It was a great honor to meet Elizabeth (Libby) Dolan and her parents, Doug and Jennifer, last night at Spring Branch ISD Bright Stars gala. Libby was selected to receive the final scholarship in Sarah’s memory. We know Sarah would be thrilled. Libby was in kindergartener at Meadow Wood Elementary the last time Sarah visited the school where she taught for four years. We wish Libby every success as she starts TCU in the nursing program.

 May 12, 2022 (Our apologies for not posting about Tyler more than a year ago here on Sarah's blog)

Denise and I had the pleasure to present Tyler Cobb with the seventh 2022 Sarah Chidgey Scholarship at the Spring Branch ISD Bright Stars Gala. Tyler starts LSU in the fall and plans to study coastal and marine ecology. We congratulate him and wish him every success.. Ongoing thanks to family and friends who have generously donated to the Sarah Chidgey Scholarship Fund to keep Sarah’s memory alive.

Tonight the sixth Sarah Chidgey Scholarship was presented to Sara Yazdi, Stratford High School senior. Denise, Brooke, and I thank all those who generously contributed to the scholarship fund over the past ten years. We would also like to thank the Spring Branch I.S.D. and Spring Branch Education Foundation that made this virtual celebration honoring scholarship recipients possible this year. 

Sara Yazdi, 

Congratulations! We wish you every success in life.

For those who would like this worthy cause in memory of Sarah, please click this link to the Spring Branch I.S.D. website:

Donate to Sarah Chidgey's scholarship fund

 

2019 Sarah Chidgey Scholarship Presented

Dear Friends and Family,

We apologize for the delay in posting this. It was an oversight on our part.  Again to all of you who have generously contributed to the Sarah Chidgey Scholarship in Spring Branch I.S.D., we sincerely thank you. The fourth scholarship was awarded to Tim Snapp, a graduate of Stratford High School on May 15, 2019. Congratulations Tim! While Tim was not in “Ms. Chidgey's” class, both knew each other well since he was directly across the hall. In fact there are many ties between the Snapp family and Sarah including Tim's mother working with Sarah on the planning committee when the Meadow Wood Elementary campus was about to be totally rebuilt. Also of note, Tim was wearing a blue Shine Bright wristband in memory of Sarah form long ago as he received his scholarship award. 

Sarah expressed her desire to be remembered by having scholarships awarded to students who attended Meadow Wood Elementary School and who demonstrate a passion for life, learning, and serving others. As usual, Spring Branch I.S.D. had their annual All Stars Gala (2019) where scholarships were presented to students. It was a time for us to honor Sarah and what she loved - teaching and also to honor the teachers fo the year from across the distric!. 

Denise and I just want to be sure you know how much we appreciate your thoughtfulness, caring, and love these past years. Sarah would be proud of the good that is coming from these scholarships and so thankful for each of you in helping make this happen. Enclosed is a picture of Tim with us at the awards presentation. Tim is attending Texas A& M and plans to study in the Department of Construction Science. We are happy knowing the $4,000 scholarship will assist him in reaching his career aspirations. If you or someone you know would like to contribute to Sarah's scholarship fund, please do so at:

Sarah Chidgey Memorial Scholarship Fund

Best wishes and much love.

David and Denise

As Sarah would say, “Shine bright firefly, shine bright!”

2018 Sarah Chidgey Scholarship Presented

Dear Friends and Family,

We again thank you so much for contributing to the Sarah Chidgey Scholarship in Spring Branch I.S.D. The third scholarship was awarded to Macon Boane, a graduate of Stratford High School and former third grade student of “Ms. Chidgey.” 

Sarah expressed her desire to be remembered by having scholarships awarded to students who attended Meadow Wood Elementary School and who demonstrate a passion for life, learning, and serving others. As usual, Spring Branch I.S.D. had their annual All Stars Gala (2018) where scholarships were presented to students. It was a time for us to honor Sarah and what she loved - teaching. It was so nice that former students, parents, and staff made a point to introduce themselves to us and share beautiful memories. 

The following morning we decided to visit Meadow Wood Elementary School. Sarah would have loved the new campus full of life and learning. The library that was dedicated in Sarah’s memory is such an inviting place and her portrait of her having fun with her students is hanging in a place of honor. It was really special to meet the new principal and reconnect with some of the staff who knew and loved Sarah.  

Denise and I just want to be sure you know how much we appreciate your thoughtfulness, caring, and love these past years. Sarah would be proud of the good that is coming from these scholarships and so thankful for each of you in helping make this happen. Enclosed is a picture of Macon and us at the awards presentation. Macon will be attending Texas Tech University as a pre-law student. We believe the $4,000 scholarship will assist him in reaching his ultimate career goal of being an attorney. If you or someone you know would like to contribute to Sarah's scholarship fund, please do so at:

Sarah Chidgey Memorial Scholarship Fund

Best wishes and much love.

