A few weeks ago I wrote about the wish angel I lost and then found. In that post, I mentioned that my cousin Jason died in Iraq in July 2005. It's been a struggle, sometimes very public, for our family, and most especially and obviously for his parents.
After his death, my aunt and uncle decided to honor his memory by having a playground built at the church he attended. Jason, or JJ as we called him when he was a little boy, loved children and my Aunt Anne and Uncle Chris thought it would be a fitting and lasting tribute to him. It's been in the works for 3 years, but this morning Anne e-mailed all of us pictures of JJ's Playground. There is a formal dedication planned in March, but it's open for playing now. I think Jason would approve.
If you're interested in reading about Jason, his parents, and the playground, click here. On Memorial Day this year, Anderson Cooper featured an interview with Aunt Anne and Uncle Chris on Anderson Cooper 360. To see part of the interview, click here.
6 comments:
Mel, what a very touching post.
I am so sorry for your loss. And sorry for his parents loss as well. Losing a child for a parent must be so unbelievably painful.
It is so sad to know that so many young men die in the process of making this world a better place.
I am convinced your cousin would approve of the fact that his memory lives on in such a poignant way.
Wow... cool playground. I bet Jason's smiling down from his cloud :).
That's a lovely way for your aunt and uncle to honour their son's memory. Jason will live on in the smiles and laughter of the children in his playground.
What a wonderful way to honor their son. I wanted to watch the video, but my computer here at work won't let me. It may be blocked for "entertainment" reasons. They block the wierdest stuff. I can get on here for HOURS, but can't watch a YouTube video or visit various other sites.
Anyway, have a wonderful Thanksgiving and be safe if you'll be doing any traveling.
That's so cool! What great way to commemorate your cousin.
What a wonderful way to honor someone's memory. Sounds like you've got a great family.
I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving :)
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