Help keep Caitlin's memory alive. Please sign our G u e s t B o o k and share your memories of Caitlin. If you have pictures you would like to share, or just want to reach us, please use the email link below.
Dad & Kristy are kayaking this morning in DC - one of your favorite activities. Kelsey is visiting the cousins in NC. I'm catching up on reading. Miss you!
Name: Dad Email: Memories @ Caitlin Dunbar . com Date: 09 Mar 2011 Time: 20:57:35
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Happy Birthday, Caitlin.
I am glad you were with me all day today.
~luv U lots~
4->Ever!
Name: Mom Email: memories@caitlindunbar.com Date: 09 Mar 2011 Time: 06:24:46
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Happy 22nd birthday!
Name: Kelsey Email: kedunbar05@gmail.com Date: 16 Dec 2010 Time: 15:43:33
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It snowed today! A lot! I took a rose to the snow and took lots of pictures of them! I thought of you, you would love them :) Look at them for me <3
Love,
Kelsey
Name: Mom Email: memories@caitlindunbar.com Date: 12 Dec 2010 Time: 16:42:29
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Today is the 14th Annual Compassionate Friends Worldwide Candle Lighting. Families around the world light candles in remembrance of all children who have died, regardless of age, cause of death or ethnic origin. We love you & miss you Caitlin!
Name: Alex "Dad" Dunbar Email: Memories @ Caitlin Dunbar . com Date: 16 Nov 2010 Time: 09:17:00
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Caitlin: We saw your sign that you will join us on our trip to England. The viking ship pin, that none of us remembers ever seeing, laying on the basement floor, next to a puddle that is impossible to explain how it got there. Wow! This was supposed to be your trip, too, back in 2005. luv u lots 4-ever!
Alex & Marty - I am so blessed by all that you do in memory of Caitlin. She was a special young lady. I have always wished Sandra and Angela could have met her. She was definitely loved, and will always be remembered. Keep the Faith
Caitlin, we are headed to Camp Conowingo, tomorrow, to join in a reunion of past camp counselors. Felix will be there. Probably a few others whom you knew, as well. We will keep our eyes and hearts open for signs that you are with us.
Love,
Dad & Mom & the girls!
Name: Dad Email: Memories@CaitlinDunbar.com Date: 19 Apr 2010 Time: 04:24:26
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Caitlin, thank you for bringing us such nice weather on Sunday, April 18, 2010, for The BIG Outdoors event we held at your Girl Scout nature center -- Caitlin Dunbar Nature Center. We had a great number of visitors and volunteers all day. Every time I looked to the sky, I saw your bright blue peepers smiling back at me through the scattered clouds, and I felt your warm embrace each time I stood in a pool of streaming sunshine. All those children present were truly enjoying your spirit. And best of all, we got that many people outdoors for the whole day! Most of whom would otherwise have been indoors. I love more than words can ever convey and I am glad you assigned me the task of reconnecting children with the outdoors. I do the best I can each and every day and I always appreciate all the assistance you provide me. Thank you Caitlin; thank you God. ~luv u lots~
Name: Email: Date: 11 Apr 2010 Time: 21:02:40
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Alex and Marty - I feel I owe you both an apology for taking almost 6 years to find out about the death of your daughter. You guys helped me out by letting my stay at your house when TKE was having its bi annual meeting in DC. It saved me alot of money. You were there for me. As a fraternity brother, I should have been there for you during your time of loss. I'm sorry. I won't lose contact with you guys again. I know this page is not intended to make people feel guilty. I just wanted to let you guys know how I feel. God bless your family.
Marty and Alex - Your daughter's story is beautiful. I'm sorry I never had the opportunity to meet her. Please contact me if you need any assistance in keeping her memory alive.
Name: Mom and Family Email: Memories@CaitlinDunbar.com Date: 04 Apr 2010 Time: 07:37:32
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Happy Easter!
Name: Email: Date: 25 Mar 2010 Time: 17:38:15
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Caitlin sounded like a wonderful daughter. I too have dealed with a horrible loss. May god help you through your life. Her memories will always be around.
Name: Eileen Email: edensel@aol.com Date: 23 Mar 2010 Time: 06:42:17
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I never knew Caitlin. My kids are currently 11, 8, and 5, and while the two oldest are at Fulton, we never crossed paths. The story of what happened to Caitlin is, in a word, horrifying. To think that a beautiful, young, strong girl could get so sick, so quickly, is a nightmare for any parent.
It sounds like Caitlin was a kind, caring young lady, and did many wonderful things during her lifetime. I'm sincerely impressed with what you -- her family -- has done to not only keep her memory alive, but to improve the community.
I hope where you are, all your new friends throw a big birthday bash as you reach the "Age of Majority". Sorry you aren't here to celebrate with loved ones and old friends. Happy Birthday!!!
Name: Mom Email: Memories@CaitlinDunbar.com Date: 09 Mar 2010 Time: 07:24:06
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Happy 21st birthday! luv u lots! miss u lots!
Name: Felix (meleah smedley) Email: meleahsmedley@yahoo.co.uk Date: 09 Mar 2010 Time: 04:46:29
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Happy 21st Birthday Caitlin! I still can't believe that you're gone but i'm so honoured to have known you. No matter where you are you shine and everyone who was ever lucky enough to meet you still feels that. Wish i could be there to celebrate this day with all you guys but i'll definitely be thinking of you, and Caitlin, on this special day. Take care and keep smilin
luv fee xox
Name: Dad Email: Memories@CaitlinDunbar.com Date: 08 Mar 2010 Time: 18:10:02
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Happy 21st Birthday, Caitlin! I remember March 9, 1989 very well. I miss you very much and think of you every day. Love You Always.