David and Denise

As Sarah would say, “Shine bright firefly, shine bright!”

Macon Boane with David & Denise Chidgey

Shine bright firefly, shine bright!

Dear Sarah,

Your dad and I presented two very deserving graduating students the first of the Sarah Chidgey Scholarships at Spring Branch I.S.D. They attended second grade at Meadow Wood Elementary the first year you taught there. The students expressed their gratitude and stated that there were no words to adequately convey their thanks. A big great thank you to all of Sarah's friends and family who have contributed to this scholarship fund. https://cms.springbranchisd.com/sbef/Donate-Now/Donate-Online Shine Bright Firefly, Shine Bright.

Love,
Mom and Dad

Salma Almasri  and Daniel Radhimzadeh

recipients of the Sarah Chidgey Scholarship 2017

Like Captured Fireflies

by John Steinbeck

In her classroom our speculations ranged the world.

She aroused us to book waving discussions.

Every morning we came to her carrying new truths, new facts, new ideas

Cupped and sheltered in our hands like captured fireflies.

When she went away a sadness came over us,

But the light did not go out.

She left her signature upon us

The literature of the teacher who writes on children's minds.

I've had many teachers who taught us soon forgotten things.

But only a few like her who have created in me a new thing, a new hunger, a new attitude.

I suppose that to a large extent I am the unsigned manuscript of that teacher.

What deathless power lies in the hands of such a teacher.

It is hard to believe that Sarah has been gone for 6 years. Her spirit, however, remains with us along with beautiful memories. At some point during the last month or so of Sarah's life, she shared her concern that she might be forgotten. That conversation led to the idea of setting up a scholarship in her memory for students at Meadow Wood Elementary who she would have known during the time she taught there. Sarah would be happy to know that the scholarship fund is a reality. Thanks to each and everyone of you who have made this possible. Our heart goes out to you.

In fact, the first Sarah Chidgey Memorial Scholarship will be given to one student from Spring Branch I.S.D. this coming May. The scholarship will provide the selected student at least $1000 per year for four years. I know Sarah would be so proud. There will be five additional scholarships provided in the coming years with a duration of four years each. If you would still like to donate, you may at the following link:

https://cms.springbranchisd.com/sbef/Donate-Now/Donate-Online

Sarah also asked to be remembered through "Shine Bright" gifts to the Alamo Heights School Foundation in San Antonio that will be used to support instruction and inspire teachers. We are glad to report that the collected funds were used provide enrichment experiences for at risk elementary students during this past 2016 summer.

Much love always,
Denise, David, Brooke, & Eric

Celebrating Sarah's Birthday - October 19th

Happy Birthday, Sarah, from your friends at Meadow Wood Elementary. We miss you and love you. We'd like to share the poem Sarah's students read December, 2011 when the library in our new building was dedicated to Sarah.

 

Like Captured Fireflies

by John Steinbeck

In her classroom our speculations ranged the world.

She aroused us to book waving discussions.

Every morning we came to her carrying new truths, new facts, new ideas

Cupped and sheltered in our hands like captured fireflies.

When she went away a sadness came over us,

But the light did not go out.

She left her signature upon us

The literature of the teacher who writes on children's minds.

I've had many teachers who taught us soon forgotten things.

But only a few like her who have created in me a new thing, a new hunger, a new attitude.

I suppose that to a large extent I am the unsigned manuscript of that teacher.

What deathless power lies in the hands of such a teacher. 

 

Denise and I recently got an email from Cameron Hammon which we would like to share with you. Attached was a song sung by Cameron entitled "Up to the Mountain." Cameron sings it in such a way that it touches the soul. Hoping that you will have the opportunity to hear this in the near future.

David and Denise Chidgey

I want to tell you the story of how this song got recorded.

As you will notice, I'm singing it quite a bit softer than I usually do, and the way that happened was pretty cool.

So we recorded in a big old house in the woods outside Dallas. We started the vocal for this song late afternoon, and I did a couple performances the way I usually do. Just as it was getting dark (the house was full of giant windows) Josh Moore --who was producing-- asked me to sing it differently. To try to simplify it a bit and lean back into the most basic melody. I was singing in the giant main room of the house -- floor to ceiling windows-- and did two takes just like what you hear on the recording. While I was singing every hair on my body was standing on end, and Josh, in the other room had the same experience. Something magical was happening. Between the two takes Josh and I saw a flash of light in the woods, so bright it looked like a camera flash. We looked closer and realized that the house was surrounded by fireflies.

