Tania Marie Gaulin
January 31st, 2017
For the Love of Tania
Today is a very sad day for our family, and I’m choosing to bare my soul to our friends and family of the sadness that is being felt for the tragic loss off our daughter Tania.
After suffering a traumatic brain injury from a fall in 2000, and making a recovery that was nothing short of a miracle, with the power of GOD’S grace, and answered prayer from thousands, she began a life of recovery under the watchful eye of our family and closest friends.
Tania recovered with all of her physical abilities except the sight in her right eye. This minor impairment seemed easy for her to overcome and she never complained, however the brain injury which effected her frontal lobe was a very different story. Her personality was altered, and her judgements were impaired.
Over the next 17 years her emotional health declined, improved, and plateaued and continued to rotate between the three.
She had good days and not so good days. Fear, joy, sadness, and laughter filled her days as she made the best of her roller coaster life, and again, she never complained. Tania’s perception was her reality, and in her mind, it was the rest of the world that had a problem. You see, when she had her injury and woke up at 3 am from a 2-week coma, she looked at me and smiled. We had been advised that she may awaken with anger and frustration, but no, she smiled. It wasn’t until a week after she came home that she shared a near death experience with us that would jolt the spirit of the most committed non-believer, and when she went back into a main stream world with hopes of love and appreciation for every day, she came face to face with the cruel reality of verbal and physical abuse due to her sadly misunderstood specialness. As much as she tried to fit in, it was difficult to watch as she struggled at every turn. Finally, in an attempt to fit in anywhere, she turned to the downtown streets of Calgary, where she found refuge with like minded people that excepted her for who she was.
Unfortunately, those same streets are fraught with danger. Even though she was well loved and protected by her family, she was lonely, and in an attempt to mask her loneliness, she began to self medicate with crack cocaine. Our worst fears for her suddenly became a nightmarish reality. Thankfully she has a selfless and extremely resilient mother that was there to rescue her and never gave up, putting herself into dangerous situations. Combing the downtown streets, often as late as 2 or 3 in the morning, Helen would put on her “yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death” attitude and fearlessly tracked her down. My roll in these situations was to be available on my cell because if I were with her it would have been a threat and surely lead to confrontations. After a while her pursuits became familiar to the night shift of the Calgary police force and they chipped in whenever possible. Most of the time Helen found Tania, and Tania would sometimes resist but more times than not she would just smile as if nothing was wrong, get in the car and come home for a respite from the streets, a home cooked meal and love. Our door was never closed to her and she knew where her safe haven was. This continued over the course of the past 15 years with many heartbreaking stories in-between, some too detailed, and some too personal to share.
Tania felt that by being downtown, she was helping her friends with supportive council and encouragement. She carried a first aid kit just in case her assistance was required and never wavered from her faith in God. Then the seedy side of downtown began to take its toll and turned into abuse. Not only by drugs but by other people that through their own desperation would take her money from her and beat her up if need be.
Through educating ourselves about the options that were available through various government programs, Helen and I, with Tania’s willing participation- found housing, income assistance as well as psychological service from local hospitals. After years of trials and errors we recently found a program and finally felt that Tania had a fighting chance. Her income was in place, her housing was in place and with our Trusteeship and Guardianship order from the courts, we were able to assist with her financial and medical needs. Our concerns were always about her safety and protection beyond our own graves.
Six months into this new transition the all too familiar rebound occurred and Tania fell back into the street life only this time resulting in her death from an accidental drug overdose this past Tuesday, January 31st 2017 at the age of 28.
Even though this loss is devastating, we are grateful for the time we had with our beautiful daughter and the lessons she taught us about love, patience and compassion for others less fortunate.
When you see a troubled teen on the street or a homeless person in need please be generous. Not just with money but more so with compassionate consideration, and respect. They were brought into this world for a reason too, even if, just to touch your heart as you walk by.
Tania will be forever in our hearts, sadly missed and fondly remembered. We will laugh again, as we will remember the good times. She would like that.
We take comfort knowing that this happened in God’s time and it is beyond our understanding. We know she is in a better place.
Thanks to all of you, for taking the time to read this and allowing me to share.