Dad
Name: ... Email: memories@caitlindunbar.com Date: 02 Feb 2010 Time: 17:34:47
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hey, the last few weeks for be have been really hard and you know it and im so glad i have you watching over me because i see you some how and i know that everything will be okay and i just need to move on and keep my head up high! i love you
Name: April Email: pbuttertoast@gmail.com Date: 28 Dec 2009 Time: 23:01:07
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Whenever I see a red rose it brings to mind your beautiful daughter Caitlin. ♥
Name: Mom Email: Memories@CaitlinDunbar.com Date: 26 Dec 2009 Time: 04:29:08
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Merry Christmas Caitlin! My favorite gift was a "family" scrapbook created for me, by Kelsey. She included pictures of all 3 girls and many of our vacations.
Name: Joan Keating Email: joanlorraine1@yahoo.com Date: 16 Dec 2009 Time: 02:52:41
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I have a Katlin too. She is just like your Caitlin in so many ways. She's a freshman at Atholton 2009. A dancer, cheerleader, crab eater and a friend to everyone. A blonde too. Just know my thoughts are with you and Caitlin. Our Kate loves Ledo's Station house pizza and are the best things the world ever gave us when she can get over herself making all the high school milestones she was after. Because she has gotten so arrogant for a freshman.
It did not say what happend to Caitlin in this but, I am guessing it was something bad.
So, I have a Katlin (pronounced the same) in the 9th grade. She is blonde and so out going it is scary. She is a JV cheerleader. In JROTC thinking of becoming a helicopter pilot. Thinking she should go to the other HS for the Airforce. But, she is really enjoying her friends and esp. dance class right now. I think she's going to be a nurse in the end (at least I hope).
Your Caitlin's spirit is still here. I may seem stupid. I have not lost my Katlin. But, she is just like mine and lives on like every girl. I will tell my Katlin about her tomorrow. I don't know what happend to her but, I know she was precious and her spirit lives on.
God Bless You,
Joan
May God forever bless you and your Caitlin. You will always be in our thoughts and in our prayers. JLK from HC, Laurel.
Name: Dad Email: Memories@CaitlinDunbar.com Date: 13 Dec 2009 Time: 07:02:41
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Annual Candle Lighting Ceremony -- December 13, 2009, 7pm, all around the world. Please join with me and my family and the many other families around the world in our remembrance of our children who have died. http://www.aacounty-md-bereavedparents.org/HTML/CandleLighting.htm
Dad, Kristy, Carolyn & Heather are going to RennFest today - one of your favorite places!
Miss you & love you!
Name: Rob Email: ga-Miller5690@dangerbase.com Date: 17 Jun 2009 Time: 21:28:16
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cool site
Name: Anonymous Email: memories@caitlindunbar.com Date: 19 May 2009 Time: 13:10:00
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caitlin i miss you soo much especially over the past couple days. it has been so hard for me but i know your watching over me to make sure i'm ok. i love you soo much and you are a great person to talk to! <3 i miss you soo muchhh
Name: Yma Email: captainbubbles7@hotmail.com Date: 14 May 2009 Time: 16:17:48
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Very sorry for your loss. She was a pretty girl; too bad she died. :( I never knew her, but she looked like a really cool gal. :D
love and peace,
Yma
Name: Alex "Dad" Dunbar Email: Memories@CaitlinDunbar.com Date: 17 Mar 2009 Time: 04:15:34
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Happy St. Patrick's Day!
March is Women's History Month! On Monday, March 16, 2009, Caitlin's mom, 2 sisters and I were guests of The Maryland Women's Heritage Center. Caitlin and 9 other Maryland women were recognized as 2009 Honorees for their "outstanding contributions to preserving and protecting our environment." The ceremony was held at the Rachel Carson House in Silver Spring, Maryland. You can read more about this honor at: http://www.mdwomensheritagecenter.org/womenshistorymonth.htm
Caitlin, thank you for continuing to inspire us your family, friends, and many others, to take care of our planet.
~luv u lots~
Dad
Name: Andrew Email: Date: 16 Mar 2009 Time: 13:12:55
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i kno not much about you and i found this site because im doing a reserch project and your name was there on the paper so i chose it. u did good for yourself
Name: Alex "Dad" Dunbar Email: Memories@CaitlinDunbar.com Date: 09 Mar 2009 Time: 21:15:44
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Happy 20th Birthday, Caitlin. Mom and I were impressed by you opening the balcony door this morning to remind us to get moving rather than lounging around all day. We spent the first half of today together remembering you. This evening Patty joined us for dinner. She was here until 11pm. We celebrated her birthday and yours with a nice dinner and your favorite ice cream cake.
Luv U Lots, forever!
Dad
Name: ammie gaither Email: Date: 09 Mar 2009 Time: 15:16:57
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happy birthday
Name: Kelsey Email: Date: 09 Mar 2009 Time: 15:16:33
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hey Caitlin I just wanted to wish u a happy birthday and
I love you and miss you soo much I am always thinking about you!!! <3
You would have been 20 today, though you are gone you will never be forgotten. You have a wonderful circle of family and friends keeping your memory going.
Name: Mom Email: Memories@caitlindunbar.com Date: 09 Mar 2009 Time: 06:57:38
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Happy 20th birthday!
