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Yamel Merino Obituary
Yamel Merino had a soft, sweet voice and a gentle smile, yet she could be as strong as a bull. She had to lift heavy patients onto gurneys in her job as an emergency medical technician. She knew her job was dangerous. Every night, she prayed for God to protect her 8-year-old son, whom she was raising on her own.
She felt most fulfilled when she was helping people. She was one of the first people to reach the trade center complex before the first building collapsed.
The 24-year-old mother lived with her son in Yonkers. Her big goal was to return to school to become a nurse. She had struggled mightily to get where she was. She didn't finish high school, though she eventually got her general equivalency diploma. She had worked at Metrocare, an ambulance company, for more than three years. A close friend recalls she had been nervous about whether she would get the job. She need not have worried. "They loved her," said the friend, Maureen Niciu.
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Anonymous
November 13, 2023
I never knew you, I had just come across your story. It made me tear up. You are a brave and beautiful person. Rest in eternal peace.
Robin Haynes
July 27, 2019
Yamel I remember standing outside of Metro Care Ambulance and talking to you in your Jeep like it was yesterday. You are never forgotten the sacrifice that you made doing your job. I remember being at your funeral crying and it was like you were there saying it's ok. I'm ok. I remember standing at the Trade Center on 09/11/2001 after the Towers fell and we learned of what happened to you. This world may forget but I will always remember your sacrifice. God bless you!! Heroic Angel!! RIP
Katie Meyer
July 26, 2019
I plan on doing the memorial 9/11 stair climb again this year, in honor of Yamel, like I did last year. God bless
Laina Rivera
September 11, 2016
We miss and love you. Until we meet again
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Charlotte Parrott
September 9, 2016
Every September,I wear a 9/11 Memorial Bracelet with Yamel Merino's name-I never met her,but her story touched me deeply. I share her with anyone that asks about my bracelet,and pray for her family and thank God for her bravery.
Milton Torres
October 10, 2015
I rememeber the days, At Montefiore. You would ask when I was going to work at metrorcare. You lit up the patients with a smile. We both worked at Metrocare and were partners twice. I pray everyday for God to keep you close. There really are no words. Milton EMT 911.
S J. Friscia III
November 21, 2014
In Memory
With Honor & Respect.
Bernard Bohl
September 11, 2013
This was the first time we were attacked and ambushed on our own soil since the attack on Pearl Harbor. Yamel like many other Americans answered the call just as the Americans at Pearl Harbor did 60 years before. Yamel you will never be forgotten and will always be remembered. September 11th 2001 and December 7th 1941 are dates that will live in infamy.
Laina
September 11, 2013
Rest in Peace . I miss you so much. One day .... love you
The Rev Kathy Corbett-Welch
September 11, 2013
Still praying for your son and family
Ysabel Caraballo
September 10, 2013
In our hearts you will always remain brave girl. :)
Reverend Kathy Corbett-Welch
April 27, 2012
I wear a dog tag with your name, as well as Kathy Mazza and Moira Smith. I never take it off. Everytime I look down @ it I pray for your beloved son.
carrie goodloe
September 15, 2011
you will forever be loved and always missed
Elizabeth Nolan
September 10, 2011
I didn't even know you, but I still think of you ten years later. Thank you for your service. You are a hero. I wish your family peace and happiness. God bless.
patty rodriguez
September 10, 2011
sept. 11 don't know if i hate this day or could just wish it away... i've try forgetting but no matter what i do i am reminded.. as the day nears.. not that i want to forget you just that i want to forget that you left... funny. the other day i swore i saw you food shopping. i caught myself stuck staring as i realized it could not have been you... now i just live off memories and flics of us, and the kids. everyone still.asks for.you, you are so missed. 10 years later. i will wear your pin tomorrow proudly at work, and will be honored to.say what a beautiful woman you are. i love you and miss you. till we meet again.
M David EMT
September 10, 2011
Thank you for your courage, dedication and and selfessness.
You will never be forgotten
Mary David
September 10, 2011
Words are hard to come by even 10 yr's later. You don't know me but I had to write after all this time. I'm an EMT in Texas. Shortly after that terrible day I was given a purple bracelet to wear. It says, Yamel Merino, killed in the line of duty September 11, 2001. I proudly wear it every day and have since then to honor her. I've read so much about Yamel and what a special person she was!! May God comfort you and God Bless your family.
