We received this letter from Tucker’s family. We’d like to share it here because the community has been such a big part of the success of Tucker Tuesday. The support you’ve given is limitless and so appreciated.

“To the staff and students of West Central,

I am sending a message to the amazing staff and students of West Central on behalf of the family of Tucker Smith. My name is Tara and I am Tuckers older sister as well as a graduate of West Central. As you know my little brother Tucker was hospitalized recently with a very serious condition. During his stay at Avera first in the ICU then in a recovery ward the support that we received from all of you was amazing. I cannot express in words the gratitude that we felt every time someone visited, called, texted or even left a message on Facebook.

One of the nurses said it best when she said the support you give is just as good, if not better medicine than anything that he could receive in the hospital. I don’t believe it was a coincidence that as his mood and spirits were lifted by you that his health improved also. It is a terrifying experience to watch helpless as someone you love suffers in pain. It was an overwhelming experience to witness the love and support that so many people expressed for my brother. It made me more proud than I have ever been to be a part of the West Central community.

As you know Tuckers life long dream of playing college football is no longer a reality. What you have done today to ensure his future leaves us me at a loss for words. All I can say is Thank You. Thank you for taking my brother in your arms and keeping him in your prayers. Thank you for coming to the hospital during the hardest times. Thank you for never letting him forget how loved he really is. Thank you for reminding all of us what it means to be a part of the West Central family and what it means to be a Trojan.

Sincerely,
Tara Smith”

We are busy with preparations for Tucker Tuesday.  We snapped a few shots to share what we’ve been working on.

Tucker’s banner hanging in the commons

Goodbye “Cherylbration” (our last big fundraiser) Hello “Tucker Tuesday”.

Continued remodel of the sandwich board sign

I wish the sign was this cool in the end.  I just love how this picture came out!

We’re live on the school marquee:

The “21? is larger because of the neat coincidence that Tucker’s football number is 21 and the event is being held on the 21st.

All donations will help to defray Tucker’s medical expenses.  You can donate to Tucker Tuesday by bringing or mailing your donation to the high school or use the handy donate button on the right sidebar.

Thank you so much for your support of Tucker, his family and the West Central FFA Chapter.

Tuesday, December 21, 2010 has been proclaimed “Tucker Tuesday” at West Central High School.  We will be helping to raise funds to help with Tucker Smith’s medical expenses.

On Monday, December 13, 2010, Tucker was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit at Avera Hospital in Sioux Falls.  After three days of surgical procedures, Tucker was released on Thursday from ICU and moved to a regular hospital room.  Tucker will remain hospitalized at least through December 23, 2010.

Tucker has been an integral member of the West Central Student body.  Active as a member of the varsity football team, a mentor, member of the Homecoming Court for 2010 and an active member of the West Central FFA.  Tucker was a member of the state winning Ag Communications team in 2008 that advanced to national competition in 2009.

The primary objective of “Tucker Tuesday” is to help raise funds to defray Tucker’s medical expenses.  Once released from the hospital, Tucker will remain on some rather costly medications indefinitely.

It’s time, West Central, to get behind one of our own and help Tucker and his family to celebrate the holidays with a few less worries.

Donations may be made to “Tucker Tuesday” by sending them to the West Central FFA or the West Central Letter Club in care of West Central High School, P.O.  Box 730, Hartford, SD 57033.  You may also donate quickly by using the “Donate” button on the right sidebar or at the bottom of this post.

Thank you for your continued support of the West Central FFA Chapter and especially of Tucker during this time of need!