Re:Thank you

Ken,

Thank you for your message, and for your own kind words about Jenny's experience at Hulbert. I don't know quite how to express what I would like to express, but I'll give it a shot. I feel very close to our program for homeschoolers, and to the children who become a part of that program. It has evolved beyond our biggest hopes of ten years ago, both in size , and in the depth of attachment people (including many of us here) feel for the community. I worry that when I use the word "community" in this fashion, outside of HOC that it sounds trite, but I do feel that we come together to create a true community three times a year.

Jenny's death deeply shocked and saddened me. I know that it's probably dumb of me to say that to you--I know that I only knew her for a couple of weeks along with several other children, and I know that I'll never grasp the full extent of what you've experienced these past months, and I hope that I don't sound insincere--but I know that we've lost a good friend and someone who I should have had the chance to know better.

Several of the children who have written to your message board will be here in two weeks for the program. Several others who knew Jenny, but who have not heard of her death will be here as well. From Kathy's account and from the message board, I think that I have enough information to help children and parents understand (as best they can) what happened. It is good to hear that your wife is recovering, and that is the first question most people here have been asking me, "How's Jenny's mom?" My wife is an occupational therapist, and I have some idea of the kind of hand/wrist therapy Sue is experiencing--I wish her well.

What I am most concerned about is that we are able, as a community, to support the other children who will be feeling the loss, probably for the first time, of a friend, and that we are able to address Jenny's death in a manner that is respectful of the wishes of you and your family.

Your message board has allowed many disparate people to come together and to share the thoughts and emotions that come with this kind of situation. It is clear to me that the opportunity for such an outlet has been very helpful to many people, myself included. If it is okay with you, I hope to do something similar during the homeschool week, an area set aside where children can write or draw or otherwise express themselves about Jenny. I would be happy to share with you the products of that space.

I also would like your thoughts on what you would like us to do, both during the program, and in general. I mentioned to Kathy that if there was some way, in accordance with your wishes, that we could more permanantly recognize Jenny's life and contribution to our community, we would be happy to do so. I don't have any concrete ideas about this yet, but I hope that if something might come into your thoughts that we could do, you will let me know.

You have probably heard this too many times, but if there is anything I, or Hulbert, can do for you, or for Chris and the rest of your family, please let us know. I feel honored to have known Jenny, and to have heard from you that Hulbert was a place where Jenny liked to be.

Sincerely,