Community Corner
Garden Dedicated For Children Who Have Died
After seven years, the memorial garden spearheaded by a woman whose son died in an Eldersburg-area 2003 crash becomes reality
Saturday was a beautiful day for a dedication, and the J.O.S.H. Foundation took advantage of the day.
After more than seven years, Maryland’s first Angel of Hope became reality in a garden in front of the South Carroll Senior Center on Mineral Hill Road in Eldersburg.
The memorial is for children who have died and offers a peaceful setting for families to gather and remember their loved ones.
Find out what's happening in Eldersburgwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
The statue and memorial garden were spearheaded by Cindy Hughes, whose son died in 2003 at the age of 21 in an Eldersburg-area car accident, according to ExploreCarroll.com.
Hughes was the main speaker at the event Saturday. Hughes is the founder and president of the J.O.S.H. Foundation, which stands for Joining Others Seeking Healing.
Find out what's happening in Eldersburgwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
"I am sad for the reason that brings us all together, but very thankful that we now have a place to honor and remember all of our children that were taken so soon," she said. "I know we all of different stories and circumstances that led us here today but we are guided by the loving memories that forever will be with each of us,’’ said Hughes.
"We have been working to bring this memorial to our community and state for the past seven years," she added.
"It has been a long and difficult journey with many ups and downs and setbacks. I have to admit there were many times when I thought this day would never arrive, and at times, I felt like giving up, but through the love, support and generosity of family, friends, business and contractors, many of them complete strangers, this dream has become a reality,” said Hughes.
The statue, which represents hope, was developed out of the pages of Richard Paul Evans book, "The Christmas Box.’’
The first statue was placed in Salt Lake City. The word hope can be found on the angel’s right wing.
The first Angel of Hope candlelight memorial service will be held on Thursday, Dec. 6 at 7 p.m.
Plaques honor those that have died. There are 20 in place now. For more information, go to http://angelofhopemaryland.org