NEW YEARS EVE BONFIRE FUNDRAISER!!

THIS PHOTO WAS TAKEN AT THE CANDLE LIGHT VIGIL HELD FOR JAIDEN AT HER HOME ON DECEMBER 20, 2008. (Please read COMMENTS under this post for more details...)

And here is a photo of Grammie Mev and Grampa Gary with their candles burning...


Dale Riley of Riley Brothers Lumber on Christmas Tree Lane is hosting a LARGE Bonfire Celebration on New Years Eve from 7pm-1am. (Riley Bros is off Jennison Road which is off North River Road, which is off Rt 13 North. Just 3.5 miles from the Milford Oval). There will be indoor facilities, a covered barn area and anyone needing assistance can take a sleigh ride to the Bonfire.

The Bonfire starts at 9pm.
Activities include:
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Hayrides
Sledding Hill
Tethered Balloon Rides (weather permitting)
Refreshments available for purchase or Bring Your Own!
(Hamburgers, hotdogs, etc...)
Small Fires for toasting marshmallows, etc.
BYOB

This event is being generously hosted by Dale Riley to raise funds for the Jaiden's Angel (Jaiden Lyndi Tlapa) Foundation.

Room and Parking available for HUNDREDS~
For more info or with any questions please call:
Dale Riley 673-2787 (Days) or 673-4036 (evenings).

Sorry for the short notice. We lost power Dec 11 and did not get it back until Dec 20, at which point we had already left for a winter escape to Florida.

PLEASE HELP SPREAD THE WORD!!
Hoping you can join us.....

Best Regards,
Holleigh Ciardelli Tlapa
~Forever Jaiden's Mom~
www.jaidensangel.org

What a beautiful poem about Jaiden...sent to me by our neighbor and dear friend Brittany

Holleigh;

I was just thinking about Jaiden, which I do everyday, but lately more often. I wrote this poem for you about Jaiden. I don't know if it makes much sense, but I miss her everyday and just wanted to share it with you. I love you and your family, and Jaiden is always in my heart.
Have a good day

Love,
Brittany.



If I had one question to ask, what would it be?
As I chase down ideas, and cross off others,
I try and think of the most primary question I would want answered.

Maybe I’d ask why?
Maybe I’d ask what happens next?
Maybe I’d ask, can you take me too?
Speechless, I can’t think of anything to say.

My mind goes crazy running, thinking of a million different things.
It’s so unimaginable, I can’t process my thoughts.
My body weeps.
Water races out, causing me to have to remind myself to breathe.

I put myself back together, as my heart suffocates.
Just another day may I have?
Maybe that’s what I’d ask.

Was it really prerequisite what had to happen?
I guess I could ask every question that I considered asking,
but nothing will change.
Will it?

We will all live on.
We all left will all grow old.
We will all make mistakes.
We will all love, hate, cheat, want, and wait,
but no, we won’t ever interact again.
Will we?

At least until we meet again up above in the impeccable place we all call down here, heaven.
So, maybe that’s what I’d ask.
Why?

By Brittany Griggs
Dedicated to Jaiden Lyndi Tlapa
* September 22nd 1999 - January 14th 2008*

Please Join us at our Angel Fair NOV 9 in Nashua NH!

Please save the date and join Jaiden's Angel at the “Angels, Fairies, & Trinkets Holiday Fair!” We will have Jaiden's Angel t-shirts, sweatshirts, angel earrings and more!

There will be over 60 vendors and the main theme is Angels & Fairies, including any natural products, jewelry, crystals, literature, art, holiday trinkets, seasonal ware, as well as music of all types. Exhibits offering services such as massage, holistic, activity centers, dance, theater, spas, creative art, and more will also be available.Being held Sunday, November 9, 2008 at The Holiday Inn, 9 Northeastern Blvd., Nashua, NH. Time: 9:30a.m. – 5:00p.m.

This “Heart of Spirit Healing” Community Event event has been created to allow those in the community an opportunity to come out and have some fun, do some shopping, and help raise funds for “Lil’ Iguana Children’s Safety Organization”.

As we are too aware, many children are abducted on a daily basis. We have the opportunity to help one of the organizations that makes tremendous efforts to educate children on stranger danger as well as other child awareness programs in a simple relaxed and friendly environment.

Fun festivities are scheduled throughout the day, including presentations for children as well as adults. These will include simple fun crafts, special services, games, as well as music and other entertainment.

This particular event will be the largest event held by “Heart of Spirit Healing, LLC”, and will feature over 60 exhibits, various presentations and performances. Our goal is to offer a relaxing day of fun & enjoyment to the families, friends, shoppers, and all who attend, as well as the exhibitors.

We hope to see you there!

Jaiden's 9th Birthday & Our First Annual Golf Tournament

VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO SEE THE SLIDESHOW OF PHOTOS!

www.jaidensangel.org

In a word, it was amazing. We had 110 golfers and about 30 more people who joined us after golf for the dinner celebration. We had 2 tables full of raffle items, and one table full of silent auction items. We also sold Jaiden’s Angel T-shirts. It was so nice to see so many people wearing their shirts that day.

