Sweet baby Thalon. The fair, red-headed boy amidst the sea of princess tiaras and Barbie dolls. The perfect representation of Gorillabuns’ Irish roots. Rich’s future partner-in-crime.
Thalon passed away yesterday afternoon surrounded by his adoring family.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention wanting to punch the universe in the mouth right now. Really hard.
For those of you who have had the pleasure of meeting Shana in real life, you know she is quite the Mama Bear. Long before she birthed her three beautiful children, she was the kind of friend that would fight dragons tooth and nail for you. Fiercely protective. Loyal. She might even throw a Cape Cod in the face of your nemesis. You know, the kind of person you always want on your side.
However, behind that boisterous Mama Bear exterior lies the most enormous, the most feeling heart you could ever encounter. In all honesty, she’s a total sap.
I distinctly remember shortly after Moira’s birth, beached out on her couch with my own pregnant belly, talking about what an independent spirit her firstborn was. “Little Miss Thing (as she would call Celia) sure isn’t into the whole cuddling and hugging bit”. I remember nodding, thinking that Celia was a smart little girl because, well, touchy-feely people are STRANGE. Just at that moment, Celia sauntered over to Shana and gave her a huge bear hug, and as I looked over at my favorite fierce Mama Bear, I saw tears welling up in her eyes.
I remember hoping I could be a mother like that one day. One who cares so deeply about her babies that the simple act of a day-to-day hug could fill them with so much love that the tears flow.
I can’t begin to fathom what Shana, Rich and the girls are going through right now. To be honest, I won’t even allow myself to envision losing my child. What I do know is that they need all the positive thoughts and prayers that you can give them right now. Shana is so thankful for all of your love and concern – it has lifted her spirits tremendously.
I’ve been trying to think of what I can do right now, 1,400 miles away, to help before heading to Oklahoma. I’ve set up a Paypal donation button for anyone who wants to help Shana’s family with the expenses of Thalon’s hospital stay and funeral services. Please feel free to use the button on your website to help spread the word.
Donations would be greatly appreciated, but your thoughts and prayers are just as welcome.
Cynthia
April 13, 2009 at 9:15 amThank you – international donations are accepted now. My heart just aches for the family. I cannot fathom the pain they must be in, and to be further haunted by the considerable expenses? There are just now words.
monstergirlee
April 13, 2009 at 9:19 amI’ve been praying all weekend – and now this. More prayers for Shana and her family. My heart aches…..
Phil
April 13, 2009 at 9:19 amGod Bless. I am a child therapist and see tough times everyday. It never gets easier. Hang in there, seek support.
amy
April 13, 2009 at 9:22 ammy god- the world has not been right in the last week. Two babies taken. I am sick over this. Prayers right now from Ohio. right now.
Colleen
April 13, 2009 at 9:23 amHearbreakingly sad. Thank you for the opportunity to help this family in some small way. (Sarah, you’re a class act.)
maggie, dammit
April 13, 2009 at 9:42 amI……
I don’t even know what to say.
Gutted is the perfect word.
Rhonda Squires
April 13, 2009 at 9:44 amGod bless your sweet and beautiful soul Thalon. I am a friend of Sarah James. I am thinking of Thalon. I am thinking of you. I don’t know the right words. God bless you and God bless Thalon.
Christy
April 13, 2009 at 9:56 amMy god, the world just isn’t right lately. Today is the first I’ve heard of gorillabuns, but as a mom, of course my heart goes out to her and her family. I will absolutely do what I can. I’m so, so sorry.
Rebecca (Bearca)
April 13, 2009 at 9:59 amIt’s so, so sad. I am heartbroken about all this loss. They are lucky to have you as a friend, though – that was a really touching post.
Mary Helen
April 13, 2009 at 10:03 amI can’t believe another mom has lost her sweet baby. Wishing peace and strength to the family.
slynnro
April 13, 2009 at 10:04 amI was able to meet Shana and Thalon at Susan’s Quaker party, and I remember be so struck by how in love with him his big sister was. In fact, I kind of can’t stop thinking about it. I’ve never seen a prouder sibling.
Howard
April 13, 2009 at 10:32 amMy heart is broken for them. Nothing can remove the pain – I send my love to Thalon’s spirit and his family – we look for explanation and answers to such sadness but ultimately I think our collective pain and heartbreak is our only genuine response. I didn’t know Thalon but I have known others who have lost their young children so suddenly – I hope in time Thalon’s family have the chance to share their loss with others who have had the same tragic experience. They are not alone. My Love. H.
T@SendChocolate
April 13, 2009 at 10:33 amthis. just. sucks. I agree with punching the Universe right now.
Everything is screwed up.
My heart goes out to this family, who is suffering a pain none should ever have to.
T.
Chicky Chicky Baby
April 13, 2009 at 10:47 amThere are no words, just sending them strength and love. I’m very sorry for your loss and for theirs.
Mandy
April 13, 2009 at 10:49 amMy heart aches. Deepest sympathies.