IREM President's Message: Boston Strong!!!

We all watched the horrific events with great disbelief, sadness, anger and heartache at the Boston Marathon this year. Out of this tragedy, we saw everyday people become heroes - those affected who have overcome their injuries and have strived to heal, the first responders who assisted so many people and the spectators who rushed into harm's way to help those that were hurt. I would like to dedicate this article to one particular person - Roseann Sdoia - who is a long-time member of the Boston #4 IREM Chapter and who I have had the privilege and honor of knowing for several years. Throughout this tragedy, Sdoia has shown that she is a woman of incredible grace and strength. Please consider a donation to Sdoia's fund, so that she may continue on her path to recovery. Our thoughts are with you Roseann! From Roseann's GoFundMe page (www.gofundme.com/roseann): "Roseann Sdoia was severely injured as a spectator at the Boston Marathon on 4/15/13. Roseann suffered serious injuries as a result of the explosions and has lost a leg above the knee. She has undergone several surgeries; first, to stabilize her and perform life saving measures and also to remove shrapnel from her abdomen. Surgery was required to remove a portion of a tree that became a projectile and seriously wounded her left leg. And most traumatic, the amputation of her right leg and burns covering portions of her body. It will be a long journey of recovery, both physically and emotionally but Roseann is a fighter. She has an infectious personality and loves Boston with all her heart. She is a true Bostonian, living in the city and being one of the most loyal sports fans I know! Please feel free to donate in the memory of a loved one whose name will help inspire Roseann through her treatment and recovery. Please keep all the victims in your prayers. The gifts donated to Roseann on this site will be transferred to Enterprise Bank for Roseann to use for all expenses incurred due to this tragic event. If you prefer to send a check, please make checks payable to: Roseann Sdoia Recovery Fund c/o Enterprise Bank 1168 Lakeview Ave., Dracut MA 01826." Lisa Leary, CPM is the IREM Boston Chapter #4 2013 president and is also a regional manager at Peabody Properties, Inc., Braintree, Mass.