|
HAPPY BIRTHDAY ERIN!!!!!!! 4/5/08
April 5th 1980 - April 5th 2008, Erin is 28 years old
today. Happy Birthday Sweet Girl!
Another Year has passed since my last birthday entry....I
wonder if we get older in Heaven or if we just remain the age upon our entry. Well for us here, this day is a day to celebrate
because on this day God did give all of us who knew you a very special gift. Birthdays and gifts go hand in hand, but in your
case your were the gift. I remember talking to your Mom and saying that Erie is just the Gift that keeps on giving. And still
today, even with you not here with us day to day to hold, your amazing spirit is with each of us who loved you in some way.
I miss you. I miss your laugh and that beautiful sparkle in your eye that somehow made me feel better, even though it was
my job to make you feel better. I miss our long talks about our dreams and even the talks we would have about what we were
going to do with your Dad.....you remember when he was making us crazy worried about you. And we had to come up with creative
ideas on how to make him feel better too. But the thing I miss the most of all the time we spent together, and we spent a
lot of time together.....was just laying in your bed, and saying nothing, but knowing what we meant. As long as we were together,
through some pretty rough times, we got through them, together. I miss those times.
Happy Birthday to the most precious person I will ever know. Hope your still
watching over me! I love you, Erie.
December 1, 2007
(entered 12/26/2007)
It is difficult to imagine that it has
been three years since we have last seen you. It is with a heavy heart that I make this journal entry. Once again this month
came quickly upon us. The third memorial Mass was said, and a family and friends gathering was held at your Home in your memory.
It was different this year....and I am not sure why, but perhaps it was because everyone was dealing with your absence in
their own way, and used silence as a way of trying to mend the hurt that still remains. I remember your presence as if it
were yesterday, and yet it seems like you have been gone from our days for a lifetime. My heart holds your precious memories,
and I can still hear your sweet voice. If I close my eyes, and even if I do not, I can see your beautiful smile. I don't think
I can see it as much as I can feel your smile, as it left an imprint on my heart.
I hope Heaven is especially Wonderful
this time of year for you. May all of your hopes and dreams be fulfilled every day of the year. I love you, Miss Erin. Please
continue to watch over us, and keep us safe.
Merry Christmas, Sweet Angel.
June 23rd 2007 Erin Roberts Memorial Road Race
| 2007 Erin Roberts Memorial Road race |
|
|
| Holly nearly came in first this year!!!!! |
| Alison & Meghan |
|
|
| Showin some love for their cousin |
It was a beautiful sunny Saturday morning and more than
300 people showed up to participate in the Hanover/Erin Roberts road race. It was the best turn out ever, and over $2,300
was raised for NPD. Thank You to all who participated. See you next year!
Ryan Kelly, Erin's loving cousin, hosted the fourth annual
Teetor Totter Event at Bryant University April 4th and 5th 2007. All the proceeds are donated to NNPDF in memory of
Erin. Thanks Ryan!
APRIL 5TH, 2007
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MISS ERIN!!!!!
WELL IT'S BEEN A WHILE SINCE MY LAST ENTRY OR UPDATE.
I MAY HAVE EVEN SKIPPED A COUPLE OF EVENTS. YESTERDAY RYAN KICKED OFF HIS FOURTH ANNUAL TETTER TOTTER EVENT WITH HIS
FRATERNITY BROTHERS AT BRYANT UNIVERSITY. LAST YEAR THIS EVENT RAISED OVER $3,000 FOR THE NP FOUNDATION. AMAZING
THINGS STILL HAPPENING ALL AROUND ERIE. IN JUNE, THE ANNUAL HANOVER 5 K WILL BE HELD IN YOUR MEMORY. ERIN, THE
WEATHER WAS JUST A BIT RAINY LAST YEAR SO WE ARE COUNTING ON YOU TO BRING LOTS OF SUNSHINE THIS YEAR!
BUT FOR TODAY, I HOPE YOUR DANCIN' SHOES ARE ON FOR YOUR PARTY......HAVE
A WONDERFUL DAY SWEET GIRL, WE ARE SENDING LOTS OF HUGS AND KISSES TO YOU! I MISS YOU, AND LOVE YOU FOREVER MY ANGEL.
KERRY
December 1, 2006
It's hard to believe that it has been now two years since we
last were together....And I must say that this past year was a little more difficult. I think it's just because it's
been that much longer that I have had to miss you, sweet girl. The Mass said in your memory this morning was nice.
The song your Dad played was nice, but very sad. I have been replaying the month of November in my head. Remembering
those last three weeks. It is still so amazing to me, those last three weeks. You were amazing. And I cannot
help but to smile when I think of everything you gave so freely. You were so unselfish, so loving, so Angelic.