Name: Alex Dunbar Email: Memories@caitlindunbar.com Date: 27 Jan 2009 Time: 14:23:14
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A friend of mine is involved with the National Women's History Project and sent me a link to the web site. Read the intro then scroll down through the Ds.
http://www.nwhp.org/whm/honorees.php
Enjoy.
Proud Dad
Name: La'Tasha Washington Email: latashawashington@hotmail.com Date: 02 Jan 2009 Time: 03:13:15
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Dear Dunbar Family,
I know it has been quite awhile since we last spoke, but I wanted you to know that I think of you often. I will continue to keep you in my prayers.
Always,
La'Tasha
Name: Dad & Kristy Email: Memories@caitlindunbar.com Date: 29 Dec 2008 Time: 03:20:26
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Kristy and I are here in Vietnam. You have been with us all along this trip. Your red rose has greeted and surprised us on so many occasions this past week. We were eating lunch in Hue, Vietnam, at 12:40 on December 28. Kristy and I were surrounded with the love and support of our friends and were happy. We love and miss you so much. Glad to have you with us whenever you can be.
~luv u lots~
Dad & Kristy
We miss you. We love you!
We think of you every day.
The nature centers, in your memory, are flourishing. At Ilchester, we will be adding a 2nd flying squirrel in the next month.
luv u lots!
Wow! What amazing young girl. She was beautiful, and your family was blessed. The day the ordinates came off the tree that was your daughter, I totally believe that. May God bless your entire family.
hey caitlin,
just wanted to let you know that i love you and wish you were here on the day of my 5th grade graduation!!!!!!! I am so happy, yet so sad, because i have spent 8 years at fulton and now i am leaving.:(
~Love Always~
kristy
I was at Camp Ilchester a few weeks ago with my daughter's GS troop and wondered who Caitlin Dunbar was. So looked up this website and read your beautiful tribute to your daughter. I too lost a child unexpectedly, one who appeared healthy for all of his 7 years with us. I am touched and inspired by what you have accomplished in her name. All the best to you and your family.
I ran across your website, and wanted to tell you that I was sorry for your loss. After reading about Caitlin, you must know she is looking out for you now. From the pics, she looks very kind. May God be with you, and blessed is the day that you see her again.
Mother of two
just stopping by to say hi. i work at hopkins as a respiratory therapist in the PICU and knew Caitlin for one short day. caitlin and her family hold a special place in my heart forever. caitlin touched me by how strong and brave she was, all the while the sweetest girl ready to do whatever she needed to conquer her illness. i will always have her and her family in my prayers.
Name: Tina Rogalski Email: tvski66@hotmail.com Date: 20 Mar 2008 Time: 22:10:56
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Thank you for sharing Caitlin's story.
Name: Alex "Dad" Dunbar Email: Memories @ Caitlin Dunbar . com Date: 09 Mar 2008 Time: 20:48:38
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Happy Birthday, Caitlin! Thank you for the sunny day -- cold, but sunny. Many people were with us today as we celebrated both your 19th birthday and the grand opening of the second Caitlin Dunbar Nature Center. Everybody loves the new center which is located a Camp Ilchester. Each and every day we try to do our best to do the things we should both in your memory and in keeping our family together. We all miss and love you very much. Dad.
Name: Kelsey Email: xoxocutepupxoxo@yahoo.com Date: 09 Mar 2008 Time: 18:05:25
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Happy Birthday Caitlin!! I miss you a lot and I hope you had a wonderful birthday!! I love you!! I hope you liked looking at the new nature center. Miss you and love you tons.
love,
Kelsey
Name: Kate Kamischke Email: katesbluedolphin@aol.com Date: 09 Mar 2008 Time: 09:57:41
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Happy Birthday Caitlin! I miss you so much and I love you a lot! Today my family and I are going to go visit you and give lay flowers on your stone... I love and miss a whole bunch!!!
With love,
<3 Kate K.
Name: lisa Ethridge Email: lisaethridge@mac.com Date: 06 Mar 2008 Time: 19:14:55
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Thank you for sharing your story. I am so sorry for you loss. I am a Girl Scout leader of new Juniors and got a message about the centers, and googled your daughter's name to see what happened, and found this memoriam website and your heartfelt and brave recording of what happened. May God bless you and your family always. I don't know you, but wish you many many happy times to come, and peace for the pain that will never go away I am sure. Respectfully submitted, Lisa Ethridge Troop 4876
Dear Marty and family,
I was forwarded Caitlin's web site from Debbie Walters thru Vicky Budko. I have wonderful memories of you and your very talented family from the elementary days. I am a parent of several and I cannot express how very sorry I am for you and your beautiful family's loss. Just reading the web site - WOW - what an incredible young woman!! Her life was much too short, but she obviously touched many, many lives in that short period of time. God blessed all of you with an angel. You and your family are in my prayers. Aimee
Hi Martha from a first grade classmate. I was just speaking with Vicky as it's her birthday and we talked about you and the wonderful nature center in memory of your daughter, Caitlin. My deepest sympathy to you and your family on the loss of a lovely young lady, a beautiful spirit.
Name: Kate Kamischke Email: katesbluedolphin@aol.com Date: 30 Dec 2007 Time: 17:06:52
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I wanted to say Merry Christmas Caitlin and i miss you so much!! Everytime i need to talk to someone i always talk to you and my grandma in heaven. I hope you hear my conversations with you. You are a great listener and just by you listening i can figure out things in life and live my life to the fullest! I <3 U Caitlin!!!!
