Day 9 of 25 DAYS OF HUGGING:

Within weeks of moving her family to Western Springs, Christina became friends with Jacki Hincks, which meant Aidan Hincks became an integral part of her life. Aidan spent many a day running through our house, playing on the swing set, jumping on the trampoline, and sharing his love with everyone he touched. Actually that described Christina pretty much when Aidan was around, because she loved to play with him. Aidan was the beauty and innocence of life that Christina sought every day. No matter how rough your day, when you walked into the presence of Aidan, you were forced to smile and feel that bond between him and Christina. He glowed when he was in her presence, and she glowed when she was in his presence. Aidan LOVED Christina’s hugs. Christina became involved with Gigi’s Playhouse and their fundraising efforts through Aidan. She threw herself into helping with the annual event and you can bet she made sure we were in attendance.

Her interaction with Aidan was quintessential Christina: we are all here for a reason, and Aidan’s was to spread the love and zest for life so many of us miss every day. You can bet she let her family know that as well.

Christina lives on in Aidan, and we cherish every moment we have when he is around. When John, Donna and I look at Aidan today, we see Christina alive in him, and we are grateful to have him in our lives, right where she left him. As for Aidan, he has become an avid participant in Special Olympics, running track and playing basketball; we are certain Christina never misses one of his events!

Every night Aidan includes Christina in his evening prayers, comforted that she continues to be part of his beautiful life.

To learn more about Special Olympics Illinois, please visit: www.soill.org.

And please consider a donation to the charity at www.celebratingchristina.org/donate.

One day, one goal, one big hug at a time.