We will never forget
Mary David EMT
Robin Haynes
September 5, 2011
It has been 10 years and I still remember that day, and I remember Yamel's funeral. I will never forget you Yamel. You are such a hero who gave of herself too help others. You were God sent and may you rest in peace. I have such a hurt when I think of you and what happened too you on 9-11-2001. I was a sobbing mess at your funeral and it still hurts today when I think of that day. I will love you always and I will never forget you!!! Love Always, your friend and colleague Robin Haynes EMT-P, RN
CLAUDIA AMORIN
September 11, 2009
KEVIN I HAVE IN MY HAND YOUR BABY SHOWER PICTURE, BECAUSE I USE TO LIVE
IN THE SAME HOUSE WITH JAVIER AND YAMEL
WHEN YOU WAS BORN IN YONKERS , AND I ALWAYS HAD THE HOPE TO FIND YOU AND YOUR MOM IN SOME PLACE TO TELL HER I HAD THE PICTURES CUSS WHEN SHE MOVED SHE FORGOT ABOUT THEM SO I TOKED IT ,IF YOU WANT THEM YOU COULD CALL ME AT # 1-718-415-9307 ; I CANT BELIEVE WHEN I HEARD YAMEL NAME IN 2006 AFTER THAT TIME ALWAYS I COME TO THIS TO SEE EVERYTHING ABOUT YAMEL AND TODAY I COULD WRITE YOU BECAUSE I HAVE IN MY MIND WHEN SHE USED TO GO AND KNOCKED MY DOOR FOR SOME REASON LIKE WHEN YOU WAS CRYING TO MUCH SHE ASKED ME ABOUT WHAT WAS HAPPENING TO YOU.PLEASE CALL ME BECAUSE I THINK THOSE PICTURED THEY ARE SUPPOSE TO BE IN YOUR HANDS AND I WANT TO KNOW IN WHAT CEMETERY REST YAMEL .
Rosie Arvelo
September 11, 2009
I keep the memory card of you in my car on the visor right next to my sister. I think you of daily and Pray that your son is well.
Keep smiling down on your beloved son and family.....
Virginia Cruz
September 12, 2008
Yamel,
It was such an honor to speak at your Memorial Service. I talked of many fun memories of you and all of it is very fresh in my mind as if it happened yesterday.I love you, Little Sister!
ORLANDO RIVERA
September 12, 2008
YAMEL GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY I MISS YOU SO MUCH THAT WE HAD TO NAMED MY DAUGHER AFTER YOU. YOU WOULD LIVE IN MY HEART AND THRU MY DAUGHTER.I EVEN HAVE A TATOO WITH YOUR NAME ON IT.
Lynn
September 12, 2008
Yamel god bless you and your family. Thank you for your courage and selflessness that day.
Anonymous YPD officer
September 11, 2008
I am sorry that you had to endure whatever it was that lead to your death that day, but it soothes me to know that you were part of something much bigger and that your legacy lives on.
Cristina Rosado
September 11, 2008
Yamel is soo loved. Her family loves her soo much. I went to see her family and friends at her grave today and her family had made more buttons of her with different pics, so you see, all of us together keep her alive in our hearts.
Katherine Vasiliadis
September 11, 2008
7 years later....and I still miss you. Patty was just here visiting....we were looking at pictures of all of us hanging out...I miss those days. I miss your smile....You are always in my thoughts and I am so proud to say you are my friend.
Laina Niciu
August 28, 2008
I miss you so much...... I get the message... thank you
Love you always
Virginia Cruz
August 27, 2008
Loving and missing you always, Virginia..
Elizabeth rodo
January 28, 2008
you was a great person you saved a lot of us i was there you saved me thank you so so so much
WITH LOVE
ELIZABETH
Virginia Cruz
December 23, 2007
I miss you, Yamel....:-(
Superstar!
Love You!
Virginia
Doug Abraham
October 21, 2007
Happy Birthday!!!
09/11/07 SURPRISE CANDLELIGHT VIGIL FOR YAMEL
September 13, 2007
SEPTEMBER 11TH, 2007 WE STILL MISS YOU !!!
September 13, 2007
ARTURO CIPRIAN
September 11, 2007
IT look's like it was yesterday, we used to play in queens every time you went with your mother, you were a little girl and your mom used to sing to you I’ll be watching you remember , I’m hoping you are watching your son your mother and family from haven and protecting them. Love you forever.
