Monday, November 24, 2008

The Day After


We had over 200 people at the memorial last night. My box of 144 candles disappeared quickly, and the additional 24 someone brought me didn't last long either.

Again, we are overwhelmed by the support of the community. Although I saw many familiar faces, there were some I did not know. We were touched by how many people, friends and strangers, that came out to stand in the cold for Jessica and Kelli.

The policy amendments that the Illinois State Police are implementing are hopefully the first of many positive changes which result from their deaths. If they died so that others would be protected, then that's a great legacy that they leave for us.

13 comments:

Anonymous said...

You show amazing strength and I hope you know how proud your girls are of you. You are a driving force behind these policy changes the ISP are implementing. As a parent you always hope that your children will leave this world a safer and better place for the next generation. Through this tragedy you are making this happen and saving many more parents from going through the pain and sorrow that you have endured. Thank You for making a difference! God Bless you and your family.

Anonymous said...

Well, that's one big milestone over. I'm so glad that you had all those people showing support, not just for Jess and Kelli, but also for you.

Anonymous said...

Sounds like a great turnout. I was thinking of you. Did you get a lot of ornaments for your tree?

Anonymous said...

I also want to thank everyone for coming out to the vigil. It was great to see familiar and new faces and once again, I am overwhelmed by the support all of you have provided to Kim, myself and our families. God Bless all of you.

Unknown said...

I was thinking about you all day....and was so glad that I caught the story on both channel 4 and 5. It sounds like it was a wonderful memorial, and you all have made a true difference. hugs.

Anonymous said...

Since I couldn't be there (but wanted to be), I told Jeannette and Beth to both give you hugs from me-- hopefully you got them!

Sh. said...

Congratulations on such a great vigil! I saw it on the news and I'm so sorry I couldn't make it.

Anonymous said...

I'm glad you are past this milestone, I promise it will get easier. I know your girls are looking down on you and are so proud. It must be some comfort to you to know they are together

MaLeah said...

I was so happy to read that the Illinois state trooper policy changes will be taking place. Think of how many lives your daughters will save! They would be so proud of this, I think.

Jules said...

I love reading your story. Thank you for sharing. My thoughts and prayers were with you all weekend... I hope this Thanksgiving brings you new traditions, smiles, and love from all those in your life.

Anonymous said...

I was an unfamiliar face you saw, but you embraced me anyways, twice. Your strength is my inspiration. My sister was one of Kellis best friends she woke up sunday morning and said.."Everytime I woke up at Kellis house we had both started our "time of the month" This morning I woke up, and it was 2 weeks early, but it was there..I know she's with me"

Cricky said...

Thinking of you ALL always.
God Bless

Marrdy said...

I admire your courage and strength and I am so glad that the memorial turned out well. God bless you all!