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Dear Dr. Stefanacci,
This is Miss Dunn, Nick's 7th grade teacher. The reason I am writing to you today is because during the last week of school my homeroom wanted to write you some letters and send you some of their Richard stories. I really was not too sure how to get these letters and stories to you so I decided I would email what the students wrote. If you would like me to send you the handwritten letters from the students then I will certainly be glad to send you the originals, just let me know. Also my homeroom decided to take up a collection and make a donation to Go For The Goal Foundation. I hope you enjoy the letters.
Yours truly,
Miss Dunn
Dear Stefanacci's,
The St. Peter School family has heard about your loss. Personally I've never met Richard, but from what I've heard he was a joy, a bright spot in everyone's life. I am only one person, and I cannot do much, but I am doing everything I can. I am continually praying for your family. I hope you are comforted by the fact that Richard is OK now. Here's a verse that may help you: "For if we believe that Jesus died and rose, so too will God, through Jesus, bring with Him those who have fallen asleep. Thus we shall always be with the Lord" (1 Thess 4:14-17)
Love, Kristin Curley
Dear Stefanacci Family,
I can remember last year when I went 0 - 17 in my wrestling season, and I felt really upset. When I told Richard about it he made me feel better by saying that I would be his little wrestling champ.
Sincerely, Joe Flemming
Dear Stefanacci Family,
I am so sorry to hear about Richard. He was such a great kid! I heard so many stories about him from Nick and Sister Rose and they always made me laugh even if it was the hundredth time I heard it. Your son was so brave to have battled cancer for a year. I know I couldn't have done it. I just wanted to tell you we have always prayed for Richard and your family and we always will! God Bless you all!
Sincerely, Haley McDermott
Dear Stefanacci Family,
I remember the good times with Richard. Richard and I have had so many good times, but the one time that was really funny is this one. Richard and I both played trumpet and we were walking back to our classrooms. We were talking and I was going to the door when Richard said "open the door and I'll walk into it to get Miss Matela mad." I opened the door and he walked into it and the whole room started laughing and Miss Matela got mad. Richard was a funny kid and a good friend. I will miss him but I'm going to remember all the good times. I'm sorry for your loss and I love Richard and the family.
Love, Stephen Petrucelli
Dear Stefanacci Family,
I would like to tell you that I am very sorry about your son and brother Richard. During this difficult time of yours it is important to remember the funny things that Richard would do and talk about. His favorite thing to do, which I thought was funny, was when he sang the peanut butter and jelly time song. I could not stop laughing for days. I hope this will cheer you up in you time of sorrow. I think your family is all feeling sad at this time but I hope with the help of your friends we can make you feel a little bit better.
Sincerely, Kevin Melia
I did not know Richard personally but I remember one little moment I had with him. I remember when I was walking around Merchantville with my friend Brianna and i saw Richard at his house with some people. I said "hi Richard!" and he said nothing. All he did was go inside and went to the window and gave me and Brianna a great big smile. That made me feel great that I actually got to see him. One thing I loved about Richard was his hair! he didn't have hair close to Nick's, which I thought was funny. Oh, and another thing I remember about Richard was that Sister Rose told me stories but one I will never forget is the story always about when Richard was like in St Petes. He pulled pranks. He was the class clown (words of Sister Rose). he will always be remembered. I am praying for you and your family in your time of need. Be strong! and Go for the Goal!
Your friend, Brittany O'Brien
Memories of Richard
There are many memories of Richard. I remember when I was at the Cascetti's when Richard was playing football the day before his surgery. I just remember Mrs. Cascetti saying "Don't get hurt or your parents would kill me!" I also remember when Richard was at the Cascetti's playing bubble hockey with Nicky and he was playing 2 on 1 and he was the 1 and he beat them. I always with I could have Richard's courage and especially his hair because he had lots and lots of courage and his hair was just so cool. There is one more thing I want to That Richard had his FIGHT FIGHT!
Yours truly, Joe Radetich
P.S. - We all have you in our prayers!
Dear Stefanacci Family,
i am so sorry to hear about your loss. I wish I had the pleasure of meeting Richard. From what both Nick and Sister Rose said about him, I am sure he was an amazing kid. I know exactly what your going through and so does everyone else in the St. Peter School community. So if you need anything at all we are all here to help.