The day began a bit overcast, which is actually perfect golfing weather. We assembled goody bags for all the golfers with beautiful print outs thanking all the sponsors, scented candles, bottle opener key-chains, assorted coupons and 2 golf balls with Jaiden’s Angel and the words:

Jaiden’s Angel
Sept 22, 2008

We all assembled in a long line on our golf carts and then the day began. At each hole, we placed a sponsor’s placard. Many of our sponsors choose to write special messages to Jaiden. We are posting a slide-show with all the photos onto our website over the weekend. I will resend a link to our site once this is done.

Paul and I golfed with Wendy and Frank, our very dear friends and Jaiden’s God-Parents. As the day wore on, the sun broke through and it was absolutely beautiful. This course is really amazing- wait until you see the photos!

As we exited the course into the tents where the dinner celebration was to be served, we were greeted by our 3 other children- Gage (3), Aspen (6) and Alexeigh (15).

We enjoyed an incredible meal of BBQ ribs, chicken, homemade beans and potato salad and assorted desserts. Then we had the kids come up (my 2 nieces and another family friend were also there for dinner) to help draw the raffle tickets and announce the tournament winners.

Before we made any such announcements, I read the story of the Angel’s Smile. I had a hard time getting through it, and I could see people crying in the audience as well, but I was so glad I got to share the story and the meaning behind our logo.

One contest we had was a 50/50 where you paid $5 to put into a certain hole. IF you got your ball in, your name went into a basket. Normally there are several names that go in, but we only had one person actually get the ball in! When we called him up to receive his share (half of the $430 raised), he refused to take it and he donated it back to the foundation. Ironically enough, this person went onto win about 3-4 more raffles AND he was on the first place team! Must have been good karma… The next morning he also placed an order on our website for 3 more t-shirts.

So in the middle of the raffles, my cousin Jodie came up to the microphone. She told the audience she had a special gift that she wanted to give me in front of everyone. She went onto say “Some of you may not know it, but at Holleigh’s house, their Christmas tree still stands. They normally leave it up until around March or April; but after this year, I don’t think it will ever come down. I saw the most amazing ornament, and I wanted to get it for Jaiden’s 9th Birthday.”

Then she presented me with a gorgeous white seashell ornament with a single pearl inside that read:

“Every life leaves something beautiful behind.”

The rest of the day at the course was a blur. We delivered all the raffles and closed out all the silent auctions; and by then all the corporate folks and strangers had left. When it was just our close friends and family, we went onto the course and release blue and white balloons for Jaiden, just as the sun was setting. It was the perfect ending to a very special day.

On our drive home, we made a wrong turn and ended up going the ‘long way’ through our town center. This turned out to be yet another gift from Jaiden. As we drove in the dark (it was not 7:45), I looked up to see in beautiful bright lights this message on the (KARS) Kincaid's auto repair shop marquee sign.
Remembering Jaiden Lyndi Tlapa
September 22, 1999

Then just about 50 years later on the Pasta Loft yet another sign:
Happy Birthday Angel Jaiden

Humble Pie and Early learning Center also had signs out for Jaiden. I felt the tears running down my face at that point. They were truly a mixture of tears of sadness and joy. I was filled with pride knowing so many people remembered our Jaiden. Seeing her name in lights at the end of the day was truly inspiring for us.

As we drove onto our street, we were greeted by one of Jaiden’s best friends (Mary) and her family. They were walking down to give us a gift- it was a beautiful hand painted dolphin sun-catcher. Then my niece Geena came over to present us with a book of poetry in which the poem she had written for Jaiden was published.

We went to bed with heavy hearts but peaceful spirits. In the morning, we discovered yet another surprise. Friends had left 2 trays of gourmet desserts, a gorgeous angel plaque with flowing wings intertwined with flowers that read “Angels Welcome Here” and a gift bag filled with all the makings for espresso martinis. My friends Lori and Linda have been talking about taking a hike into the woods to remember Jaiden and having an espresso martini. There was a blue blanket, a decanter, all the ingredients and 3 plastic martini glasses.

One final blessing came that night when Jaiden’s 3rd best friend Maddie stopped by with her family. She brought a special card she wanted to send Jaiden in Heaven. It was attached to 3 balloons. We all went out to Jaiden’s garden and sang happy birthday to her. As Maddie released the balloons- they traveled west, which is the normal way released balloons travel at our house. But they only traveled west enough to clear the trees. Jaiden’s garden is on the edge of the woods. As soon as the topped the trees, they cut back and began traveling east, high into the sky. We watched them for a long time, they seemed to be reaching higher than any balloons I can recall releasing.

If we had to experience Jaiden’s birthday without her, I could not image a more meaningful or special way to have spent it.

Here is a link to the articles that ran about the tournament. It was a tremendous success by the way- we raised much more than we thought, and I believe everyone who attended was truly touched by the spirit of our Angel Jaiden.

PLEASE SAVE THE DATE next year ~ Tuesday, September 22, 2009;

for our 2nd Annual Jaiden's Angel Golf Tournament

Two beautiful articles were written, each one truly captures the essence of the day.

I will be posting a slide-show of all the photos on our website over the weekend (http://www.jaidensangel.org/)

http://www.cabinet.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080926/MILFORD01/809259994

http://www.nashuatelegraph.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080923/NEWS01/309239932

Love, Holleigh

The story behind the Angel's Smile...

I wanted to share this with you all. It was a gift given to us the day of Jaiden's private service. My neighbor Joelle wrote the story. It tells how the image of Jaiden's Angel was created.

