One year ago today...

I started to write this paragraph about 100 different ways, and about 100 different times, but the way that feels the best is by just saying that I deeply miss Megan. Words really can’t describe the feeling. I miss her smile, her smell, her soft youthful skin, her freckles, her stunning eyes, her beautiful hair. I miss her kind heart, her spirit, her spunk, her laugh. I miss the relationship that we had shared. I miss my daughter and my friend.

I have learned over the past year that there is absolutely nothing that will fill the hole in my heart, because she is not here to see, touch, smell or hear. I can still talk to her, and laugh with her, and tell her about what is going on here with Matt and Madison, but it is not the same. I feel close to her when I feel the breeze, or see God’s beauty here on Earth, because I know that she is a part of it.

We have met some wonderful people over the past year that has helped give us tools to cope with such a loss. We have such incredible support from friends and family, new and old. Megan touched so many lives and our community has come together to mourn for her and support each other.

Megan died one year ago today, at the age of 14, from a condition known as Myocarditis, which weakens the heart resulting in a Sudden Cardiac Arrest. The most common cause of Myocarditis is viral. She did not have any symptoms. She just died during a cross country race for Dana Hills High. Luckily, I was there with her, she passed away in a beautiful place, doing what she loved; just being part of a team. Megan played AYSO soccer since she was 5, became part of an incredible soccer team named Pride, then branched out and started cross country in her freshman year.

When I look at Megan’s life, I can seriously say that I have no regrets and I know that she wouldn’t either. I picture myself holding a gold box in my hands, which holds her time here on earth, and it is a beautiful box, it is just too small. Unfortunately, I don’t have more memories with her to fill it. But I am so grateful for the time we had with her, and given a choice would have taken the 14 years we had, over not having her at all.

If you are reading this, then I would imagine that you have been touched in some way by Megan’s life and Megan’s death. I hope that you have looked at your own life and determined what is important to you for your own happiness and fulfillment. Our time here is so short and unpredictable. I have become so much more appreciative of the good things in life, not material things by any means, but the beauty of the Earth, my beautiful family, the friendships that we have, our good health, and just the day to day experiences that we call “life”.

Blessings to you all-

Gail Myers

Collage by Micaela C.

Micaela C. made this wonderful collage out of some of her favorite photos of Meg. I love it!! Thanks- Gail

Run for Megan - 5k Run/Walk/Jog

Come join the fun on October 12, 2008, at Laguna Niguel Regional Park. The Megan Myers Memorial 5k, aka Run 4 Megan, will start at 11:00am or after prior race is completed.

Download the Registration Form from the sidebar and pre-register by mail or register on the day of the event!

Parking at LN Regional Park is $5. Follow the signs at the park to the Registration area.

Thanks to the South Orange County Wildcats Track Club for generously organizing this event! Also, thanks to Terry T., Tony T., and Stew G. for helping with the flyer, T-shirts and website!!! I would be lost without you.

Donations and registration should be made out to Megan Myers Memorial Fund.

Last_Year's_Photos

Map

I was lucky enough (or crazy enough) to take video of the Pride team from the 2004 - 2007 soccer season, then make a DVD which was shown at the team parties. It is probably the least professional job there is, but to the Pride players and fans, it gave us some great memories. I uploaded it to Google, but the quality is not great. Hopefully, I can figure out how to improve upon it, but in the meantime, enjoy. Megan is #6 in white or blue. The 2006 - 2007 video is on the sidebar. It is about 17 minutes. If you are not a big soccer fan, skip to the last 4 minutes to see the Pride players grow up!

The IPod Story

On Monday 9/24/2007, after a long day at school and cross country practice, Megan got in my car, and reminded me that we were going to get her long overdue birthday present, an IPod. She had even marked it on her infamous white board calendar - check out the photo. She already had an IPod Mini, but wanted to upgrade. As she was downloading new music that night, she told me that she wanted to give her old one to Madison for Christmas. I told her that it would be a good idea to hide it, so that Madison wouldn't ask for it when she saw it. On Tuesday 9/25/2007, Megan told me that she had hidden her old IPod. I never thought to ask her where she hid it. Who knew? The next day was Wednesday, 9/26/2007.

