On August 2nd, mine and my family's lives were changed forever when we lost Sean, at 14 years of age, in an unbelievable accident. During this horrible event we were sent the right person to help, Gwen Hall-Driscoll. I can't imagine ever doing the job that Gwen does and to be able to do it with such grace and compassion. The 4 young teens involved in the accident were all from Gwen's home town area and I'm sue she knew the majority, if not all the families involved. Gwen worked with all of us that day never making us feel like she was rushed or needed to get to the next family. As emotionally disturbing as this was, Gwen was able to hold it together in order to assist us through the shock and grief.

We were told that autopsies needed to be performed. In just losing a loved one this is very disturbing to hear. Gwen hugged my sister in law and brother telling them, "this isn't what you needed to hear, but I promise you we will take good care of Sean." This meant so much just knowing that despite Sean being gone we were reassured in how Sean would be treated with what was next to come. Sean's parent's struggled in naming a funeral home. How do you choose when you know there are 3 others from the same area needing the same services? Gwen reassured them they didn't need to name a funeral home at that time. Gwen then gave my brother and sister in law her personal cell number to be able to contact her with the information and for any questions or concerns they may have.

Gwen attended Sean's wake. As she was leaving she stopped and said, "I hope you and your family's pain lessens soon." This was the most special thing anyone had said to me. People often said "my sympathy", "I'm sorry", and "God only gives us what we can handle". Gwen's words just demonstrated that she truly understood. Our pain will never be gone but we can hope that it will lessen.

Sean was an avid picture taker and had his iPod with him at the time of the accident. This is something that Sean's mom really wanted. The day after the accident all it took was one call to Gwen. She contacted the State and was able to confirm that Sean had an electronic device with him and this had been sent to the funeral home. With all the chaos going on, this answer was able to relieve one of our concerns. Gwen also offered our family help in understanding the autopsy results when they came back.

Gwen is compassionate, understanding and really put herself out there past the initial accident in an effort to help our family cope. She truly has a gift.