We will treasure it forever, and it makes me believe that Jaiden tuly was on earth; and always wil be, an Angel from above.

To the Tlapa family and for Jaiden,
Our dear friend and angel
With all of our love,Joelle, Don and Addison

Dear Holleigh and Paul:

Jaiden, Aspen, Mary and Addison created this beautifulmural on one of our picture windows with glass crayons.
It is a work of art that we admire every day. I’ve been wanting to share it with you and wasn’t quite sure how…
You are welcome to come and see it anytime. And, fortunately, Kenny was able to capture the light-filled images on his digital camera for you, too.

























Once upon a time, there was a little sprite – a blond haired, light-filled spirit who lived here on earth.

She was always so full of life and joy. Everyone in her presence sensed her light.

The children who lived nearby loved to play with the sprite. She always knew how to have fun and enjoy each and every moment.

One day the little sprite noticed that there were newcomers moving into the neighborhood’s hilltop. She was so excited that she ran to tell her mother, father, sisters and little brother –
she could not wait to welcome the new family. So one day soon after, she went, along with her mother and little sister and another neighborhood friend, to greet the newcomers.

The new family was so happy to have such welcoming, kind neighbors; they were all very thankful.

And how the new little girl from the hilltop loved to play with the little sprite! The sprite was always so full of spunk and had such fun ideas. When the little sprite and little girl played, they were sure to include the sprite’s little sister and their other good friend who lived nearby. The four of them loved to play – they played inside; they explored outside; they built imaginary houses; they found a perfect climbing tree. They ran and sang and laughed.

One glistening day shortly after Thanksgiving, a beautiful snow had covered the land. The four friends were playing on the hilltop, inside the cozy house. “Let’s draw a beautiful winter picture!” they agreed. And they soon went to work.

One friend drew a landscape with lots of snow, a frozen pond, a house, and a family of snowmen. Another drew, above that, the clouds with stars and Saint Nicholas flying his sleigh. The sprite’s little sister just watched, enjoying the scene.

The sprite was so excited to add to the drawing she could barely wait. But then it was finally her turn. And there, in the starry sky, she carefully drew a beautiful angel – watching over the house below. She looked at the angel, paused, and then added a smile to the angel’s face.

The friends admired the picture …smiled at the sprite … and then, all together, they ran off to play.

(Mary tells me that after Jaiden added the smile, she turned to her friends and said "Perfect!)

Angel of ours, Jaiden,
we love you so
Your laugh, your joy
Your zest for life
You are our friend
Our friend for life

Angel of ours,
we love you so

And now it’s hard
Without you here
How we do miss you
Your smile so dear

Angel of ours,
we love you so

You taught us all
How to live and love
With strength and courage
And trust in God above

Angel of ours,
we love you so

So please know this
Our Angel dear
We will never forget
What you gave us here

Angel of ours,
we love you so
And although you live now
In heaven’s heights
We’ll cherish your spirit
For all of our lives

For dear Jaiden,
we love you so
We hope you know
just how much so.

Thursday, July 10, 2008 UPDATE

Please visit our new site at http://www.jaidensangel.org/

Although it is still under construction, we hope to have it completed by this weekend.

We have finally established our Board of Directors and submitted out federal application for 501c3 status. What an arduous process! The application itself was 28 pages, and we also had to create and submit a Narrative Description of Activities (6 pages of text) and our By-Laws, which turned out to be another 9 pages!

We created a mission statement that is focused on providing support and services to families dealing with critically ill or injured children. Our primary focus is to offer financial assistance and gas cards, to create canvas hand-prints, to help with funereal expenses when necessary, and to help families publicize their personal stories to solicit donations straight to the families in need.

Continued fund-raising is essential, as we have already helped 5 families, and there are 2 more families that have contacted us for assistance (another childhood cancer patient and a tragic accident resulting in major injuries).

Although Family Fun Day required a tremendous amount of personal time and effort, we learned a lot and the event was a great success. Hopefully next year’s Fun Day will be even more successful without as much leg work.

Our next big event is the First Annual Golf Tournament. This will be held on Monday, September 22, 2008; which is Jaiden’s 9th birthday. We will play a scramble format with a shotgun start at approximately 11:00 AM. Golfers should arrive no later than 10:00 AM. We have many great tournament prizes, silent auction items, hole-in-one prizes, a 50/50 raffle, mulligans for sale and other contests.

Registration will be available online or through the mail beginning next week, at a cost of $125 per golfer. This includes greens fees, cart usage, dinner, 2 waters on the course, tournament prizes, and possibly breakfast or lunch (depending on sponsorship). Dinner tickets will also be available for folks who cannot attend the tournament but would like to join us after golf for the reception. Tickets will be $30, and guests should arrive by 4:00 PM.

UPDATES ON FAMILIES WE HAVE HELPED!

We were able to provide gas cards and a financial donation to a young boy from Amherst, NH who seriously injured his eye during a ball game; as well as another youngster from Nashua, NH who recently underwent brain surgery to remove a tumor. Both boys are doing well and were grateful for our assistance.

We also presented a check to a family in Merrimack whose young daughter is battling
Ewing's Sarcoma, which is a rare and very aggressive form of bone cancer. We are planning to meet with this family later this month to create framed canvas hand prints.