Greg Addison
September 11, 2007
It's been 6 years now but I can still see your face and hear your voice as if I had just left you. The world is truly an emptier place without you.
Jennifer Liberatore
September 10, 2007
Remembering you, your passion for giving to others, and most importantly, your legacy...
Laina Niciu
September 9, 2007
We love and miss you!!!!!!!!!!!! You will never be forgotten or replaced.................
Virginia Cruz
September 8, 2007
A wonderful partner and friend who will never be forgotten..Love you and miss you lots!
Love Always,
Vee
P Tabbernor
January 1, 2007
In remembrance....
Kristine
November 17, 2006
As I stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
Betty Brito
November 3, 2006
Hey Yamel,
It's been 5 years since you left us and I can't explain the hole you have left in the whole family. You will always be missed and remembered. All we can do now is enjoy Kevin and all the qualities that he has of your. Miss and love you always.
DONNA OAKLEY
September 13, 2006
ITS HARD TO BELIEVE IT HAS BEEN 5 YEARS SINCE THESE SPECIAL PEOPLE LOST THEIR LIVES. IT SEEMS LIKE YESTERDAY. I LIVE AT 790 WARBURTON AVE IN YONKERS AND WAS TOLD BY OTHER FAMILIES HERE THAT YOU ONCE LIVE HERE. WE DO A TRIBUTE TO YOU AND EVERYONE WHO LOST THERE LIFES THAT DAY IN FRONT OF THE BUILDING EVERY YEAR. MAY GOD BLESS YOUR SON TO BE STRONG. YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
Jennifer
August 10, 2006
Hello -
In learning about and watching the events of 9/11/01 I used to thank God that I hadn't known any of the victims who lost their lives. I felt that if I had I would never have been able to fully grasp and understand the loss. Selfish, I know.
Until a few months ago I kept the realization of the attacks' five year anniversary on the backburners of my mind. I knew it was around the corner, but I didn't want to believe that so much time had already passed in such a short amount of time.
I was 'given' Yamel's name through a blog-site as a part of a tribute to her along with all the others from that day.
The more I read about Yamel the more I feel her spirit about me. Only a few years ago I, myself, became a mother to a beautiful little boy; and now a daughter. On the days when I'm feeling that my life, somehow, just isn't fair, and that nothing could be worse than what I'm going through I remember her. I recall the things I've read about her. How she touched so many people with her warm smiles and gentle spirit. When I do this it gives me clarity and more perspective on my life.
And now everyday I do think about her, this wonderful person I was never blessed enough to meet; this angel on earth. How truly honored I am to be the one to represent her memory for this tribute. I only hope that I can do it justice...
Gloria yamel ortega
June 14, 2006
dear yamel
i admire yiou because what you did for 9/11 because im also from there well not from there but from nj and i did feel bad when that happened. Gloria Yamel Ortega
Laina
March 26, 2005
Hey girl, It's been sometime. I have really been thinking about you a lot lately. I always do. You never left me. I feel your presence sometimes and it helps me to cope with you not being here. I miss you. I cannot stress that enough. But somehow I know you are still here. I still talk about you as if you were still here. You were such a beautiful person. I just wish we could have one last conversation so I could tell you how much you are truely missed and how much I admire you. You made such and impact on my life. I will never forget you. Michael even talks about you. What a memory. Regardless of others you were, are, and always will be my best friend. You know sometimes I catch myself saying stupid things we used to say and just laugh to myself because I know you're laughing too.....We love you so much and miss Kevin too. Until we meet again.... cuz I know we will..... PS Thank you for the parking downtown - I know u always got my back :) LOVE YOU
Aida Pagan
September 12, 2003
Dear Yamel,
The last time I saw you was when we were about 1o yeras old when you used to live in Bayside. We used to play from morning until dusk, and we used to have a great time together. You always had a smile on your face and made me crack up all the time.Two years ago my mom told me that you were gone, I cried and cried. I cried for many days, because I didn't understand why.Through your heroic efforts, and dedication, it seems to me that
on that difficult day you embraced people with all the love that you had not thinking about yourself but others first. from what I have read, you probably did not change from the last time we saw each other. always thinking of others first.You saved, touched and embraced many people that day and will always be remembered. I am a mom of a son, and I pray for your son to keep you in his heart forever and to look upon you whenevr he needs you.I am proud to say that I played with you, that we played jacks together, and had skinned knees together, that your smile made me smile and your laugh made me laugh. We all loved you and love you in our own special ways now and always... I love you my childhood friend.
