On Sept. 8th, 2025, someone accidentally or willfully destroyed my daughter Mariah's memorial bench at the TCF Children's Memorial Garden in Elmer Thomas Park. The original bench was donated in memory of Mariah by her employers at Ken's Pharmacy, Ken Hawkins, and Alece Newell, and that was greatly appreciated by Dan, Danny, and me.

On May 6, 2012, we dedicated the Memorial Garden. Many hours of fundraising and work went into the garden, and it continues to require a lot of upkeep. It is a labor of love by the members of the Lawton-Ft. Sill Chapter of The Compassionate Friends, and we would like to see it completed again. I am planning on replacing the bench. Many of our friends and family suggested helping financially with the replacement. I have found the same bench and with shipping, it will come to $800.00, so if you would like to help, here is your chance. Any small amount will help.