Our most emotional encounter was just this week. Jaiden’s Godmother and co-Board Member of our Foundation, Wendy, and I met with a young family from Merrimack, NH to do canvas hand-prints. This family has 2 beautiful children who have both been diagnosed with Batten’s disease, an inherited disorder of the nervous system. Over time, affected children suffer mental impairment, worsening seizures, and progressive loss of sight and motor skills. Experimental procedures are being pursued, but sadly, this disease is currently fatal; with a life expectancy of only 6-12 years.

We brought a bucket of assorted paint colors and canvas. After a nice visit with Mom and Dad, we all worked together to apply paint to each child’s hands and capture their prints on the canvas. We had custom matching mats created, and the final product is amazing! This will be a lasting treasure for this family, and it was meant so much to both Wendy and I to be a part of its creation.

This family is in the process of modifying their current home to make it more conducive to their needs. The older boy, who is just five, is already in a wheelchair; and his 3 year old sister will eventually be in one as well. The foundation is making a financial contribution toward the remodeling project as well, which will take place later this year.

We were also contacted this week by a social worker from Boston Children’s Hospital. She wrote:

There have been so many times I have thought about you and your family over the past months and just this past week we worked with a family here who brought back so many memories and thoughts of you and Jaiden.

They were in the ICU early last week, and are now struggling to pay for all of their daughter's expenses. Throughout their admission, many of the staff members thought of you and your family. (Sadly they also ended up losing their daughter.)

This family would benefit greatly from assistance with funeral expenses, if you feel this is an area in which you could be helpful. The hospital has already agreed to pay a portion of the fees but not enough to cover all of the family's needs.

Jaiden’s Angel has offered to pay the balance due, so this family can memorialize their precious daughter without worry. Each time that we reach out and touch another family, I can feel Jaiden’s spirit. By helping others, we are able to continue sharing our love for Jaiden. I know that she was waiting at the gates to greet this newest angel with her treasured smile and hug. Carrying on Jaiden’s legacy brings hope and faith to so many, including myself.

Thank you for your continued support. Please let me know if you know of any potential sponsors for Jaiden’s Angel First Annual Golf Tournament.

Best Wishes to All,
~ Holleigh Tlapa ~
Forever Jaiden’s Mom

Jaiden's Foundation and a Prayer Request!

I wanted to let everyone know that Jaiden's Foundation has helped our first family. A 12-year old boy from Milford, NH was seriously injured during a baseball game when a ball struck him in the face. According to his Mom, Jodi:

We are aware of 10-11 fractures his eye, cheek, nose and sinus at this point. One fracture in his nose is so wide that his brain is exposed behind the cheek so we have to watch him for a "runny nose".

We are not sure how many surgeries Nick will need or what the plan for therapy will be for a while. The doctors are saying he is pretty much in his chair for a few months. No bending (even for his shoes), lifting, straining, standing for prolonged time, no stairs. Pretty much no activity.

I am so thankful for all the support and prayers that have come our way. I am so thankful to have him home I truly believe that it can always be worse! Our family has become stronger already!

You are truly doing "angels" work!


The Foundation sent this family both a check and gas cards to help alleviate the expenses related to doctor visits.

We have also reached out to a family whose young daughter was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. We are waiting to hear back from them.

Just this week we found out about yet another youngster from Nashua who was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer on his pituitary gland called craniopharyngiomas. His name is Charlie and he can use some prayers as he is scheduled for surgery tomorrow at Children's Hospital. Please visit his blog site at:
http://charliesmithsblog.blogspot.com/

We plan to approach his family with an offer of assistance once we get through Family Fun Day. All my time and energy is being put toward this event in the hopes it will prove to be a wonderful experience for children and their families; as well as another successful fundraiser.

Please visit our new site at:
http://www.ribbonsforjaiden.org/

As time allows, we will begin to post stories about the families we are helping and the families with needs for support and prayers.

God Bless you all.

~ Holleigh Tlapa
*Forever Jaiden's Mom*

Family Fun Day!!

On March 22, at the Hampshire Hills ballroom, nearly $18,000 was raised during "A Night for Jaiden". The Jaiden Lyndi Tlapa Foundation is off to a wonderful start, and as we continue to refine our mission and objectives; Jaiden's spirit lives on.

We have officially received non profit status from the Sate of NH and we are processing our Federal application now. By this summer, we hope to have our website up and running. Our primary objective is to assist critically injured and terminally ill local children and their families with resources and financial assistance during and after tragedies.

We are also setting up a scholarship fund at Milford High School for a graduating senior who exemplifies the "Spirit of Jaiden," and planning to continue to support the Wadleigh Memorial Library Aquarium pass.

The next fundraising event will be Family Fun Day, held at the Hampshire Hills Dome in Milford, NH; on Saturday, June 7, from 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM.

Admission to the Dome is free; donations will be accepted at the door, and most of the activities will have nominal feels. All funds generated will go directly to the Foundation.

ACTIVITIES INCLUDE:
3 Seperate Jump Houses (for ages 2-4, 5-8 and 9-12)
Professional Face Painting http://www.makeaface4u.com/

Amateur Face Painters

Magic Shows
Sno-Cones & Ice Cream
Hot Dogs & Soda
Popcorn & Pizza
The Milford Fire Department
Milford Masons Child Identification Program (CHIPS)

LIVE DUNK BOOTH!! Guess who will be inside getting WET??

