Jennifer Bankston Obituary

Loving wife and mother, wonderful daughter and sister, Jenny was positively buoyant and epitomized all that is right with the world. Everyone who met her came away feeling uplifted by her presence and enthusiasm. She was kind, beautiful, creative, athletic, and poised. Her love for life was evident to all around her. She was loved by family and friends with the same intensity that she showed in her love for others. It's an unfathomable tragedy that her young life was cut short on Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2007. She will be missed. And she will be remembered for the bright light that she was. Graham Gibbs Bankston was born to Jenny and her husband, Chip, on Nov. 1, 2007. Graham was called back into the loving arms of his heavenly father only six and half weeks later on Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2007. The entire family is finding strength in God and knowing that this is all part of his divine plan. Jenny Gibbs Bankston is survived by her husband, Dr. Larry "Chip" Bankston Jr.; parents, Sandy and Bob Gibbs Jr.; brother, Randy Gibbs; twin sister, Becky and spouse Brian Lavelle; grandmother, Margaret Gibbs; Ruby, Buck and many other relatives and friends. Graham Gibbs Bankston is survived by his father, Dr. Larry "Chip" Bankston Jr.; grandparents, Sandy and Bob Gibbs Jr., Larry S. and Lynn Bankston Sr. and Jane Vance Smith; great-grandparents, Margaret Gibbs, Graham Vance and Jesse Bankston Sr.; uncles, Randy Gibbs, Benjamin V. Bankston, Hunter W. Bankston and Kendall J. Krielow; aunts, Becky Lavelle, Lauren E. Bankston and Ashlyn C. Krielow. There will be a Memorial Service and Celebration of Jenny and Graham's lives on Thursday, Dec. 27, at 2 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 2100 Fourth Ave. North, Birmingham, Ala., and a reception following in the fellowship hall. A reception celebrating the lives of Jenny and Graham will take place Sunday, Dec. 30, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Wayzata Country Club; interment and memorial services on Monday, Dec. 31, at 10 a.m. at Lakewood Memorial Chapel, 3600 Hennepin Ave. South, Minneapolis, MN 55408. To contribute to Jenny's Light, a nonprofit foundation dedicated to building awareness, detection and treatment for postpartum disorders, please remit to Jenny's Light, 5021 Vernon Ave., Suite 107, Edina, MN 55436. Thank you for helping and understanding.

Published by The Advocate from Dec. 22 to Dec. 26, 2007.
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Continued prayers.

March 21, 2019

For all those who have suffered from PPD...May the light keep shining to always give us hope.

Karin

March 4, 2019

Thank you for sharing this story lightning and stars

care delhi

January 8, 2019

great site thank for sharing

puspitasari wedding

December 2, 2018

Thank you for sharing this difficult story

Amber Scott

November 8, 2018

Taj Foods

March 31, 2018

I am so deeply sorry for your tragic loss. Thank you for sharing your story and helping other's recognize the signs and symptoms of this horrible affliction.
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Muhamad azam

March 30, 2018

I was so sad to see Randy talk about Jenny and Graham in the movie. I hope your family can find a way to live in joy and with happy memories. I really do.

Linda Madison

February 3, 2018

I hope that those who read this story and are struggling after having a baby can get help and know that they're not alone.

Kristin Rocker

November 20, 2016

Thank you for sharing this story and bringing light to the struggles of postnatal mood disorders. I am starting my own business bringing support for women living with these life changing issues, and I was brought to your site while doing my own research. I admire your strength and bravery for the work that you're doing.

Emily Braun

May 23, 2016

On this anniversary of such an unbelievable tragedy, I reflect on Jenny and your family. I had the privilege to coach Jenny and Becky in track and remember both girls well. I am so sorry for the loss of Jenny and your grandson. Bless their souls and may their love surround you on this and all days to come.

Lori Cade

December 19, 2015

May God bless your family and friends and may you hold on to the wonderful memories of Jennifer and Graham forever. Thank you for creating awareness of PPD and giving Moms like me the courage to help others!

Jessica Adams

June 13, 2014

i wanted to let you know that you are all in my thoughts + prayers. i'm so very sorry for your loss + my heart aches to think about it.
jenny + graham look so gorgeous + i hope in god's arms they are both at peace.
thank you for continuing to educate + fight for us women with ppd. xo.

