Season’s Greetings…some people are offended by the use of the term, as if it defames the religious intentions of the holidays. I believe it encompasses the entire season of giving thanks, remembering, and hoping for a better future that starts with Thanksgiving and ends with New Year’s Day. In both the Jewish and Christian worlds, December’s holidays connote light in the darkest of seasons, and a feeling that there is a spirit greater than us, there to support us in times of need.For me, this season is bittersweet. The memories of Sean, my Mom and Dad come in waves of smiles and tears. The Fund was founded in Sean’s name in the hope of providing a better future for those who struggle every day with the ups and downs of bipolar disorder, harnessing their creative energy to produce light from their struggle. For each of us, this is a time of examination. Do we feel fulfilled by the past year? Do we end the year with the joy of our friends and family? Most importantly, do we know that there is light and hope for our future?As founder and President of The Sean Costello Memorial Fund, it’s my job to analyze our successes and see if we are able to meet the challenges of the future. These results are not linear, nor absolute, but, for the Fund they remain hopeful. This has been a year of unimaginable growth in the recognition of the need for our work, with international exposure (Vancouver and Rome). I’ve even been approached by a world renowned psychiatrist in New York to come and visit, as she is impressed with our mission. We’ve also initiated our first program series, Beautiful Minds, in conjunction with the esteemed Emory University, a designated Depression and Mood Disorder Centers. These milestones certainly underscore our legitimacy and importance, but there is so much left to do. As in all efforts, success takes time, talent, attention and resources. The Fund has progressed through the generosity of volunteers, but that model is not sustainable in the long term. The non-profit world is very difficult, and eventually, staff will be needed to serve as knowledgeable Fundraisers, Program Managers and Grant Writers. This will take financial resources, some from grants, others from corporate sponsors, but the heart and soul of a mission driven organization is the individual who is passionate about the cause.I’ve said it before, and I can never stop reiterating, the Fund is you. Without your support, whether as volunteer, via in-kind or monetary donations, we would not be able to continue to exist. Given that we are the only organization that is doing what we do for the community that means so much to us, the light of hope would be extinguished.This has been a tough year for all of us financially. If you can find it in your heart to donate any amount, no matter how small, you will be the candle, which, when joined with a thousand others, will provide the light of hope, a light, that thanks to Sean, keeps on shining.Season’s Greetings and Wishes for a Bright New Year.Debbie Costello SmithThe Sean Costello Memorial Fund for Bipolar Research