Kayla Kristine Maxson lived life with fearless determination and boundless energy. From a young age, she embraced challenges with an unyielding spirit. Whether climbing the highest cheer pyramid, perfecting difficult tumbling passes, or racing on her brother’s dirt bike, she was always ready to push limits. Kayla moved through life with a rare balance—strong enough to wrestle with the boys but graceful enough to shine in a dress among the girls.

Her personality was magnetic. Kayla was bold, outspoken, and authentic, never afraid to voice her thoughts or stand her ground. To know her was to feel her impact—her laughter, opinions, and vibrant energy stayed with everyone she met. She had a way of filling every room she walked into, lighting it up with her presence. Tattooed on her ribs was her mantra: “Live the Life You Love.” It wasn’t just ink—it was the essence of who she was.

When the phone rang at 2 a.m., I could never have imagined the devastating news that awaited. A nurse’s calm but heavy voice told me, “She has been in a bad accident.” Panic gripped me as I rushed to the hospital. Deep down, I reassured myself that this was Kayla—the daredevil who always came out unscathed. Whatever had happened, she would overcome it like she always did.

But reality proved heartbreakingly different. After a night of drinking with friends. Kayla returned home overwhelmed. In a moment clouded by anger and alcohol, she acted impulsively, picking up the new gun nearby and it went off.

The death of a child is a pain like no other. It’s a wound that defies the natural order of life and leaves parents grappling with an unbearable void. The dreams you held—the laughter of grandchildren, the friendship with your adult child—vanish in an instant.

For Kayla and me, our bond was unshakable. Her loss brought an avalanche of emotions—guilt, self-doubt, and a persistent question of “Why?” The heaviness of feeling I had somehow failed her as a parent compounded the grief. And yet, in the midst of this despair, I knew I had to find a way to keep her spirit alive.

I created this website in Kayla’s memory, to ensure that no parent facing this kind of loss feels alone. Through this platform, I discovered others grieving the same unimaginable loss, parents who share my yearning to honor their children’s lives. Many create scholarships, plant trees, or dedicate themselves to causes that reflect their child’s passions. These acts of love transform pain into purpose, keeping the memories of their children alive.

For me, this journey is about remembering Kayla as the vibrant, fearless young woman she was and sharing her light with the world. Her mantra, “Live the Life You Love,” serves as a
guide—not only for me but for others who find themselves navigating the complexities of grief. Kayla’s story reminds us that even in our darkest moments, love and empathy can endure.

By sharing her memory and creating connections with others who understand this pain, I honor the beautiful life she lived and the impact she continues to have. Her boldness, her zest for life, and her unwavering spirit remain a beacon of hope for those of us she left behind.

“Live the life you love.”