October 7, 2013

I just wanted to let you know how much I admire your determination to show the world such light after a tragic situation. I am recovering from postpartum depression and anxiety (1 year), and know firsthand how dark this illness can be. I am grateful that I finally had the courage to tell my husband some of the "scary thoughts" that plagued me day after day for months. I am "me" again, and I will forever keep all of the women, who have not been as fortunate, in my prayers every day. Thank you for doing what you all do!

Kristina Poma

April 29, 2013

Deepest condolences to your family. As a mother of two, this story breaks my heart but I remember those early days after delivery...it is tough. Prayers to your family. Thanks for sharing!

February 4, 2013

I am so deeply sorry for your tragic loss. Thank you for sharing your story and helping other's recognize the signs and symptoms of this horrible affliction.

Karlyn Bastian

October 29, 2012

I am so incredibly sorry for your family, and my thoughts are with you. God bless you

Cassi

August 19, 2012

I was an eighteen year old mom who suffered from postpartum depression.My heart goes out to your family. Thank you for sharing.

Neesha

April 10, 2012

There are no words.

Karin Plow

January 8, 2012

Hardly a day goes by that we don't think about you, Jenny, Graham and Ruby. Chip take care of yourself-from your old neighbors. All our love

jamie and jennifer

September 20, 2011

I am a mother of 5 grown children who suffered with depression for many years.I just now found the tribute & can relate.God holds us in His hands in this life & the next.My prayers go out for your family.Time will bring us to our loved ones again.God bless. Laura

January 21, 2011

Thinking of You All. Time will help heal your wounds and memories are yours forever.

October 24, 2010

I too suffered from PPD 9 years ago, what a terrible time in my life, if you suffer too, please, please, please open up and share your feelings with someone, that is what saved me and I am so grateful! I was so saddened to hear of Jenny and Graham, so happy to hear their memory is helping so many others.

R Horbul

October 14, 2010

S. Plant

July 6, 2010

Thanks to Jenny's family who have/are/and will continue to make a difference. I wish I had you 27 years ago.

wendy

May 27, 2010

Cried when I watched your tribute to Jenny and Graham. The sadness and how sorry I am for your loss. I too suffer from a PP mood disorder. I have suffered and been in treatment for 5years. its a struggle evryday.so great that I got help. thankful everyday. Please keep up ur work.
U r in my prays.

Megan

April 26, 2010

Thinking of you all today and everyday.

December 19, 2009

Thinking of Jenny, Graham and all the loved ones they left behind.
May only happy memories reign in your hearts and minds today.

Janine Evans

December 19, 2009

Sandy, Bob and family,

The tears just flowed while I was reading the tribute to Jenny and Graham. My heart goes out to you and your family especially this month of November and December. I know you are making a difference for women who may experience what Jenny went through and now will know they need help and will seek it. The tribute was as beautiful as Jenny. Love, Pat and Jerry

Pat Lothrop

November 17, 2009

My heart goes out to you as you enter yet another holiday season without your loved ones. May your memories be of the joyful and happy times because "life is still for the living"! Take Care

November 11, 2009

Chip,
I have recently found out about this website. I was deeply saddened to hear of your loss. If you ever need anything, please do no hesitate to contact me. Your friend.

Chuck Moore

October 27, 2009

My thoughts are with you all.. live life to the fullest and keep smiling

j g

May 23, 2009

I am deeply saddened to read of the loss of Jennifer and Graham and the pain that the family was left to endure and commend you on your strength to spread awareness during such an incredibly painful time in your life. May God bring you some healing, through the joy that Jennifer and Graham give to you through their beautiful lives.....May God Comfort You and Wrap his Loving arms around the family and husband of Jennifer....

Sheri Tinguirlis

March 17, 2009

Becky, Chip, and your entire family,

I will always remember Jenny for the amazing person she was. Graham, Jenny and all of you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Daniela Durón

January 25, 2009

Chip and Family, Just a quick note to let you all know that Jenny and Graham have not been forgotten. Their light continues to shine and the prayers and thoughts of all of us remain with you. Know you are never alone.

