A Huge, Huge Shock

I found out this morning (7th) that my beautiful, beautiful, 16 year old cousin, and our god daughter, passed away on Friday evening (5th).

I was actually chatting with my Aunt on the phone at the time, and she said to me that she had to go, as Emily was being sick.

It turns out that she was choking.

There was nothing that my Aunt could do, and the paramedics could do nothing either.

I am posting this retrospectively one week later (today is the 14th) as I have been unable to bring myself to think about this shocking event without breaking down.

We chose Emily for our family. When I say we chose her, she was adopted by my Aunt and Uncle when she was a few weeks old. Her birth mother did not feel she could cope with a Downs Syndrome child, which is such a shame, but by the same token, very lucky for our family. She was such a joy to be around, and so very loving.

We had the honour of becoming her godparents.

I have just been told today (14th) that her 'party' and celebration of her life, or funeral for those of you who are more traditional, will be on the 23rd. At 1pm we shall be releasing pink helium balloons into the air in her memory.

We love you so much Emily Charlotte Rose. Now you can be with Nanny, Grampi and Uncle Alan - I now you will keep them in line!