It was Monday February 22, 2010, I sat staring out a hospital window into a field of freshly dusted snow. In my arms I held my world, my heart, my daughter. I was in disbelief, I was trying to convince myself that she was only sleeping. I remember the smell, the way it felt, her blanket wrapped around her in her tiny dress. I would never get to see her beautiful eyes open, to hear her cry for her mom, to drop her off at her first day of kindergarten, and to watch her grow into a beautiful woman. All I had were those days holding her tiny body telling her I would never leave, I would never forget and we would meet again. I felt alone and hopeless. After leaving the hospital I would often hold onto Khloe's blanket and remember her smell, her touch, and the feeling of holding her in my arms. I have memories that are part of my heart and mementos I can touch. I can't imagine if I didn't get to do her foot prints, give her a bath, read her "Love You Forever" or wrap her up in her blanket.

        That September was the first year I participated in the Hope and Hearts Run. We came together united with one thing in common, we were all missing a piece of us. I watched in a tear filled blur all the balloons, with pieces of hearts wrote in names, fly into the sky. I felt connected and less alone. I have participated in every Hope and Hearts Run since that year. 

         Missing Grace provides services that are needed.  It wasn't until after I went to my first Hope and Hearts Run that I found the resources that Missing Grace offers including counseling and group support. Missing Grace also provides GRACE Care Baskets to families experiencing loss. Giving families the ability to create moments and have mementos. I also volunteer with Missing Grace. I am able to keep the memory of my daughter alive and help families experiencing the hard journey of loss.  PLEASE DONATE TO HELP KEEP THESE RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO FAMILIES.