Lola Magazine has had the honor of bringing you the stories of countless inspirational women and families over the past six years. Here are just a few updates on some of our most heartfelt stories and inspiring women.
When thinking back on our family’s journey since losing our son, Drew, on March 12, 2014, it is really staggering to think of all the support that came our way from North Louisiana. So many different gestures of kindness and love coming from so many different people. The opportunity to share our story with the readers of LOLA was without a doubt one of the things we were most proud of and grateful for.
Since we last appeared in LOLA our family has grown with the addition of our youngest
 child, Joseph. He is such a blessing and our little girl, Emmaline, has embraced the role of big sister with gusto! They both know about their big brother in heaven and at such young ages, they have an acute awareness of how precious yet heartbreaking life can be. We tell them that the love we show to others as a family is the greatest way to carry on Drew’s legacy.
The foundation we started in Drew’s Tunes has donated over $250,000 since its inception. Thousands of instruments from tubas to maracas have been given to children and programs. We like to think Drew also lives on through the music of the children our foundation has supported. We plan to keep our mission going for years to come but are in the process of scaling back in order to be more present for Drew’s siblings. We know that’s what he would have wanted.
Our family continues to navigate a journey that no one should ever have to experience, and we are thankful we have had friends and family to steady us when we needed it most.
My core message is this life is not fair. No parent should have to bear the weight of living life without one of their children. Yet, somehow with your faith, through therapy and slow and steady movements forward you can be ok. I promise you can. Despite the heartbreak, despite never being complete, joy will find a way back into your life and your heart.
New Orleans has been my home for a long time. However, my roots and my voice if you have ever heard me utter a syllable are 100% North Louisiana. I always marveled at the kindness and generous nature of people from my necks of the woods but never truly understood how much grace and generosity existed until we lost Drew. There just are not words beautiful enough to convey my gratitude. Thank you beyond to LOLA for giving Drew’s Tunes and our family this chance to share an update.