Camryn Helgeson Memorial Swing

A Mother's Thoughts

Yesterday...
We dreamed of how our future would be,
Of times we'd share, my child and me.
Whether joy or pain, laughter or tears,
We'd stand together throughout the years.
A promise of what life should always be, 
Of a child so dear, ever loving me.

Today...
My heart sobs with uncontrollable grief.
I search for answers, but find no relief.
The skies have darkened, no longer bright,
For my child is gone, forever from sight.
The dreams we shared never can be,
They're left to linger in my memory.

Tomorrow...
My heart will push aside this cloud
That darkens my life like a heavy shroud.
Once again I'll see the dawning light
And know my child's love still burns bright.
I'll remember the moments we both shared;
I'll remember our love and how we cared.
I'll remember my child now lives in me,
And her YESTERDAYS shall always be.

-Dr. Joanne Cacciatore

Camryn forever changed our family's lives and touched the hearts of many,  without ever speaking a word. Her beautiful smile, sweet spirit, and incredible strength spoke louder than words ever could. On February 6th, 2018, Camryn passed away surrounded by her loving family at Seattle Childrens Hospital. She was 11 years old. While her life was short, we believe that Camryn's legacy lives on. It is our heart's desire to honor Camryn's legacy by continuing to advocate for special needs children and their families.

Caring for a special needs child is a full time job and it can become incredibly isolating.  One of our hopes is to install a wheelchair swing that will allow  families a place to venture out with their children and experience one of the most basic of all childhood experiences; swinging at the park.

We are thrilled to share that we have received a generous donation of $18,000  from the Sedro-Woolley Rotary Club and have received permission from the City of Sedro-Woolley to install a Liberty wheelchair swing at Riverfront park in memory of Camryn. However, the required 'soft fall' material that goes under the swing is extremely expensive. Combined with fencing, site prep, signage, sidewalk, and miscellaneous materials, we need to raise approximately $30,000 to complete this project. If funds allow, we would love to install a sunshade, benches and possibly more  to help complete the space. With the support of our community, family and friends, we are confident we can do it! We would be honored and forever grateful if you would consider donating to our project to help make this dream a reality. 

Sincerely,

The Helgeson Family