Memorial Hospital Remembers Children Lost Too Soon

The loss of a loved one is heartbreaking. But, when that loved one is a child, it is particularly difficult for the families affected.

Sunday afternoon Memorial Hospital held a remembrance service for the families whose children departed this earth much too soon.

Petra Verhoeven-Jordan sat at a table with her husband, son and daughter. Eight months ago, the family lost their son and brother, Gian-Luc, when he was 12.

?Your child is not going to walk back through the door,? said Verhoeven-Jordan. She said she missed seeing his face and hearing his laugh.

?I like to remember our son as much as I can,? said Verhoeven-Jordan, who carried framed photos of her son, placing them at her table.

She saw the event as a time to grieve and celebrate young lives, sharing stories with and gaining strength from other families who have been through similar tragedies.

?To be among other parents that have lost children was very important,? said Verhoeven-Jordan.

She lit a candle for her son, while remembering when all it took to light up her world was Gian-Luc?s smile.

Now, his smile can only come from the photos she cherishes.

?We loved to watch him do sports,? said Verhoeven-Jordan. ?Whatever he was doing, he was really good at.?

Before bedtime she kisses her son?s bedside photo, going to sleep with the same thoughts every night: ?I say good night Luca. I love you very much. Send me some dreams about you.?

Her son died while playing what is referred to as the choking game. She said she is on a mission to make sure parents are aware of it, in hopes that another child will not die from the deadly game.