Josh had no idea of the connection of this song to Sarah and to Fireflies, and he said," I guess all the fireflies are coming to hear you sing."

I will never ever ever forget this experience as long as I live. I hope you like the song and the way it turned out.

All my love to you and David and Brooke,

Cameron

Matt and Cameron Hammon & Alex Dezen of The Rebecca West can be found at https://www.facebook.com/therebeccawest?ref=ts&fref=ts

Love always . . .

Missing you so much Sarah. Love always. Dad, Mom, and Brooke

Sarah's birthday is coming up on Friday, October 19th. To commemorate the day, we would like to share Sarah's favorite cookie recipe with all those who were part of Sarah's life. Oh how she loved to make these delicious cookies for family and friends.

We will be making a batch, while thinking about all the good times. As Sarah would say . . . "Shine bright firefly, shine bright."  David and Denise Chidgey

Sarah's Favorite Gingersnap Cookies 

2  1/4 cups flour

1 cup brown sugar

2 tsp baking soda

1 cup oil

1 tsp ground ginger

1/4 molasses

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1 egg

1/2 tsp ground cloves

Sugar (to roll cookie balls in)

1/4 tsp salt

Preheat oven to 375°. Stir together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves and salt. In a large mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, oil, molasses, and egg. Beat well. Add flour mixture and beat well. Shape dough into 1 inch balls. Roll in sugar. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from pan and cool. Enjoy!!!

Sarah Chidgey Hughes Memorial 5k Run/Walk

This morning's 5k Run/Walk was a huge success by all standards. A large number of runners, walkers, and onlookers were there to provide support for the cause including friends and family, people from St. Lukes and Church of the Reconciliation and Serna Elementary, those that knew Sarah personally and those who didn't. The weather was beautiful and breezy. The route was laid out in a beautiful and hilly area of San Antonio. After the run, there was live music, fun activities for the kids, and food and refreshments under ancient live oak trees. My brother, Joe Chidgey, took great pics which can be seen at: http://chidgey-tjctexas.smugmug.com/Events/2012-Sarah-Chidgey-Hughes-One/22816459_DSRRkB#!i=1830744744&k=22bWqMH . A big thank you to everyone who made this possible. I think Sarah would have been pleased.

David Chidgey

One Year Anniversary

On the anniversary of Sarah leaving this world and speaking for Denise, Brooke and Eric, I would like to thank each of you for all the love, prayers, and support you provided Sarah and us during her illness. For family and friends, students, parents, and staff and those who only got to know Sarah through this blog, there really are no words to express our gratitude. For Eric, I know that Sarah could not have had a better partner and more loving husband during this difficult time. Thank you for the gift you have been and continue to be. I will never forget the image I have of you holding Sarah and singing softly to her as she made the final transition to everlasting life. Know that we are eternally grateful and love you.

For those at Ecclesia who demonstrated their love through daily service and support, please know that I witnessed a love I have never witnessed before in any community. What a gift to each of us. To Dr. Arujo, your ability to speak the truth, as devastating as it was, helped Sarah embrace and dance with life and live in possibility and hope. My heart goes out to you. Thanks to all the staff at MD Anderson who provided loving care to Sarah.

And to my Sarah, know that you are always in my thoughts, sneaking in when I least expect it, reminding me of how you were so alive, uniquely yourself, zany and authentic, and such a human being. Yes, you are so greatly missed and the feeling of emptiness remains as I expect it should. I so appreciate the time we shared together. It is my personal treasure.

David Chidgey

The Year in Review

I am sure that many who return to this blog of Sarah's have wondered how everyone is doing. The simple answer is we (Denise, Brooke, Eric, and I) are doing well, even though we have our ups and downs.  We are going forward in our lives as Sarah would want us to.  We really appreciate your concern for us and your caring support and thoughtfulness over the past year. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

At some point during the last month or so of Sarah's life, she shared with me her concern that she might be forgotten. That conversation led to the idea of setting up a scholarship in her memory for students at Meadow Wood Elementary who she would have known during the time she taught there. Sarah would be happy to know that that scholarship fund is a reality.  

http://www.springbranchisd.com/sbef/donation.htm

On February 2nd, the newly completed Meadow Wood Elementary School campus had its grand opening and library dedication. Eric, Brooke, Denise, and I along with close friends were guests as students, staff and parents dedicated the beautiful, new library in loving memory of Sarah or Miss Chidgey as she was known to her beloved students. Former students of Sarah recited a poem by John Steinbeck named "Like Captured Fireflies" which is about the lasting impact of a special teacher on the lives of students. Robye Snyder, Sarah's principal, spoke about Sarah. "If you were lucky enough to have known or met Sarah, you know that she was a very special young lady who touched hearts and inspired many. Through her beautiful blog, she was able to continue her passion, teaching. She taught so many of us about love, about life, about passion, and about hope. SHINE BRIGHT FIREFLY, SHINE BRIGHT."

