On May 8, 2010, my youngest son, Luca, was born. That was the same day that my wife Heather received her Stage IIIc ovarian cancer diagnosis.

After the initial shock of the diagnosis set in, Heather and I asked the questions I’m sure most parents do in those circumstances – “What about the kids? Will they be ok? How do we tell them? What can we do for them?”

As luck would have it, our neighbor worked for a non-profit organization that he recommended we get in touch with. He was sure they would be able to help us. He was right.

Our two older children attended six therapeutic sessions with other kids going through what they were, instantly helping them realize they weren’t alone. My daughter received support from her child life specialist for the entire three years her mother fought cancer, and for a year after Heather passed away.

Our biggest fears were laid to rest; I have three well-adjusted, strong children who can overcome anything because of the tools they were given. The organization was Wonders & Worries.

I feel that no matter what I do, I will never be able to fully repay Wonders & Worries for the gift they gave our family.

Every year I host a Celebration of Life in memory of Heather to raise money for the organization. I have served on the Finance Committee. Last year, I was privileged to be chosen to help design a strategy to help expand Wonders & Worries. About halfway through the strategic consulting process, I realized how much I loved doing work for Wonders & Worries – it felt like being home.

Now I find myself in the most incredible position of all – introducing myself to you as the new Executive Director. I look forward to continuing to work closely with Meredith Cooper, who has stewarded the organization so admirably for 15+ years and 7,000 clients. Meredith remains on staff in a Founder role, driving national awareness about our work.

In the months and years ahead, I plan to continue expanding the services we provide in Central Texas, as well as grow the number of cities we serve. I envision a future where every family that is confronted with serious illness has access to the services provided by Wonders & Worries.

Our success continues to depend on the strength of our relationships with you – our clients, referring professionals, donors and the community. I am so very grateful for the ongoing support you have given Wonders & Worries, and my family.

I look forward to meeting you all. You can reach me at [email protected] and 512-329-5757, Ext. 101.

We will, together.

For more information, read the Press Release and the Gabbi Family story.