(picture of Mia above – 2008)

Dearest friends and loved ones

This Christmas we remember our daughter Laine.  We lost her suddenly and unexpectedly to appendicitis on February 24, 2014 at age six.  We are blessed as parents and brother to have had in our lives this unusually empathetic and larger-than-life girl, who carried herself in style, color and song.  Laine’s heart vibrated with joy.  Every day she chose to be fully present.  Every day she chose connection with those around her, who then were blessed to feel like she felt.  We created a website:  www.lainemammen.com.  Our friends at Phillips Brooks School in Menlo Park created a colorful and heartfelt memorial garden.  The inspired team at ‘There With Care’  created a ‘Laine Cares’ program to provide art and love, as Laine would have, to the siblings of children that are critically ill.  We also remember Mia this Christmas, who we lost on June 24, 2010 also at age six after a chronic, debilitating and painful illness.  Mia was a magical stone dropped in life’s pond.  The ripples created were felt deeply and profoundly, and were transformational to many, awakening many.  Mia enabled us to see truth.  And Laine continued what Mia began.  Both girls have been honored:  Laine and Mia’s grandparents in Toronto have constructed a colorful font at St Hilary’s Church in Mississauga, Ontario.  And our friends at St Bede’s Church in Menlo Park are in the process of planting beautiful Tulip Magnolia trees and creating beautiful butterfly art in memory of our girls.  These trees will bloom purple in February every year.  We are aspiring to live a life that honors our two daughters/sisters, committing to what is important.  We ask that this Christmas, you reflect deeply and decide what is most important in your own lives, and be careful to allocate the time and energy in a way that makes deep sense to you.  Hug your loved ones, and be good and gentle to one another. 

Peace and Love

Mathew, Mia, Laine, Anna and Mathai (Binu)