It's A Very Sad Day For Team Travis

It's not very often that I have trouble finding the words to say...

Today is one of those very rare instances.

Today my friend Nicole and her husband Roger had to say goodbye to their 16 month old son Travis.

(Travis on 4th of July at the local minor league baseball game)

Travis was born with a heart condition called HLHS.

As a parent you never ever want to out live your child.

I am angry, I am confused, I am heartbroken, and I am just... I don't know. For once in a handful of times in my life, I am speechless.

It's just not fair. He was just a happy boy. Always smiling. I will always remember his smile! It was infectious.

I am honored to say that I knew Travis DiCarlo and that he shared that happy special smile with me.

Travis, I know you are in a place where you don't have to dread anymore scary hospitals, doctor's appointments, surgeries, or nights away from your parents. Just know that you changed so many lives and were loved by many.

Tonight a group of us went to a local pizza place because we didn't know what else to do. We feel helpless but know that Nicole and Roger need to rest and be with family right now. As I looked around the room, I saw an amazing group of people that I am lucky enough to call friends. Friends who came together (within a few hours notice) in another friend's time of need. And together we hugged, cried, planned, and celebrated Travis' life.

We have decided that we are going to take care of the food for after the service, we are all making meals that we can freeze for the family so that they do not have to worry about cooking or grocery shopping.

To any of our friends or if anyone else would like to help, we could use Target, Walmart, or grocery store gift cards, or you can go directly to their blog page and donate.

So hug your loved ones extra tight tonight and be thankful that you are able to. I know I am.

(Travis and my son at our town's Christmas parade this past year)

Rest sweet boy! 

You can read his story here.