A Friend

January 12, 2009

GIBBS AND BRANKSTON FAMILY,

YOU ARE IN MY THOUGHTS DAILY AND ESPECIALLY TODAY. I OFTEN WONDER WHY A TRAGEDY LIKE THIS HAPPENS. I THINK WE ALL HAVE SOME PURPOSE IN LIFE AND I BELIEVE JENNY AND GRAHAM'S LIVES WERE TAKEN SO THAT SO MANY OTHERS CAN BE SAVED. THROUGH JENNY'S LIGHT THIS IS HAPPENING. I HOPE IN TIME YOUR PAIN WILL BECOME LESS AND LESS AND YOU WILL BE HEARING MORE AND MORE ABOUT THE LIVES THAT HAVE BEEN SAVED THROUGH JENNY'S LIGHT.

KAREN RITTER
ST. PAUL MN.

KAREN RITTER

December 19, 2008

Thinking of and praying for Chip today.........

anonymous

December 19, 2008

This tragedy is still heavy on my heart, 364 days later. I will continue to keep the families in my prayers and especially tomorrow as you replay the events of the past year. Jenny and Graham are certainly not forgotten in Birmingham, nor will they ever be.

anonymous

December 18, 2008

Jenny, Chip, and Graham....it's Christmas and you are so much on my mind. This big lump in my throat holds all the memories of the dog park, you jogging by my house with Ruby, your concern when I fractured my knee.
I now live in Franklin, NC up on a beautiful mountain, but come to B'ham often to visit...and I always drive through the old neighborhood to remember all my sweet neighbors.
Each time brings back the memories.
Sweet Dreams Mother and Son....

Denise Bishop

December 13, 2008

Indeed an informative website. The informative details on Viagra, Natural Viagra and Generic Viagra are wonderfully included here. Best wishes!

james anderson

December 9, 2008

Your commemorative video says more than any words. The tragic deaths of Jennifer and Graham are so unfathomable. It truly was the death of innocence.

Yet, your response to this personal tragedy is one of respectful rememberance and mindfulness.

May your organization thrive and help all who might have suffered the same devastation otherwise.

My sincerest condolences, sympathy and empathy to Becky, the Gibbs's, Chip and the Bankston's and your loved ones. God bless you all.

Sincerely,

Jim DiNovis

December 5, 2008

My most sincere condolences to you, the family of Jenny and Graham. I was deeply touched and saddened by your story (which I read on your website, Jenny's Light). I've lived with depression off and on for my entire life, and wanted you to know how much I appreciate you sharing your story.

Sylvia

November 26, 2008

I am still recovering from PPD after 18 months...I was blessed with healthy twin boys in May 2006 and within 2 weeks of their birth I knew something was not right; Anxiety attacks, Intrusive thoughts, insominia. I have struggled with depression and anxiety my entire life so I was aware this was not quite right. Even as a mental health worker I was ashamed and embarrased about what I was experiencing.Words can't describe how sorry I am for your loss...Your dedication and your love for Jenny and Graham will help countless of women and their families...
Thank you.

Elissa S

November 21, 2008

Thank you so much for this website.
I read this story in my Glamour and then a link from postpartum progess's one of blogs brought me here. I suffered from PPD after birth of my first child in 2006 and got help after 8 months of giving birth. I cannot imagine the pain and suffering of jenny and you. I have a 4 month old now and watching the video esp Graham's picture broke my heart. They had so much to share and enjoy as mom and son and never got to. It is sad but sad cannot describe the loss it is. As the one year mark approaches I hope you find strength and peace some how in face of this immeasureable loss. God bless
I will link your to my blog.

