Dear Mary and Tisho,
Last week, I read Meaghan’s story on your website and was moved to tears. When I watched her perform this morning, I was humbled by her grace and poise. She is truly an inspiration to have overcome such incredible odds.
When you were announcing the scholarships this morning, neither Dawn nor I expected this. As a new family to your school, we both recognize the enormous talent in all of your children and never did we expect to receive the Zaremba scholarship. I am still numb and in Dawn’s own words, she feels very privileged to receive this scholarship. She also feels that there are so many other students who are more deserving – and that is why I love my daughter so much. She is a selfless and dedicated musician.
Meaghan’s story is one of true inspiration and Dawn will certainly respect and honour this acknowledgement as she prepares this coming year for her University auditions. A little something about Dawn that I carry in my heart always is that my Dad (her grandfather) passed away exactly 1 year before Dawn was born. He was my best friend and my life teacher – and there are many days when I feel him standing right beside me. I chose my daughter’s name intentionally – she is my “Dawn” of a new day and it’s often heartbreaking to think that my father never met her. My Mom passed away 4 years ago. She loved the arts and was fortunate enough to see a few of Dawn’s dance recitals over the years. Both my mother and father, I’m certain, are looking down on their grand daughter now with tremendous pride.
We also want to thank you for Jaye – a remarkable young woman who brings such strength and dedication to Dawn’s life. I really believe that it takes a village to raise a child – and Mary & Tisho – thank you for bringing your music school to this community. My husband and I would not have the network nor the means to mentor Dawn the way Jaye does through your school – and we are extremely appreciative of everything you do, not only for our daughter, but for the many other children and youth in this community.
Sincerely,
Dawn, Sharon and Joe Rego