Why This Poem Matters

This poem isn't the reason we began this journey. In fact, I didn't discover Epitaph until nearly a year after Katelyn passed away. Ironically, I found it while watching an episode of NCIS. Sometimes inspiration finds us in the most unexpected places.

The moment I read it, I felt as though someone had put into words what had been in my heart all along. When Katelyn died, I knew I couldn't let my grief end with my own sorrow. I wanted to transform that grief into something that would help others—to create hope, raise awareness, support lifesaving research, and honor the incredible person Kiki was.

Believe it or not, the very first time I shared that dream was during Katelyn's eulogy. I spoke about finding a way to carry her love forward and make a difference in the lives of others. I hoped Sue, Dave, and Marisa would embrace that vision. Thankfully, they did.

Today, because of their love, support, and shared commitment, Kilos for Kiki and The Ripple Continues have become a beautiful way to give Kiki's love away.

Epitaph didn't begin this mission, but it beautifully expresses why we continue it every day.

Thank you for helping us turn love into hope and grief into purpose. Your support helps us work toward a future where fewer families experience the devastating loss that ours has endured.

With gratitude,
Sharon Kelly Fredrickson

Epitaph

When I die

Give what’s left of me away

To children

And old men that wait to die.

And if you need to cry,

Cry for your brother

Walking the street beside you.

And when you need me,

Put your arms

Around anyone

And give them

What you need to give to me.

I want to leave you something,

Something better

Than words

Or sounds.

Look for me

In the people I’ve known

Or loved,

And if you cannot give me away,

At least let me live on in your eyes

And not your mind.

You can love me most

By letting Hands touch hands,

By letting bodies touch bodies,

And by letting go

Of children

That need to be free.

Love doesn’t die,

People do.

So, when all that’s left of me Is love,

Give me away.

By Merrit Mallow