Najmi Jay

November 18, 2008

This site and talking of Jenny's struggles will only help others and open the eyes of those around us. When I became a first time Mom, I had a difficult birth, trouble breastfeeding (I was terrified of starving my child), tired beyond anything I ever knew (my baby rarely, if ever slept more than 2 hours), instead of resting I was hyper trying to maintain the "perfect" home, do laundry, sort photos and make albums, send out birth announcements, thank you notes, you name it. I was also very isolated in the winter and had no help whatsoever. When I mentioned my crying to my Dr. she shrugged it off as "environmental". Even my own mother didn't get it when I called her and could not stop crying. Another thing I found is that if you are having trouble with ppd or anything similiar to it, people don't really want to hear. They take it as not just "depression", but as "not being a good Mom" or "gee, she's not handling this too well, is she.." People have to get the fact that there is no difference in the love and quality of a mother who is depressed and one who is not. Being depressed, or worse, does NOT define anyone as a mother. I think this is a major reason why many women don't seek help or even reach out to their family and friends. They don't want anyone to think they're a bad person/Mom. It's incredibly scary.
I was able to work myself out of my "blues" once I started getting more sleep and getting out more with my baby and other friends with young babies. It made all the difference. After my second child was born I quit my job which brought on new anxieties. Eventually (much later than I should have) I spoke with my Dr. (different Dr.) and got on some medication which helped significantly. I felt more myself, than I had in awhile.
Now, whenever I get the chance I tell new Mom's that if they have these feelings, it's more common than anyone realizes, and help is easy to get. Everyone needs to get over the myth that having a baby is this romantic, bliss filled time in their lives!

A Mom Who Knows

November 17, 2008

Thinking about you guys as it approaches a year. What a wonderful website. Thank you for your work in the awareness effort. You're in my prayers. Lots of love.

Alison Franklin (Hartzell)

November 11, 2008

I am currently suffering from severve ppd and anxiety. I search everyday for hope and inspiration through different stories and research org... To help me through everyday. I think your web site is a blessing. Please continue to spread the word. This ILLNESS IS REAL!!

Dominique Alexander-Wright

November 3, 2008

You were in my thoughts yesterday on what would have been Graham's first birthday.

anonymous

November 2, 2008

Thank you for sharing such a difficult story. I had a rather severe case of PPD in October, 2006 after the birth of my 2nd child. As others have said, no one (including family members of the afflicted mom) can understand this devastating illness until they have been through it. I had very little help and support in my small town. In a way I was devastated when, after I had reached my recovery, many women--in whispered voices--told me they, or someone they had known, had suffered from this awful storm too. I had felt so alone. If only the 'shame' of a mental illness hadn't kept them from sharing their stories, I can't help but think I would've recovered more quickly. Again, thank you for your courage and care.

Myra Taylor

October 31, 2008

I suffered a severe PPD with my daughter in 2005. It was a very long journey to healing. I so easily could have been Jenny. I was lucky that I was strong enough to get help, but only after I stopped eating and stopped sleeping for one month did I fully realize that I had lost it. Other women's stories held me together, knowing that I would recover eventually. This is a tremendous resource! I wish that there was a recommended class to take for both mother and father to recognize the signs, as it's easier to treat when it's caught early. God Bless your family and the work you are doing!

Jennifer Flavin

October 29, 2008

I am so sorry for your loss it is heartbreaking, thoughts and prayers are with your family, you are doing great work by getting the message out about this disease, it is serious, and people need to know that.

Bevin M

October 29, 2008

I am so sorry for your great losses* I read this article on aol.com last night & it broke my heart
god bless,

Andie Gonzalez

October 25, 2008

I am so, so sorry this happened. I can only imagine your feelings after this horrile tragedy. I will think of Jenny and Graham often. Bless you for having the faith and courage to prevent this from happening to other people.

Someone who cares

October 24, 2008

I am sorry for your loss. This was not her fault. Unless you have been thru this you have no idea the depressed, crazy feelings that are associated with this.
I had this with my 1st few kids. In the 60's you just had the GP which in my case was good. I wanted to be perfect & doubted myself. I measured the formula 100 times & thought if it wasn't perfect it would kill the baby, but then I couldn't bathe him as I felt I would let him slip under the water. No sleep, these horrible thoughts, I told my husband who said "What is the matter with you, you are an unfit mother." I ran to the doctor. My old family Dr. I trusted him completely. I told him I didn't like the baby and didn't want him. He laughed and said "Oh! you have a bit of the baby blues. He will grow on you and you won't break him or poison him if the formula isn't exact." He also told me that if I didn't want to put him in the water then lay towels on the bathroom floor and sponge bathe him. He assured me it would go away. With his approach I felt "normal" and then over time it did subside. By the next kid I knew what it was and rolled with it a little better.
My daughter had it also, and she had it bad enough I kept the baby and told her not to worry it would go away and I would care for the little guy until she felt safe. I had him 6 months. We live in a society that has us doing and being too much. We are just human. We have too much getting us too stressed and material things get in the way. Perfection is the norm any more. I did find that once I told people how I felt I ran into a lot of people that said they felt the same way but never said anything. I am sure each case is different.

