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This does not begin to describe a petite five year old with big brown eyes, who is the youngest of twelve grandchildren.

She has a large, close knit family. Her mother’s family has twenty two in the immediate family. Uncles, aunts, and cousins , most of whom work together in a family business, gather often to celebrate every occasion of life. Olivia is bright, inquisitive, and loving—her smile lights up a room.

Her father’s family is also large and they adore Olivia, she is the youngest of their grandchildren.

She loves to go to church, color, sing and play with friends.

Her cousin Noah, who is three months older, and Olivia share nursery school and a loving family. They attend different schools now so family gatherings are a time of kisses and reunion for them. They miss seeing each other daily.

Everyone who has come in contact with Olivia from the moment she was born, has realized what a special child she is.

She brings so much joy to all of our lives, whether it is friends or family.

Her grandparents took her to see the Nutcracker last year. She sat on the edge of her seat mesmerized, never saying a word. When the first act was over she turned to her grandmother and said, "some day I will be dancing on that stage." Her grandmother smiled and said, "Yes, you will."

With your prayers and God’s help she will dance on that stage.

Olivia was diagnosed November 27, 2002 with a diffuse brainstem glioma.

Olivia died Dec. 19th, 2002 Just three weeks and two days after she was diagnosed. She presented symptoms just two days before her diagnosis. It seems as though we lost her in an instant, but looking back I have no doubt that she suffered less than most children with this illness. However, we had much less time with her...... which is selfish, but a natural feeling. If you never met Olivia, you missed out.... she was truly a doll in every respect and we miss her more than words can describe.
- Sean Simpson, (Olivia's Uncle)