CLAUDIA BITAR
September 11, 2003
IT'S BEEN TWO YEARS SINCE YOU WERE TAKEN FROM US, WORDS CANNOT BEGIN TO DESCRIBE THE EMPTY FEELING IN MY HEART SINCE YOU'VE BEEN GONE. YOU WILL ALWAYS BE OUR ANGEL.
WE MISS YOU PRIMA
Yamel, with her beautiful smile, 9/3/00
Cristina Rodriguez-Rosado
September 11, 2003
It has been 2 years and people still come to this page, like myself, to stop and think on you. I want people to know that is what you meant to the world. I look at your picture everyday and your smile always makes me smile. I remember so much about you and the memories are still fresh. I remember coming downstairs to visit you and you would be ironing your Metrocare uniform or Kevin's clothes, you always were there for your son. When I see him now, I see you as well, and it makes me smile. I pray for you and him and your family every Sunday and then some. I also thank God for letting him bring you into our lives as well. You are a blessing. Even now. Love you very much.
nicole agugliaro
September 11, 2003
On the day of September.11 our nation lost many loved ones that were very dear to us. On this tragic day a very dear friend Yamel Merino lost her life helping others from this terrible attack yamel worked as a EMT for metro care ambulamce she alway's had a warm
presence that made you feel safe, her beautiful smile filled the room with happiness when she walked in. Yamel had a very special friend and partner on the job her name is sandy, they both became very close even there children. Her son kevin meant the world to her, every time you see the both of them together you could see and feel the love they both had for each other. Yamel alway's made sure when she was not at work she and kevin would spend a great deal of time together. There are not enough words to put together on how much yamel is missed, looking back on this day 2 years ago,it is so hard to believe that she is gone. Her family and friends will miss her very dearly, she became an inspiration to everyone around her Yamel Merino is a true hero to us. We will alway's remember her no matter how near or far she is. We love and miss you so much. xoxoxo
pat meara
September 9, 2003
yamel is and always will be a very special hero to me....God bless
B Kling
June 2, 2003
I would like Kevin and his grandmother and the rest of Yamel's family to know that Yamel has not been forgotten. I did not know her, but I truly appreciate her and the other people who are brave enough to do the jobs that protect and change the lives of the rest of us. There aren't enough words to convey my thanks and gratitude. People like Yamel touch my heart with their courage.
To Kevin and all of Yamel's family, my best wishes are with you.
Luis A. Blanco
March 2, 2003
It still seems as if it was yesterday that we spoke last. I miss hanging out with you, calling for back up just to see you ,and playing handball with you(even if we never did get to finish one game. Miss you Always."what up, punk".
Angie
February 20, 2003
Like several others who have signed this guestbook, I, too, wear a band around my right wrist in memory of Yamel. Along side her are bracelets in the memory of MIA/POWs from all wars since WWII.
I consider your sacrifice as great as those soldiers, if not greater. I know I never knew you, but you will be in my prayers for as long as I am able to put words together to pray.
As in the tradition of all memory bracelets, if the family of Yamel reads this, and would like to have the bracelet,please do not hesitate to contact me. Until then, she will be a part of my every day life...
No one ever dies in vain..
Angie F.
Americn Sojourner
Jennifer Valdez
December 14, 2002
Yamel,
I love you so much and I miss you even more. God needed a angle that why you left so soon.you'll always be in my heart forever. I love you cuz
love your lil cousin
Jennifer
Don Pearce
November 28, 2002
Yamel's courage and sacrifice will not be forgotten.
M Monical
October 6, 2002
To the family of Yamel,
I pray every day for young Kevin, I hope that one day he understands the heroic act of his mother. She saved many lives that day. She is a hero to many people and we will never forget. Kevin I know you miss your mother, she gave her life so others could live. And for that we thank her. Should you ever need to talk to any one, I am here.
Missy Boyd
September 16, 2002
I have Yamel's name engraved in a memorial bracelet that I wear. I just wanted to send my thoughts and prayers to her family and friends. I'm know she is sadly missed.I will think of her and the rest of the families of the 9/11 victims.
Martha Galvan
September 13, 2002
Yamel,
Tia Martha miss you so much.
