Go ahead and mention my child,
the one that died, you know.
Don’t worry about hurting me further,
the depth of my pain doesn’t show.
Don’t worry about making me cry,
I’m already crying inside.
Help me to heal by releasing,
the tears that I try to hide.
I’m hurt when you just keep silent,
pretending he didn’t exist.
I’d rather you mention my child,
knowing that he has been missed.
You asked me how I am doing,
I say “pretty good” or “fine”.
But healing is something ongoing,
I feel it will take a lifetime.
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About Tommy
On July 29, 2009, Tommy Botell was killed by a rock retaining wall that collapsed while hiking with his family at Lassen Volcanic National Forest.
Tommy's sister Katrina, was seriously injured and suffered numerous facial fractures.
Tommy was a dedicated scout, a fan of Indiana Jones, a budding adventurer and a beloved son and brother.
Tommy died in the loving arms of his mother. He was 9 years old.
This site is dedicated to his memory and keeping that memory alive.
Wow so true
For everyone else it was July 29th 2009. For my family and I it was yesterday.
Although we know after a loss the acute state of mourning will subside, we also know we remain inconsolable and will never find a substitute. No matter what may fill the gap, even if it is filled completely, it nevertheless remains something else. And actually, this is how it should be. It is the only way of perpetuating that love which we do not want to relinquish ~ Sigmund Freud
we miss you lots tommy but ur family will never forget you. They love you so much they set this page up for you tommy for ur b-day. You are always in are thoughts and hearts love you
Although I did not know Tommy I did work with his dad at Staples. I will forever remember your son because of the stories you tell, your facebook postings and all the things your family does for others in his memory. He will always be alive in the memories that you have and share.
This is so true. I think people are afraid of making you feel bad – which is just stupid because you already feel as bad as you ever could…so maybe it’s just that people are afraid of feeling bad themselves. I can’t even imagine what you go through each and every day. But I’m not afraid of your tears and I will be here to hug you and cry with you, knowing that nothing I say or do could ever make you feel better…hoping the hugs may bring you the smallest bit of comfort and the tears may bring you slightest bit of rest and knowing that God can and will bring you the greatest peace.
so True and beautiful. We will always talk about Tommy. I love all his birthday pictures! I think the 2001 one is when we met little bug -eyes!! the kids always had so much fun picking on him, and running away from him! Happy Birthday Tommy…soon they will all be with you~but for now enjoy your celebrations with God.
We will always talk about your elephants!!! Love ya!
Words can sting like anything, but silence breaks the heart ~ Phyllis McGinley