Death in the Family
My post are and will be erratic. Some of you may know and some of you may not but there has been a death in the “family.” Recently, I did a feature on one of my best friend’s birthday, Lola. I can not begin to tell you the significance of Lola in my life. She is just my family. We have suffered a loss and have gathered in Minnesota to make arrangements. I am glad to be here with Lola and Peju and Joke because even though they are surrounded by some of their family, the way in which their parents can assist is very limited. The girls are the ones picking the coffin, packing the house…they are doing it all. Therefore I am glad to be here to drive her around, check her messages, make sure she showers and eats and sometimes provide comic relief when we aren’t sobbing in the middle of Macy’s as we pick jewelry for her 15 year old sister to be buried in.
I have been handwriting everything but I will begin posting my writings with Lola’s approval. There are two facebook groups in honor of Tinu. I appreciate that all of her friends are sharing their stories and pictures on there. Also coming up is the Out of Darkness Overnight Walk for Suicide Prevention. Learn about this instead of playing mafia on facebook.
In Loving Memory of Tinuola Olateju
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Tinu Olateju
February 15, 1995 – May 29, 2010
Photo Credit 1
PDF 
Oh, hon…my heart goes out to you and all of Tinu’s family and friends. Sending hugs and love.
this is very sad, i know in yoruba culture, parents do not bury their children
Lola’s family is from the yoruba tribe and no they don’t bury their children so her father won’t be there. Her mother won’t either because two years ago she suffered a brain aneurysm and has been in a nursing home since. So the three older daughters are literally doing everything. It’s very sad.
I am only 45 minutes from you in Minneapolis. Let me know if there is anything I can do.
I’m still keeping all of you in my thoughts and prayers. I’m sending all my love and strength to you.