Kylie Dekin
September 12, 2002
To the family of Ms. Merino,
I have never met any of you. I just wanted to say I'm prying for you. I hope that God fills Kevin's heart with hope and love. And that he will help him get through this hard time. To the grandmother who is taking care of Kevin: I hope that God will lift up your sprits and that you and Kevin will have a great life togather.I know you will do a great job of raising him. Kevin, your mom is in a great place right now. She is your angel. She will be lookig down on you until you are right up there with her by her side. Your mom is a brave and heoric person. Nobody will ever forget her because she risked her life for ours.Kevin if you ever need anybody to talk to you can always e-mail me. Same goes to your grandmother. I want to be your Praying friend, your if you ever need to talk to me, friend(i'm only 6 yrs older than you).Me and my church are praying for you(Fairhope United Methodist).Daniel 12:3 Those who are wise will shine as bright as the sky,and those who turn many Righteousness will shine like stars forever. Maby this verse will help you! Love always Kylie
Angela Mooney
September 12, 2002
Dear Yamel and Family~
My name is Angela Mooney and for two weeks EVERYONE at my school including teachers, staff, and parents are wearing arm bands with name of someone who lost their lives on 9-11. You were a beautiful person who loved helping people and will always be missed. To the little boy- your mother will ALWAYS be with you no matter what. Stay with God and he will help you trough this. May God bless you and your family.
Cristina Romero-Galvan
September 11, 2002
Dear Yamel,
I remember you saying to me earlier in the year "tia, I have to stop doing this type of work, I want to become a nurse. How did you do it? I need to go back to school because this job is to dangerous." Every time I think of you I remember those words.Why did you not quit that job? I, know why now. God needed someone as special as you. Jehova only selects the best and we should trust him and believe in him. Que dios te bendiga Yamel!!!! I will see you later. "Tia curi."
Maria Santa Herasme
September 11, 2002
Dear Yamel,
I remember the day you were born. I saw you grow step bye step, and today it hurts not to see you. I remember when you used to come from your Aunt Elsa's house to my house. May God be by your side,im sure God already is by your side,beacause your an angel. We miss you.
rebecca burroughs
September 10, 2002
dear little son of Yamel,
being a single mother myself, i know that you are the light of your dear mamas life - she will always be with you - watching over and loving you every day of your life - i know your
little heart if broken - and i know others have told you you will see her again and you will - just listen
and you will hear her sweet voice
and feel her touch often - words can not help much but please sweet little boy remember that your mama is an angel now
Yamel Castellanos
September 10, 2002
Dear: Yamel
Like every one else said that knows you, you are truly missed. I am the last Yamel in our family
and will continue fullfilling your dreams of helping others. But most of all will continue helping your treasure your son, when I see him remember how beautiful, kind, sweet, thoughtful his mother was. Yamel Merino you will always be missed.
Laina Niciu
September 9, 2002
Hey Girl, It has been almost one year to the day since I have talked to you. I wish I could hear your voice again. I miss you and Love you so much.... Why did it have to be you? I ask my self this all of the time....... Why did Kevin have to loose his world? But I know you are a guardian angel now and that you are looking down on us from Heaven..... At least I know that I have someone up there looking out.... and you have someone down here looking out for Kevin.... God Bless You Girl..... I miss you like crazy......... UNtil we meet again........Laina and Yamel BFF ---You know it!!!!!!!!! I love you- You were my SISTER!!!!!!!!!!
BRENDA GONZALEZ
September 9, 2002
DEAREST YAMEL,
HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN HEAVEN!
I'M VERY PROUD TO HAVE HAD SUCH A BRAVE FRIEND. YOU ARE TRULY MISSED, AND WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
GOD BLESS YOU.
BRENDA GONZALEZ
Ana Vega
September 9, 2002
Yamel you will be in my heart forever. The Lord has called you to continue your work in the heavens up above, I understand.
Love
Tia "Gunga"
Mayra Castellanos
September 7, 2002
Y A M E L.....what's in a name?
***You Are Mami's Eternal Love***
***You Assisted Many Endangered Lives***
I remember when she was just born and some members of my family and I went to see the baby and mother. We asked Fina, as we call her mom, what will you name the baby? She told us she had not selected a name yet. At that time, I was not planning to get married, much less to have children, but I had already selected a name for my first baby girl. I told Fina "I lend you my daughter's name"...she liked it and named her baby YAMEL. Three years later I gave birth to my own YAMEL. Fina and I were both proud of our Yamels. It broke my heart when at her daughter's wake Fina told me: "we only have one Yamel left".
