Guest Blogger: Chloe Pestana
- Gabby
- Jan 4, 2020
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 24, 2020
Chloe Pestana is a Kailua momma of 3, kind enough to share her story with our community. Chloe's son Legend was 3 years old when he was tragically found to have an AVM (arteriovenous malformation). Chloe shares her journey & about 'choosing life' after her precious boy crossed over in December 2017. In the links below, you can experience Chloe's story captured on the soul mammas podcast.
For people or friends who don't have an apple device, you may try Spotify, Stitcher Radio, I heart Radio, Google Play and Pandora.
Chloe is a writer and this is one entry she wants to share on life after death and love after loss: I've had a challenging time focusing specifically on loosing a child. Part of me feels guilty really, because as all encompassing as it can be, there are people with far worse circumstances. I'm also constantly intrigued with spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical health that I am constantly learning and talking, writing and diving into that. Not to downplay the loss of a child in any way but in my own ways I have found that Legend is not lost, just taken new forms less visible and physical. Thats not to say I don't have hard days as we all know they are real, its just I have found a different way of viewing it. I'm learning to incorporate my experiences of death, dying and life after death into all my spiritual, emotional, mental and physical health explorations and finding it to be extremely interesting and connecting. Love and Light-- Chloe Pestana"Be a rainbow"
THE ARTWORK: The artwork displayed in this post is a an original watercolor and ink by our own Jessica Ando, MA, LMFT (jessicaando.com). Jessica supported our oldest daughter Olivia, grieving her sibling with weekly Art Therapy sessions. Jessica now plays an essential role in the programing at Let Grace In and serves on our Board of Directors. Jessica mediates Let Grace In group sharing activities, leads art therapy sessions with our parents & keiki, and is a shining light in our community though her art and bereavement work.
This incredible art piece was inspired by Legend Pestana and was auctioned off to benefit the organization, 'Shakas for Legend'. Shakas was founded in memory of Legend & shares his passion with keiki through skateboarding events, Keiki scholar programs and giving back to the youth.
Chloe’s perspective on finding new ways to view loss is incredibly moving, reminding us that even in the heaviest seasons, there is a path toward light and renewal. Just as she honors her journey by carefully putting her experiences into words, I’ve found that seeking academic editing help has been essential for me to clearly express my own complex ideas when words feel hard to find. It is heartening to see such a beautiful tribute to Legend and the strength found in choosing life.
I also read the guest blogger piece on Let Grace In, and it felt honest in talking about healing and community support. One time I was so backed up with work that I needed to do my online exam just to stay on track.
I read the guest blog post about Chloe sharing her journey and how grace helped her through big life changes, and it made me think about my own study struggles. Once during a really busy week I used Business assignment help in UK because I felt lost in my work and needed time to think clearly. That time showed me that getting support when things feel heavy can help you keep going with more calm and focus.