Diane Rilling Cook 3 hrs · This is what Christmas season is all about. My sister & brother-in-law started this ministry 14 years ago in memory of my niece Kylene.

Ky’s cookies deliver a bittersweet Christmas message

Beginning this weekend, volunteers will deliver homemade cookies to parents who have lost a child.

Author: Art Holliday

Published: 6:03 PM CST December 6, 2018

Updated: 6:37 PM CST December 6, 2018

FLORISSANT, Mo. — On a snowy Thursday morning, Deb Bronder and her husband Pat were busy inside Trinity Church in Florissant, preparing Christmas cookie bags.

There were thousands of homemade cookies of every size, shape and flavor from chocolate chip and oatmeal, to cookies shaped like Christmas trees and Santas.

“We put anywhere between two and two and a half dozen per plate,” said Deb Bronder.Beginning this weekend, volunteers will deliver homemade cookies to parents who have lost a child. Why cookies?

“Ky was our cookie maker,” said Deb. “She would make cookies almost once a week.”

Ky, short for Kylene, is the oldest of the Bronder’s three children. A 2004 horse accident killed her. Ky died after getting kicked in the chest.

“Ever since she was two years old, she just had a fascination with horses,” said Deb. "She did have a passion for horses. That's why she was working at the stables. She just loved being there."

“I remember a story from a young man who came to her funeral and he ended up having her name tattooed on his arm because he didn't want to forget the impact she had on him,” said Deb. “In the hallway at school, she would say ‘hi’ to him. As simple as that.”

Ky’s love of cookie baking inspired her parents. The first year, they delivered Ky’s Cookies to 35 families who lost a child. This year, well over 500 families will get cookies.

"The most significant part is being able to approach a parent, hand them a gift and say their child's name. That means more to a parent than anybody could know. It's a song to their heart."

Pat estimates he’s delivered tens of thousands of homemade cookies since 2004. He’s seen great appreciation for the kind gesture, as well inevitable tears.

“I know a lot of times they're tears of joy,” said Pat. “It's like I'm ready to tear up right now just talking about my daughter. It's not a bad thing.”

For information on how to donate cookies, click here or email knowingyou@sbcglobal.net.