Sincerely, Rachel Hassett
Dear Stefanacci's,
We have all heard about your loss. Unfortunately I didn't get to know let alone ever speak to Richard, but that stories that I have heard about him are uncountable. They tell about all the tricks he pulled while he was here at St. Petes. Some of which I won't mention. And the thing I loved about Richard was his gorgeous hair. Nick and him both have amazing hair. Who knows maybe even some day Chris could have it too. As you all know everyone was praying for Richard and finding any way possible to help him in his time of need. But even though it may not seem like it, our prayers have been answered. Richard has been sent out of the state of pain and into a more calm, peaceful environment. "For if we believe that Jesus died and rose, so too will God, through Jesus, bring with Him those who have fallen asleep. Thus we shall always be with the Lord" (1 Thess 4:14-17)
Sincerely, Kelsie Imaduddin
Memories of Richard
I remember a few years ago when I was in SPS band. There was a spring concert and I played the bells and Richard played the drums. I remember during one of the songs we performed Richard was purposely making mistakes. That band director, Mr. Millstein, got very angry because Richard was distracting everyone and making them giggle. I really liked Richard. I didn't know him as well as others, but every once in a while we said hello to each other in the school hallway. I will admit he was really cute and I loved his hair and his perfect tan. I will continue to pray for him and your family and friends and I will pray to him for help and strength. May God bless him!
Jessica Hoffman
We very much appreciate these thoughts and look forward to getting and posting more of them.
Richard's Celebratory Mass was held on Friday June 15th at 11:00am
St. Peters Church 51 West Maple Avenue Merchantville, NJ 08109
Date: December 26, 2008
Name: Saira
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City: Vineland
State: nj
Country: usa
Comments: I diagnosed with B-cell non hogkins lymphoma in March of 2008. I really liked the ipod shuffle in the gift bag you guys handed out that was awesome.
Date: November 4, 2007
Name: Izzy Sussman
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City: Moorestown
State: NJ
Country: USA
Comments: We miss Richard soo much! We all know that it is hard going through this scary yet interesting thing called life. My amily and I all send our love and prayers. We all miss Richard but that he is in a better place now. I will bet you right now and every day that he is looking down from up above and seeing how happy you are. I think we all need to be strong and just hope for the best! I will see you soon :)! Send Morgan and your family All my love! Love, Izzy Sussman (your cousin)
Date: October 29, 2007
Name: Arleen Casianos
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City: Chesapeake
State: Virgnia
Country: USA
Comments: Friend of Gina and John, my thoughts and prayers are with your family. I am deeply saddened by Richard’s passing.
Date: October 20, 2007
Name: Tim Foy
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City: Jersey City
State: nj
Country: Hudson
Comments: FRIEND OF MARK AND DONNA STEFANICI , MY PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU
Date: October 11, 2007
Name: Kathryn Ficca aka beans
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City: USR
State: NJ
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Date: September 20, 2007
Name: Jordan
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Date: September 15, 2007
Name: kardasl
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Comments: download free ringtone download free ringtone cellular phone free ringtones download free motorola ringtone download free nokia ringtone free alltel motorola ringtone free cingular ringtones free cingular music ringtone free cingular ringtone usa
Date: August 18, 2007
Name: sean smith
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City: sea isle
State: nj
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Comments: today i was at the brendan borek surf competition where i had seen the stefannacis, I was happy to see morgan and chris go out into the circle and friends, i am only sad that they had not known of the contest til after richard had passed, i think he really would have enjoyed being there. I did really feel like he was there though because today had the best weather and some of the biggest waves i had ever seen in new jersey, and i think richard may hav had some part in that
Date: August 14, 2007
Name: MUGU
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City: LOME
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Comments: I LOVE THIS SITE IS NACY THANKS
Date: August 7, 2007
Name: dan gagnon
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City: philly
State: pa
