I’ve known Kim Dorwart and her family for most of my life. I was good friends with her older sister, beginning in fifth grade, and I remember Kim running around the house in her footie pajamas. Years later, my brother began dating another of Kim’s sisters, and she eventually became my sister-in-law. This family is also my family.
Last Thursday, Kim’s daughter, Vanessa, was tragically killed. (See more of the story here: philly.com) No parent should ever have to deal with the loss of a child. This incident has rocked me to the core. Not only did I know and love this family, my daughter is almost the same age as Vanessa, and that adds another element of fear.
But this isn’t about me; it’s about the family getting through this horrible time. There are several ways that you can help, and I hope that you will.
- You can visit the R.I.P. Gina Gentile and Vanessa Dorwart Facebook page and offer words of encouragement to the family and friends.
- If you are in the Philadelphia area, you can attend a benefit for the family. More information can be found here: Benefit for the Gentile and Dowart Families.
- Donations to help cover funeral costs can be sent to: The Vanessa M. Dorwart Memorial Fund, c/o Beneficial Bank, 1862 Delmar Drive, Folcroft, PA 19032.
- Wired 96.5 is collecting donations and will be holding a benefit as well.
Hug your children close.



March 2nd, 2010 at 4:57 PM
I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers and sincere condolences to your friend and her family.
.-= Tara R.´s last blog ..The depths of her sorrow… =-.
March 2nd, 2010 at 5:02 PM
Thank you, Mama T.
March 4th, 2010 at 7:26 PM
I know I haven’t said much. I think I haven’t dealt with these issues well in my own life, yet. But I’m here if you need to talk.
.-= Tim´s last blog ..Mozilla Firefox vs. Google Chrome =-.
March 10th, 2010 at 12:51 PM
I am deeply sorry for your loss.
.-= Sadia´s last blog ..One formative year =-.
December 12th, 2010 at 3:42 AM
I do think that to be a incredibly good father or mother you will now have to have a really crystal clear accepting of your own offspring.
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