A Celebration of Tania's Life will be held at Westside King's Church, 3939 - 69 Street SW, Calgary, AB on Wednesday, February 8, 2017 at 2:00 pm.
The link below for Canada helps connect directly to The Alex, specifically for Pathways
https://www.canadahelps.org/dn/13468 and choose "Pathways" from the drop down menu
Messages:
To the family of Tania, My deepest, heartfelt condolences go out to you. I was so moved by your tribute to Tania's life, the honesty of sharing her struggles and the beautiful person she was to so many. Be assured that Tania is safe in God's memory for the time when he will restore her and all of our dear loved ones to life and undo all of the suffering of this world. I pray you are able to find comfort in the wonderful hope that our loving Creator promises. "God will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore.' - Revelation 21:4; Acts 24:15
Terry, Helen & family: Our heartfelt condolences to all of you with the sudden loss of Tania! I remember her as such a beautiful young girl with an amazing spirit, always smiling! May the good memories you have help to brighten the days ahead! With our love and deepest sympathy! Dale, Debbie and family (Eloschuk)
Dear Terry and Helen and Adam, Gregory and Tk and the rest of family and friends, we are so saddened about the loss of your youngest child Tania, there have been some tough times through the years but you always gave her so much love and hope, this is a time of great heartbreak to all of you and we give our condolences. Rest in peace dear Tania. Love Kathy and Pete
Thinking of the Gaulin Family at this most difficult time.
Helen, Terry and family I am so very sorry to hear of the passing of Tania. I remember the awful day she fell out of the tree. We were all working at Canadian Airlines and rallied around you the best we could. You know Tania is in a better place with God. She is home now and at peace. We all have our journeys but Tania's was so much more challenging. My heart goes out to you Helen. Tania will never leave you, she will always be with you in spirit. You have many friends and support around you, I hope that gives you comfort at the difficult time. God Bless!
Dearest Helen, Terry and Family! I am very saddened to learn of the unexpected passing of your beloved daughter, Tania. May your warm memories give you comfort at this time of sorrow and may Tania rest in peace and soar high with the angels above.
Helen, Terry & Family, I'm saddened to hear of Tania's tragic passing. Know that your unconditional love and support most especially during her time of need will always remain with her. May Tania rest in eternal peace.
Terry, Helen, and Family: We are thinking of you at this most difficult time and thank you for sharing the important history of Tania's life. As parents you provided unending love and support; please take comfort in the fact that you did everything and more that any parents ever could have. May Tania rest in peace. Sincerely, David and Diana Paisley
Dear Terry, and your entire family. I am so sorry to learn of Tania's passing. Your true love and concern for Tania has been evident to me for several years. Your ongoing efforts to assist Tania with her difficulties are clearly recognized. Tania's struggles are now behind her. May she rest in peace.
Although I only met Tania a few times, she proved to be a generous-spirited and empathetic confidante to my daughter when she was beset by her own mental health challenges. Tania's judgement may have adversely affected by that childhood fall but her concern for others was absolutely innate, and compassion permeated all of her interactions with others. I can only imagine the frustration you endured over the years as you tried to provide as much of a safe haven as Tania would allow. I hope that you are able to take comfort in the knowledge that your daughter is safe in the memory of a God who is able to see past the frailties that resulted from her accident when he restores the many compelling facets of Tania's personality during his promise of a resurrection to a world cleared of all causes of suffering (Hosea 13:14, Acts 24:15 and Revelation 21:3, 4).
Helen and Terry. There are no words that can express the sorrow and compassion I feel for you. Working with Helen at Canadian Airlines, I can recall Tania's fall and the commitment and strength you both showed in working tirelessly for her recovery and then the continuing challenges through the years. During those many years, whenever we ran into each other, we always checked up on our mutual kids and your bright smiles always mirrored the huge size of your hearts when you talked about Tania and her siblings. You both have been blessed with wonderful, loving children through your own efforts as loving parents, and that love will help and guide you through any dark days ahead. Suzanne
Dear Helen, Terry and family, We are so very sorry to hear the tragic news of Tania's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. Although you cannot see her she is with you always in spirit. She will never leave you. I can only imagine how may heart's she touched. Rest In Paradise Tania. Gordon, Stephanie and Veronica Hall
Helen and Terry, My deepest sympathy for you and your family.