Live entertainers and musicians will be performing throughout the day.

Award-winning entertainer Judy Pancoast will kick off the event at 11:00 AM. Judy is an acclaimed children’s musical artist whose exceptional original songs for children instantly captivate audiences of all ages and bring children and families together in a spirit of wholesome fun. Judy will also have her CD’s available for purchase at Family Fun Day. You can learn more about Judy on her web site: http://www.judypancoast.com/index.htm

We will have a variety of wonderful raffle baskets available as well. Tickets will be sold for in the following denominations:
3 tickets for $5
8 tickets for $10
20 tickets for $20

Tickets can be purchased in advance. More info to come….

SO SAVE THE DATE!!
Saturday June 7, 2008
The Hampshire Hills Dome
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

Prayer Request

UPDATE!
Jenna has been moved to a local hospital to continue her recovery. She has many broken bones and a long journey ahead of her, but the good news is that she will recover.

The Lydon family thanks each one of you for your love and support. Please continue to keep Jenna is your thoughts and prayers.

~Angel Jaiden

Jaiden's kindergarten teacher Mrs. Lydon needs our prayers. Her daughter Jenna, age 25, was kit by a car while jogging in Keene, NH over the weekend.

She is at Dartmouth Hitchcock Hospital right now. She has suffered several broken bones and head trauma.

Please keep Jenna and her family in your prayers.

~The Tlapa Family

A Night for Jaiden Thank You

I will be posting some photos from this evening on both this blog and www.ribbonsforjaiden.org
In the meantime, I wanted to post a copy of the Thank You that I read at the event.

The entire evening was truly an incredible tribute to Jaiden and the Jaiden Lyndi Tlapa Foundation. We are planning a golf tournament on September 22, 2008 at Candia Woods Golf Course. This date is special because it is Jaiden's 9th birthday. More details will be posted on www.ribbonsforjaiden.org later next month. Thanks again for you love and support, here is the speech:

Jaiden Lyndi Tlapa was a remarkable young girl. She would truly be honored to know all that her community has done for her since that fateful day in December. Many people tell us that they don’t think they could deal with what we are going through. The truth is; that without the love, prayers and support of you all; Paul and I might not have survived ourselves. You will never know how much your kind words, generous gestures, personal notes and anonymous letters of encouragement have impacted us.

I liken the events of the past 3 months to being caught in an unforeseen tsunami. There we were, walking happily along the beach, collecting sea glass, a favorite activity of Jaiden. The tide was out and the sun was just rising. It was a glorious day with no worries, only anticipation of what was to come. We were mesmerized with the beauty of the endless shore. The blue water was crystal clear and so far out that we were walking among the starfish in the cool brown sand.

While we were living that moment, basking in the warmth of the rising sun and enjoying the gentle summer breeze, we never thought it might end. In our sublime happiness, we did not realize it become eerily quite or see the ocean water continue to recede. We felt so safe and secure in the tranquility of the moment, we never contemplated it could disappear forever.
The tidal wave arrived unannounced and unexpectedly, from nowhere. As it slammed down upon us, we were swept into the turbulent current, gasping for air. In one split second our lives were changed forever.

So when you think about how remarkable it is to see us here, still living & breathing & going on, know that what we are doing is called SURVIVAL. We look to our living children, family and friends; & know that we must survive, there is no other option. Today we get out of bed each day because we have to, not because we want to. Tomorrow we may feel happiness again; but for now we live moment to moment.

We are told that the pain will become worse before it will get better and that year 2 is the most difficult. I know that as each milestone is passed, the reality of our loss becomes more apparent. Valentines Day, the first day of spring, the public memorial service, this special Night for Jaiden. But we are also beginning to heal in small ways, & starting to contemplate how Jaiden would want us to move forward. The foundation will be her legacy. She will continue to touch others & positively impact so many lives in the years to come.

To each of you here this evening, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. To the volunteers who organized this amazing night- we will be forever grateful. So many local businesses, organizations and individuals have donated their time, energy and financial contributions to insure this evening was a success. Jaiden would be so proud. Thank you especially to the Rick and Laurie Holder, Wendy Freidman, Kathy Carson, Kim Calden, Karen Cagney, Terry and Michael Negretti, Jackie Merril, Geralyn Ciardelli, Theresa Waller, Hallee Johnson, Trisha Shea, Carol & Charlie Maloney, Shane Hooker, Michelle Griggs, Wendy Bauerschmidt, Amanda Clark, Alexeigh, Beth Cauley, Heidi Theriault, Kelly LaCass, Jacqueline Nauyokas, the Milford School District, Joe Daddario, The Copy Shop & the staff at Hampshire Hills; and each of you here tonight.

As you bid this evening on the silent auction items & buy raffle tickets for the beautiful baskets, know that your donations will one day help another family in need. Perhaps it will be a neighbor, a friend, or even a stranger. Tragedy comes so unexpectedly, the only way to truly survive it is to ban together, as our entire community has done.

We live in an imperfect world beseeched with risk and random events. Be thankful for what you have this very moment. Hold your spouse a bit tighter on the dance floor, laugh with a friend you have not seen in a while, remember to peek in on your sleeping children when you go home tonight and to treasure them.

