I was recently sent a heartbreaking story from Julie Olsen, the sweet wife and mom whose story I shared just last year. When I read about the 16 year old girl who sacrificed her life in attempt to save her brother, I knew I couldn’t help but pass her heroic story on to you. I know I ask often, but donations for this sweet girl’s funeral would be such a blessing for the family.
Read Madison’s Story here.
When I hear of others drowning, it definitely pulls at my heart.
Tiffany Hebb lost her son months ago in an accidental drowning. She now hopes to bring awareness of the dangers in our own homes.
Read Ollie’s Story here.
Wow, both brought me to tears. I can't even imagine!
ReplyDeleteI went to school with Madison's mom. It's been heartwrenching to see her Facebook posts, but I'm so proud of Madison and her sacrifice. What an AMAZING sister. "Greater love hath no man than this..." We've definitely been praying for Lara and Jay and their families. So, SO hard. :(
ReplyDeleteI can't stop sobbing. I am trying so hard, but just reading of little Ollie and how my own little girl loves to help me with the laundry has me completely... broken, somehow. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteSo heartbreaking for both families. I'm glad you sent the link on Ollie's story. I sent his mother a comment on her blog a while back and she replied back but I never went back to view the blog until today. Life is so, so precious....it goes fast and then sometimes it feels like it goes so slow. I appreciate your kindness and your tender feelings for others as they go through the same kind of heartache you and your family have been and are going through. I feel so blessed to know it does not end here on earth and that our full joy on that perfect, perfect day will come some day. I MUST learn to be patient!! I waited 7 long years to adopt my son back in 1983....30 years ago. You would think I would have learned patience by now, right? I'm still learning!!
ReplyDeleteReading your blog from here in South Dakota. The story of Madison and her heroic acts are big news here, as it should be. Please also encourage your readers to donate to Lyle Eagle Tail's memorial fund as well. He was simply a passer by that jumped in a raging, icy river to help. He was just doing the right thing. He leaves behind a young child. So tragic, so sad.
ReplyDeleteAshley. Thank you so much for posting a link to make others aware Ollie's tragic death. I too have a special place in my heart for others who have lost a loved one to a drowning. Sad.
ReplyDeleteMuch love to you and your family and all the others.
Tiffany Hebb. Ollie's momma
Madison's story is so sad and touching. What a wonderful girl. I read this really interesting article on the Smithsonian website about a park dedicated to people like Madison and Lyle who commit acts of "heroic self sacrifice." Here is the link if anyone is interested - http://blogs.smithsonianmag.com/history/2012/03/on-heroic-self-sacrifice-a-london-park-devoted-to-those-most-worth-remembering/#more-5513.
ReplyDeleteHi Ashley! I was just watching some videos on youtube of ISR... Infant Swim Rescue/Resource... have you ever heard of that? I just thought you may wanna check it out. Chances are you have already heard of this awesome program.. but I thought I'd shoot you a quick note anyway. You can see it here: http://www.youtube.com/user/SterlingCarnes?feature=watch
ReplyDeleteIt just made me think about you. I was following your story when Preslee drowned and was at the funeral. I'm so glad to see how awesome you all are doing! Much love to you and your family. <3
Ashley-- I occasionally read your blog after I was living in Rigby and heard your story. I know live in South Dakota and I am in the branch where Madison and her family live. I thank you for posting her story and know that your kindness would touch their hearts. Madison was a beautiful, selfless young woman.
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