Dear Mr. Larsen:

There are times in life when unexpected blessings arrive that are, well, a surprise. It is these times that confirm to me that the directions and decisions that I have made are the right ones. In April, I received notice of an additional scholarship being applied towards my education from The Scottish Rite for the 2008 2009 year. I am writing to say thank you for your continued financial support of my education.
This gift allows me to continue to pursue my goal in becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner in our community of Eastern Washington. Over the years as a critical care hospital nurse, I have gained a wealth of knowledge in caring for and stabilizing the critically ill children and adults. These experiences nurtured my vision to one day advance my career as a Nurse Practitioner and participate in the health prevention and maintenance of our community. When I finally embarked on the journey of the academic work load and financial commitment, the future was not in full view of the path towards the finish line. Your generosity helps ease the financial burden at this time as well as post graduation when I am choosing an area to work. I will have less of a financial constraint when choosing employment that mirrors my original mission in serving our community. Thank you.

In 1997, I lived in Tulsa, OK with my husband and young son. As a young mother, I knew my son’s speech and hearing was impaired and sought medical advice and therapy in repairing his auditory and verbal ability. The Scottish Rite in Tulsa welcomed us for professional speech therapy for the length of treatment needed. I was always astonished at the ministry provided to us and credit my son’s current academic success and outgoing social abilities to those first few years of foundational development and treatment from The Scottish Rite.

I share your mission to serve and give to those in need for the purpose of human progression and well being. From my son’s speech therapy 11 years ago to assisting in my current education as a Nurse Practitioner, The Scottish Rite was there and I am grateful to be a recipient of your generosity once more.

Sincerely,
Maria Castillo R.N., BSN
Nurse Practitioner Graduate Student
Washington State University