Nancy Smith

October 24, 2008

Please know that Jenny and Grahams light does still shine.....
all the way to me in Tampa Florida. Bless us all

Bobbi

Bobbi Dugas

October 24, 2008

I am so sorry for your devastating loss. I also had mild post-partum depression (more than the baby blues) with my first two pregnancies. I survived only with talk therapy because I refused meds (anti-depressants). It took a long time. This disease is different for every women. Every woman needs to choose the best way to get cured that's right for them without other people ridiculing them. I will say that exercise is good for all new Moms though. Everyone, please open your eyes to ALL new Moms. This disease is very easy to hide (unless it is very severe like post partum psychosis). I was able to put a smile on for everyone and made everything look perfect, but behind closed doors I crumbled to the floor. All new moms and moms within a year or so of giving birth are at risk! Please don't be ashamed to get help. Do it for your children and for YOU! Thank you for forming Jenny's light! It is the best way to honor your loved ones. I am going to buy my t-shirt, wear it proudly, talk about Jenny and Graham and my story as well. Your loss will be someone else's gain! Godspeed.

Kathryn

October 24, 2008

I just read the article in Glamour today while at the gym--and it made me cry. I gave birth to my daughter in April 2007 and two days after coming home from the hospital, I ended up in the ER with severe PPD. What you are doing is wonderful!! PPD is awful, scary and paralyzing. It turns a wonderful period of your life into a nightmare. I am so sorry for the loss of Jenny and Graham. You are doing GREAT things and I am sure they are with you in spirit as you educate people on this awful disease!

Wendy

October 22, 2008

I'm so saddened but so thankful you have taken your experience and are willing to share and help others going through such a dark and lonely time. My personal experience with postpartum anxiety/depression put me in a very frightening place and left me near incapable of taking care of my loving daughter. One year later, I am a survivor.

With every horrible situation there is a silver lining and as I have tears streaming down my face saying this, Jenny and Graham, your life on this Earth will educate and save more women and families than one can imagine. My daughter was born on Aug. 30, 2007 and 1 week later, my mental state shifted. Two weeks later, it took a turn for the worst, and by the time she was 5 weeks old, I was a different person consumed by an illness and I was holding on by my finger tips. I was looking for support with other women and families and survivors and there was none. The education and support is just not there and I know your organization will be the one to break the silence. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Sylvana

October 12, 2008

i am so saddened by your loss. i had a baby girl in sept 07 and i suffered from ppd. i did get help for it. i will keep your family in my prayers.

angela westgerdes

September 30, 2008

My deepest condolences to the Bankstons and the Gibbs.

Chip was a good childhood friend of mine. When I heard the tragedy, I was filled with such sadness.

Chip, please stay strong. Love and time can heal all and you're surrounded by so much love. We will pray for you and your family.

Dave & Swati Yadav

September 26, 2008

I'm truly sorry for your loss. I read the article in Glamour magazine and your story touched my heart. I also am going through PPD and think your program, Jenny's Light, is wonderful. Thank you very much for getting information out to help others!

A M

September 24, 2008

Thank you for sharing your story. My heart goes out to your family for this tragic loss!

I gave birth to my little boy on August 4, 2007 just a few short months before Graham was born I believe. I also suffered from severe PPD and an organization like this one is much needed.

I am keeping your family in my prayers and over time I hope that all your hearts are healed.

So many people need to have an understanding of how devastating PPD can be but there are very few resources that really give an idea of what it is like. I pray that your organization will be the one to break the silence and give women the help they deserve! All too often the only people who understand how horrible PPD is, are the ones who have gone through it. Thank you for an amazing organization and for saving lives!!

Chelsea Benson

September 22, 2008

Jenny and Graham are both in God's loving embrace.
I am so very sorry for your loss. Your story touched my soul.

terri

September 19, 2008

While working out today, I read of Jenny and Graham's story; I can't express the sadness I now feel.

