Kiana's life was filled with innocent joy, the kind that only a child can exude. She spent her days swimming with the Dolphins swim team, a passion that brought her happiness and camaraderie with friends. Tragically, it was during one such practice that a sudden storm ushered in a devastating end to her radiant life. Amidst the chaotic movement to safety, Kiana was lost to the deep end of the Westchase pool.
She was the cherished daughter of Keith and Diana Appleby, their only child at the time. Kiana was an integral part of her family's journey, supporting her father's career change and cheering him through his law school journey at Stetson University College of Law. Even at her young age, Kiana was a giver - her heart bloomed with the desire to bring happiness to others.
In 2005, the Appleby family celebrated Keith's graduation with a trip to Europe. The joy of giving, embedded deep within Kiana's heart, shone brightly during this trip. She gave her own money to an elderly homeless woman in Paris, a small act of kindness that etched a permanent memory of pride and joy for her parents.
Just ten days after watching her father being sworn in as an attorney in Tampa, Kiana's life was cut short. Yet, in her brief time on earth, Kiana left an indelible mark of kindness, charity, and hope. Even at her tender age, she understood the importance of giving, collecting unopened toys to give away to less fortunate children during her family's travels.
To honor Kiana's memory and to keep her generous spirit alive, the Applebys established the "Kiana Lynne Appleby Memorial Scholarship." This scholarship echoes Kiana's legacy, offering a helping hand to those who need it most.
Since 2005, the Applebys have welcomed two more children, Lucas and Keira, into their lives. With the memory of Kiana guiding them, they continue her legacy, collecting necessities for children and bringing a bit of joy to those who need it most.
Today, we remember Kiana Lynne Appleby not for her untimely departure, but for the inspiring and generous spirit she embodied. Her memory remains a beacon of love and generosity, inspiring us all to extend a hand of kindness to those around us.
Written by: Alan Owen
Kiana's life was filled with innocent joy, the kind that only a child can exude. She spent her days swimming with the Dolphins swim team, a passion that brought her happiness and camaraderie with friends. Tragically, it was during one such practice that a sudden storm ushered in a devastating end to her radiant life. Amidst the chaotic movement to safety, Kiana was lost to the deep end of the Westchase pool.
She was the cherished daughter of Keith and Diana Appleby, their only child at the time. Kiana was an integral part of her family's journey, supporting her father's career change and cheering him through his law school journey at Stetson University College of Law. Even at her young age, Kiana was a giver - her heart bloomed with the desire to bring happiness to others.
In 2005, the Appleby family celebrated Keith's graduation with a trip to Europe. The joy of giving, embedded deep within Kiana's heart, shone brightly during this trip. She gave her own money to an elderly homeless woman in Paris, a small act of kindness that etched a permanent memory of pride and joy for her parents.
Just ten days after watching her father being sworn in as an attorney in Tampa, Kiana's life was cut short. Yet, in her brief time on earth, Kiana left an indelible mark of kindness, charity, and hope. Even at her tender age, she understood the importance of giving, collecting unopened toys to give away to less fortunate children during her family's travels.
To honor Kiana's memory and to keep her generous spirit alive, the Applebys established the "Kiana Lynne Appleby Memorial Scholarship." This scholarship echoes Kiana's legacy, offering a helping hand to those who need it most.
Since 2005, the Applebys have welcomed two more children, Lucas and Keira, into their lives. With the memory of Kiana guiding them, they continue her legacy, collecting necessities for children and bringing a bit of joy to those who need it most.
Today, we remember Kiana Lynne Appleby not for her untimely departure, but for the inspiring and generous spirit she embodied. Her memory remains a beacon of love and generosity, inspiring us all to extend a hand of kindness to those around us.
Written by: Alan Owen
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