July 4th  / Mom, That Loves And Misses You (Mom)

Dearest JJ....Brandon is not coping very well with all the struggles he has been through. I'm trying my best to keep him at home until he turns 18. His mother has not been to see him since November 2007 and she hasn't been to see Jamie at the hospital since January 2008, I find the time to go at least once a month (even though it is a six hour drive one way). Jamie seems to be making some progress and I'm praying they will be transferring him closer to home in the next couple of months. 

Brandon, Jeremy, Trent, Michael, Misty, Jonathan, little Jonathan, Cheyenne, and myself went to see Jamie last weekend. I think they were all ready to get in bed after that six hour drive (one way). We did spend the nite so they could swim in the pool at the hotel while we visited with Jamie. It had been over a year since Jeremy & Trent had seen Jamie.

So many things have been happening, I can't seem to find enough time to post a message. I am getting ready to take some time for myself and go on the road for approximately a month and half. Misty and Jonathan are going to take care of the children (Brandon & Michael) for me part of the time and then Michael will be going to Debra's for a month and Brandon may be going to Alan's house.

I love and miss you very much...there isn't a day that goes by without thinking of you. Watch over all of us.

Close

In Washington DC  / Mom, That Loves And Misses You Both (Mom)

Washington DC presentation on April 15, 2008

I'm Diane Craddock, a 54 year old grandmother from Carrsville Virginia that became a kinship caregiver in February 1996. We gained custody of two young grandsons (my son's children....ages 3 and 4), thinking it would be a temporary situation. The struggles were tremendous for us when we should be enjoying a calm quiet home after our own children grew up and moved out. The financial, physical, and emotional roller coaster for the next eight was overwhelming.... never realizing how much more difficult it could get.

Four years ago my only son (31 years old) died suddenly and his two boys (ages 10 & 11 by this time) were further traumatized by finding him dead. My only daughter (27 years old) moved in to help with his grief stricken boys, never imagining that three and half months later she would be killed instantly when an irresponsible driver crossed the centerline. Her youngest child (3 year old son....one of four children) received a trauma brain injury in the crash. We now had custody of three children; two emotionally disturbed and one physically injuried.

We found out first hand, much needed weekly outpatient counseling sessions are only available for the first year, the following years the minor children are only allowed 26 weeks. Unlike foster care parents, we were not provided the opportunity to receive respite care services. Due to the emotional turmoil, continuous stress, and added financial burdens my husband (of ten years) and I separated Thanksgiving 2006 which contributed to another form of loss for our fragile family.

It is important to focus on prevention vs. removal to reduce long range cost and further trauma for the children. Unfortunately, in February 2007 I had to sign legal papers and transfer custody of my son's youngest child to Virginia Department of Social Services....to protect and provide the extensive care mental health Jamie was in drastic need of. It broke my heart to have to sign the medically needed paperwork but he continually wanted to hurt himself and others. In the first seven months he was placed in foster family homes (three overall). When he misbehaved they took away his right to talk to his remaining family members. Being placed in foster homes contributed to setbacks for him...emotionally feeling he had lost everything and had nothing to look forward to, he continued to regress. In October 2007, the Department of Social Services moved him to a hospital six hours from our home. Last month Jamie turned 15 years old in Keystone Marion Youth Center for emotionally disturbed children. This facility is a six hour drive (one way) from our home, which we make a minimum of one time a month. The trip is emotionally and physically draining for Jamie's 16 year brother and myself.

Foster care is an important part of society but should come after kinship caregivers.....all children should have the right to their family connections. Everyone needs to ALWAYS consider family first and allow kinship caregivers and their minor children the same benefits, rights, and dignity as foster care and their foster children. Remember first and foremost "the best interest of the child" should be everyone's top priority.

CHILDREN WILL NEVER AGE OUT OF BEING FAMILY!!! Take time to imagine the unimaginable... tomorrow it could be your grandchild.

Close

JJ's 4th Angelversary  / Melody -. Angel Adam Hill (Diane's friend )
        ANGELS ABOVE
The sky is filled with Angels.....with puffy, feather wings,
The remnants of God's beauty, with treasures they now bring.
Each one of them a Guardian, that travels in the sky,
To watch throughout eternity, their parents from on high.
Smiles that come from Angels, they fall like crystal rain,
Eases earthly burdens, lifting all life's pain.
Halos so astounding, that glitter gold each day,
Following their loved ones, in such a perfect way.
Wings in gentle breezes, that fall from up above,
Kissing every parent, with everlasting love.
Angels soar through Heaven, with everlasting light,
Looking down from Heaven, saying their "goodnights".
Kissing all who loved them, so gently on the face,
This life's tender mercy, each parent can embrace.
Wings and shiny halos, travel from on high,
Surrounding all their loved ones, they never say good-bye.  
        (written by Francine Pucillo - 2003)
Close

Heading Home  / Mom
It's Saturday morning at 7:30 am and we're pulling into the Port of Miami. Going to do a little sightseeing in Miami, as my flight doesn't leave until later today. Saw some beautiful sights while on my vacation but I know you both have the most beautiful sights anyone can imagine. I can't wait to see the grandchildren....of course I bought them some souveniors. Wish I could share the adventure with both of you.
Love,
Mom Close

Vacation / Mom, Loving And Missing You Both (Mother)
Thinking of you both while I'm on a vacation for rest and relaxation. I love you both very much and I spend as much time as possible with all of your children. 
Love,
Mom Close

MEMORIAL DAY GFIT  / BETH DICKERSON (JIMMY'S MOM )
Close

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY  / BETH DICKERSON (JIMMY'S MOM )
Close

TO YOUR FAMILY  / Beth Dickerson (JIMMY'S MOM )
Close

Easter is proof of eternal life  / Marguerite Ward Mom To Angel Brandi (Angel Mom )

Easter is the proof we need. God said that "Whoever believeth in him will have eternal life". I know that our Angels are in Heaven and their spirit will live on forever. One day we will see them again and what a joyous day that will be. Until then may God's love surround you and bring you comfort with the memories of your precious Angel.  God Bless you always.

