Rachel Passed Away in June 2013.  Our old grade school, Chesapeake Academy/Severn School, decided to create a pavilion and dedicate it to Rachel.  I wanted to make sure that the money we raised as a community through the Team Rachel Walk in 2011 went to good use for the community and to remember Rachel in the best way possible.

Rachel and I, our grade school friends, and Girl Scouts played daily on the schoolyard grass. We laughed and played every day. I can still hear Rachel’s laugh and see her smile when I walk into that school, especially on the playground.

I asked Severn Grade School if Natalee’s Song could assist with a Pavilion space they were naming in honor of Rachel. They said they needed landscaping, so we brought in a crew to do the extensive landscaping, and then Rachel’s Aunt Karen, Mom, Dad, and volunteers planted the smaller plants.

Rachel’s mom decorates it yearly with fairies and great ornaments for the children.  Undoubtedly, this pavilion is something Rachel would have enjoyed.

Severn School and Mr. & Mrs. Reynolds asked me to speak at the Dedication. I wanted to capture Rachel’s endless love and kindness, as well as her laughter, in the speech for those who didn’t know her. 

For those who did know Rachel, I knew they would only be able to smile and think about her!  I could barely hold back the tears, and I am sure I only got through that speech because Rachel was right by my side!

Rachel had a contagious positive attitude that you couldn’t help but be positive around here. She carried that attitude throughout her diagnosis and treatment. Ironically, after her Bone marrow transplant, her blood type became B-Positive!  So Fitting for Rachel! I miss her dearly, and I know every child who plays in this pavilion and comes to Rachel’s Cheese Day party can experience what a truly wonderful person and friend Rachel was to me and everyone she met!

On October 26, 2013, the planting for Rachel’s Pavilion began, and on October 25, 2014, the pavilion was dedicated! Thank you to the Severna Park Community and Girl Scout Troop #2446 for helping with the Team Rachel Walk and raising funds to beautify this wonderful pavilion. A pavilion in the playground area in honor of Rachel! PERFECT!  Exactly where she loved to be. They are playing and living life to its fullest. I was reading outside and enjoying my friends.

I ensured at least one butterfly bush was planted around the pavilion.  Rachel loved butterflies, and she was similar to one in many ways.  Always pretty, constantly bouncing around, sharing joy, and making a difference when present!