I imagine all of those things remain with you where you are. We all miss you, and we love you so very much Erie.
We lit a candle for you, and decorated your special tree. Putting all your precious ornaments on it one by one.
I hope you were watching close by. I hope you plan on remaining close to your family during this blessed Christmas.
I hope to see you in my dreams. I love you, sweet Angel.
December 1, 2005
Well precious Erie it has been one year since you left to begin your amazing
journey to Heaven, that Wonderful Place. In some ways it seems like yesterday that we were all together with you, and
then the past year seems like an eternity at the same time. Oh God how I miss you!!!!
Anywho......today started out with a beautiful memorial Mass. Bright
and early I might add. Somewhere Over the Rainbow was played during communion, how appropriate huh.
Later on friends and family met together at "your place", where Fr. read a
prayer and your Mom read the awsome poem your Aunt wrote last year. We all sang Heaven is a wonderful place, and it
was very tough to do. Your Mom passed out copies of the poem to all, and also included beautiful crystal angels, sent
from you! It was perfect, well almost perfect. You weren't there. I know you were there in spirit, there
watching over all of us, there with your hand upon your family's shoulder guiding them through the day. But sometimes sweet
Erie, I want more than that. I suppose I will always want more, however I am Thankful every day for the sweet smiles,
the sweet "smacks", the "bone crusher" hugs, and the way your eyes found my heart. I love you, Erin. We ALL Love
you, Sweet Angel Erin Arline.
UPDATED 7/17/05
On July 15th, friends and family of Erin, and her family gathered
together for a special mass at the home of Michael, Holly and Rebecca.
A Ciborium in Erin's memory was ordered, and the Robert's wanted to have it blessed
and used for the first time at home. For those of you reading this and not knowing what a "Ciborium" is, it is the holder
of Holy Communion during Mass.
So, friends and family arrived, Fr. Chris arrived fashionably late, and a Mass was
conducted. Fr. Chris also brought Father Dennis, a priest visiting from Africa.
The Mass was beautiful, and extremely moving for all of us. I know Miss Erin
was with us. We sang Erin's song, "Heaven is a Wonderful Place", we remembered wonderful and awsome things about Erin's
life. We were together again. It would be impossible for me to put into words the feeling of being a part of this.
It was both difficult and wonderful at the same time. And somehow I do believe it was also very healing, for all of
us who struggle day to day with the loss of Erin.
Well it has been a few months since I last updated this web page......and
I have a couple of events I need to update you on.
On June 25th, the town of Hanover held a 5K walk/ run in the memory of Erin.
All of the proceeds were donated to the NNPDF. Holly and Michael were notified in February that the walk was going to
be dedicated to Erin.
So Holly and Michael put there minds to work, and sent out invitations to interested
parties to let them know about the walk. Some 225 people were registered, and over 190 people turned out for this special
event. Of course there were the "regulars" who showed up with their "ERIN" t-shirts on. And it was HOT!!!!!
I do believe the high temp for that day was 98 degrees. But it did not deter any of us true athletes at heart.
After all, it was for Erin.
Appoximately 2,000 dollars was raised, and it was a wonderful event. And it
didn't stop there. Later that evening, it was Rebecca's 21st birthday celebration! So we all gathered together
at the Robert's home to have quite a party. We even had a live band. The night was fabulous, and ended with Holly
and Beck singing and dancing on stage with the band. YOU GO GIRLS!!!!! We just know that Miss Erin was dancing
and knee knockin from Heaven above. Happy Birthday Beck!!!
Ryan continues to show his love for Miss Erin......and
for the entire family.
On April 5, 2005 Cousin Ryan Kelly hosted the second annual "Teeter
Totter" event. For forty eight hours young men from the fraternity manned the see saws continuously. Ironically
the kick off of this event, which was scheduled to begin on April 6, 2005, actually started on April 5th, Erin's birthday!
Holly and I attended this event in support of these young men. Upon arrival, a plaque which is shown below was presented
to Holly, in loving memory of Erin. Nino, one of the brothers, surprised Ryan with this plaque. Words cannot express
the gratitude the Roberts family have for this amazing honor. Although Miss Erin was not with us for her birthday, we
all have comfort in knowing that her birthday this year was a magnificent celebration in Heaven. And what a celebration
she must have been having!
Ryan, from the bottom of my heart, and on behalf of Holly, Michael, and Rebecca,
Thank You once again for being the amazing young man you are! We Love You Ry Guy! And best of luck for a succesful
fundraiser.
On a different note, the next fundraiser
will be in Hanover on June 25, 2005. The annual 5K road race will be held, and all of the proceeds raised from this
event will be donated to the National Neimann Pick Foundation, in memory of our Precious Erin Arline......hope to see you
there! And don't forget your t-shirts!
|
|
| Nino made this plaque and presented it to Holly |
| Holly and Ryan |
|
|
| Thank You Ry Guy, for making Holly's Day 4/5/05 |
December 1, 2004---------Erin finally got her heavenly wings tonight at 6:20 p.m.
