On June 23, 2004, our lives changed forever. Our daughter and son-in-law’s lives changed forever. Everyone in our family’s lives changed in an instant when our 7 and 1/2-year-old grandson, Tanner Jeans, died in a tragic bike accident. For someone so precious to us, it is impossible to describe the pain that goes along with an experience like this – sometimes unbearable – but we’re taking steps forward to work our way through this devastation. The healing process has begun.

But since the accident something very beautiful has occurred in this Snoqualmie neighborhood. It seems every single person has come forward to help out in some way to assist our families through this nightmare.

Starting with the candlelight vigil, there has been nothing but kindness, helpfulness and prayers pouring out through your small community. Everyone has been unbelievable and the help has still not stopped. Flowers, meals, trees/shrubs for Tanner’s garden, grocery shopping, yardwork, babysitting, errands – you name it and it was done.

Brian and Christen’s friends helped with the planning of the funeral and memorial for Tanner, and it was beautiful. Their friends spent a couple months planning for the benefit auction/dance and golf tournament held over the weekend to raise funds for a park in Tanner’s name and a scholarship fund. Both events were very successful and a lot of fun for everyone. The weather even cooperated for the golf tournament!

We have a new life ahead of us. It will never be the same as our old one, but there is no doubt it will be a good one because of the help we’ve gotten from the extraordinary people in this wonderful Snoqualmie community. It’s a beautiful thing. Thank you everyone.

A special “thank you” to Tanner’s friends for including Hayden (Tanner’s little brother) in play dates and special events. It really means a lot to him. Tanner would be proud.

Vic and Carrie Unick (Tanner and Hayden’s grandma and grandpa) and Aunt MacKenzie

Ferndale, Wash.