I just gave birth to my son, Brody, 4 months ago. I, too, had postpartum depression. I had thoughts of hurting myself and the baby. Luckily, my wonderful husband recognized the signs and took me to my doctor where I began treatment. I am surviving, everyday is a little bit better.

I will mourn both Jenny and Graham. Two beautiful lives gone; one who could have known the joys of motherhood and the other who never had the chance to live.

I am sorry for your losses.

Danielle Fry

September 12, 2008

I first saw a memorial to Jennifer & Graham in the yoga studio at Blooma, in Minneapolis, MN. while visiting last spring. I was so taken aback that I could not stop thinking of them throughout the next few days.

I was saddened to my core as I think of how close every mama is to the edge whether she knows it or not after the births of our babies and how alone we can feel amidst the love and support of our friends and family.

I will hug my daughter (b:11.30.2007) ever tighter and hold her just a little longer in honor of the lives that Jennifer & Graham lived. Their memorial and PPD awareness card was in the right place at the right time for me.

Thank you for allowing your terrible loss to become a light to others!

Kailleagh L Sebastienne

August 26, 2008

I hope that time will give you peace. I also suffer from depression for many years and in Mexico its not considered an illness. Its hard to live day by day, My love to all the family. Gloria

Gloria

August 11, 2008

Chip
There are so many people that care for you, Jenny, and Graham. There is not a single day that I do not think of you and pray that God is healing you. Your courage continues to amaze me, and I am here for you always.

Brittany

August 5, 2008

Chip,
Just saw Becky doing a triathlon on TV (Las Vegas) and made me think of you. Hope you are doing well and continuing to heal.
Braden, Mary, Blythe and Ethan Holloway

Braden Holloway

July 26, 2008

God Bless Graham and Jenny. I am so sorry for your profound loss. May you have the strength to carry on and save the lives of those destroyed by PPD.

Amelia Simms

July 20, 2008

I am so sorry for the loss of Jenny and Graham. I just read about Becky's Lifetime race in the St. Paul paper and heard the tragic news for the first time. I went to elementary school with Becky and Jenny. Jenny was such a sweet and loving person. Your family is in our prayers!

Lisa Taylor (Eng)

July 13, 2008

I am a labor & delivery nurse in Minneapolis. My heart goes out to you and every family who has been affected by post-partum depression/psychosis. I am bringing this resource to my work, in the hopes that more mothers and families can be given the information they need to identify the signs, and be linked up with the help they need. Thank you for creating this forum. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Gina Clausi

July 3, 2008

I also suffered horrible PPD after the births of both of my children, and had complicated pregnancies. I had family helping, but it was the most alone I have ever felt in my life. Jennifer's story makes my heart ache. Thank you for encouraging women to speak out about this devastating illness.

Karen

July 1, 2008

There are no words to convey how sorry I am for your loss. What an unimaginable tragedy. I am a survivor of PPD. I hope that your foundation will bring you some peace as I know that it will bring much needed help and guidance to other women.
If it helps save even one precious child, perhaps the deaths of Jenny and Graham will not have been totally in vain.
I will be posting a link to Jenny's Light on my own website.
Again, I am so sorry.

Michelle W

July 1, 2008

My heart goes out to you and your family and a special prayer to Jenny and Graham. I too suffered Post Partum Depression with my two children. It was the worst time of my life. NO ONE can ever understand the terrible pain unless they experience it. Hopefully your site will build awareness to those that suffer and they are able to open up to their loved ones and know that there is nothing to be ashamed of. This is an illness that needs to be addressed.

Babette Reo

June 30, 2008

Thank you so much for setting up Jenny's Light. One of my closest friends took her own life three years ago in August. She left her 1 year old whom I know she loved dearly. She was dealing with postpartum and, unfortunately, none of us knew her deep anguish. Thank you for opening a door that is so hard for people to grasp or understand.

meredith beal

June 29, 2008

My heart goes out to you & your family.
I lost my daughter on 3/2/02 she was 2 1/2 yrs. ( She is also on this site Siobhan Julia Kelly)
You never get over the loss of someone ... they say, "with time it gets easier.." I would say with time, you learn how to incorporate the loss into your life and keep all the positive memories alive in your heart!
You will never be the same again, but you will always be blessed for having such a wonderful soul join you in this journey, if only for a short time.
Take care...

