Melody Leda Cappelletti-Cotnam was born on August l2, 1985 at ll:27 p.m. Every year on her birthday I would recall the events of her birth and she enjoyed so much hearing about the day she was born and the circumstances surrounding her entry into this world. Mel(as everyone called her) was gorgeous on the outside and doubly beautiful on the inside. Usually children and teenagers tend to be selfish but not our Melody. She shared her clothes, cds, allowance, and almost everything she had she gave to her friends who were not as blessed. Mel was attracted to youth who did not have the advantages that she had. She was a gentle soul though at times that fiery temper could flare. Melody was passionate about life, love, music and people were drawn to her sparkling personality and her generosity. At fourteen, Mel had a maturity that probably I do not have as yet. She judged no one. Our Melody passed away on January 31, 00 at 8:45 p.m. This particular day happened to be a Professional Development day and the kids were not in school. One of Melody's friends had called her over to spend the day with her. This particular girl did not have parents and was residing in a group home. She longed for a family and missed the foster family who she had been residing with in Chapleau, Ontario. Though we do not know all of the details of this tragic day, we do know that Melody was helping a friend. This was typical of Melody. Apparently, both girls drove off in a stolen vehicle circa 7:00 p.m. Theft was never a behavior of Melody's. Unfortunately, the other teen had been released from custody for car theft which had involved a police chase. She also had a history of car theft. In the act of helping a friend, Melody's life was extinguished. Our sadness is beyond belief. Melody's nonna Rosa(grandmother) adored her grandchild. She lived for Melody. Nonna Rosa was the last person to speak with Melody and she promised Mel that she would buy her favourite pizza pockets and juice boxes which she did. We are now in the process of incorporating a youth center in memory of our daughter. It will be called Melody's Youth Centre and will serve at risk youth. We ask for changes to the Young Offenders Act on behalf of all at risk youth. Comments to Don Cotnam (djc.cotnam@sympatico.ca) (Melody's father).