Abuelita Elisa

Abuelita Elisa, Abuelito, and Bertrand (2008)

Bertrand and Victoria's great-grandmother, Abuelita Elisa, passed away.

If anyone could be described in one word, Abuelita's would be "Optimism".  Despite a hard life, she was a perpetual ray of sunshine.  

She inspired those around her with kind words and a generous nature.  

Abuelita Elizabeth was my role model.  Even though our physical distance was great, she was never far from me in spirit.  I (try to) channel her positive attitude daily. 

When I look at Victoria, I see Abuelita's empathy and cheerfulness.

When I look at Bertrand, I see Abuelita's undefeatable spirit.  

We are beyond lucky to have had her in our lives.  

She will always live in our hearts.

Cristina, Abuelita Elisa, Belinda, and Sabrina (circa 1992?)

Sage Elizabeth Hudson (2007 - 2012)

Sage's rose is an Aimee Vibert.
It will grow up to 15' tall with spectacular white blooms.

Bertrand, Victoria and I attended darling Sage's "Celebration of Life". 

It was beautiful. 

But, I had a hard time after the service. 

I planted Sage's rose bush.

It was hard to find a spot.

Too many roses.  Each a child lost.

I did find a spot--a great one.  I always do.

It probably sounds crazy or silly or odd, 

but it's my way of remembering, loving, and caring for each child 

when they've gone.

I didn't get a chance to hug you, but I love you, Sage.
You are missed.


***********************

In the early hours of May 15, 2012, Sage Elizabeth "Chicken Butt" Hudson donned her well-earned angel wings and began her next adventure with a proud smile on her face and the wind in her hair. Sage was born on January 13, 2007 to Mark and Candace Hudson in Salt Lake City, Utah, and for five short years, she lived life to its fullest, despite the many challenges of Joubert Syndrome. With limited mobility, lack of verbal communication, and minimal vision, she was able to scoot and laugh her way into the hearts of many with a raised eyebrow and without ever saying a word. 

Always in perpetual motion, Sage used her adorable feet and ballerina toes to communicate, explore, and dance. Sage had a special relationship with music and insisted that it always be playing around her. She was an expert at sing-alongs, and had the most fun with her aunt Cindy and "Giddy Up Horsey." Sage was adored by her big sister Fay; together they would play dress up, have tea parties, and fly down hills together.

Sage and her family created precious and lasting memories by going camping, traveling to Florida on a Make-A-Wish trip, and making countless visits to aquariums, zoos, and swimming pools. Sage enjoyed having a breeze across her face, whether she was four-wheeling, going to the park, or riding in her dad's backpack while on an archery shoot. 

Throughout her hard times, Sage still gave "thumbs ups" and "high fives" freely, and she made sure her hair was as wild and unique as she strived to be. Up until her last day, Sage demanded to be in her happiest place, which was at school, learning and playing with her friends. Named "Most Determined" by her preschool class (and "Most Stubborn" by her parents), she did not want to see the school year end. She graduated posthumously on May 17, with her sister accepting her diploma on her behalf and leaving her family to sing "Itsy Bitsy Spider" with her in their hearts. She touched countless lives with her determination, exceptional cuddle abilities, and sunshine smile. She will continue to touch many more through the donation of her tissues for JS research. 

Sage is survived by her parents, Candace and Mark Hudson, and sister, Fay G. Hudson, of Bountiful, Utah; grandmother Sherry Hudson; grandfather John Parker; "Grandpa" Mikey Sonderman; aunt Cindy Hudson; aunt Jennifer Rose; uncle Jake Hudson; aunt Kristina Parker, and a large and loving extended family. She is preceded in death by her grandmother, Janet C. Parker, her uncle Fred Hudson, and her friend and red wagon compatriot, Zephyn Cook.

The family would like to thank the village that helped Sage on her journey, including her Early Intervention team, Ms. Megan Liddell's class, Dr. Sharon Schriewer, and Sage's hand-picked team from CNS hospice - Crystal, Nicole, and Sheryl. Angel's Hands (www.angelshands.org) and the entire JS family were especially instrumental in providing support, comfort, and laughter over the years. In lieu of flowers, donations can made in the name of Sage Hudson to the Joubert Syndrome Foundation (www.joubertfoundation.com). Her family will be sharing her life and indomitable spirit with a celebration in mid June. Updates on date and time will be available on www.leavittsmortuary.com