The Passing of Wesley’s Charms

Animas River Walk in Durango, Colorado. Photo 1 of 2 from Ciarra

As of today, I have received a 25% return of messages from people who have found Wesley’s Charm. On Monday, September 14, I received two messages. One from Ciarra Wagner and one from Connie. I will also share photos of places where I’ve left Wesley’s Charms.

Ciarra’s Message

Hi Hogan,

My name is Ciarra Wagner. I am visiting Durango, Colorado this weekend, and after two big hikes back-to-back yesterday and the day before, we decided to take it easy today and stroll the Animas River Walk. We stopped to read a sign about the area’s wildfire history, and I noticed this charm in the corner of the info board.  

It was extremely special to find. My brother, Alec, would have turned 35 yesterday if he were still here on earth with us, so finding Wesley’s charm made me smile and feel a universal connection to him, your family, and the world. 

See the attached photos, and know my girlfriend and I are sending you and your family the best. And lots of love. Today and always. 

I won’t tell you where I plan to take Wesley’s charm, but know he’s going places with us. 

Take care,

Ciarra & Alexa ❤️

Photo 2 of 2 from Ciarra.

Connie’s Message

Emma Sweeny Train at Santa Rita Park in Durango, Colorado. Photo 1 of 2 from Connie.

Hello,

Connie found Wesley’s Charm at the restored Emma Sweeny Train at Santa Rita Park along the Animas River in south Durango, Colorado

Sorry for your loss.  💔

Santa Rita Whitewater Park is an artificial, designed stretch of rapids on the Animas River, with a viewing area, open spaces, and more. The natural banks and rocks have been shifted just enough, along with some added permanent water features, to provide an ideal rafting experience at nearly any water level for the experienced rafter. 

Photo 2 of 2 from Connie.

Other Places I Left Wesley’s Charm

Angel of Hope Memorial Garden, Noblesville, Indiana.

Wesley’s Charm is located to the left of the flag. I laid a few rocks on it.

Wesley’s diagnosis was Angelman’s Syndrome, so it seemed fitting to leave one of Wesley’s Charms here. Parents who lose a child now have a place to visit to find comfort and solace. An Angel of Hope Memorial Garden, inspired by the book "The Christmas Box.” A story about a mother who lost her child and finds comfort at the foot of an angel in a garden. It opened on December 6, 2020. There are 160 Angel of Hope memorials across the United States, Canada, and Japan.

Oxbow Park Trail, Durango, Colorado

Oxbow Park & Preserve is one of Durango’s premier riverfront destinations, offering a unique blend of recreation, wildlife habitat, and open space conservation along the Animas River. Located on the city’s north side, the 93-acre park features river access, picnic areas, scenic trails, and a sandy beach, while much of the property is protected as a natural preserve supporting diverse bird and wildlife populations. Visitors can walk, birdwatch, paddle, fish, and relax along the river in a setting that balances public access with environmental stewardship.

Santa Rita Park along the Animas River in south Durango, Colorado

Same park as the one with the train and where Connie found Wesley's Charm but different location in the park.