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Comments: being richards tennis instructor i found it interesting about a month ago a butterfly was flying around me on the outside tennis courts it kept flyin right up to me then it would turn around and start again i guess richard was checkin up on me or asking me to play a liitle tennis he is still my favorite tennis lesson and also still my friend he made my work lots of fun every friday now im lucky enough to have chris as a student i feel blessed to be involved with such a great family see everyone at the us open in 2017 where chris will make his debut in the pro tennis world dtm
Date: July 29, 2007
Name: Andrew and Elyse
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Comments: Richard, Beth We finally hung out on south street to see Ischkabibbles, one of Richard’s favorite spots. I spoke to John who desperately wants a memory band even though I offered mine, he asked for him to have his own. The picture is so prominent and in my talking many of the customers were listening to Richard’s story. I ordered two of his favorites, and went home with cheesteaks, french fries, cheese sauce and a Snapple Lemon Ice Tea. This morning I was reading something of Jewish faith and believe that it really expresses Richard and he has taught beyond all faiths: If a person wants the blessings of the Creator, he must open the blessings with a good eye toward others. Richard’s eyes are as the blessing that he gave to us all and no one lived with this spirit more than he and how he continues to make a difference to us all. Richard brought the energy to raise our consciousness so that we can experience and see the sparks in others. G-d bless. Love Andrew and Elyse 72 Name of the Week
Date: July 24, 2007
Name: Jenn Hak
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City: Pennsauken
State: NJ
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Comments: Hello all i just wanted to share a quick story with you. Last night Brian got the results of his state board electical exam....and he PASSED. The first thing his mom did was too put a bottle of the champainge you gave us on ice...it was certainly a time “to celebrate life” and this way Richard could be a part of our celebration too.
Date: July 23, 2007
Name: Brittany O’Brien
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City: pennsauken
State: newjersey
Country: united states
Comments: i really dident no richard personaly.. but i new he was loved by so many people.. and just to see him go like this is soo sad.. i give all my love to his great friends and his loving family.
Date: July 23, 2007
Name: Kathy Malpass
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City: Cherry Hill
State: NJ
Country: USA
Comments: This past weekend my husband and I took the boys (George, Justin, Brandon, Nick C and Nick K) to Ishkabibble’s. I grew up in Philly, ten minutes away from South Street. I must have passed Ishkabibbles’s a millon times and never knew it was there. When we arrived I told the staff that the boy’s were Rich’s friends. The staff could not have been nicer. They all got seats inside and enjoyed a cheesesteak. I’am glad we got to take them to one of Rich’s favorite places. We took pictures with Rich’s picture hanging on the wall. I was lucky enough to meet Rich. I have seen each of these boy’s grow and be inspired by Rich. Some I have known longer then other’s, but I can see how Rich has touched them all. They will continue to spread his spirit in September at CCHS with a memorial. I want to thank you for the picture you gave George. He said to me I will alway have this. It will always hang in my home no matter where I live.
Date: July 16, 2007
Name: Sanito
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City: aiken
State: sc
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Comments: Please forgive us. We haven’t check up on you in awhile. Danny just came out of the shower and put his bracelet on and it made me think to check up on you. I am so sorry. I haven’t told Danny yet and don’t know how. Please know that we loved Richard so much. He was our kids first best friend and will always be. Love always,Nick, Bridget, Kristyn and Danny
Date: July 16, 2007
Name: Chris Stefanacci
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City: Wyckoff
State: New Jersey
Country: U.S.A.
Comments: Last week I was out in San Fransisco with a couple of friends for the MLB All Star Game. While we were line waiting to get into the stadium someone came up from behind me and grabbed my wrist. As I turned around to see who it was I observed a 8-9 yr.old boy with Down’s syndrome who I thought just wanted to shake hands and say hello. But what he wanted was my “Go 4 the Goal” wrist band. As his father tried to pull him away he kept on yelling for the wrist band and how he wanted it. Needless to say I gave it to the boy and wondered out of all of these hundreds of people waiting on line what attracted him to this one object. The boy was so excited as I gave it to him and his father was also very appreciative of the gesture. As all of us who go to these special events and places we all carry a piece of Richard with us and I can say that he was definately with me.
