When six-year-old Sam’s mom passed away, his dad gently told him, “She flew to heaven.” But Sam didn’t fully understand. Days passed, then weeks — and still no visit from his mom. Heartbroken and confused, he dialed 911.
“Hello 911? I’m Sam. My mom’s in heaven but I think she got lost,” he said tearfully.
John Lewis, the police dispatcher, was moved. Instead of explaining death, he gave Sam hope: “Write her a letter every month and send it with a red balloon. She’ll follow the trail.”
Sam did just that, month after month — but got no replies. So he called again. This time, Lewis went further: he contacted local officers, who surprised Sam with red balloons in a show of support.
Then, a letter arrived.
It was from his mom — really written by his dad, who wanted to help Sam heal gently.
“You were always loved,” it read.
Sam finally found peace.