Every time, I think or hear that name I feel a sense of greatness. What a strong name, befitting of the person he was born to be and the person he was at the time of his death.

This Tuesday at the Friars Club annual party as I stood with Abby Siegal and Mitch Tobol I listened as I do every year, to Mr Crowther speak of his son...I hear every syllable every heartache and every part of proudness he feels that his son exemplified during his brave actions, which saved many lives during 9/11. Every year I listen with a heavy heart thinking my oldest son Christopher is getting closer in age to the age Welles was when he lost his life saving others. In my book, a true hero.

When my name was announced to accept the award this year from Mr Crowther...(after Abby Siegal said, "You totally won.", to which I replied, "What did we play?"...I assure you no alcohol was involved during this exchange.

Never ever in a million years would I have thought my name would be used in the same sentence as Welles Remy Crowther. Never.

Back in June of 2011, I donated my kidney to a family member which ultimately turned into a six way swap. I won't bore you with the details. I thought long and hard about my decision, did my due diligence and went on to do what I knew needed to be done. Yes, for me it was that simple. Does that make me a hero? I don't really know. Most that know me well, know that I am a very private person...I guess like Welles you are set on a path and it becomes your calling. Something you could not stop if you tried.

So the shock did not wear off till I arrived home and shared with my 3 children. First we watched the documentary narrated by Ed Burns (who grew up in the next town from us). I finally broke down and really haven't stopped crying since. My sons, 19 and 22 consoled me and my middle son said, "He was brave, you are brave, imagine how many people you both inspired to step forward., we all have it in us." WOW! I

believe my older son who was also in shock muttered something about a red bandana for Christmas...and could he keep the award in his room.

We all agreed to rotate the award...and then decide where it would rest. I share this award with not only them, but my Gotham family as well. To Mitch Tobol, who support during that time was and still is truly invaluable/priceless.. I still call him to ask which kidney I donated (he has a better memory than I do.)

To Fred and Joanne Klein who offered me their house in Key West, post op. That week was pure heaven. I know I recovered faster and stronger just being there. Thank you's never seem enough.

I will leave you with this, my baby girl who was born post 9/11 and at 12 years old can who can only now realize the horror of that day, said to me, "Mommy that boy was a hero, I am glad that you two knew each other, I bet you really liked him." Obviously, the time connection does not yet play in her mind.

With her words echoing in my heart and soul as I fell asleep Tues.eve, I was comforted by the thought that perhaps we are all connected in some way...

To give without thought of receiving is the Gotham mantra which I believe did not find myself or the Crowther family by coincidence....

Thank you, Gotham. I am truly humbled and appreciative...and for all the years I have known Fred this was a secret he did not tell. Thank you, thank you.

All the best during this holiday time,

Cindy Somma