Take a look around right now to see how much people care. We are all here tonight because a tragic accident claimed the life of beautiful Jaiden Lyndi Tlapa. But her story does not end here, it just begins.
Because of people like you, Jaiden will live on. The Foundation is something that she might have started on her accord. Because she was chosen to be with God, and guide us as an angel above, we must continue her earthly work for her; in her name.

Words cannot properly express our deep gratitude and respect for you all. The Jaiden Lyndi Tlapa Foundation is not just based on Jaiden’s philosophy; it is based on each of yours. Thank you again for your love, prayers, kindness and courage. Your continued patience and support will enable us to move on. At a future date, the tables may turn and it will be our opportunity to support and encourage you. Our sincere hope is that no-one in this room will ever be indoctrinated into this club that no one wants to join. But know that if you are, we will be there for you. In closing, I’d like to read a short poem about this organization:

I have recently joined the most exclusive club.
I don’t belong here; I did not choose to sign up.
The membership fee was exorbitant: a price no one should pay.
It was the life of my child.

Bereaved parents are what outsiders call us.
There is no single word in the English language to describe us.
Not widow, widower or orphan.
No title can convey the magnitude of our loss.

The day I joined this club, my heart was shattered
Into a million little pieces.
Try as I may to gather them up again,
I cannot seem to find them all…

A part of me is missing.
The rest of me is irrevocably damaged.
I won’t ever be the person you used to know.
The moment my child departed is the defining line
Between BEFORE and AFTER.

I survive because I have to;
To care for those who were left behind.
My grief will never cease to exist;
It will simply become more manageable.

I won’t ask you to understand.
I only ask you to be patient with me.
Unless you are a fellow member,
You will never know the scope of my anguish.

If my eyes tear when you mention my child,
Don’t think that means I don’t want to hear her name.
I cry because she died;
NOT because you talk about her.
I need to know that she is not forgotten.
I have to know that her life made a difference.
I long to share my memories of her with you.
I wait with baited breath for you to speak her name.
I want you to remember that my child did live.

~The Tlapa Family

Important Information

I just wanted to let everyone know that there is a website that will work alongside the blog to keep everyone informed with what is going on.

The fundraisers are still taking place. March 22, will be "A Night For Jaiden". This event will take place at Hampshire Hills.

April 19, 2008 will be a Family Event that will take place at the Hampshire Dome.

You can find all the information about these events at www.ribbonsforjaiden.org .

Message from the Tlapa Family about Jaiden's Public Memorial Service

A public memorial service to celebrate the life of Jaiden Lyndi Tlapa will be held in Milford NH, at Hampshire Hills Club on Sunday, March 9 at 1:00 PM. Pastor Tom Getchell-Lacey from the Milford United Methodist Church will preside over the service.

Attendees are encouraged to wear the color blue, as this was Jaiden's favorite color.

We will have a memory box at the service to collect a short note to Jaiden, a special memory, photo, or other creation. Please try to keep these items to 4" x 6" size or smaller if possible, as we hope to incorporate them into a scrapbook album one day.

Children are encouraged and welcome. Our only request is that if your child is being disruptive or loud during the service that you please take them upstairs above the tennis courts where you will still be able to view the service through glass panes.

Thank you again for all the love and support you have offered our family during this time of sadness. We will never forget your actions, just as we hope you will never forget our Jaiden.

All our Love,
The Tlapa's ~ Holleigh, Paul, Lexi, Aspen, Gage, and Angel Jaiden

Jaiden's Obituary

Jaiden Lyndi Tlapa, beloved 8-year old daughter of Paul and Holleigh (Ciardelli) Tlapa, died at Boston Children’s Hospital on January 14, 2008. Jaiden was a “water baby” (born underwater) at Monadnock Hospital in Peterborough, NH on September 22, 1999. Jaiden was injured in an accident on December 20, 2007, and she courageously fought for her life for 25 days.
Jaiden will be remembered as a kind and loving third grade student at Heron Pond Elementary School; always ready and willing to help others. According to a boy in her class, “She was funny, nice, creative, didn’t tease people, and best of all, she was a happy student.”
Jaiden wanted to be a Mother and a Veterinarian when she grew up. She also planned to adopt children as she believed there were too many unloved children in the world. Jaiden was very active in the MCAA; she played softball, soccer and basketball. She loved to have play-dates with friends, visit with her extended family, and make cards for people. Jaiden loved to swim and do gymnastics, she also loved the ocean, dolphins, the color blue, and to simply be with her family.
Jaiden was one of four children; in addition to her parents, she leaves behind a 14-year old sister Alexeigh, a 5-year old sister Aspen, and a 2-year old brother Gage. Survivors include Grammy Mev and Grampa Gary Ciardelli of Wilton, NH; Aunt Pam Ciardelli and Uncle Bohdan Zaryckyj of Milford; Aunt Jody and Uncle Todd Ciardelli of Milford; Aunt Sharon Davis of Hillsboro; Grammy Dee and Grampa Dick Tlapa of Medfield, MA; Aunt Laura and Uncle John Bishop of Atlanta, GA; and Uncle Guy and Aunt Laura Tlapa of Boston, MA. Jaiden also leaves behind cherished Godparents, Wendy and Frank Bauerschmidt of Milford, NH, God-sister Amri, and eight beloved cousins: Geena, Alli, Autumn, Troy, Adam, Kelsey, Rachel and Jack.
Jaiden was the proud care-giver of her newly adopted Border Terrier dog Dori, whom she loved dearly. Jaiden had a beautiful spirit filled to the brim with life. She was a star far too bright for this universe; one that burned vividly and touched many lives in a deeply profound way. She will live on forever in the hearts and memories of all those who loved her and many who never even knew her.
The Jaiden Lyndi Tlapa fund was originally established to help offset medical and other expenses for her family. Jaiden’s Mother, Holleigh Tlapa, is planning to run the foundation in Jaiden’s name to carry on her legacy of love. Definitive plans have not been finalized, but the foundation will serve to help other families in similar situations.
A former bus driver of Jaiden’s created a blog for her while she was in the hospital, which can be accessed at http://www.jaident.blogspot.com/. The blog was a source of inspiration, prayers and love for Jaiden’s entire family during her stay at Children’s Hospital. The Tlapa family is forever grateful for the support and prayers offered by their families, friends, neighbors, churches, first responders, community; and strangers from across the globe.
A private service to celebrate Jaiden’s life was held at the United Methodist Church in Milford, NH on January 22, 2008, led by Pastor Tom Getchell-Lacey. A public service to commemorate her life will be held in Milford at a future date, which will be announced on the blog.
Jaiden Lyndi Tlapa is now an angel soaring above the earth, her spirit as beautiful as ever. She is gone from this world, but she will never be forgotten.

