In an attempt to preserve the cherished memories and accomplishments of Charlie, I have put together this web site for all to enjoy. I must admit, it has been a bittersweet endeavor. It was very difficult for me to look through the stacks of pictures and newspaper articles, and see Charlie's smiling face looking back at me in every picture I picked up. I can't help but think Charlie was guiding me and giving me the inspiration I needed to assure his legacy. The loss of Charlie has been a deep, painful and agonizing experience. Charlie was 7 years old when I met him, I always looked at him as one of my own, but my pain can never compare to the pain and loss his parents are feeling. I pray for Charles and Gayle and every family out there that has lost a loved one, of any age, that someday they find peace and assurance in knowing that our loved ones are in God's hands now and we must be accepting of his plan. I heard something a few years back that began to have meaning after Charlie died, "remember me with laughter or don't remember me at all." I think Charlie would want us to remember his smile and laughter foremost, and then I think racing would be next in line. Love To All, Karen Bradberry "Grief is not a sign of weakness, |
October 7, 2008 marks our 2nd year without Charlie. The family is doing well, but the tears never stop rolling down our cheeks. Not only do we long for our family to be whole again, we long for any part of it to return to normal. Seems as though...every aspect of "life as we knew it" has changed, and it's very difficult to accept. Although, I believe we are regaining our strength, there are obstacles and circumstances that tend to push us backwards (two steps forward...three steps back) on a daily basis. I see improvements on some days and setbacks galore on other days, but I will never give up hope that someday the torment will leave us and we can be at peace. Our family is strong, but not invincible. We grieve, but share laughs often. We don't think we can stand another day like yesterday, yet we do. |
          
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The songs I chose for this page were inspired by Charlie. Whenever we would get together on Holidays, Charlie would always beg Gayle to play a song on the piano, he loved to hear her play. Of course, with Charlie, the faster she played the better. Although, I felt a softer tone would be more appropriate for this page, I did "kick it up a notch" to include something with a little more spirit. |
| SPECIAL THANKS TO: The wonderful people who graciously allowed me to use their photographs for this web site: Buster Walker Grady Thornton High Sierra Photography Jennifer Martin Jeff Sandt |
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Please email questions or comments to karen@charliebradberry.com |