Bildstein, sought help from close family and friends to help build Chelsey's Dream Foundation. They made evident their intention for us to experience the same fulfillment they felt from working with Calvin and his new family. It is my intention to share that opportunity with all of you.

In order to establish a strong foundation that will serve families for years to come, we need to rely on love and support from our community. By sharing our message, contributing a monetary donation, or including us in your prayers, you will help play a role in making dreams come true not only for adoptive families, but also for those of us who mourn Chelsey's loss. Although cancer was able to conquer her body, because of this foundation, it will never defeat her spirit.

Should you feel inclined to contribute to Chelsey's Dream Foundation, you may send a private, non-tax deductible donation to: Chelsey's Benefit Fund at Fidelity Bank, 107 S. Garnavillo St., Anamosa, IA 52205.

' Michelle Gallagher is a resident of Dubuque and was a friend to the Bildsteins family. Contact: mgallagher@holyfamilydbq.org.