The Miami Herald
2002-11-14
Section: Neighbors EA
Edition: Final
Page: 4E

As Emilia Alvarez threw the two-page letter addressed to her father into the fire, tears filled her large green eyes and streamed down her cheeks.

The 15-year-old was taking the first step toward dealing with the loss of her dad, Robert, who died of cancer in May. Since then, Emilia has had a difficult time coping. ``My father and I were very close. I miss my dad so much,'' said Emilia, a sophomore at Michael Krop High School. ``When I threw the letter I felt like he was giving me hugs and kisses. I felt his love.''

Read more: Camp Offers Hope, Healing for Children Coping With Loss