How Do You tell a 3-Year-Old and a 5-Year-Old That Their Mom is No Longer Coming Home?
Sara tragically lost her life on November 2nd when a suspected drunk driver hit her on her way home from work. So many who knew her as the vibrant bartender at Swordfish Grill have been reeling from this tragic event, but none more so than Leesa Holmes, Sara’s mother. Leesa is faced with the daunting task no grandmother ever wants to be thrust into, that of having to explain to Sara’s two children why mom is no longer going to be coming home to them.
How do you explain to a three and a five-year-old the very adult truth that mom will no longer be around? This is a question that Leesa asked when a mutual friend talked with her. It is a heavy burden for a mother grieving the loss of her child to have to navigate for the sake of two little hurt girls. Sara’s death is a tragedy beyond belief that was unfortunately preventable, which laces this truth with an even more bittersweet truth that these girls will, unfortunately, know as the years pass.
Leesa and the entire family will wrap arms around the girls to try and help them weather this grief as best they know how. They, along with all the community, staff where she worked, and so many others touched by her story, will never forget this bright, shining star that passed much too soon from all our lives. It is unimaginable what Leesa and those girls are going through right now, and the family needs as much help; financially, spiritually, and emotionally that we as a community can provide.
Sara’s absence is being felt by family, friends, staff where she worked, and all those who her senseless passing has touched. The driver who hit her is winding his way, hopefully through the legal system, to answer for taking this bright personality away from us in such a senseless manner. All should let this be a heartbreaking reminder of the importance of never drinking and driving. Hopefully, Sara’s legacy will be someone making a different choice about drinking and driving when they remember her.
There will be a Celebration of Life for Sara on Sunday, November 17, at the Swordfish Grill & Tiki, 4628 119th St., Cortez, FL. From the Swordfish team— Sara was absolute sunshine, carrying her bright, shining smile everywhere she went. She is missed every single day. In honor of Sara, we will be hosting a Celebration of Life at Swordfish Grill. All are welcome to come and share a memory of Sara for Charlee and Nova and her family. If you are unable to make it and would like to support Sara’s family during this difficult time, please consider donating to her GoFundMe. https://gofund.me/64a18ef0
See HERE for the Suncoast Post original story and a link to the GoFundMe account.