December 12, 1994 – July 7, 2005
Claremore, Oklahoma
Our family burns a purple candle in memory of Kelsey as we go through the holiday season. The color symbolizes the unconditional love she shared with all of us. Kelsey’s joyful spirit continues to light our lives as we grieve our loss.
Kelsey faced many trials because of the degenerative process of NBIA. Over the six years since her diagnosis, walking and talking became increasingly more difficult until she gradually lost those abilities. But even as she reached those final days of her life, she greeted each day with courage and a beautiful smile.
Kelsey loved her “silly” Daddy; her sister, Kaylinn, who read and prayed with her daily; her “goofy” brother Kenneth, who could always get a laugh; and her cooking partner, Mommy.
Our lives have been richly blessed by the many doctors, researchers, nurses, therapists, teachers, neighbors, friends and family members who have helped us in providing Kelsey with the highest quality of life possible. Our family continues to be blessed daily with love and support. During these difficult days of loss the songs, “In the Calm” by Sandi Patty and “Held” by Natalie Grant, have helped us cope with our pain.
We continue to look forward to the day of the Resurrection when we will be reunited with Kelsey. How wonderful it will be to see Kelsey walking, talking and playing.