Love, Marguerite Ward, Mom to Angel Brandi

Close

JJ's 3rd Angelversary  / Melody ~. Angel Adam Hill (Diane's friend )
Dearest Diane & family,
  Words cannot express the love and compassion I feel for you and your loving family. I know firsthand the difficulties, hardships, and heartache you've all endured since losing your son/father, JJ, and daughter/mother, Michele. My heart goes out to each of you!
   Diane, no matter what obstacles present themselves, your faith in the Lord always gets you through to the next day. You dedicated yourself to your handsome son and beautiful daughter, and now to their precious children. You also generously give of yourself to countless moms and their angels and remember our angels every day. You have always stuck by me and I appreciate you more than you know. It has been an honor for me to get to know you and to be your close friend. Thank you for all you do and for allowing me into your life and into your heart. You're as close to a sister as anyone can get. 
Love you sooo very much my dear friend. See ya SOON!
lots of love & warms hugs,
Melody ~ Angel Adam Close

Thinking of you and your family today JJ  / Pam Johnston Colin's Mom (Angel Mom Friend )
JJ for your wonderful family who miss you so much, there is one verse that really touches me and has stayed with me since my son Colin became an Angel that I would love to share....

"...remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
Matthew 28:20.

I remember this passage daily as it helps me to get on with my day. Praying that your children, and your mom, dad, other family members are filled with a peace today and wonderful memories of you to fill their days...
HUGS Close

Mother's Day message  / Your Grieving Mom And Sons (Loved ones )
Dearest JJ,
We were busy all weekend...but not too busy to miss my beloved children. Brandon and Jamie were glad to spend some time with their Mom (she was here Saturday and Sunday).  All four of Michele's children were here too...they wanted to come for Mother's Day. On Saturday, Tommy, myself, and all six grandchildren piled into two vehicles and went to the mall. Then on Sunday....we went to church together; over to your Dad's for lunch (we took the hot dogs, hamburgers, and buns), the children enjoyed playing with Rebel, riding the tractor and dirt bike; and then we went to the cemetery to put some flowers on Michele's and your grave. Watch over your sons.... send them some hugs and kisses. We love & miss you so much. 
Love, Mom 
Close

A Great Loss  / Dan &. Betty Bryl (E-Mail Visitor )
We lost a daughter to a man dialing a cell phone. We can not imagine the pain of losing so many........ Our prayers go out to 
you all. May God grant the family strength and guidance.  Meet our
Jessica at:
www.jessicalyn.org Close

With Deepest Sympathy  / Tina Tappy
Dear Diane,

My name is Tina, and I am a member of the remember me group on the internet.  I lost my only sibling, my brother David to suicide on January 3rd, 2000.

I was looking at my email, and I happened upon your post to the group.  I am deeply sorry for your loss of both of your kids.  Your precious children that you love with all your heart.

I am now on J.J.'s memorial page.  What a very sweet person he must of been.  Your grief must be so difficult beyond words ! Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers and the rest of your family too.  I can feel all the love you have for your kids, by reading your beautiful poems......


God Bless you always,

Tina- Sister of David. Close

I am so sorry for the loss of your son.  / Kay Dill
Dear Diane,
I am so sorry for the loss of your precious son, JJ.  Thank you so much for sharing him and his family with us.  I will remember all of you in my prayers and pray that you and your family will one day find peace.
Kay, mom to Angel David Close

Happy Father's Day Son!  / Your Loving Mom (Mother)

Dearest son,
We miss you so much...Brandon, Jamie, and I went to church together today; took Tommy out to lunch at Fire Mountain; went by Ben's to show him Lynn and Sheila's website; put a special sign at the end of Collosse Road to remind others of you on Father's Day; went to the cemetery to put flowers out for you; and then took Brandon and Jamie to your Dad's to spend three days with them so I can work. Watch over all of us....our hearts ache so.
Love,
Mom

Close

((( Mother's Day )))  / Jane Speidel, Mom Of Adam Waymire (caring friend, son is angel friend )

((( Diane & J.J.)))  Holding you close to my heart Diane as you miss your handsome young son. May you find comfort in his memories and strength from the heavens above. (((HUGS)))

Children and mothers
never truly part
bound in the beating of
each other's heart.

Close

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY  / GERRY SULLIVAN (MOM TO ANGEL JEREMY )
Close

I am sorry  / Loni Wendt (Angel Mom )
JJ is such a handsome angel. Know that he is always with you, watching over you and sending you his love. God bless you. Close

April message  / Your Grieving Mom That Loves And Misses You So!

Dearest son,

We all miss you so much and I'm sorry it has been so long since I have written a message to you. I've been busy lately... Lynn's death on March 19th, Jamie's 13th birthday on March 22nd, and today (April 22nd) being Michael's 5th birthday. I think about you and Michele, every day....you will always be in my heart, mind, and soul...even if I don't have time to post a message. 

Tommy and I took the grandchildren to Youth Fishing Day this morning and then to Misty's for Michael's birthday party. I'll post more to you later....all the children are still here and I don't want them to tear the house down. LOL....

I love you son!
Love, Mom

Close