One year ago today, for the first time we were the parents of three
beautiful children. Although we were struggling and fighting for
Samantha’s life we were all able to find some happiness that day… Happy
1st Birthday Jason.
Now we begin our 7th month without Samantha.
Every day is a new challenge. Things will never be the same for us and
dealing with the finality of Samantha passing is very difficult. Most
days it is still unbelievable. Missing her and wanting to hold her
again, hear the sound of her voice, or smell the scent of her hair will
be with us for the rest of our lives. The feelings are overwhelming and
impossible to put into words.
We were looking forward to school
starting thinking it would help all of us. In some ways it has but it
is hard for us as parents to drop off one child when it should be two.
To see Samantha’s classmates coming and going full of life is also
difficult. She should be there laughing, learning and growing with
them. Christopher is facing his own struggles with that as well, which
continues to tear at our hearts. We are working through it the best we
can.
On the other hand his activities have gotten us out more.
Being around people again is helpful. I think, in my case anyway, it
has sparked a little life back up inside me and has made me want to do
more. Over the past few weeks I have found myself actually doing things
I have been talking about doing for a while. That to me is a big step
and I am glad to finally be taking it. I don’t know if it will last or
for how long but for the moment I feel a little better. Kurt’s work is
picking up which has made him feel better too. Let’s hope that
continues.
On September 24th Chillis Restaurants nationwide will
donate 100% of it's profits to St. Jude Childrens Reasearch Hospital.
It is an easy way to help in the fight against childhood cancer and
enjoy a good meal. Please check out your local Chilli's to see if they
are participants.
We are still working on the website for the Memorial Fund and it is coming along slowly. We hope to have it up and running soon.
We, as always, are grateful to all of you who continue to reach out to us and give us strength.
Happy Birthday Jason, you have brought so much joy to your family little guy.
Samantha you are deeply missed. We love you sweetie.
Love,
Audra, Kurt, Christopher, & Jason