<3 Love Kate~
This week has been very emotional especially with the rounding off of Friday the 28th. On the 28th a group of my friends and me all get together, visit Caitlin and do something together. This year, instead of going out in the morning as we normally do i found myself instead at a funeral for my grandmother. The interesting thing about this is (despite the fact that it happens to be on this day) is that my grandmother's sister gave me a single red rose from my grandmother's flower arrangement on the casket.
We did visit around 4:30pm and left you roses as well as some other flowers. We then went out to eat and hung out together. We still think of you always, and especially on this day.
Hope you guys are doing ok. We are all here for you :-)
love always patti
Name: Alex "Dad" Dunbar Email: Memories @ Caitlin Dunbar . com Date: 28 Dec 2007 Time: 19:07:46
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Three years have passed since last I held you in my arms and heard your voice. Yet, you are ever with me, day after day. I have spent this past week recounting where I was and what I was doing at the same time three years ago. These past 3 days I have noted the events of 3-years ago on an hourly basis. However, I am very unlikely to be able to tell you what I did on any of those days recently past.
Today, December 28, your mother, sister, and I went to see the "Alvin and the Chipmunks" movie. It was great family fun -- you would have loved the movie, too. Afterwards, we went to the Mall and then out to dinner and then did some more mall crawling.
Now we are home and settling down for the night. We survived today with no tears. Though we all miss you very much.
Love you 4-ever,
Dad, mom and the girls
Name: Alex "Dad" Dunbar Email: Memories @ Caitlin Dunbar . com Date: 24 Dec 2007 Time: 22:45:09
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Merry Christmas, one and all. Caitlin, we all miss you. But we never forget about you. You are always with us in our hearts and in our minds. Love you always. Dad.
Name: Dunbar Family Email: Memories @ Caitlin Dunbar . com Date: 22 Nov 2007 Time: 20:58:21
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Thanksgiving 2007 has come and gone peacefully for our family. We are all in North Carolina with Marty's sister and her family (including Marty's mom). We had a great day of food and family. AJ, the newest member of our family (9 months old)
was at the center of attention much of the time -- life continues. Tommy and his wife Sarrah are due in February. We had four generations of family gathered together for this annual feast of Thanksgiving.
May peace and love be with you and yours throughout the months and years ahead.
Luv u lots!
Be safe.
Name: Kelsey Email: Memories@CaitlinDunbar.com Date: 17 Oct 2007 Time: 15:18:12
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hi Caitlin,
I was just thinking of you today and wanted to tell you that I still think of you all the time and miss you!!! xoxo_Kelsey
Name: Kate Kamischke Email: katesbluedolphin@aol.com Date: 14 Oct 2007 Time: 17:19:22
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I knew Caitlin most of my life. I am sorry that i have not visited your website in a while. When i veiwed your website, i thought of you! I love you Caitlin and i miss you so much!!! I think of you everyday!! <3 <3 <3 <3 ~Kate~
Name: Alex "Dad" Dunbar Email: Memories @ Caitlin Dunbar . com Date: 08 Oct 2007 Time: 17:29:03
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At last, I believe I have finally fixed the Guest Book so that the nasty spammers can no longer add their trash. Please feel free to leave messages once again.
Caitlin, I still love you lots!
Name: April Dunbar Email: pbuttertoast@gmail.com Date: 01 Aug 2007 Time: 11:02:49
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Dear Alex, Marty, Kelsey and Kristy,
I was thinking of you all today and I felt drawn to stop by the website. Every time I see a single red rose now I stop and think of your beautiful daughter Caitlin. Having you all as family means so much to me. If there's anything I can ever do for you please don't hesitate to ask.
Love,
April
I have heard so much about Caitlin Dunbar over the past two years we have had
the Caitlin Dunbar Nature Center at Camp Conowingo, and I was touched by her story. I hope that if I die at a young age, people will treasure my memory too.
Name: A Friend Email: Date: 03 Jul 2007 Time: 13:24:31
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I never knew Catlin very well. I was only 8 when she died. I went to Ilchester Day camp with her. Her memory still lays with me.
~A Friend
Caitlin,
We had the first anniversary of the Nature Center yesterday, Father's Day. The center is beautiful, both inside and out! The next phase is a project on the pond at Camp Conowingo and a 2nd nature center at Camp Ilchester.
Love,
Mom
I love to look at all the photo's. I pray for peace for Caitlin's family every day.
Patty
Name: Alex "Dad" Dunbar Email: remembering.caitlin@comcast.net Date: 07 Jun 2007 Time: 18:17:21
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At the end of May, we awarded the first four scholarships in Caitlin's memory. All four recipients had earned their Girl Scout Gold Awards within the past 12 months. We plan to continue offering the Caitlin Dunbar Scholarship for years to come.
I just wanted to let you know that I am using the "Live, Laugh, Love" for my end of the year portfolio
and that got me to look back over the site and all the new things. I miss you CD
Hi Friends I've never met.
I was searching Google tonight looking for news stories regarding our Caitlin. Our daughter (my step, but not really) was killed in September 2005. I couldn't help but stop and look at your site and read about your Caitlin. You can see our site at www.SpiritofCaitlin.org. We even spelled the girls' name the same way.
Anyway I just wanted to drop you a note and send you some love. Wonder if our Caitlins have met in heaven????????
Cindy
Dearest Caitlin,
You are certainly keeping me busy these days. Do you remember how I promised to help look after your friends for you? Well, just when things seemed to be OK with almost everybody, we lost Kristen. This past week felt very much like when we lost you. Take care of Kristen and I will continue trying to live up to my promise to you.
