Today marks what would have been Brooke’s 21st birthday. She’d been looking forward to this day for years. Literally. Before the accident, which was over three years now, Brooke had carefully looked ahead in the calendar and noted that her 21st birthday fell on the perfect day of the week – a Friday.
Brooke loved a celebration – especially if she was the honoree. This was gonna be a big day full of celebrations (yes, plural) . . . full of life.
What I didn’t know was that Brooke wouldn’t be here to celebrate with us.
They say, “you don’t know what you don’t know.” They are so right.
When I reflect back on my world “before Brooke,” there’s so much I didn’t know. I had no idea how stinkin’ cute she’d be . . . that she’d be so frustrating at times . . . that she’d be so challenging . . . funny . . . generous . . . stubborn . . . hardworking . . . sneaky. . . determined . . . loyal . . . genuine. Did I mention challenging? Most of all I didn’t know how big her heart would be or how in such a short time she’d leave a huge mark on the world.
The accident that occurred on March 16, 2017, left a Brooke-sized hole in our world. I knew it could never be filled. What I didn’t know was that eventually Brooke’s light would shine back through the void left by her absence. We have become her light keepers – ensuring that Brooke’s flame never dies.
Last June, we learned about a young girl in Kentucky who is making her own mark on the world by assembling“Birthday Boxes” for children in her area who couldn’t afford to celebrate their birthdays. With her blessing, we established the Brooke It Forward Foundation with a mission to share her Birthday Boxes to children whose birthdays might otherwise be overlooked were remembered and celebrated. The Foundation has found itself focusing on the children who are served by our local and state Children’s Advocacy Centers. These children have suffered abuse and often find themselves in foster care.
What I didn’t know was these little Birthday Boxes are so much more than just a party in a box. The counselors treating the children often incorporate the boxes into the healing process. I literally choke up each time I’m reminded that Brooke It Forward celebrates more than just a birthday. The Foundation helps celebrate the unique beauty of each child – one birthday at a time.
I do know that Brooke would have given this project a huge thumbs up. As big as her heart is, it would grow ten sizes to make extra room from children (and animals). Even though Brooke could be quite shy at times, she also loved a fun party. As much as she loved to have fun, she was compassionate about those in need or those suffering an injustice. Children and parties and compassion; that’s pretty much what Brooke It Forward is all about.
What I don’t know is what Brooke would have wished for as she blew out birthday candles at numerous celebrations this year. I’m certain that the deepest desires of her 17-year-old heart would changed – matured – over even these few years.
What I do know is that we’ve be given an amazing opportunity to ensure that Brooke’s candle will shine forever.
P.S. If you are inclined to raise a toast (any beverage of your choice) in honor of Brooke – we’d be beyond honored if you’d comment with a picture or share a picture on social media with the hashtag – #Brookes21
SDG
