The Love, Life and Loss of Lyda Mae

The grief is immense…the tears are flowing….and breathing is hard. My daughter, Jessica Tisron and her partner, Daniel Hopkins (DJ) have lost their Lyda Mae. After a long consideration of whether or not to add to their family (Jess, DJ, and Lillian Marie) they announced to me on Mother’s Day that they were expecting and due November 30. Nine months of growing that little bundle and then, on Thanksgiving Day, our little “butterball turkey” decided it was time….exactly what “big sister”, Lily predicted. After two days at DeVos Children’s Hospital, Lyda Mae passed away in her mom and dad's arms. There are just no words to convey the amount of grieving we all are going through at the loss of this beautiful baby girl. It’s just too much to bear.

And now comes the reality of it all. People have asked what they can do…if anything. Yes, there is. Jess and DJ need help financially as they were not prepared for this outcome. DJ will be taking bereavement leave for an indefinite amount of time to support Jessie and Lily during this time. The monthly bills still need to be paid and the emotionally-draining funeral and medical expenses will come due. It’s hard to ask for donations but that is what will help them the most right now. Should they receive more than they need, they would like to set up some sort of memorial for sweet Lyda Mae at a later date. Your help will be greatly appreciated…no matter the amount. Prayers and good thoughts are also appreciated. Jess, DJ, and Lily need our support to navigate through this unexpected and devastating loss. Lyda Mae will be forever loved by all of us.

Thank you,

Donna Bennett (Grammy)