A Kiss From Heaven

I am profoundly honoured when a family reaches out to me for support during their child's final moments. Having experienced my own share of grief and loss, I know that there is no heartbreak greater than the loss of a child.

Whether it involves a child, a young adult, or someone who gently reassures their loved ones with, "Don't be sad; I have lived a long and happy life," my focus is on creating beautiful legacies. Although, what each family needs is different, one common activity is creative and meaningful activities like hand molds and heartfelt letter writing, crafting cherished memories that families can hold dear in the days, months, and years to come. Typically, families contact me within a few weeks of learning that treatment is no longer an option, and many of those I support are families facing the challenges of childhood cancer.

When I learned that my dear friend’s precious 4-year-old daughter, Jillian, had unexpectedly passed away in her sleep—likely due to an undiagnosed seizure disorder—I felt an overwhelming sense of grief. I’m usually the one people turn to for comfort, yet I found myself struggling to process the loss of this radiant little girl, who always had a doll, a shoe, or anything little in her hands and a smile that brightened every room. I feared becoming one of those who shy away and don’t reach out because I felt so lost.

Then one day, her mother shared something touching with me. During a thunderstorm the night before, she and her husband watched the sky come alive with lightning. Jillian would often stand by the window, eagerly waiting for her parents to come home, and that night, while watching the storm they noticed a beautiful imprint on the glass a kiss—a perfect Jillian kiss, as if sent straight from heaven.

I had visions of my friend never cleaning that window. What could I do? 

I was filled with joy when a detective called me back from the forensics department of our city police. He was going to see if that kiss could be lifted like a fingerprint. As you can see from the pictures, the detective captured it, beautifully.

People are often surprised when they discover the work I do, and I can't help but feel a deep sense of purpose: “I know there are families out there who need someone to walk alongside them in their time of need, someone to offer love and support when they feel most alone.” I wish I had more strength to do more. 

Jillian's mother creates beautiful modern handcrafted quilted treasures here