A Message From The Tlapa Family

Jaiden Lyndi Tlapa lost her courageous battle for life this morning at Boston Children's Hospital. Please know that in a way our prayers were answered, just not in the way we hoped. Jaiden is running free now with no pain and infection, and she has spread her new wings to take the most glorious flight imaginable.

We are saddened beyond words for our loss. Jaiden has touched our family and this world in such a profound and beautiful way; she will never be forgotten.

We thank each one of you for your faith, love, support, and constant prayers. Please keep alive whatever inner strength and spark that Jaiden has ignited in you. Her life had meaning beyond true comprehension for so many of us. Our job now is to keep her memory alive and incorporate the lessons she has taught us all into our daily lives.

We ask that you respect our privacy at this most difficult time. We will plan a public memorial service to celebrate Jaiden's life at some point. Once we have chosen a date and location we will post this information. But the first celebration of Jaiden's extraordinary life will be private, for immediate family only.

Peace be with you all.
~The Tlapa Family

A friend sent this poem to me last week, I wanted to share it with you all.

Do not stand at my grave and weepI'm not there
I do not sleep,
I am a 1000 winds that blow,
I am the diamond glimpse of snow;
I am the sunlight on ripened green,
I am the gentle autumns rain,
Do not stand at my grave and cry,I am not there,
I did not die.

Boys And Girls Club Join In To Raise Funds For Jaiden

The Boys and Girls Club is having an event that is going to star the local talent from our youth AND out a local family. Next Saturday(January 19th)at 7pm, is the Rising Star Talent Competition. 100% of the admission fee of $2 is going to the fund. I have attached the flyer for you to read. Please click on the box to see it in a larger format.

Today's Waffle Breakfast

Today's Waffle Breakfast hosted by the Milford Fire Department was a huge success. There were so many families there looking to help out the Tlapa family.

Here are some pictures from the day, please enjoy!




Also, the beautiful sign that was made is at the Fire Station. The makers of the sign can stop by and pick it up tomorrow.

Elisha's Fundraising

Alex from Elisha's is offering 20% of your check to The Jaiden Lyndi Tlapa Fund. The fundraiser date is Monday, January 21st. So if you were planning to have a day out for lunch or dinner print out this coupon below and stop by Elisha's to help with a good cause

Waffle Breakfast Tomorrow

Just a reminder that tomorrow is the waffle breakfast at the fire station

Thank you everyone

As you can see from the numbers below, there are so many people all over the world praying for Jaiden. I can thank all of you for that.

It was your true compassion and concern for Jaiden that caused you to stop for a minute and share Jaiden's story. Whether it be in line at the grocery store, through an email, a phone conversation, wearing Jaiden's ribbon or having it displayed proudly on your vehicle or mailbox. It was you that caused the visitor numbers to grow on this blog.

Jaiden is in the hearts of all of us, everyday. We all think of her and the Tlapa family nonstop throughout the day. I know even when I lie down in bed at night, Jaiden is the last thought on my mind.

I know we are all anxious to hear news of Jaiden's condition. Updates will be posted when we have them. In the mean time, please leave your prayers and good thoughts for Jaiden and the Tlapa family.

Thank you

Jacqueline

Check out these statistics.......

