I remember the first time that I ever met Erin. It was early August of 2002 and the staff at the Middleboro residence which she was soon moving into went to meet her at her current residence in Carver. I had been told who Erin was and little about her disease, but had no idea what to expect upon meeting her. I certainly did not expect to fall in love with her that first day, which exactly is what happened. We went over around dinner time and Erin was sitting at the dining room table being fed, which at that time (pre-g-tube) was a lengthy and uncomfortable experience for Erin. We then watched her swallowing study to learn why it was that Erin had such a difficult time eating. I remember her sitting in a chair next to her father holding his hand, her blue eyes shining, full of life and the sweetest smile that melted my heart, that moment was when I fell in love with this sweet girl who was only a year and some months older than myself. Over the past two years, during some of Erin’s most difficult times, I come back to this first image I have of her and think about how free, how innocent this girl was and still remains. Working with Erin at the group home, I quickly formed a close bond with her and the other staff referred to us as girlfriends, because that is just what we were, girlfriends. We shared many laughs, and would sing and dance together, we even had our own secret handshake.

Over time, her disease progressed. A g-tube was placed so Erin no longer had to endure 1 hour long feedings by mouth, there were many hospitalizations, endless nights where Erin would be awake for hours on end coughing and the only thing that would comfort her was you rubbing her hair. The amazing thing about Erin, is that no matter how sick or how much coughing she was doing, she would still flash you that sweet smile. It is this that I carry with me during my most difficult times and think about: If Erin could make through her darkest hours with a smile, then why can’t I? Erin had given me the gift of strength. When you would ask her how she was doing, she was always "awesome" or "wonderful". Erin never had anything negative to say.

Through Erin I have also learned probably the most important lesson anyone could ever learn and that is the importance of your loved ones, family and friends. What else really matters in life if you don’t have these people? It is these people that help you get through life. They help you through the difficult moments and share with you the wonderful times as well..

I just wanted to mention a few people as well:

To Holly ~ Erin’s mother and the most selfless person I have ever met. She never seems to forget about anyone, and no matter how Erin’s disease was failing her, Holly would still think about others. This is truly an amazing gift. Holly, I know you believe that you get your strength from Erin, but you have it all wrong. Children learn from their parents, and Erin got her strength from you.

To Michael ~ Erin’s father and the most positive person I have ever come in contact with. You will forever be the one that I go to if I need to see things in a positive way.

To Rebecca ~ Erin’s sissy…I remember when I first met you I was intimidated by you, I thought how could you not resent me for being the one taking care of your sister. When I asked you about this, you said to me, "I have Erin’s past and knew what she was like, you know her now." I will never forget those words and it is because of that that you and I Rebecca are bonded as "sisters", for we hold our big sister’s life story between the two of us. However, I will never know the pain of losing my only sibling and I am sorry you have to experience this pain so early in your life.

To the Cousins ~ You all loved Erin so much, Justin, making special trips with Dalissa to see Erin. Ryan, your endless acts of love. Nikki, you jumped on a plane without hesitation to be with Erin when things were not going well for her. And to all the other cousins that I did not mention by name, you all loved Erin so very much and it was evident in the many visits you made to her when she was well and sick.

To Kerry ~ the one I have shared the process of going from an outsider to being welcomed into this wonderful family, I could have not have gone through this with out you and you continue to be a wonderful support.

Erin, you have given us all unconditional love and taught us all how to share that love with everyone else. I want to thank you for sharing with me your gentle spirit and your loving heart and for letting me into your world. Your family has become my family. During your life you have touched many people and changed many lives. We are going to try our best to continue your work and share your life with more people, this after all is the least we can do after all the gifts you have shared with us.

I love you now and forever, my girl.

Much love,  Jessie

 

This was sent to me from Dalissa.  Her Mom wrote this poem for Erin shortly before her last day with us.  Thank You for your sweet words Dally.

 

 

 

 

"Angelito"

An Angel has descended

To live among us

Softly touching our souls

With sparkling wings full of Love

Heaven is a wonderful place, indeed-

But full of Grace, Erin came to us…

Spreading hope, wishes, dreams,

And Happiness that sorrow brings

Joyfully slides down the rainbow

On her journey from above,

Holding tightly to fragile, little Flopsy

Illuminated by the Star of Love

Angel’s wings move up and down

Finding a way in everybody’s heart

Bringing essence, friendships, meaning

While soothing our lives with The Spiritual Light

I just want ERIN to know…

The Hearts she has touched will always radiantly glow

And, as time speeds away, I will keep you in my heart today and always