Forever in Our Hearts

We have a grand-angel who passed away before we ever began our Grandkids Camps.
Rylynn was not quite two-years-old when she died unexpectedly, but she is part of our family forever, so she is part of our GK Camps, too!

Family Feelings

Be sure everyone in your family is comfortable with the way you will remember your loved one. The parents of our granddaughter enjoy talking about her, sharing memories and photos of her, and including her in family moments. As a result, all family members, including the other grandchildren, know Rylynn. Although most were born after she passed away, they love her as their sister and cousin.

Talk About It

Our first Grandkids Camp was held just seven months after Rylynn passed away and was likely inspired in part by her. We needed to include her, or our camp would feel incomplete. Circumstances and feelings in your family may be different. Be mindful of the possible emotions others may have. Talk about it openly and sensitively and seek approval for your memorial plans. If this is too difficult for someone, leave it out of your Grandkids Camp plans, so it doesn’t detract from your purpose.

Ideas

• Photos. Displaying a photo or two at Opening and/or Closing Ceremony is a simple, visual reminder.
• Tee Shirt. If your grand-campers wear matching tee shirts with their names or birth-order numbers, make one for your grand-angel. I display Rylynn’s photo and annual tee shirt with our Grandkids Camp banner.
• Memory Book. Include a photo of him/her in your memory book each year.

WILL YOU INCLUDE A MEMORIAL ELEMENT IN YOUR CAMP?