Angela Kelly

June 28, 2008

I am so sorry for your loss. I had postpartum depression after the birth of my second child. It was the scariest time of my life but I survived it w/prayer & medication. I pray your website will help other mothers. There is not enough emphasis on this illness. My thoughts & prayers are with you & your family.
God Bless

Amy Pope

June 28, 2008

It was wonderful to see you at the recent PPD Conference in St. Paul. I commend you for the amazing work that you are doing to bring PPD to light. It all too often goes unacknowledged when it IS common, treatable, and preventable. My prayers are with you as you grieve your loss. God does have a plan, and I believe that "Jenny's Light" and the lives you will save and help through it are part of that plan. God bless you! I look forward to taking part in assisting your cause.

Cyndi Haataja

June 27, 2008

i'm a postpartum depression survivor - all i can say is thank you. i have been to the brink and back. only time and love.

tina

June 27, 2008

I just found out about your charity and read the story. I have 2 young children of my own and suffered with postpartum after both births. There were days that I thought I wasn't going to make it and was afraid of what I might do to my children.
Thank you for sharing your story and making a difference.

Nicole Pecot

June 27, 2008

I'm only a few years younger than Jennifer and my son Gordon was born 2 years ago. Thank you for sharing Jennifer and Graham's story. I will support your cause and pass the word because women in America tend to be "shut away" after a birth. I definitely was "blue" after the birth of my son and cannot imagine the anguish Jennifer must have been going through. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry for your loss. Thank you and know that you have helped many women.

Kate Gibson

June 27, 2008

Thank you very much for helping to shed light on the prevalence and gravity of peri- and postnatal depression. I, too, suffered horribly from postpartum depression. Even though I was good at hiding it, many red flags were waving at everyone around me, including my health care professionals. Nobody diagnosed it. I can't bear to think of what might have happened if I hadn't managed to drag myself into my OB/GYN's office one day and "confess" to my misery.
Hopefully, thanks to organizations like Jenny's Light, we'll begin to see a boost in public awareness and more assertive attempts by health care professionals at catching peri- and postnatal depressions early enough to prevent the depth of grief you have had to bear. As a woman who has also suffered in silence, I thank you. Jenny, Graham, and all of you who loved them, you are in my prayers.

Nicole Valentino

June 26, 2008

I can't think of too much to say to a family who has dealt with such pain and loss other than I am thinking of you in my thoughts and prayers. This site is truly a "light" for others and you are helping so many women dealing with this by education and support. God bless you.

Elisa G

June 26, 2008

I know this kind of pain all too well, if it were not for the sake of my 8 year old I would not have asked for help. I am a strong,proud, god-fearing woman. But this will knock the strongest man to the ground. I commend you for sharing their story. It feels like shame when asking for help, but it is really courage and I think we all need to understand that. Please take time to offer help to any mother even though you may think she has it under control.

Mari S

June 26, 2008

I cant find the words to say how I feel. Thank you for doing this for all women. I to had the same feelings after i gave birth to my little girl. I got help and now doing well. Good luck and thanks again!!

amanda macias

June 26, 2008

I don't know you but I happened upon this site. As a mother and a sister of of a suicide victim, my heart breaks for all of you. Please know that you're not alone in your pain.

June 26, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Kim Weldon

June 25, 2008

I just want to tell you how wonderful this is to see you trying to give hope. Any depression that is pregnancy/birth related carries a shameful vibe in today's society. Even insurance companies make it hard to receive care. I know. I suffered from depression during my pregnancy with my daughter, and continued to be depressed for a couple years. The loss of a baby left me suicidal and hopeless feeling. It took me 3 years to get the help I needed, and still need.

I pray that you will be successful in helping many, many women. Perhaps, as more read Jenny's story, the stigma that goes w/ this form of depression will be lifted.

Bless you.

Jenn Sider

June 22, 2008

Dear Family,

Jenny, Becky and I went to Junior High and High School together. I just found out and am truely sorry for your loss.

Andrea Vognsen

June 19, 2008

Terry Gormley

June 18, 2008

May God bless the family and friends who are mourning this tragic loss. Also, thank you to the Gibbs and Bankston families for helping to raise awareness and acceptance for those who have PPD. Your courage and strength and your fight to raise awareness have helped me to gain the strength that I have needed to seek help for my own PPD so that I can fight to be the best wife and mother that my family deserves. May God bless you all...you are in my prayers.