Fina, you already know this, but I must emphasize it to you...I SINCERELY SHARE YOUR SORROW. I cannot stop thinking of your daughter and her sweet, kind,loving, respectful yet powerful personality.
I believe that Jehovah, the Almighty God, will also remember Yamel's good qualities and will bring her back the day of resurrection so that she can enjoy eternal life, as the Bible promises in John 5: 28, 29. Fina, think about this, you can be there to receive her.
Ed Ortega
September 3, 2002
A year is gone but not forgotten! Our candle in the wind................................
PATTY
August 19, 2002
ALMOST A YEAR AND I STILL SEEM TO STUMBLE OVER WORDS TO SAY "I MISS YOU SOOO MUCH" I SIT HERE WITH TEARS IN MY EYES WHILE I THINK ABOUT NOT HAVING YOU AROUND WHY?? "I MISS YOU" YOUR EVERYWHERE I GO, THOUGHTS OF YOU FLY THROUGH MY HEAD ALL THE TIME, YOUR LAUGH, YOUR SMILE THE FUNNY THINGS YOU SAY , PLACES WE WENT. I SPOKE TO YOU THAT MONDAY AND WE TALKED ABOUT HOW YOU WERE GOING TO COME OVER TO SEE MY NEW PLACE HOW EXCITED YOU WERE FOR ME, YOUR SON WAS GOING TO SPEND THE NIGHT. THAT NEVER HAPPENED. THAT FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 7, WAS THE BEST DAY IT WAS 4:00 WE CAME OVER TO VISIT YOU TOLD ME TO STAY AND HAVE DINNER, SO WE DID, SANDY CAME OVER, YOUR MOTHER AND YOUR SISTER CAME OVER WE WERE ALL HANGING OUTSIDE ENJOYING THE BREEZE AND TALKING THE KIDS WERE PLAYING IN THE FRONT HAVING A GREAT TIME THEY NEVER WANTED THE NIGHT TO END..HOW I WISH I COULD HAVE REWINDED TIME AND NEVER MADE THAT NIGHT END. IT WAS OUR FINAL GOOD-BYE! I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU TILL WE MEET AGAIN MY BEAUTIFUL FRIEND.
LISA LUKIC
July 1, 2002
i JUST WANTED TO SAY HI... I WROTE SOMETHING FOR YOU BACK IN JANUARY... WE MISS YOU LIKE CRAZY AND SANDE DOESN'T KNOW WHAT TO DO WITHOUT YOU. SHE IS AS CRAZY AS EVER, BUT I'M SURE YOU KNEW THAT ALREADY. WE LOVE YOU.
Mary Hughes
June 11, 2002
I never knew you, but where a braclet with you name on it. So does a go worker of mine, Kevin. We are proud of what you did no September 11th. Yours in EMS service, Mary E. Hughes, EMT-I/EMD
steven pagan
May 13, 2002
yamel you were the most beautiful person in the world,inside and out...you were a special person and everyone that met you knew it.i'm so glad i had the pleasure of knowing you and being a friend to you...everytime i saw you ,you were smiling,i miss that smile now...words can't express the pain i feel for you and your family.i still cry to this day when i think about you,i will never forget you ,you'll always be in my heart...i know your looking down at us and you see all the love ,i hope you smiling now...the last time i saw you was a week before september 11th,and we both smiled and waved at eachother,what i wouldn't do to have that moment back...your in a better place now,now you can shine your light down on everyone...spread your wings and fly ,because your free now...i'll always love you now and forever...friends forever and ever...love ya.
steven
Angie Campbell
May 7, 2002
**********GOD BLESS YOU**********
cathy albano
March 18, 2002
HI YAMEL, I WOULD SEE YOU ONCE IN AWHILE AT ST. JOESPH'S HOSPITAL UP IN YONKERS. YOU WOULD WAVE AND SAY HI TO THE OTHER BUSES, YOU ALWAYS HAD A SMILE ON YOUR FACE. THAT SMILE WILL BE MISSES. I DIDN'T KNOW YOUR NAME UNTIL I CAME TO YOUR WAKE. AND I SAW YOUR PIC ON YOUR CASKET.YOU ARE GOING TO BE MISSED. GIRL YOU ARE AN ANGEL NOW SO SPREAD YOUR WINGS AND FLY. YOUR LITTLE BOY HAS A SPECIAL ANGEL WATCHING OVER HIM.. MY HEART WENT OUT TO THAT LITTLE BOY. THE NIGHT I WAS AT YOUR WAKE, HE WAS TALKING TO YOUR MOM,,AND HE ASKED YOUR MOM... IS MY MOMMY GOING TO WAKE UP SOON.. THAT'S WHEN I LOST IT... BUT GIRL YOU ARE IN A BETTER PLACE,,YOU WILL BE MISSED...CATHY FROM EMPRESS EMS
Alison
March 12, 2002
God Bless You...As always, you gave it your all...