I started looking for the IPod in Megs room before Christmas, since I really, really wanted to give it to Madison. It was loaded with great songs that Megan had accumulated and I know that Megan wanted her to have it. I didn't find it. I was sure that she would have just slipped it on a shelf, out of Madison's view. I respectfully went through her things, hoping to find the IPod stashed in a pocket of her hanging clothes, in a box, in a drawer, under her mattress. Anywhere! I ended up telling Madison the story before Christmas, and she was okay with it. Matt, Madison and I have looked, and continue to look for it. To this day, we can't find where Megan hid it. Sometimes, when I get an idea where it might be, I'll search that area and picture Megan just cracking up while watching me!

But don't feel sorry for Madison. She wised up and asked for Megan's NEW IPod. I told her that we have to wait until 9/26/08, then I will give up the search. I have this feeling that Madison is hoping that we don't find the old one now!!!

This year, the Megan Myers Memorial Scholarship was presented to Mohammed Hindiyeh (left), Kylie Hunsaker (not shown), and Jenny Norris (right). Congratulations to you all. We hope that you will carry a little bit of Megan's spirit in your hearts as you continue on your journey!!!

Information

Matt & Madison were in their cousin Chris' wedding last weekend in Washington. Matt was the usher and Madison was the flower girl. The wedding was planned over a year ago, and Megs was asked to be a bridesmaid. In honor of Megan, Chris and his beautiful bride Andrea, gave Megans bouquet to Madison to carry in her basket while she threw the rose petals! We knew that Megs was there with us on that beautiful day!!!

The Sunflower

In Spring 2007, Megan planted some sunflower seeds in her garden which was at the far corner of our yard near the park. None of the seeds sprouted so we forgot about them. This year, in our new garden which we dedicated to Megan, (and is completely across the yard from Megan's garden) a sprout appeared. At first I thought that it was a weed but I let it stay since it looked pretty hardy and I wanted to see what it would become. After weeks of watching this sprout turn into a large stalk, it dawned on me that it was a sunflower!!! The even crazier part is that once it bloomed, the bright orange/yellow flower was "looking" directly at our special rose garden, and shading some lavendar plants which were from her Aunts and Grandma! I know that the Megs had something to do with that, if for no other reason, than to put a smile on our faces!

Megan's Pride

Here's Megan #6 discussing strategy with her Pride teammates. (Okay they were probably talking about going to Baskin Robbins after the game) Photo was taken on Sept. 23, 2007. I am so happy that Andy Taylor decided to try out his trick new camera at the Pride games!!

The team has since been renamed Megan's Pride!!

Click on the link for more game photos, as well as photos from the end of the year party on June 13, 2008.

Pridephotos

Megster and Cross Country pals

If you have photos of Megan, new or old, please send them to me via e-mail to gailmy@cox.net. I would love to see them!

Thanks- Gail

Funphotos

11thBirthday

Matt & Megan

When I started to revise the look of the website, I thought that maybe it was time to add the dates of Megans birth, as well as the date that she left us. I really never wanted to do that since somehow it makes this nightmare more real. I really didn't want her to have an end date. The thought is unimagineable, but as time goes on and I can't touch her or hug her, I know that somehow this is reality.

Right after I posted the dates, I received a poem from a friend, via e-mail. I rarely forward e-mails, and I usually don't get much out of them except a quick chuckle while working away at the computer. This one really stuck with me, especially the timing of it. So check out The Dash Poem (on the sidebar) and when you think about Megan's dates, don't focus on the end date, focus on the dash!

Check out the blogsite's new look!! I hope that you like it. Actually, it might change at any time since I am so new to formatting, uploading, downloading, etc., and I could possibly figure out a way to make it even better!!

Here are some photos of Megan with friends and family. We have so many boxes of photos, none of which are organized. So I decided to tackle a box today and these are a few of my favorite pictures.