I will love you forever.
Dad.
@>-----
Name: Alex Dunbar Email: remembering.caitlin@comcast.net Date: 09 Mar 2007 Time: 20:31:06
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Happy 18th Birthday, Caitlin. I love you and always will. And I miss you every day.
'Til we are together again...
@>----
Love you always,
Dad
Name: Cheryl Miller Email: twinkie2912@yahoo.com Date: 09 Mar 2007 Time: 20:20:43
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I just wanted to say happy birthday to Caitlin and that I still miss her.
Name: Alex "Dad" Dunbar Email: remembering.caitlin@comcast.net Date: 09 Mar 2007 Time: 11:20:31
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Happy 18th Birthday, Caitlin.
WE love you and miss you very much!!
@>----
~Dad~
Name: steve Email: seppley@umd.edu Date: 09 Mar 2007 Time: 10:58:56
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We haven't forgotten you Caitlin. You've been on my mind for some reason today ...
Name: Billy Heinbuch Email: acutus3399@yahoo.com Date: 18 Jan 2007 Time: 09:21:17
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Wonderful new site! I love the photo gallery.
It's truly been a privilege to be able to work with your family and friends. I am so looking forward to building on all that has been done so far.
It has been an amazing experience for me to see just how much a girl who was only with us for 15 years can be such an inspiration to so many.
Dear Alex and Marty, We think of you often, especially when we look at Joe's baby pictures with Caitlin holding him in Vietnam. I love this beautiful tribute you have created for her. Peace to you and the girls for the New Year! Nancy & Peter Filsinger, Alex and Joe
Name: Alex Dunbar Email: remembering.caitlin@comcast.net Date: 26 Dec 2006 Time: 11:02:14
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Welcome to the new Caitlin Dunbar Memorial website. We hope to be better able to manage the site from this new location. We will soon add a major update to include the new Caitlin Dunbar Nature Center.
Thank you for providing this tribute to Caitlin. Thank you for reaching out to share your wonderful daughter through this medium and letting others benefit from her character, charm and enthusiasm. Ann Gearhart
Thing of you all so often - even though I'm not nearly as good at communicating as Carolyn and Jean. Our thoughts are with you now as you face life without your dad, grandfather. Our love to you all. Phyllis and OJ
We are so pleased that the Nature Center Memorial to her has opened. We last saw Caitlin as a bright young teenager the summer before her passing. We hope this new Center will thrive in perpetuity in her honor and her memory.
i did not say this before but i understand the greif that you are going through. When i was 5 i had a younger brother that passed away. i still sometimes can not believe it and have the full amount of how much the loss hurt come back.
I will never forget Caitlin. She was always happy and always had a smile on her face. I went to Conowingo with Caitlin & I remember spending alot of good memories with her. I remember her introducing me to Kelsey & Kristy! & I will never forget the last summer i spent with Caitlin we only had three girls in are unit, Nastassja, Caitlin & I..the three of us who had been attending Cononwingo for a while we would all just tell stories about everything and just talk for a while before falling asleep. I also will never forget going to Bell Manor, and Friendship Circle, & thinking we heard ghosts. I know that Conowingo will never be the same without Caitlin just because we happened to always be in the same unit as each other, i just know that Caitlin is in a better place. Tomorrow is the opening of the Nature Center & i hope all goes well...
I was a camper with Caitlin. Although never attending a session with her, friends did & I remember meals with Caitlin. I never saw her w/o a smile & never shared an experience w/ her that didnt make me smile.
One memory that I hold of Caitlin has become quite dear to me. One night, Caitlin and I were sitting waiting for dinner: spaghetti. Its quite a task to get it from the family-style plate to your own plate. As I attempted to perform this task, the table giggled. Caitlin, sitting next to me, offered a hand, laughing.
The memory may not be directly significant, but for me, its a perfect memorial of who Caitlin was: caring, considerate, willing to help, always laughing and smiling.
This summer, as I become a camp counselor, I hope that I can be half as good the counselor as Caitlin would have been
I was moved beyond words today! Caitlin's pic looked familiar as I've been at GSCM for 6 yrs so when I read this beautiful site I thought, what a wonderful girl! My daughter is 12 and can only hope that she, too, will blossom into the delightfully loving, giving, full-of-life person Caitlin was! What an inspiring story! I thank you for your generous sharing!
And now... seeing that Caitlin's birthday is the same as my own (only I'm much older)! And because I love nature, I'm going to think hard about how I might best be able to help honor Caitlin's Nature Center. I've been to that camp and love it, too. Such peace.
With gratitude - and best wishes at the Grand Opening celebration of Caitlin's Nature Center!
Father's Day 2006 will be here in just a few days. I am pleased to be able to tell everyone that the Caitlin Dunbar Nature Center will have its Grand Opening on Father's Day. While Caitlin will not be with us physically, her spirit has been omnipresent throughout this entire project. Many good people have given freely of themselves to assure the success of the Nature Center. If you are free on Father's Day, please plan to join us for the celebration (directions are available from our home page).
Thank you all for all the love and support you have given both this project and our family.
They ran the special today "Your Stories" We were all on television! I thought it was very nice. The fading of the pictures looked really good. The nature center is going to look great when we finish it! Can't wait until Father's Day (actually i can because i have a lot of work to do :-D But it is fun work and i can't wait to see it all done) Love Always Patti
Yesterday, March 9, 2006, was Caitlin's 17th birthday. She was quite busy all day. Here are a few quotes from several of her friends:
"We will remember her today and always. Her flame will never burn out. She brought and brings smiles to so many people. Love always."