I'm so very sorry to hear of Tania's passing. As a cousin from Ontario, I know the love of the Gaulin family. May your love and strength keep you close and help to get you through this heart ache. Love from Ontario and we're here for you always!
I worked in a restaurant across from the courthouse a few years back. Tania came in almost every day. Her smile could brighten the hardest days. She always had time for everyone. Just the kindest, most gentle soul. I am so SO sorry for your loss.
I am truly sorry to hear of your loss. Tania was such an amazing person and i was lucky to know her and her family. Tania always meant alot to me and i to her so much so she beg her dad to hire me once which i ll admit i was young and foolish but i thank her dad for giving me the chance and giving me a shot and i'd do it all over again. I meet here just a few years after the fall and wanted to be her friend and more, i wish i could of done more to help her. I used to live down the street from you guys in woodbine and have some fond memory s of these times and all the times youguys invited me into your home with your large hearts. I thank you for it thank so much. If you guys need anything any help or anything please feel free to reach out to me anytime 5879695721.
Helen and Family, In time, may you find comfort in your faith, along with the knowledge that your love for Tania was and is forever. With deepest sympathy, Sheila Pennell
My sincere condolences. It's so touching how you have taken care of your daughter for so many years till her last day. As parents we would like to give everything to our kids especially love and support. I admire how you didn't give up. Though there are no words that can take away the pain that you're feeling right now, but may God's words found in Revelation 21:4 give you comfort and hope in the days ahead...
No more words, just tears. Thinking of you today and forever with all of our Love. Mom & Dad
The tribute to Tania showed the extent of your love & support for her. Tania learnt those qualities from both of you as she watched over other people. Our deepest sympathies to your family & may sharing of memories of Tania ease some of the pain. (You may not remember us -Judy met Dennis on a trip to Europe & then Denise when the trip was over)
Tania was blessed to have such a loving and caring family to help her through her journey. The story of your lives has touched my heart. May she rest in peace in Gods hands and may you all find peace in the knowledge that she is indeed in a better place.
My deepest condolences for your family. I spent many weekends at your house, as a friend of Tk's. I remember being told about her miraculous recovery from the fall and all the hardships that followed. When Tania and I finally met I remember thinking 'this is a girl who marches to the beat of her own drum'. She immediately welcomed me as a friend. I envied her confidence, how wild and free she was. We would sit at the table, have a laugh, and I'll never forget how much she loved vinegar and ketchup with her meals. I remember the summer road trip we took was filled with laughter, and I was amazed at Tanias ability to befriend anyone and everyone. I know that she truly loved her family-- and that she held her sister in high regard. I could see the love and support they had for each other and that their love was unconditional. She is truly a person you never forgot and has had a lasting impression on me. I am honoured and blessed to have know Tania, remembering her loving and gentle soul. May she rest in peace. ❤ Maria Bazan
My deepest condolences go out to Helen, Terry and family. You all are in my thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time. I will always remember Tania's smile when she would come into 7-Eleven for a cup of coffee. She is now smiling down on each and everyone of you, and her spirit will always be with you.
Dear Terry, please accept my condolences for your tragic loss. This is now the second passing of daughters in the last 2 weeks of the fathers I know. I cannot imagine to be in this position and admire your strength to cope with the situation. Your write-up tells me that you and your wife have this passion and strength. Our thoughts are with you. Peter
Terry, Helen, Adam, Greg, TK and family, There are no words to say how sad we are for the loss of your beautiful Tania. It has to be the greatest pain imaginable to have to say goodbye to one of your children. Know that we are here for you if you need anything. Sending our love, hugs and prayers to each of you at this most difficult time. Rest in Peace Tania With Love, Dave, Lisa and Max
Thank you for sharing your story about Tania. I am a stranger, and so sorry you lost your daughter, but I learned by reading about her. "When you see a ... homeless person in need please be generous. Not just with money but more so with compassionate consideration, and respect. They were brought into this world for a reason too, even if, just to touch your heart as you walk by." This is a beautiful thought & lesson. Thank you.