Who Are We?
Meet the founders of this foundation, Jonathan & Destiney Hitchens and their five little ones: Chase, Colt, Chelsea, Caislee, and Cody. In December of 2022, they were given the news that no parent should ever hear. "I'm Sorry, there is NO HEARTBEAT." What should have been a season of joy and anticipation turned into one of heartbreak as they faced the devastating loss of their daughter, Caislee Rylin, just weeks before Christmas. The holidays, already a time of excitement with three young children eagerly awaiting the arrival of their baby sister, became an unimaginable blur of grief and unanswered questions.
In the weeks and months that followed, Jonathan and Destiney faced the raw pain of loss while still trying to be present for their children, who were grappling with their own confusion and sadness. They navigated the heartbreak of a quiet nursery, the weight of packing away baby clothes, and the ache of missing someone they had dreamed of but never got to know. Yet, in their darkest moments, they also discovered a truth: grief and joy could coexist. They found comfort in their faith, strength in their family, and purpose in honoring Caislee’s life.
Amid their pain, Jonathan and Destiney began to search for ways to honor Caislee’s memory while navigating life as a grieving family. Out of that journey, the Caislee Rylin Foundation was born, with the mission of offering hope, comfort, and resources to families experiencing stillbirth. Through thoughtful keepsakes like personalized memorial prints, star maps, and Caislee’s Box, they strive to show others that even in the deepest sorrow, moments of beauty and joy can still be found. Jonathan and Destiney are passionate about creating a community where grief and joy can coexist, reminding families that healing doesn’t mean forgetting, and love truly does transcend loss.