Birthdays have always been a huge celebration for Casey. Each year as we would celebrate one more year, it was a huge victory for all of us. We knew from the very beginning that we would eventually run out of earthly birthdays, and that every day (not just birthdays) was a gift. I think knowing this helped us to be that much more thankful and joyous with each celebration.
We got so close to 10, so close! We had already bought Casey an outfit for her party, made arrangements for her cake, started ordering decorations, and we were just working on final details for her Daddy-Daughter Sock Hop. We were all very excited about the big 1-0. Casey’s body had other plans though, so instead, this will be her first birthday in heaven. I’m sure she will celebrate just as big (or bigger) there as she ever did here.
There are family and friends across the globe that follow Casey’s story. We have been so humbled by all of the people that have reached out to tell us how they too were touched by our amazing little girl. I don’t think we will ever really know just how far her spirit spread. Sadly, many of these people were not able to join us for her beautiful memorial service.
We have come up with a way that everyone can participate in helping her celebrate her 10th birthday- or first birthday in heaven. We invite everyone to take photos or videos of themselves (alone or in a group) releasing pink and/or purple balloons. Casey always loved balloons, and all things pink and purple. We plan to have everyone release them together at 12PM CST on her birthday- Saturday, April 23rd.
After you release the balloons, please post your photos or videos directly on Casey’s Facebook page, our event page, or you may email them to us at info@caseybarnes.org. We will collect all of these photos and videos and compile them into one video, add some of Casey’s favorite music and share the video here.
Please, help us wish our little angle a very special 10th birthday. Thank you, and thank you all for your continued to support.