Beth Grace

June 7, 2008

Today, Memorial Day, I will be reading this poem at a ceremony, I thought of the families of Jenny & Graham and wanted to share it with you~

God's Lent Child

I'll lend you for a little while, a child of mine, God said.
For you to love the while he lives and mourn for when he's dead.
It may be six or seven years, or forty-two or three.
But will you, till I call him back, take care of him for me?

He'll bring his charms to gladden you and should his stay be brief
You'll always have his memories as a solace in your grief.
I cannot promise he will stay, since all from Earth return,
But there are lessons taught below I want this child to learn.

I've looked this whole world over in my search for teachers true
And from the folk that crowd Life's lane I have chosen you.
Now will you give him all your love and not think the labour vain?
Nor hate me when I come to take this lent child back again?

I fancy that I heard them say, "Dear God, Thy will be done.
For all the joys this child will bring the risk of grief we'll run.
We will shelter him with tenderness, we'll love him while we may
And for all the happiness we've ever known, we'll ever grateful stay.
But should the angels call him much sooner than we'd planned
We will brave the bitter grief that comes and try to understand."
~Author Unknown

God Bless.

Stephanie

May 26, 2008

PRAYER OF SORROW

Lord Jesus, You have called us to be children of light: Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

Christ, you have suffered on the cross for us: Christ, have mercy. Christ, have mercy.

Lord Jesus, you are the Saviour of the world: Lord, have mercy. Lord, have mercy.

May 16, 2008

Watching the moving memorial slideshow for Jenny and Graham reminded me again for Jenny's radiance. She shines on still and now has the chance to lighten up so many dark corners of our world. I am amazed at the strength, insight and courage of you, her family. My heart is never far from you all.

Becky, as a sister myself I hold you close in thought and pray for peace for you.

Chip, please remember that there are so many people who care about you, Jenny and Graham. You are on my mind every single day and if I could reach through time and space and take away your pain for even just one minute, know that I would do so.

May 13, 2008

Our hearts are so saddened as we lift you all up in prayer to The Lord. We know you Chip through friends at the Hospital, all have nothing but beautiful words of you and your dear wife. The gift of Jenny's light will save so many lives to come via education on PPD. I pray this organization will take the fear out of the topic and allow others to access help. God bless you and keep you.

the lawrences

May 8, 2008

I hadn't heard about Jenny's death until yesterday. I am deeply saddened and my thoughts and prayers are with your entire family. Becky and Jenny were both so sweet to me in high school. May healing and peace come to you as God moves through you to touch others through these deaths.

Nicole Inman (Peterson class 04)

May 7, 2008

I thank Brian Lavelle for sharing this beautiful and meaningful incident to my life. Being a Mother of 4 boys, I can feel and see how real and consuming postpardum can be. I am touched by the strength drawn from your families and a blossoming awareness from an abrupt tragedy. All anyone can do is live, love, and hope. All my prayers and warmth are with you all.

thira wallwork

May 7, 2008

As time drags on, I hope that the Gibbs and Bankston families are finding a way to peace from this tragedy. The Jenny's Light foundation is strongly supported and don't give up on your endeavors. To Chip, I still pray for you everyday and hope one day you will be able to smile again.

May 4, 2008

I viewed the memorial tribute for Jenny and Graham, what a beautiful and moving tribute. Jenny's spirit shines so brightly through the pictures, I can only imagine how beautiful and amazing she was in person.

There is no doubt that Jenny and Graham have left an enormous hole in the lives of their family and numerous others.

Please believe through Jenny and Graham's legacy, many holes in the hearts of women and their families will be filled and healed through the awareness and support of jenny's light.

To the family of Jenny and Graham Gibbs Bankston, it takes immeasurable strength and selflessness to find a light during this dark time in your lives. Thank you for sharing your light, jenny's light.

May 2, 2008

Dear Heavenly Father, please ease the pain and suffering of the family and friends who knew and loved Jennifer and Graham Bankston. Always, Vicki and Brenna

Vicki McCuistion

April 23, 2008

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