The photo above was taken near the end of 8th grade by Karen, one of Megan's friends. Megan's friends gave me a wonderful signed poster for Megan's birthday with all sorts of pictures of Megan. Karen also gave me the digital photos and I will use more on this site soon!
Photos_of_Megan_with_family_and_friends!

This is a link to the tribute video which was presented at Megan's memorial service. I hope you enjoy it.

Megan's_Video

Happy Birthday, Megan!

It's Megan's birthday on Sunday March 30th!! Megs always looked forward to her birthday parties, just hanging out with friends, having scavenger hunts, etc. There were even a couple of years when Matt's band (with Matt G. & Scott) played at the party!! Loads of fun.

Megan had an assignment in 8th grade to put together a book which was titled All About Megan. I found and read the book after she passed away. It is a treasure. On the front cover she glued the following saying:

"YOU MUST BE THE CHANGE YOU WISH
TO SEE IN THE WORLD" Mahatma Gandhi

I have thought so much about this saying since I found it in her book. It is a beautiful statement and I am happy that it touched her. All of our lives have changed so much since Megan died. I know that parents hug their kids more, and I know that kids hug their parents more as well. It has opened up alot of dialogue in families and has made them closer. We know what is important in life. We cherish the good times and get through the not-so-good times. Through it all, we miss Megan more than words can ever explain.

Happy Birthday, Meg! We love you!! Mom, Dad, Matt & Madison

Here are some photos from Sunday's get together at Megan's Grove!
Birthdayphotos

Photos

After the longest, darkest, coldest winter on record (at the Myers house anyway), signs of Spring are in the air. There is new growth everywhere we turn. The weather is warmer. The trees in Megan’s Grove at LN Regional Park are starting to get their leaves!
It was 6 months ago today that Megan died unexpectantly. I still can’t believe it. Our life is now so different without Megan. Today I want to spend my time thinking about Megs (like I do every other day), but I also want to think about all the things that I am so grateful for! (Check out the photo for two examples of what I am grateful for!!!!) I encourage you to do the same! Gail

Vote Postponed Until April Board Meeting!

One of the Board Members had to leave early due to health reasons, so the issue could not be voted on tonight! The good news is that the Board Members and Superintendent Carter had positive things to say about the plan, so I am sure that it will pass next month!!!

I want to thank everyone who e-mailed the Board Members with your input! I am happy that they know that the community is very supportive of this plan!!

The next meeting will be in April, and I will update this site with the outcome of the vote!!!

http://www.ocregister.com/news/schools-high-devices-1994999-school-aeds

free website hit counters

AED'S (Automated External Defibrillators) at CUSD Schools!

On March 10, 2008, the Capistrano Unified School Board will vote on implementing a plan which will allow our schools to have AED'S on campus and sporting events! Each school will decide for themselves if they want the devices, and will need to raise their own funds to obtain the AED's. The Myers family fully endorses this plan to protect our kids and are asking for your help! It is a terrific first step!! We don't know if an AED would have helped Megan, but we would have liked to try!! Please e-mail HWheeler@capousd.org , who is the Manager of Board Operations, and let her know that you support the use of AED's at CUSD schools!! She will make sure that the Board Members receive each e-mail! Below is a website which gives more information on AED's.

http://www.nwnc-redcross.org/AEDs.htm

Please e-mail me at gailmy@cox.net if you have any questions or comments! Thank you for your support!!!

Gail

Click on the links below to learn more about AED's!!

http://www.kxmb.com/video.asp?ArticleId=195841&VideoId=16588

http://www.khou.com/news/local/houstonmetro/stories/khou071031_ac_defibaed.1c53b9536.html

Photos of Megan

This is Megan's freshman school photo, taken in

September 2007.

I found some photos of Megan over the weekend in her room. My scanning ability is not great, but I hope you enjoy the photos anyway!!

Photos

Happy Birthday Madison!!