"I just wanted to quickly say that I felt so blessed to donate my hair today. I love my haircut, and I feel so honored to donate it on her birthday and to give to someone in need. It was an amazing process, and I hope to do it again the the future. Happy Birthday Caitlin! I love you."
Here are a few more quotes from Caitlin's friends:
"Caitlin, babe, you were with all of us today through the tears, laugh, and constant stress of the day. I can't say how blessed I was to have been in your life and that you continue to be in mine. I'm always amazed by the love you inspire. Have a very happy birthday, sweetie!"
"HAPPY SEVENTEENTH BIRTHDAY CAITLIN ALEXANDRA DUNBAR!!! WE LOVE YOU WITH ALL OF OUR HEARTS!!! WE MISS YOU AND CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOU AGAIN!!!"
"Today is Caitlin's 17th Birthday, so happy birthday to you, Caitlin! I'm sure you're having a ball, today, helping people around the world, and helping your mom and dad find things around the house."
I recently read a book that suggested looking at the death of a loved one as an opportunity. Rather than being consumed by the negative aspects of the loss, accept what has happened and work hard to embrace the positives that arise in the aftermath. Marty and I (Kelsey and Kristy, too) are very excited to be involved in the many projects that are underway in Caitlin's memory. We are happy that we are able to remain connected to so many of Caitlin's friends. We know they love and miss Caitlin, just as we do. Together we will continue to do great things to express our feelings for the love Caitlin shared with us all.
I am so sorry this happened to your family. I saw John shortly after this and heard the new's, but did not feel the emotion I felt reading these thing's about her life. I don't even really know what to say right now, i'm just sorry.
I couldn't find the website, yesterday, but I've finally found it, and I wanted to post this, because it's been a year since her death, and I still feel the sadness 1 year ago.
Caitlin, even though a year has passed, your memory still lives on, and I lit a candle yesterday, from 12:00 AM December 28th, until 12:00 AM December 29th, and not once did the flame flicker or go out. Instead, the flame danced and grew as the hours went by, and I knew it was you, showing me your playful personality and love.
U have reached the painful first year anniversary. Look at what u all have achieved to keep caitlin memory going. I bet she is looking down on u all with a big smile and saying how really proud she is of u all. Her lose is not in vain. I am sure her lose is causing u alot of pain and tears but remember the good times u had and laugh. Love and hugs yvonne
Letting Go Whoever upon reading these words might think of me, Of the summers that were like unfolding flowers, When we spoke metaphorically of life or happiness And how to attain it, of the time we tried to reach the stars bare-handed and upon falling, looked at the sky with laughter, Without the fear of now When you remember me (If you remember me), think of the laughing, And don't dwell on the times we cried and dried Each others tears love should be kept for years, Not lost in a summers rain, My memory of you today is inexplicable My love for you yesterday was too
Just wanted to spend a little time today perusing the website, seeing what's new, re-reading what had been there before, reading what people had recently posted in the Guest Book. She seems so alive in my memory. I keep expecting to see her just pop in, whenever I'm visiting Marty and Alex. Our time on this planet with each other is so short... shorter than we want to believe. Caitlin has touched my life (as well as so many others, as I can see from the website) and she has left a lasting impression.
Together as a family, and individually, you have gotten through the first year, a year full of firsts. I can't say it will get easier as we all experience things differently, in our own unique ways. Caitlin will always be with you. There is a place in each of your hearts that is Caitlin, memories may fade with time, but that place will always shine brightly.
Though I've known Caitlin only through the words of her grandmother Shirley, it is obvious that she was a beautiful girl who lived a life pleasing to her parents, her sisters and to her God. She will NEVER be forgotten to those who knew and loved her.
My heart goes out to all of you and of course we try to console the family and friends on Caitlin's death!
I am a dear friend of Shirley and of course, we email almost every day and I sincerely hope that as time goes by, you will find more strength. I know I did, with the death of my 4 year old grandson, who died with Leukemia, so I have some idea as to your feelings.
It was this day a year ago (actually yesterday because it is 2 in the morning) that i had my holiday party, and Caitlin was there. I had another one this year and it hit me during the middle and i just...it just made me sad that she wasnt't there for me to hug her. I'm now up because i can't sleep and was writing about her in my journal. I really miss you Caitlin and known that i think about you all the time. Best wishes to your family in this holiday season and have a good Christmas
I am a good freind with kelsy. And i know catlin from kelsy. I go to camp ilchester were we have a momorial for her. I realy miss her she was the nicest teenager i ever knew
I belong to a MSN Group 'Our Garden Gang' where one of our members shared the story of Caitlin with us. My thoughts and prayers are with you.May I just say the site you put together in her honour is as beautiful as the young woman you created it for.
I am a stranger, but not a stranger in my feeling of sympathy. I wish you beautiful memorys nd the strength to continue enjoying life. I'm sure that is what Caitlin would have wanted for you.
Caitlin was an accomplished young lady of whom you are right to feel proud. She will live forever in the hearts of those whose lives she touched and in heaven from where she watches over you. God bless.
