My dear, dear friend's 11-year-old son unexpectedly passed away this weekend in a tragic accident. It has been a tender and uplifting experience for our family and our church. I am honored to witness such strength of faith up close. Jori and Dwight have endured more than anyone I've ever met. And must endure this as well. They are my heroes.
Jori asked Isaac to create a website where CJ can be honored and where more info is posted. His family would like to celebrate his life by championing meaningful projects to benefit CJ's favorite things, including Boy Scouts, the Special Olympics and more. If you would like to know more about this special boy and help his family channel their tremendous grief in this positive direction with a donation to CJ's fund, please visit www.CJUdall.org. There was a press conference this afternoon, so more info will likely be on the AZ evening news tonight as well. Please spread the word. We can pull together and make a difference.
Carvel Scott Jackson Udall (CJ)
February 17, 2003 – March 15, 2014
I am so sorry for the loss you and CJ’s family has experienced. I hope you all find peace and may CJ always be looking down on you all. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Isaac put together a beautiful tribute to what appears to be a very special young man.
Thank you for your love. And so many more expressions of support on Instagram and Facebook. CJ’s family is amazing and strong. It has been a very touching and inspiring experience. It is one of those times when you realize that the english vocabulary is inadequate. I have feelings that can’t be articulated in words.
Heather, I gave a little money but the biggest thing I did was sign Skate up for swimming lessons. I know that wouldn’t have helped CJ since those canals are so swift but I’ve been meaning to do it for a long time and this is a good way to honor CJ even though we’ve never met him. My heart goes out to all who love him.
This makes my heart hurt. I am so so very sorry. 🙁
I am so sorry for the loss that you all are feeling. What a precious boy.
Thank you, Tyler. The family is feeling buoyed up by the warmth and love they are receiving from every corner of the world. Thank you for your kind words.
Thank you, Heather. It’s the least we could do. I hope we can find more ways to help them through the coming weeks and months. I can only imagine what a trial this must be.
It is a great way to honor CJ. I’m glad to hear this inspired you to get Skate signed up for those lessons.
Thank you, Maren. I’m sorry to bring everyones spirits down along with mine. I just want to honor my friend and her son the best way I can. Thank you for sharing in our grief. CJ’s family is receiving love and support from all over the web and it has great meaning for them. xo—Heather
Thank you, Valerie. I know there are hundreds reading this post and feeling the same way. Thank you for taking the time to express these kind words for us and our dear friends.
Oh my goodness. How tragic. My heart is breaking for his parents and friends. I’m so very sorry for your loss.
I read about CJ today. Thank you for sharing on your website. What an incredible way to honor CJ. I pray for peace and understanding for CJ’s family. CJ is surely with God in Heaven! There are no words that will help the family but I do believe in the power of prayer.
Thank you, Georgia. I keep things positive around here for the most part. I’m glad to hear it’s okay to work out my grief a little too without overwhelming everyone. Thanks for hanging in there with me. xo—Heather
Dearest Heather, it is so very sad to hear this news. My thoughts and prayers are for and with you and CJ’s family as you all travel the road of grief. He is my daughter’s age! My heart goes out to all of you.
Thank you for helping Dwight and Jori.
So sorry to hear this news. My heart goes out to his family and all of you that knew CJ. My prayers and thoughts go to CJ’s family and friends. Such a precious boy.