Date: July 16, 2007
Name: Justin Walters (baby blue)
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City: Cherry hill
State: NJ
Country: United States
Comments: Sorry about signing this so late...Rich was that greatest friend anyone could ask for. Each memorey we shared was never bad and he could brighten up anyones day. He will always be in my heart and i constantly look to him for guidence and comfort. Never put a period after I love you because that means your love ends
Date: July 8, 2007
Name: Jordan
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City: Upper Saddle River
State: NJ
Country: USA
Comments: A few weeks ago when i was celebrating my birthday Ryan saw somthing in the sky. Everybody came to look and everybody just kept their eyes to the most buetiful rainbow. Then a couple of days ago me and my mom were home alone. It was this nice sunny day when the sky stayed blue but there was a huge hail storm. I went to look outside and there it was again that same buetiful raimbow. My mom came to look and we both looked at eachother and i said to her this is a miricle. She said no Jordan that’s just Richard. Love,cousin Jordan
Date: July 4, 2007
Name: CARM
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Comments: Your web site brings tears to my eyes, your thoughts amaze me and makes realize that “Today is a Gift” and we must cherish every moment that we have. Richard was the greatest gift both in life and eternal life.
Date: July 3, 2007
Name: Kathryn Aka Beans
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City: USR
State: NJ
Country: USA
Comments: Adding to what i needed to say Richard in my heart to are still alive i look at the website everyday and i look at your friends nice video everyday i miss you
Date: July 2, 2007
Name: Sara DeFeo
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Comments: even though i did not know Richard fully their were still moments i remember expecially at the hocky rink ever since i found out richard had cancer i have never taken off the band or stopped looking in the daily bread
Date: July 1, 2007
Name: jamey malick
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City: pennsauken
State: nj
Country: usa
Comments: rich i will miss u a ton but i will always remember that one day when we were in the pool and BOOM!!! you jump off the roof into the pool. i love you rich!!
Date: June 29, 2007
Name: Chris Stefanacci
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Home Page: 201-444--0891
City: Wyckoff
State: New Jersey
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Comments: Last night the family all gathered for dinner to celebrate Jordan’s birthday, during which we experienced a torrential rain fall. After the rain ended Ryan called for everyone to come outside. As everyone went outside we saw the most incredible rainbow. As everyone stood and admired this perfect picture I knew exactly what each and everyone there was thinking of without anyone saying a word.....Richard. Love you buddy, (Spanky) Uncle Chris
Date: June 29, 2007
Name: Chris Stefanacci
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Home Page: 201-444--0891
City: Wyckoff
State: New Jersey
Country: U.S.A.
Comments: Uncle Chris,
Date: June 28, 2007
Name: Katie Oseran
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City: Tucson
State: Az
Country: USA
Comments: I work in the hiking dept at Canyon Ranch. I have known David and Ann for several years. When I first heard about Richard I was so devastated. I have 2 children and I can only imagine what this last year has been like. I think this website is a beautiful way to keep Richards memory alive. I wake up everday and say to myself “Today is a gift” and I thank you for that.
Date: June 27, 2007
Name: Michael Glew
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City: Boston
State: MA
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Comments: What always struck us about Richard was how kind and thoughtful he was - even at such an early age. Seveal years ago Beth and Rich brought the whole crew up to Boston. We met them at their hotel with our then very shy 3 year old daughter, Dorsey. When we walked in, Richard (who was about 10 at the time) noticed Dorsey was a little uncomfortable, stopped playing with his siblings, and did everything he could to make her feel welcome. Not many 10 year old boys would have such an awareness and then act on it. A few years later, when my work travel brought me often to Philadelphia, Richard would always greet me with a smile and do everything he could to make sure I was comfortable. A true gentleman! It speaks volumes to kindless of love that exists in the Stefanacci home. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family. Love, Mike
Date: June 27, 2007
Name: Laura Wilkinson
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City: Merchantville
State: NJ
Country: USA
Comments: I’ll never forget that cold, snowy winter day my friend Emily and I decided to shovel snow to earn some extra money. As we walked down Beth and Rich’s driveway we hoped that long driveway would not be part of the assignment, but it was. After we finished that challenging task Beth asked us if we babysat. Luckly, Beth was anxious for me to start sitting for Richard. Little did I know that I was getting involved with such a wonderful family! First day on the job Richard was directing most of the conversation, asking me what I wanted to play? I knew from the beginging he was going to be so much fun to be around. In fact every time my sisters and brother were visiting from out-of-town they would ask me if Richard could play? He was such a joy to be around, full of life! Thank you Beth and Rich for making me a part of your family! I feel so lucky to have met and “experienced:)” Richard and the family! Your attitude toward the whole experience has had a huge positive impact on my life! Love always, Laura
Date: June 27, 2007
Name: ryan
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City: Upper Saddle river
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Comments: I miss you richard and I think of you every second of my life I wish I can see you again.
