theParagon

Tragedy, written by Jodi

This morning I got a phone call I thought I would never receive.

I was on my way to work when my mom calls me “Jodi, this is a hard phone call to make.”

I’m thinking, “Wayne passed in his sleep or he’s in a comma or … “

“Your cousin Jessica died in a car accident last night.”

My cousin Jessica, 16, was driving my uncles truck with her sister and another cousin in the car - Tara, 15 and Sarah, 17. They were about 4 miles from home when the accident happened. I don’t know the details of the accident, just that there was one. Jessica didn’t suffer, but was killed. Tara and Sarah are in intensive care - Tara had surgery this morning to sew up the cuts and gashes from the accident. We don’t know the extent of Sarah’s injuries - only that it’s a head injury.

My world went upside down on Ottawa Beach Road this morning. I didn’t go into work; I went straight to my mom.

My aunt and uncle and family used to live in Michigan (now residing in California). But when they were here we got very close to their family, not as extended family, but as a whole. They even lived with us for some time while they were looking for a place to live. There are 6 kids - all of which - at times, annoyed the crap out of me, but whom I would do anything for. I considered these guys my extended siblings. Still do.

Jessica was the sweetest, most gentle spirit I knew. Her smile could brighten any day and her laughter was contagious. Like every teenager there was angst at times - but she was mature beyond her years and wise to boot. But the thing that sticks out most in my mind about Jessica is her eyes, they lit up before the smile came. They were the most beautiful shade of blue and those freckles sprinkled on her nose and cheeks. What an angel she will be.

Uncle Roger, Aunt Mona, Laura, David, Sarah, Tara, Krista, Levi, Lorelei and Nikki - I’m sorry I can’t be there with you. Aaron and I send our love and our hugs. We love you all very much.

posted on July 15, 2004 | 4:07 PM EST