~Our Beautiful Daughter, beloved, sister, grandchild and friend
January 12, 1990 - June 15, 2007
I miss your fun-loving, vivacious personality and most of all your hugs and words, "I love you, mom."
To read about Brianna's fight for her life, you'll find her story 
I was honored to have an article and art published about how my precious 17-year-old daughter fought for her life and died a hero in my eyes. You'll find it in the Melange section, page 50, in 
"Nothing could stop you.
Not the best day. Not the quiet. Not the ocean rocking.
You went on with your dying."
~ Mark Strand
Brianna Lauren Grant, Jan. 12, 1990 - June 15, 2007
Brianna and some of her artwork, a self portrait below.
Tahoe at Christmas in Dec. 2006, our last family photo together.
I think about you everyday. It has been two years, yet your death feels like yesterday. It is not possible that this could have happened to our family, and yet it is our reality. I miss you with all my heart and soul. Your whole family does. Although you are on a different plane, we still feel your love. As I'm sure you feel ours, for it surrounds you daily. I am so thankful you were in my life, even for such a short time....Mom
Iva, I'm thinking of you today, and of your talented, beautiful, brave girl, who touched so many lives. Brianna's spirit lives on in her example of love and courage, and we're all blessed to have known her, even just a little, through your writing.
Hugs,
~ Carolee
Posted by: carolee | June 15, 2009 at 11:37 AM
I still carry her spirit with me Iva. No one has ever touched me so deeply and so well. Blessed Be....Pam
Posted by: Pam Gracia | June 15, 2009 at 01:06 PM
Dear Sweet Iva..
Im holding you in my heart..with tons of hugs and prayers for you and your family on this day...
She'll never be forgotten..
xoxxoxox
big hugs..
sam
Posted by: sandy | June 15, 2009 at 01:09 PM
Iva, You have been on my mind all day long. Could it possibly have been two years already?
Brianna touched all of our lives in a way that cannot be explained. I am thankful that we were allowed to be a part of her life, even if only for a short while.
Sending hugs and love your way.. thinking of you always.
Love,
Kitty
Posted by: Kitty | June 15, 2009 at 01:57 PM
Iva, I met you at Silver Bella in 2007, sat with you, Lonnie and Colleen in one of the workshops. At the time I didn't realize you had lost Brianna that summer! I have to say for the incredible loss you had endured you were gracious, kind and humble! I imagine Brianna had those attributes also... Thinking of you and how lucky you are to have such a beautiful guardian angel!
Posted by: Julie B. | June 15, 2009 at 03:10 PM
I am thinking of Brianna everyday. Not only Brianna, but you and your family are always in my mind.
Posted by: Chelsea | June 15, 2009 at 05:18 PM
Iva, Brianna's light will never fade. Hugs, Pam
Posted by: Pamela | June 15, 2009 at 07:07 PM
I'm so sorry. No parent should have to bear that loss. Just the thought of it brings pain. She'll be in my heart and prayer tonight as will you.
Posted by: Kim V | June 15, 2009 at 08:16 PM
Iva....I cannot imagine the quiet strength you have everyday to carry on. In everything you do I envision a silent partner right there next to you. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Posted by: susan bartolucci | June 16, 2009 at 12:04 AM
-Iva what a great photo of Brianna with her art creations!--and a Most special family photo in the snow! ah...you are a super rock. thinking of you.~connie
Posted by: connie | June 16, 2009 at 04:53 PM
Iva, I cannot fathom the courage and strength it must take to endure and accept such a loss. Beautiful photographs and a beautiful family. She absolutely shines in the pictures, reminding me of my daughters, too, and reminding me not to take a second in the day for granted. My heart goes out to you all~
Brandi
Posted by: brandi | June 18, 2009 at 06:40 AM
Iva, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Just know, that even after time has passed, Brianna touches people who never met her. Her spirit will shine forever in our hearts!
Daniela
Posted by: Daniela | June 19, 2009 at 08:13 AM
Iva, It was just about this time two years ago that I first found your blog - it happened to be the post of Brianna's passing. Your beautiful daughter and family are in my thoughts. A big hug- Leticia
Posted by: Leticia | June 19, 2009 at 08:43 AM
Iva, as a new friend please let me express my deep sympathy for your family.
I can see from the beautiful photos what a shining light Brianna was in your life. My heart breaks for you.
*hugs*
Cat
Posted by: Cat Mallard | July 07, 2009 at 06:40 PM
Iva,
I just thought about you and your beautiful Brianna today. Prayed for you too. I can't believe it was two years ago (+) already, I can imagine it feels like yesterday to you and your family.
Lidy
Posted by: frenchgardenhouse | July 25, 2009 at 04:41 PM