In October 2020, I suddenly and tragically lost my 6 year old son Gabriel in a car accident at the hands of my ex-husband drinking and driving recklessly. By the grace of God, my two other children survived the accident, however my ex-husband and an innocent young woman in another car, both lost their lives as well. My surviving children and I were immediately navigating the heavy, unfamiliar world of grief. Thankfully through faith in Jesus, therapy, and a great support group, we have been able heal and rebuild our new life one day at a time. However, in the days, weeks, and months following the accident, I struggled to find the resources that my children desperately needed and realized that there was a huge lack in the available support for school aged children. Not only was there was no insurance covered therapy available for children under the age of 13, but I realized how few resources existed for grieving children — especially ones that met them gently, practically, and with faith at the center. That realization planted the seed for Gabriel’s Gifts

I have always had a heart for the lost, the broken, and those who simply need a little extra empathy. From a young age, I dreamed of working with a faith-based nonprofit — never imagining that my own story of deep personal loss would one day lead me to create one.

Through thoughtfully curated care packages, my hope is that every child or teen who receives a Gabriel’s Gift feels seen, supported, and comforted. Grief is something they’ll carry forever, but it doesn’t have to define them. This loss isn’t the end of their story.

Gabriel’s Gifts is not only a mission — it’s deeply personal. It’s a way to keep Gabriel’s memory alive and to honor his short but joyful life. Gabriel loved people, made friends everywhere he went, and thought presents were the best thing in the world. Now, through this nonprofit, his legacy lives on in these ‘presents’ — in the form of comfort, care, and connection for grieving kids and teens.

I hope each package reminds a hurting heart that they matter, their feelings are valid, and they are never alone.