April 1st, 1995, my mother lost her 3 year battle with cancer. Eight years later my father lost his 10 year battle with cancer. In each situation Hospice was called on, and Hospice was available and willing to come to the house and help. In the last days of a person’s life it is truly helpful to have an experienced person around. They don't have all of the answers, but they have been in this situation before, and the compassion and experience they bring is a strength and comfort for the patient as well as the family. In those last difficult days it is helpful for everyone to have someone to talk to and consult with when questions come up. It is a time when family can rally together. 

Saturday, March 27th, 2010 the family of Athens, Al rallied to help Hospice of Limestone County. I am proud to say that one of the premier annual events in Athens is the Saturday each year when we all come together at the High School, and share in the fundraiser called the "Chili Challenge." 

At this event everyone from churches to politicians prepare large pots of their special Chili for the enjoyment of all. When you purchase your Chili Challenge ticket, you are then equipped with a small tasting cup and napkin. Then you walk thru the cafeteria into the gym toward the booths, and you’ll find the room packed shoulder to shoulder with the people of Athens and Limestone County. This year was no exception, and we mingled from 10 am til 2pm, asking each other, “Have you made it all the way around yet?” All of the Chili cooks are positioned in the center of the Gym floor like a bunch of pioneers that have circled their wagons as they wait for our “attack,” and we don’t disappoint. 

You see people that you haven't seen since the last time they were tasting chili at the Challenge, and get caught up between bites and burps. It is a real down home family event, one that you do not want to miss. The main reason you should make it a point to go is because all the money goes to Hospice, and they deserve every dollar we can raise for them.

There are other reasons to show up at the Challenge. There is plenty of great food for sale, free local entertainment, a silent auction of cool goods and services, and the chance to connect with half of Athens. If you missed the Challenge this year, then please remember to show up next year. You won’t be disappointed! The Chili Challenge gives our community a yearly “taste” of who we are and what we care about, and we have a blast in the process.