Natalie Nutty (2009)
Natalie organized a successful Homerun for Time fundraiser in 2008 and 2009.
(August 2009) I am Natalie Nutty, creator of Homerun For Time! I graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s School of Nursing in May 2009. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and have accepted a position at the American Family Children’s Hospital in Madison, WI on their general medical/surgical floor. I start in September 2009 and am extremely excited (and yet nervous) to open the next chapter of my life.
In high school, I had the privilege of being Abby’s gymnastics teammate and good friend. There is something about being teammates that bring about a very special bond and I believe Abby and I had that down. I never dreamed that my role model would be younger than me, but her passion, strength, encouragement and positive attitude immediately drew me to her.
After Abby was diagnosed, our friendship held strong, but life got busier and eventually I went off to college. After she passed away, it was very tough for me knowing that I hadn’t been able to keep in touch with her while I was away; so I always dreamed of the opportunity to do something very special for not only Abby but also her family. Inspiration came to me as I was looking through old photos one day and I was reminded of Abby’s passion for the Minnesota Twins; and after much research, Homerun For Time was born.
Last year we successfully came up with $1000 to donate to the Szott Foundation but this year was bigger and better, successfully doubling our profit to $2,173. This event has become one of my passions and the Foundation has given me the support I need to make it happen. For that, I could not be more thankful. But most importantly, it has given me the pleasure of knowing that I am helping give families the gift of time, which we all know is the most meaningful thing in the world.
Sara Benedett on September 5th, 2009
Dear Natalie,
Well done to an outstanding young woman! You are an inspiration and should feel so very proud of your accomplishments. I know that Abby is so proud, too. God bless you and your next chapter in life.
Most fondly,
Sara Benedett