Tulsa Woman Collecting Donations For Child Abuse Network In Honor Of Late Son

A Tulsa woman plans to donate hundreds of blankets and stuffed animals to the Child Abuse Network in honor of her son, Lincoln.

Lincoln had just celebrated his first birthday when he died suddenly in 2018.

It's a painful memory for Sydney Meeks, but she hopes the memory of her son can be used to ease the pain in other children.

Lincoln's death is one of 400 every year nationwide chalked up to SUDC.

"Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood. So it's a non-answer. There's no answers to why he died," Meeks said.

The first year without Lincoln was hard, but Meeks found a way to turn that pain into something else.

"We decided after we survived the first year that we would do something to remember his birthday. To make it a day where we look forward to, not dread. Just to make a difference in his memory," Meeks said.

This year she's collecting new blankets and stuffed animals for children seen by the Child Abuse Network.

"Every child that the child abuse network sees leaves with a stuffed animal and a blanket," she said. "We chose the goal of 377, one for every day that Lincoln was alive."

Just over half a month in, she's well on her way. Meeks has collected nearly 250 items, hoping to get to 377 by Lincoln's birthday on Sept. 23.

"Lincoln loved stuffed animals. What child doesn't?" she said. "It makes me happy that we're carrying on Lincoln's legacy. People aren't going to forget, they're going to remember and that's something that makes momma happy."

You can donate through registry links below or by donating in-person at the Child Abuse Network at 31st and Sheridan.

You can click here for the Amazon Gift List.

You can click here for the Target registry.