I lost my husband March 15th 2004. The pain lessens but never goes away completely. Caitlin is a beautiful angel in heaven who prays for you continously. Cindy
Sarah (my daughter) and I just spent a wonderful weekend camping with her girlscout troop. Being the first weekend in November, we feared that it might be cold or that it might rain. But this has been an unseasonable Fall, and the weather could not have been more perfect. It was sunny and warm and only got down into the low 50s at night. Yellow leaves rained down from the trees all weekend. We saw 3 deer. We used our box ovens to cook. I couldn't help thinking of Caitlin, who loved girl scouting, and Alex, who lent our troop his box oven for our first box oven experience. I couldn't help thinking that Caitlin must be smiling down on us and I wondered if maybe she was somehow responsible for the perfect weather we had. I miss you Caitlin.
i miss catlin a lot. i went to girlscout camp with her when i look at the girls that did not know her and they right on there arm catlin 4 ever because the girls who did know her did it her dad and sisters and me started it.
Caitlin is a beautiful girl. Her inner beauty shows through in the photograph,
My mother passed form this life in April, a dear friend in January, and three other friends' lives ended within a few months two years ago.
Grief, for me, comes in waves.
We are now grieving for the loss of so many sweet lives (human and others)in our city of New Orleans, as well as the entire Gulf Coast community (places dear to us, too).
Someone offered these words of comfort to me once and I recall them often...
"Don't cry because it's over...smile because it happened..."
My words don't seem to suffice, but others' do - here from C. S. Lewis...
"Joy is the serious business of Heaven." --Letters to Malcolm
"Every poem can be considered in two ways--as what the poet has to say, and as a thing which he makes." --A Preface to Paradise Lost
"If I find in myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world." --Mere Christianity
"Poetry too is a little incarnation, giving body to what had been before invisible and inaudible." --Reflections on the Psalms
"God will look to every soul like its first love because He is its first love." --The Problem of Pain
This web-site for Caitlin is one of the most precious and deeply thoughtful tributes I've ever read. Such love evidenced by the writings of her Mom, Dad & Sisters. The devotion that Caitlin's family has for her and her memory is one of the strongest testimonies of love I've ever seen.
I'm very glad I got to know Caitlin (CD) - it was through girl scout camp - she was really great with the campers, both young and old.
This whole web-site oozes with Caitlin's own style as I saw her: Authentic. Reflective. Kind.
And how excellent that she lived her years on earth more fully than many people do in 70+ years!
I have been reading all about your daughter and what a beautiful girl she was,I know you must have been so roud of her. I did not know her at all but knew her grandmother....internet name Yoma. Unfortunately I have not been able to contact her as all mail came back. we met on the net. I wish you all the best for the future and will add link to this site on my one as many of my members knew Yoma also. Thanks for sharing a little of Caitlins life with us and god bless.
Caitlin, better known as CD, at Girl Scout Camp Ilchester was well loved by many of the younger scouts at camp, including my daughter. Caitlin will be missed and remembered by many.
Caitlin was a wonderful friend. i miss her a lot! she will always take a place in my heart. it was nice to now some one who always helped out and was always nice.
Oh goodness. Camp Ilchester, 1st day tomorrow. It will be very weird without Caitlin, but we'll all be cooool in the fancy misting tent set up by the almighty Flex, with the initials CD 'secret code' on the sides!
I think 'Locks of Love' uses three donations to make one wig. In that case, in just a few months we have already pleased one person with hair, and 1/3 of another. All in memory of Caitlin.
It should be an interesting week at Ilchester. There is talk of so many activities and projects to help remember Caitlin.
I didn't know Caitlin but to her parents: I pray for you continued strength and healing. To lose a child has got to be the most difficult of all of a parents'crosses to bare, yet she has done do much to fulfil the years she was given. You are truly blessed. Your daughter has crossed over. God Bless.
The site is beautiful. I was privelaged enough to have worked with Caitlin at Camp Ilchester and was heart broken when I recieved the news. She will always be remembered by her friends she made there, and I also cut 13 inches off my hair for locks of love for Caitlin, and my grandfather. Much love and many prayers, Chelsie
caitlin i love you so much and miss you more and more every single day. you were the best friend any girl could ever wish for and noone could ever replace you.
Caitlins Death taught me one lesson a lesson that I want everyone to learn and not the way I did. And that is not to take anyone or anything in life for granted. I went to Korea (military purposes) for a year and hadn't talk to her since my prior visit in April. I always figured I would catch up with her my next visit home. I had planned to come home that x-mas but decided not to for so many excuses (plan flight was too long...I didn't want to take the leave and so forth) which now I regret. So my advice to everyone is talk to your family don't make excuses not to see them or get in touch because you never know when/if they will be there.
I miss you Caitlin and I'm sorry I never got one last chance to say I love you.
When I die...if you need to cry, cry for your brothers and sisters walking beside you. Put your arms around anyone and give them what you need to give to me. I want to leave you with something, something better than words or sounds. Look for me in the people I have known and loved. And if you cannot live without me, then let me live on in your eyes, your mind and your acts of kindness. Love does not die, people do. So when all that is left is love...give me away.
Five months have gone by since Caitlin slipped her earthly tether, to me she always wore an expression of one who possesed a greater knowledge than she could express and perhaps she will eventualy communicate with others exactly what that knowledge is. Fly high, Caitlin, fly high in the sky. We all miss and love you.
I think Caitlin was the best sister ever. I really miss her. I like the website though. I would like to go back in thime so then Caitlin would be with me again. I really really miss Caitlin and I wish she where with us again.