She was finally able to ascend to her heavenly home and forever be free of the horrible effects of Niemann-Pick Disease.
She is now free to fly and dance and sing again. She has received back everything that has been robbed of her during
her time on this earth. The Angels she is joining are soo very blessed to have her now. Our hearts break, but
are somehow at ease because her suffering is over. She fought harder than any person I know. She will forever
remain in our hearts and souls F-O-R-E-V-E-R. We love you our precious Angel. Go in peace and forever take with
you the love we have shown you.
| Every time a bell rings, an Angel gets her wings |
|
| Erin finally got her wings, "Fly high my precious Angel" |
Erin Arline was laid to rest on December 4, 2004 following a beautiful celebration
of life at Saint Mary's Church in Hanover. Father Flannagan officiated the services with seven additional priests assisting.
Readings were done, Erin's songs were sang, and the most amazing part of the service was when Holly, mother to Erin gave us
all Words of Remembrance. Holly displayed amazing strength throughout, proving Erin was there once again helping her
Mom to get through it. In addition, Erin's Uncle John had words to enlighten the entire congregation. Lastly,
and certainly important was Erin's Aunt "DeeDee" who spent time reflecting on all of the Gifts Erin has given to her, and
to all throughout Erin's short twenty-four years with us on this earth. Somewhere Over the Rainbow was played, any we
sang as loud as we could through tears of love for this most precious Angel. Finishing the celebration, the Choir started
singing "Heaven is A WONDERFUL Place, we all joined in, and repeated it many times, just as Erin used to do. Although
Erin was not visible, we knew she was there as her presence was felt in both our hearts and souls.
I have rarely made entries on this website that have been from me. Everything I
have typed has come from my heart, but has been more of a story and updates on behalf of Erin's family. Until now.
First and most important:
Holly, Michael and Beck,
Thank You from the bottom of my heart for taking me into your family and allowing me to
take care of your daughter. It has been such an honor to be a part of the most surreal and amazing path. You will
all draw courage and peace from not only Erie, but from each other. I love you all, more than you know.
To the "lovies" who were all present for not only 21 days and nights, but especially during
Erie's last moments with us, I love each and every one of you.
To MY JESSICA>>without you, well we don't even have to go there because we were
never without each other. You are super fabulous, my love.
And for our Erie
I have only had the privilege of knowing this precious Angel for twenty-seven months.
That is the length of time that she has been residing in the home in Middleboro. During that time, I have had such access
to her spirit, her courage, her love, her beautiful mind, and too many wonderful experiences to list. Unfortunately,
I have also been there through many obstacles, too many trips to the hospital and doctors, too many days when she was soo
sick that I was helpless. We, and I am refering to my wonderful team of staff and friends at the residence have used
each other for support to have enough strength to get through it all. I have been soo incredibly blessed to have these
women in my life. For this, I will be eternally grateful to all of them.
This has been an incredible journey, one filled with much heartache. In my eighteen
years working in this field, I have never been touched by anyone as I was touched by Miss Erin. I looked forward to
seeing her everyday, because I knew that despite this disgusting disease, that she would always have a smile, a kind word,
or a phrase that carried me to be able to do this everyday. Miss Erin is the reason why I was able to continue.
She was the reason why all of us could continue. If Erin wasn't complaining about any of the things she had to endure,
what gives me the right to complain. Erin has caused me to look inside my heart and see through her that we must not
ever take one day for granted. We must always cherish what we have. Family is definately the most important
thing we have. Through Erin, I have met and grown to love Erin's family. They have had the entire twenty-four
years with Miss Erin. I have learned more about her in the past 3 weeks than I ever knew. Watched movies, listened
to recordings of her precious voice. Flipped through hundreds of pictures. She lived her life to the fullest each
and every day. She was child-like, but with grace. Erin touched more people in her short life than I will ever
be able to touch. But I will attempt to tell people about her for always. It's not everyday that God puts someone
in our life that impacts soo massively. I am Thankful that I was one of the chosen ones to be exposed to such an amazing
human being. And I will continue to pray to Erin and ask her for the stength and courage to get past the enormous hurt
that invades my heart. She now has the ability to do even more than she was permitted to do with us. She was certainly
Our Angel on Earth, but my feeling was always that she had to fight soo hard to rise above the effects of NP that I wanted
to give her strength, but a heavenly Angel, I am sure, has enough to help all of us. I know that someday it will
not hurt this much, I just need the strength to get to that day. I will love you, Miss Erin, F-O-R-E-V-E-R--
Always,
Kerry, a.k.a "peaches and cream, Miss Pierce, and of course Winston.