A big thanks to all who had a part in making this happen. Sarah would definitely be humbled and happy. Here are pictures of both the memorial plaque and portrait of Sarah acting zany with some of her students (portrait by Serbian artist, Borko Petrovic).

Like Captured Fireflies

by John Steinbeck

In her classroom our speculations ranged the world.

She aroused us to book waving discussions.

Every morning we came to her carrying new truths, new facts, new ideas

Cupped and sheltered in our hands like captured fireflies.

When she went away a sadness came over us,

But the light did not go out.

She left her signature upon us

The literature of the teacher who writes on children's minds.

I've had many teachers who taught us soon forgotten things.

But only a few like her who have created in me a new thing, a new hunger, a new attitude.

I suppose that to a large extent I am the unsigned manuscript of that teacher.

What deathless power lies in the hands of such a teacher.

Sarah also asked to be remembered through "Shine Bright" gifts to the Alamo Heights School Foundation in San Antonio that will be used to support instruction and inspire teachers. In this way she felt that she would honor her mother and other dedicated teachers in Alamo Heights I.S.D.

http://www.ahisd.net/foundation_web/grants/AHSFGrants_shinebright.html

During the past year, Courtney Fowler, good friend and teaching colleague, was moved to begin fundraising events for the Sarcoma Foundation in Sarah's memory in the Houston area. These have included Macy's Shop for a Cause, Paula Poundstone Comedy Fundraiser, Gazelle Electronics Donation Fundraiser, and Local Restaurant Tip Collections. For more information and to learn about future events, visit www.sfatexas.org  .

On Saturday, June 11th, the youth of St. Luke's Episcopal Church in San Antonio hosted the Sarah Chidgey Hughes One-Step 5k Memorial Run. Proceeds from the race benefited the construction of the meditation garden at Ronald McDonald House and last summer's mission trip to Uganda. The run was a huge success with several hundred participants. This year, the second annual Sarah Chidgey Hughes Memorial 5k Run, will be on Saturday, May 5th, at St. Luke's. Details will be posted as they become available.

David Chidgey

Memorial Service

Link for Sarah's memorial service webcast:  livestream.com/ecclesiahouston


There will be a memorial service in Sarah's honor at Taft on Saturday, February 19th at 2:30pm.  We anticipate that a large number of people will want to participate. Space and seating is incredibly limited here at Taft. We want to make sure that her family and closest friends have ample space to be present on Saturday.  We are going to post a web link so that those who have been following Sarah’s story on her blog and through the community may be able to watch a live webcast of the memorial. We are asking that anyone who has been following her life and story from a distance to join together with family or friends as you participate and celebrate via the webcast, so that there is enough space for those who have been closest to her and Eric to be in the building on Saturday.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to either the Spring Branch Education Foundation, 955 Campbell Rd., Suite 206, Houston, TX 77024 for the Sarah Chidgey Hughes Scholarship Fund or to the “Shine Bright” Fund that has been established in Sarah’s memory, at the Alamo Heights School Foundation Shine Bright Fund to support and inspire teachers.

Sarah Chidgey Hughes Obituary

Grace and Peace

Sarah's Transition

February 14, 2011:

Sarah is currently in the process of transitioning out of this life... away from her current worn down body and into an indescribably beautiful one.  She is very close to leaving the cocoon and becoming the butterfly she has always been so symbolically drawn to.  Her condition has dramatically worsened over the past several days, and given her current symptoms, we are being told that the time for her to pass is very near.  Currently, she is having few lucid moments, and the ones she is granted are spent straining for those three precious words that exemplify her life... "I love you."  Rest assured that she is certainly enveloped in love.  Please pray for a painless and peaceful transition, and those of us here struggling with the huge void caused by the loss of her presence.  

I think Sarah's light has shown so bright that this earth can no longer contain it.  It's time for her to go to the true source of that light, to stop being the lone lantern shining into the darkness, but to join the grand symphony of radiance.  It would seem selfish to keep her after she has worked so hard and is this close.  


Shine bright firefly, shine bright... with tears in our eyes we cherish the path you illuminated. 

-Your husband

Feb 10 -- I am home

2/5/2011

2/2/2011

Stopping and smelling the roses!

                                     

Enjoying family on a walk!

MDACC has incredible roses!

The butterfly that had just come out of its chrysalis at the MDACC butterfly garden. 

1/31/11