Madison's birthday was a complete success. The Birthday Fairies (aka Megan's Pride soccer team) visited the night before, while Madison slept, and decorated both the inside and outside of the house. Madison was completely surprised when she woke up in the morning to find balloons, streamers, a River of Love made with chalk in the street, and lots of Happy Birthday decorations!!! She had a birthday party with a few of her friends from school, as well as the Pride soccer team! The day was spent playing soccer, competing in a Gingerbread House decorating contest, and just hanging out!! Check out the photos of the fun!
Photos

Thank You Farmers Insurance!

Thank you to the Farmers Insurance Exchange Club and Megan's Aunt Janet for their fundraising efforts and the generous donation totaling $793.00 to the Megan Myers Memorial Foundation. You are all awesome!

Megan's Grove

We are planning on having the dedication to Megan's Grove when the weather gets a little warmer. Our plan is to have an afternoon BBQ and dedication, but it has been a little chilly lately!! I know that many of you have been there, and I thank you for the flowers, and decorations!! I love to spend time there, walk around the lake while Madison rides her bike, and just enjoy the peaceful setting!!

Megan's Pride at the Myers House!!

It was so much fun to see Megan's Pride Soccer Team and parents at our house last Friday night!! Theresa (team mom extraordinaire) organized the fun, and John sang a beautiful song which he wrote titled "Megan's Grove". The night was an emotional roller-coaster for us all, while we watched the tribute DVD to Megan, as well as a few Pride soccer DVD's. We were so happy to be in the company of good friends, and Madison was thrilled to see the girls!!!
Photos

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Dear Family & Friends-

Thank you so much for all of your love and support over the past few months. Our hearts are broken, but your amazing outpouring of comfort and friendship is helping us during this incredibly tough time. We miss Megan more than words can describe. The world has lost an incredible daughter, sister, and friend.

The Myers family extends the warmest wishes to you this holiday season.

With love-
Gail, Jeff, Matt & Madison

Thank you to the Dana Hills Cross Country team for naming Megan the Fresh/Soph 2007 "Most Inspirational" athlete !!

More Photos

Congratulations to Serena Lomonico and Anthony Lacambra for receiving the 1st Annual Megan Myers Award for outstanding character, incredible athleticism, and awesome academic achievement!!!

Your passion and commitment to Dana Hills High and the Cross Country team is truly inspirational!!!

Megan's Grove

Link to Pictures

Megan's Grove is located at Laguna Niguel Regional Park. The date for the Dedication Ceremony will be announced with in a few weeks. Please check back often.

Thank you to our family friend and landscape architect, Bret Carmen, for designing Megan's Grove. It is a beautiful, peaceful setting!!!

Thank you to Valley Crest Landscape Development for donating the labor and materials necessary to make Megan's Grove come to life!!!


For information on Cardiac Screening please visit HeartFelt Cardiac Project Link

5k Memorial Run/Walk

Sunday October 14, 2007
Laguna Niguel Regional Park
The Wildcats Track Club added a 5K “Run for Megan” run/jog/walk. The cost will be $20 per entry and all proceeds will be donated to the Megan Myers Memorial scholarship fund.

Click Here For More Details

Celebrating Megan Video

This is a five minute preview to view the full twenty-eight minute clip you will need to download it through the VEHO Player we will post a Quicktime, and WMV version soon.

DOWNLOAD iPOD VERSION

Songs From Megan's Tribute Video

Below are all the songs in the tribute video plus a couple that nearly made the final edit. Drops of Juipter by Train is Megan's favorite song, and several others are on her iPod.

VIEW SLIDE SHOW OF MEGAN

Memorial Service

Wedensday, October 3rd - 4:00pm

Coast Hills Community Church

5 Pursuit

Aliso Viejo, CA 92656

(949) 367-0079

OCCF/Megan Myers Fund

In lieu of flowers please donate to the:

OCCF/MEGAN MYERS MEMORIAL FUND
c/o Orange County Community Foundation
30 Corporate Park, Suite 410
Irvine, CA 92606

For credit card contributions
call (949) 553-4202