This is a beautiful website; Caitlin would have thought it was so great. I went to middle school with her. We were in "Guys and Dolls" together in 7th grade and went shopping for costumes. That's one of my favorite memories of her. She made me laugh and gave me good advice, like any true friend does. We also tended to get into philosophical talks, and sometimes these turned into friendly arguments. She would ask me sometimes how I could be so sure of one way of believing things when there are so many possibilities. I would always be so hard-headed. Now I realize that Caitlin possesses a knowledge I will never possess. This girl was such a treasure. Cara
This website brought tears to my eyes. What a wonderful tribute to Caitlin. You know, I think the greater tribute is how gracious and loving your family continues to be. Your continued zest for life and laughter is the best tribute of all. Caitlin was a very lucky young lady. She experienced more in 15+ years than most of us do in a lifetime. I hope my two children will grow up to have her same confidence, strength of character, and loving nature. I can't take away your pain, but I most definitely share in it. Your family has touched my life in unmeasurable ways. May God bless you all - you are in my prayers every day.
I have worked with Marty and I have met Caitlin on her sister Kristy's birthday party as my son was starting first grade ( 2003) with Kristy at Fulton ES. I remember Caitlin as a very energetic, full of life, attending her sisters and other kids at the party in the pool.
It is so wonderful to have a web site dedicated to her and keep her memory alive.
Your website so tenderly touched me with the beautiful memories of your lovely daughter. My daughter also danced at the performance at River Hill in December, and I am sure the spirit of Caitlin will shine through during the next performance. My prayers of peace extend to you and your family.
Although I never met Caitlan directly, I feel her loss. I work in the same cube as Marty and can't help but admire what a great kid Caitlan is. I've enjoyed hearing Marty talking about her over the past couple of years. I hope that we can raise our daughter Brianna to be as full of life and thoughtful as Caitlan.
Excellent web site. I hope you don't mind if I copy a lot of your ideas in putting together Brianna's electronic scrapbook.
Thank you for sharing Caitlin with me. Your descriptions and experiences of love touched me deeply and I thank you. My prayers are with you and your family.
I am glad for the time you had with your beautiful daughter. I am sad that it was such a short time. This website is a beautiful memorial that also makes me appreciate every moment I spend with my children.
Caitlin's grandmother posted a message about the sudden passing of Catlin on a MSN Group called Our Garden Gang and I wanted to show support of her by visiting this website.
I did not know Caitlin, but knew her Grandmother "Yoma" from chat. Guess the Lord had other plans for her, calling her home at such a young age. My hertfelt sympathy goes out to her family.
A gift from God is never lost but always cherished. I work with Michele, your sister, and she has shared pictures and talked about Caitlin. You were blessed to have a beautiful daughter.
It was my privilege to know the Dunbars, and Caitlin as the social worker who helped with their adoptions from China and Vietnam. Alex and Marty had some important characteristics that helped them through the challenges of adoption.........courage, faith and humor. I'm sure these are helping them through this difficult time. It was wonderful to get to know Caitlin and the "expectant" big sister to her adopted sisters. She was an important companion to Alex during the adoption in Vietnam, as she soaked up the culture and the experience. Caitlin reflected all that her parents taught her in life........to be caring, thoughtful, and excited about the diversity and adventure that life has to offer.
I wept when I read your story. I lost my husband of 28 years last year, this week. I know the heart ache you must feel. My husband was here one minute, and gone the next. Massive heart attack. The suddeness of it was almost surreal. I know Caitlin is still with you as my Ralph is with me. His dream was always to fly also. He used to dream he was flying all the time and really wished he could. May God bless and keep you, Sincerely, Cindy
Caitlin was a precious gift. It was such a struggle to have her that it seems unfair to have taken her at such a young age. We are privileged to have known her and will miss seeing her come by to get our order for Girl Scout cookies.
This is a wonderful and beautiful website in honor of Caitlin's Memory. She will forever remain in our minds and hearts, as a person who filled our hearts with happiness and joy for as long as she was on this Earth. May God be with you, Caitlin, and I hope you soar high above the clouds. Spread your gorgeous wings, and glide above all troubles and fear. Guide us through our troubles, and our fears. We shall always love you.
I'm a co-worker of Michele. I met Caitlin one day about three years ago. She was a sweet young lady who had a prety smile. Her smile will be with me always.
We'll never forget Caitlin's willingness to reach out to our son, who is autistic. Despite his aloofness for half of the Dunbar's visit, she managed to get David to cooperate with her by taking him down a spiral slide repeatedly. After that he felt comfortable with the other girls and played with them until it was time for them to leave. She was very special.
I never knew Caitlin but hearing about her and seeing the photo's it shows she looked fun to be with and had alot to give and her love goes with you all the time and her memories with spread through other people
I have shared in your loss through the grieving of my friend and Caitlin's grandmother, Shirley Bowles. My prayers have been ... and continue to be! ... with you and with her sisters. May you find peace in your memories of Caitlin because those memories can NEVER be taken from each of you. Sincerely, judi leaming, dover, delaware
Part 2: I was remembering one of the last conversations that I had with her. I asked her what she was reading. She replied, some boring book for school called A Separate Peace (by John Knowles). She said that it was hard getting through it and she wasn't sure that she was going to finish it. I remembered the novel from my High School days. It was one of the few books that I actually read in High School. I told her, no, you MUST finish it. Even if you feel that it is plodding along now, the way the book ends and the dramatic effect that it has on the reader is well worth it! After all these years, I still recall the protagonist's name, Phineas, and how alive and real he seemed, as the author described him in the novel. I wonder if she finished reading it. I hope she did. Happy Birthday Caitlin.
Today is Caitlin's birthday. I looked to the sky today to see if I could find her among the clouds. There were a lot of clouds up there; I think that she is throwing a party!
