Thursday, June 05, 2008

Thank You, Jerry

Jerry,


Words cannot express how grateful I am for your sponsorship, but nonetheless, please allow me to try…


You have given me hope at my darkest hour. Because of you, my dream is still alive and within reach! It may be naïve to strive to make this world a better place, but I would not be out here playing poker if I wasn’t confident in my abilities to win. Over 12 years I’ve been studying this game, reading book after book, writing computer programs to evaluate strategies and statistics, and of course, playing.


It is not through arrogance but rather confidence in myself that I know I’m as good as the stars on TV. But it is not about ego; it’s not about me.


It’s not about fame; I appreciate the value of anonymity.


It’s not about fortune; sure, I prefer wealth to poverty, but life has taught me how to create a comfortable existence on a modest budget.


I’m playing for a higher purpose. I don’t know if Lisa told you, but my transition to womanhood has been traumatic and the process has re-aligned my life priorities. I want to help others on this path by founding support groups, spreading awareness, and helping pass legislation to secure equal rights. In the process, I hope to be an inspiration for other successful transsexuals to also be role models. We are the third sex, and we have much to offer the world; certainly more than being ridiculed in popular culture or as a fetish item in the sex-worker industry!


With the conviction of Viktor Frankl, I can say this is my meaning, my purpose, and that is why I play. The fame and fortune from being successful in this tournament would certainly go a long way toward fulfilling these goals! Just being seen as a ‘normal’ person on ESPN would do wonders for our community and enable me to spread a positive message! And of course the prize purse would provide the capital to fund programs, create media, and lobby support.


There’s more, but in a nutshell, that’s my plan. Moving to Vegas was just the first step, so you can imagine my disappointment when I could not earn the buy-in playing in live games. (I only had a $200 bankroll, and I came very close but I also had to live off of my bank roll.) I was going to have to wait for another year or risk being destitute if I entered and failed to win at least my money back. So much effort expended- all for naught. I was quite depressed! I felt like I failed.


It was during this time when news of your generous sponsorship arrived! To say I was overjoyed would be an understatement!


Thank you again, so much for your kind help. You have given me the chance to succeed and for that, I am truly grateful. If there’s ever anything I can do for you in return, please don’t hesitate to ask.

Your friend,
Clio

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