Chaya Hafen Obituary
Chaya Hafen, 15 years old, died at her family home in Battle Creek, MI on April 2, 2012. She had severe cerebral palsy and was wheelchair bound, but was otherwise healthy and stable. She died peacefully and without any pain, surrounded by those who love her. Chaya had a great smile, a remarkable spirit, and a tenacious will to live and enjoy life despite her physical challenges.
Chaya was born on April 10, 1996 in Chicago to Tom and Tracy Hafen. She was born 12 weeks premature, and her cerebral palsy was the result of the difficult circumstances surrounding her birth. Her name, “Chaya,” which is Hebrew for “life,” was chosen by her parents because of her strong will to stay alive at a time when her early survival was uncertain.
From her youth, she worked tirelessly with dedicated teachers, therapists, nurses, and doctors in order to make the most of her limited physical abilities. In the process, she grew close to many them, and they often spoke of her cheerful demeanor and her infectious smile.
Chaya had a ready laugh and a highly developed sense of humor, and she loved spending time with her family, her classmates, and friends at church. She was particularly close to her Grandpa Daniel Taylor, who preceded her in death and with whom she is now joyously reunited.
She had strong faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ, and she anticipated the day when she would be blessed with a perfect body through the power of the Resurrection. Her family looks forward to embracing her in their arms again and hearing all the words that her beautiful spirit wanted to convey in this life.
Chaya is survived by her parents and her siblings, Daniel, Caleb, Elia, Asher, Micah, Devi, and Jaren.
2 comments:
Thank you for this, Sarah. What a beautiful tribute. How thankful I am for knowing the Plan of Salvation, and that we will be eternally united with our families someday.
What a beautiful girl.
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