1.
United States
22,870

2.
Canada
177

3.
United Kingdom
41

4.
Germany
38

5.
Australia
13

6.
Spain
8

7.
New Zealand
5

8.
Italy
3

9.
Kuwait
3

10.
Norway
3

11.
Brazil
2

12.
Netherlands
2

13.
South Korea
1

14.
Iceland
1

15.
India
1

16.
Japan
1

17.
Chile
1

18.
Mexico
1

19.
Switzerland
1

20.
Singapore
1

21.
(not set)
1

22.
Bermuda
1

23.
Ghana
1

24.
Philippines
1

25.
Bolivia
1

26.
Vietnam
1

27.
South Africa
1

Fundraiser Update

Thank you to all who attended the initial planning meeting for Fundraising efforts for the Jaiden Lyndi Tlapa Fund. At this time we are planning two events: The first event will be an Adult Dance at Hampshire Hills. We are hoping to hold this event in early March. The second event will be a family fun day at the Hampshire Dome. This event will be in mid-April. We are looking for as many donated items for these events as possible. Please contact the appropriate sub-committee chairperson below if you can help us in any of these areas: Food -- Hallee Johnson - pjandhj@hotmail.com Facilities -- Kathy Carson - the5carsons@verizon.net Raffles -- Theresa Waller - c_waller@netzero.net Silent Auction -- Jackie Merrill - sportsmom4444@aol.com Publicity -- Terry Negrete - tdemers@comcast.net Transportation/Valet -- Kelly Lacasse -mailto:mblondekel80@aol.com or Kathy Donovan - Kdonovan@eatonberube.com Decorations -- Tricia Shea - liamollyshea@aol.com Theme Baskets -- Karen Cagney -mailto:KarenC@Hmisinc.com or Kim Calden - (copy both) kcalden@gmail.com Music -- Shane Hooker - shooker@cisco.com Teen Volunteers for staffing -- Amanda Clark -- mandyswim9@yahoo.com A Reminder:You do not have to be on the raffle or silent auction committee to obtain an item. I just ask that you contact Jackie Merrill for items OVER $50 in value and Theresa Waller for items UNDER $50 in in value PRIOR to making contact for the request. This is to ensure we do not go to the same source repeatedly. In other words, feel free to use your network! We would love to have a "Celebrity" lend their name to this cause as well and perhaps attend the Family Fun Day at the Hampshire Dome. If you know anyone that might fit this need please contact Kathy Carson at the address below PRIOR to contacting that person. Again, think outside of the box and use your networking! One big name is all it will take to fill the Hampshire Dome on Family Fun Day! Please feel free to contact Kathy with any questions. She can be reached at http://www.blogger.com/the5carsons@verizon.net or by phone at 672-3803.Thank you so much for all you are doing. The Tlapa's are so overwhelmed by everyone's support and are deeply appreciative.

Waffle Breakfast This Sunday

A Request From Holleigh

Thank you so much for your continued prayers and support. Jaiden is battling a couple of infections right now. In lieu of this fact doctors are requesting no visitors over the next few days.

Please keep Jaiden and the entire family in your prayers.

A Message From Auntie Pam

Please pray extra hard for Jaiden tonight. There is another MRI scheduled for tomorrow. I remain hopeful, and am extremely grateful for all the support everyone has shown to my niece, her parents, and to my entire family. May God be with all of us, but most of all with Jaiden.

This was a comment posted to the blog, but I thought it deserved a post of it's own.

Jaiden's Fund

Jaiden Lyndi Tlapa Fund


A fund has been set up at TD BankNorth on behalf of Jaiden Tlapa and her family. The community support for Jaiden and the entire Tlapa family has been truly remarkable. Community members, and local businesses continue to come forward asking how they can help.

Jaiden remains in the Intensive Care Unit at Children’s Hospital. Although the extent of her future medical needs remains unknown, a fund has been created to help defray any financial burdens.

Checks may be made payable to the Jaiden Lyndi Tlapa Fund and brought to any TD BankNorth branch.
Paul and Holleigh Tlapa have been deeply touched by the outcry of support that they have received from family, friends and the community. They have also been saddened however, at the realization that not all families are awarded the support and resources that they have received. In the event that the donations exceed the family’s needs, Holleigh and Paul plan to set up a foundation to help other families in the community with similar needs.


Donations can be made at any TD BankNorth branch.

Checks should be made payable to the:

Jaiden Lyndi Tlapa Fund

Donations can also be mailed to:

TD BankNorth
c/o Jaiden Lyndi Tlapa Fund
PO Box 783
Amherst, NH 03031

Fundraiser Meeting Reminder

Just wanted to remind you that tonight is the first meeting for the "The Jaiden Lyndi Tlapa Power of Prayer Recovery Fund".

The meeting will be held at 6:30pm in the "Back of the Lounge" meeting room at Hampshire Hills.

Anyone that wants to help with the fundraiser is welcome. It doesn't matter if you know everyone there or not a single person there. We are all there for the same purpose. To help the Tlapa family.

So please bring paper, pen, and plenty of ideas.

Thank you

Prayer Vigil

Jaiden,

The prayer vigil was beautiful. Everyone got up and lit candles for you. We all said prayers and sang songs. I know Mommy and Daddy were listening to the whole thing on the phone, but guess what???? I video taped it for you. I need to fix the tape up and then get it sent to you. I know that all the prayers that were said for you have to be helping. I know you've gotta be getting better soon.

Time for Jaiden

Here are a few more pictures of the night. Everyone was making cards, and just talking to eachother. I'm sure everyone was talking about you!

And then there was food....

Here are the cookies Jen was talking about. I didn't get to taste them, but I'm sure they were yummy because after only a few minutes they were gone.
I love the ribbons they put on them. Just like the ribbons everyone else in town is wearing.

Prayer Vigil 4pm

I've gotten a few emails today asking about whether or not the vigil is still on. I just spoke with Pastor Tom, and he assured me that the vigil will still be taking place.

I know the snow is coming down, so please give yourself enough time to get there. If you cannot make it, please take a moment at 4pm to say a prayer for Jaiden.

Thank you, and hopefully we will see you this afternoon.