UPDATE NOVEMBER 27, 2004 BELOW
UPDATE NOVEMBER 21, 2004 BELOW
Erin goes home to Hanover!!!!
On November 11, 2004 Erin was brought home to the house
she grew up in. Within minutes of her arriving, a certain peace and beautiful smile came over Erin. There is just
something about home that makes things better. Friends and family have surrounded her night and day, and of course Mom,
Dad, and Sister Becky have been front and center. Erin's bed sits in front of the picture window in the family room,
with a view that is picturesque. Friday evening was the first snowfall, and so it was Christmas. Saturday a tree
was delivered and it was placed in front of this window. An Angel was placed on top and it remains lit both day and
night. Snow Angels were made all over the front yard, another token of love. Sunday was a busy day, with Thanksgiving
from morning until 3p.m. and Christmas from 3p.m. on. It was complete with Santa Hats, Christmas Carols in the background,
and of course Ole. St. Nick himself. Santa paid a special visit to Erin. Ironically he was even wearing a new
"plaid" suit. It was a good look for him. The only gifts that were exchanged were gifts of love, it was truely
the way every Christmas should be. Erin of course was decked out for Christmas from head to toes, literally. She
smiled and even sang silently to her favorite Church songs. The day was filled with laughter, memories, and of course
tears. Tears of joy, tears of sadness, and mainly tears of love. Erin continues to give even at this time of sadness.
She continues to heal us all with her amazing spirit.
Thank You to all who have walked through the doors of
this home. What's most important and heart warming is not what each of you has brought, but what each of us is blessed
enough to walk away with. We have all been given a little piece of heaven. And her name is Erin. So take
a moment and give thanks.
November 21, 2004
It has been ten days since Erin was brought home. During this time we have all had
time to share with Erin a special moment or two. She is by far the single most "awsome, as she would say" person I know.
The other day as we were praying prior to communion, a daily ritual, Erin said, and in her BIG voice, the entire Hail Mary
and most of the Our Father. The first words she has spoken voluntarily in over a week. Every day that passes convinces
us all that she is a miracle from up above. She has amazed the doctors and the hospice staff. And there are no
explanations from a medical stand point. Obviously, for some reason, her work here is not yet done. Each day,
no actually each minute that we have with her has been a gift. I said to Holly the other day that Erin Arline is THE
GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING!
For me, this has been a life changing experience. She has taught me to appreciate
everything that I have, and to never take one single thing for granted. I can't speak for everyone, but I have shared
these sentiments with family members, and I am pretty sure they would all agree. We have all become better human beings
because of this one tiny precious "Angel". Praise be to God, for with Him all things are possible.
Once Again, on behalf of the Robert's family, THANK YOU to all who have contributed to
this past week. From the meals, soo many meals, the phone calls, the continuous prayers, we are greatful. I, personally,
am especially greatful for the generous donation of the landscaping. This got me out of having to rake leaves, ughh.
So Thank You!! I will update again.
NOVEMBER 27, 2004
Another week has past and as I type this, Erin is laying
in her bed comfortably, surrounded still by loved ones. Erin had a great first part of the week, up to and including
the actual Thanksgiving. Things quieted down and the family got some much needed down time. Holly actually got
to take a nap in her bed for the first time in six weeks. Erin continued to give smiles and spread her gifts to all
who entered through the doors of this home. It's amazing to me the continuous support given to this family over the
past 16 days. This precious time we have been given with Miss Erin is nothing short of a miracle in itself. God
is GREAT! The Angels are still close by, although Erin is the only one blessed enough to see them. I've tried,
but no dice. However, in this path and journey we travel, we are both blessed to have a true Angel in Erin, and remembering
that all who surround Erin with love and support this family are angels themselves. Shortly after our several
days of blessings, Erin has become even more tired. Friday was spent mostly sleeping with brief periods of restlessness,
which was controlled with medication. She has woken up this morning, and is listening to music. Only Erin
knows what the hours and days ahead will bring.
click here for more photos
Newsflash!!!!!!!!!!!!The next event planned
takes place on November 21st, 2004 at the Hanover Mall. It's the annual Charity Night. This event raises money
for NPD. Tickets are $5. The mall opens after hours and stores participate in offering some big sales. This
has been a smashing success in the past. For tickets, please email me by clicking on the link located on the home page.
UPDATE!!!!!The tickets were all counted from the Hanover
Mall fundraiser and it was a fabulous success. Due to the enormous amount of support from all friends, family and others,
The Roberts have won first place and sold the most tickets! The prize is an additional $500 donated to the NNPDF.
It's all for you, Miss Erin. Thanks to all who contributed in this years victory! Hope next year gets even better.
See you then.
Ryan does it Again!
|
