Celebration of Gia’s Life, July 31, 2004

Today we are here to celebrate the life of our daughter, Gianna Rose Eliason.  Although she was not yet four years old, Gia had the opportunity to touch the lives of people in this Church, people that couldn’t be here and thousands around the world.  How many of us can say that? 

Please do not grieve for us, as Gia was the best present that anyone could ever imagine and she was given to us.  Her life was filled with countless magical moments.  Her smile was contagious and her energy was inspiring.  Yes, Gia was a preemie.  Yes, Gia had Cystic Fibrosis.  Yes, Gia had cancer.  BUT, these are just words.  Gia did not suffer; Gia was not in pain, Gia did not complain EVER!  Even after eight months of intense chemo, you would not have guessed that Gia was sick.  Gia had the uncanny ability to smile at an unsuspecting stranger and quickly stun them by slipping off her hat.  She was able to change people’s thoughts of childhood cancer without using words. 

Could we have imagined being in this situation four years ago?  ABSOLUTELY NOT!   Doctors predicted that Gia would never be born.  We could not even imagine spending a single day with her.  We were lost before hearing of Blessed Gianna and her appreciation for life.  We prayed for her intercession to give us strength and courage.  God gave us a MIRACLE.  Gia showed us what it means to respect life and live every moment as if it could be the last.  We knew that each day was a treasure as it happened.                             

We were faced with unbelievable challenges, but not without help.  Gia connected us with Lisa and Randy, Janet, and so many other inspirational individuals.  They put us on the right path and gave us strength and courage every time that we needed it.  These people and this series of experiences made us who we are; they are our strength and courage.             

Although our Gia is no longer with us physically, she lives in our hearts and minds.  Gia lives in the hearts and minds of the people in this Church and thousands of people she has touched around the world.  Gia’s smile is STILL, and will always be contagious.  Now there are two Saint Gianna’s in heaven.

Gianna Rose, please continue to give us strength and courage.