Parade for Cheryl Blackman, “Rehoboth’s Sweetheart”
Rehoboth Beach came out to see their sweetheart Wednesday night, as Cheryl Blackman was escorted along a parade route into the heart of the city, a city whose heart she won a long time ago.
“Cheryl is probably the most giving person I have ever met. Every time she was around she always had a smile on her face,” said Ed Hotaling.
“Whatever needed to be done she was everywhere. She would come by my store and say I’m going to collect some money and sell these tickets,” said Dinah Lingo.
Those tickets are just one example of Cheryl’s charitable efforts, as over the years she buzzed around town, bar-hopping, raising not only spirits but also hundreds of thousands of dollars for charities like Kinfolk, which helps kids in need.
Wednesday, hundreds came out to thank her, to see that constant smile, and for some, to say goodbye.
In 2011, Cheryl was diagnosed with breast cancer. Recently, her doctors determined there was nothing further that could be done in terms of treatment.
But neither that difficult reality nor the falling rain could dampen spirits in Rehoboth on Wednesday.
“We’ve known her for ten years. And she is just the sweetest little person, and she’s got a heart as big as the world,” said Marie Haag.
“Every event, every holiday, she’s always out just smiling,” recalled Cathy Jansen.
“She’s such a symbol of this beautiful, embracing, diverse little town…Cheryl has the biggest heart…and smile,” said Chris Beagle.
After the parade, Cheryl and her family, as if we were old friends, invited us into her home, where we found more evidence of the impact she’s had: hundreds of cards, dozens of flowers, a citation from the Governor, and more than a few hugs to go around.
It’s a simple truth: Rehoboth loves Cheryl Blackman. And she loves — well she just loves.
“I love them all. I love everybody. And I can’t wait to get back out to be with everybody…I just love them all,” she told 47 ABC.
When we thanked her for inviting us over, Cheryl said, “You’re welcome. Any time.”