Date: June 26, 2007
Name: Sean Smith
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City: sewell
State: n.j.
Country: america
Comments: I remember the first time i met richard at hfs. we both would always get in trouble with the teachers considering we were troublemakers and we had both been in a class of only 4 kids. When we used to bomb ss quizzes togethar we felt great because we had both gone down insted of being alone. when rich became sick i was the last to find out, and when he died that was also the case. Rich always made my days full of fun and I dont think I ever had a better times with anyone else. I will miss rich and i will remember u always
Date: June 26, 2007
Name: Jean Mazzola
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City: longboat key
State: florida
Country: sarasota
Comments: I have been following you every day and I thank you for allowing me to be a part of your beautiful journey to Richard’s favorite places. I hope some day I will be able to visit his special places and capture the spirit of life he so enjoyed. Beth and Richard you are two extraordinary people, please continue the spirit of life your son has giving to you. My prayers and love are with you Aunt Jean
Date: June 26, 2007
Name: Tr. Carol Fuller
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City: Haddonfield
State: NJ
Country: USA
Comments: Richard was a student in my math class at HFS; I’ll remember the liveliness he brought to class, his wonderful smile and sense of humor,his organization of scrabble games, his wearing bedroom slippers to class, and our agreeing on our favorite breakfast spot in Hawaii. Richard will always hold a special place in my heart. My deepest sympathy to all of his family. Tr. Carol
Date: June 25, 2007
Name: Katie Oseran
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City: Tucson
State: AZ
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Date: June 25, 2007
Name: Mulberg Family
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City: Cherry Hill
State: New Jersey
Country: USA
Comments: Dear Friends Every day since I have said goodbye to Richard, I have been really thinking about the impact of this huge loss of a friend, loss of a son to our friends and a loss of an amazing young man to humanity and importantly the messaging for my own life. I truly feel an epiphany of what I need to pursue as quickly as possible in order to fulfill my own dream for children embodied by the love of Richard. I look forward to talking and sharing my own visions on your return. Wishing you all piece of heart and spirit, warmly and with love, Andrew, Elyse, Nate and Becca
Date: June 25, 2007
Name: Jordan
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City: upper saddle river
State: New Jersey
Country: USA
Comments: I am thinking of you every day. And how stronge your family is. I can’t wait to see you when you get back from Hawwi!! Love you! Love always, Jordan Stefanacci
Date: June 24, 2007
Name: Kathryn aka Beans ficca
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City: USR
State: NJ
Country: USA
Comments: I miss him as much as you do every time i see flowers and when i hear the song How to save a life i think of your family and richard i will always remember him i hope i see you soon
Date: June 23, 2007
Name: alie
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State: nj
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Date: June 22, 2007
Name: Karen Mazzola Titus
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City: Somewhere in NJ
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Comments: Last night I saw an incredible rainbow as I approached the 409 Edgemont Drive house... I thought of Richard’s smile and felt his presence in the beauty of that moment. - Smiles from across the miles to you, Beth and the children..Love, Kar
Date: June 22, 2007
Name: The Smith Family
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City: Merchantville
State: NJ
Country: 08109
Comments: We know the McAuley’s and can see how deeply touched their lives are by knowing Richard. We just wanted to extend our sincerest sympathy and prayers to all of you. “Those we have held in our arms for a little while, We hold in our hearts forever.” Ron, Lisa and Lily Smith
Date: June 22, 2007
Name: Kim McAdam
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City: Little Silver
State: NJ
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Comments: Hey Stefs......Not a day goes by that I don’t think of all of you. I’m glad you are finding the time to relax, reflect, re-group and start healing. You have a very special and beautiful family and I admire you both as parents. Love and Prayers......Kimmy
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