10/09/2026
Today, we're remembering Isla Hawkins, a sweet and bright little girl whose joyful spirit brought happiness to everyone she met.
Isla was the girliest girl ever! She loved Disney and Disney princesses. She adored 101 Dalmatians and carried her little “Dalmatians” in her purse. She was such a bright light. Strangers often approached her family because of Isla’s bubbly, giggly nature. She loved rainbows and anything bright was her favorite color.
A message from her family:
"Today’s post is about YOU.
A lot of times, I write things and share them. It helps me to write it down and maybe, it may help someone else. My mental health issues have been a huge struggle since Isla died. I want others to know they aren’t alone… and I don’t want you to experience this hell that has become a norm in my life.
I want to remind YOU that an accidental drowning can happen to your family. It happens very quickly. It happens silently. It happens doing things that you’ve done 'hundreds of times.' It happens to people that hover over their children. It happens to those that love their children dearly.
I am asking you and your family to be diligent about water safety this year. Don’t let your child’s story be like my Isla’s.
Enroll your children in survival swim classes.
Never leave your children unattended around any body of water, EVER.
Don’t go inside to make lunch, grab popsicles, or go to the bathroom.
If you are out of sight of the pool, everyone should be out of the pool.
Lock doors that lead to bodies of water. ALWAYS lock them, especially when on vacation and children love to explore.
You don’t want them to accidentally end up in the lake or pool.
Always have eyes on the water.
Know flags at the beach.
Swim lessons, barriers (locks, pool gates), and EYES are your best tools to avoid joining me in this nightmare."
As part of this year's Little Angels Program, Isla Hawkins' name will be featured on the special tribute page inside the A Little Rees Specht for Water Safety coloring book. By honoring Isla's memory, we also continue sharing the importance of water safety with families everywhere.
Please share this message in memory of Isla and join us in sending love and strength to her family.