Our hearts are broken as we share the devastating loss of sweet Hazel, who would have been celebrating her 8th birthday with her twin sister, Ivy, this weekend. This past Friday, while outside with family nearby, Hazel playfully began tracking a stream of water down the sidewalk, when she was struck by a car backing out of the driveway next door.
After a courageous first response from her parents, she was life-flighted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, where an incredible trauma team fought relentlessly for two days to save her life. Though the outcome was not the miracle prayed for, those two days were softened by hope, tender moments of faith, small mercies, and divinely bestowed peace. The family is deeply grateful for the extraordinary care Hazel received and for the precious time they were given to gather together, encircle her in love, and say goodbye.
Hazel was a ray of sunshine in this world who preferred skipping to walking. She was a natural performer and joyful dancer who lit up every stage she stood on. A budding young author, she was already writing her own chapter books. She loved playing with dolls and rarely went anywhere without her trusted bunny stuffie, Hop Hop.
Hazel sought out creativity and adventure in all forms, whether it was building and decorating elaborate forts, dressing up and role playing, or crafting imaginative creations out of the recycle bin. One of her greatest delights in life was potty humor, a joy she shared wholeheartedly with sisters Ivy and Ruby and one that filled their home with endless laughter.
Even at her young age, Hazel carried a deep faith in God that shone through in the way she loved others. She was constantly surrounded by friends who were drawn to her joyful spirit, bright smile, enveloping hugs, and contagious laughter.
As her parents and sisters face unimaginable grief, we hope to surround them with practical support and care in the difficult days ahead and help ease the overwhelming financial burden this tragedy has brought. Donations will help cover funeral and medical expenses, time away from work, counseling support, and other needs as the family navigates this heartbreaking loss.
More than anything, we want to remind them that they are not carrying this burden alone. They are deeply loved and supported by family, friends, and a community holding space for them through the days ahead. Your gift of any size will mean so much to them. Please also consider sharing their story to help us reach as many helping hands as possible.
May we all take a moment to slow down, look around, and cherish the precious lives around us each day.
A final note from Hazel’s family:
If there is one thing we hope others carry forward from this tragedy, it is the importance of taking extra care around children when driving or backing out. A few extra seconds to stop, look carefully, and ensure children are visible can save a life.
For older vehicles, we also encourage the addition of backup cameras whenever possible.
Thank you for carrying Hazel with you.
** To the Dear Ones so generously giving support to the Bryants: We are Matt and Heather Longhurst, longtime close friends of Heath and Heather and their family. We have created this fundraiser on their behalf to navigate the devastating loss of their daughter, Hazel. All funds raised will go directly to Heath and Heather and will cover funeral and memorial expenses, medical bills, counseling and grief support, and helping provide financial stability for the family during this difficult season. While navigating a career transition over the last two years, Heath has been serving as a long-term substitute high school teacher. While he has promising leads for a permanent teaching position this fall, he did not have a summer role lined up before this tragedy occurred. These funds will allow them both the time and space to focus fully on caring for their family and grieving alongside them, rather than needing to immediately seek temporary employment this summer.