Virginia Cruz
March 11, 2002
Dearest Yamel,
You have been a true friend and ex-partner to me..I miss you dearly..I still live with the guilt that I was told the week before 9/11 that you and I would be partners again..I live with the pain and hurt everyday knowing that I wouldn't have left you alone..I would have been with you..You lived for Kevin and in the five years that I had known you, he was your ray of light..But I want you to know, you were my ray of light! Loving and missing you always..
Virginia
March 7, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS WONDERFUL HERO...YAMEL MERINO AND MAY HER SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HER SON KEVIN...STAY STRONG KEVIN LOVE NEVER DIES..GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS...GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK AND MAY WE NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..MAY JESUS AND HIS SAINTS GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
Linda J Hammett
January 29, 2002
I am privileged to wear a mercy band with Yamel's name. I am a former paramedic and surely understand the commitment to service that she so valiantly displayed. I was in Singapore and watched the events unfold live thru broadcast from the BBC.
Know that this woman of courage has graced Heaven with her goodness. And her son will always have a guardian angel at his shoulder.
Amy Thomas
January 20, 2002
in honor of you, Yamel, i choose not to commit violence but to extend love and peace wherever i can.
the angels will watch over kevin, i am assured.
Laina Niciu
January 18, 2002
To Yamel- I just want you to know how much I miss you. I think about you everyday. Sometimes I even pretend you're still alive. I wish this was all a bad dream but reality is that you're gone. Now you're a true angel. You were always special and I remember all the times we went out and had all thiose good times. I would give anything to have that back again, to be able to talk to you and see you. You were a beautiful person and fun to be around. I hope one day we meet again.Also, I know we had our ups and downs and ither people interfered in our friendship but when it came down to it you were my dog, my true best friend. I will never forget you ma. I will try to look after Kevin for you. I love him like my own. Remeber the times girl, when we were younger--damn we were crazy. U will live on 4ever gurl
Love always, Laina
Lisa
January 16, 2002
I met Yamel through a close friend, I loved her the first time I met her. I can't express enough the kind of person that she was, they don't make them better than her. She was always happy and so much fun to be around, I think about her and Kevin everyday, I have two children of my own and I hate the thought of the pain it would cause them if something happened to me. Yamel is greatly missed by everyone. As fro Kevin, from what I know he has a great family and he is in good hands.
Hanna
January 9, 2002
To Yamel Merino's son Kevin:
picture from your mothers funeral made me finally write one entry to this book. I live in Helsinki, Finland and although living this far I saw the catastrofy of WTC almost live in Sep. I am still schocked. I admired the rescue people who bravely did their best to help the victims. Brave people are rare and they are needed everywhere. They are taken away from their families, too often. And here comes my story: Finland has a female president, Tarja Halonen. When her daughter was a child, she used to ask her grandma: " Where is my mother? Why is she working so much?" And the grandma told her: "Oh dear, a good mother has heart for all children of the world, not only for her own. Your mother is a politician, she is trying to make this world a better place". So Kevin, I am very sure that your mother was made of the same ingredients than Finnish president. I wish you all the best and I hope that you use well what you have inherited from her. Take care, my thougths are with you. -Hanna
Teresa Jahn
December 21, 2001
We thank Yamel for dedicating her life to helping others as an EMT. Such dedication comes with a warm and caring heart filled with love for her fellow man. May her caring attitude, her life and love live on through her son and all the people who were touched by her graciousness. We are deeply sorry for your loss of Yamel. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Katherine Melville
October 23, 2001
My words can not describe the hurt I felt when I saw Yamel name on the list of victims the day after the attack. I have known Yamel for several years. She was the sweetest person words can not describe.What really makes me sad is that I haven't seen her in 2yrs since I moved out of NY. My trips to NY are not so often.
All I have is memories. My albums are filled with great times and memories of us hanging out. My love goes out to Kevin. He is a bright tuff young man. He will always know what a wonderful, brave mother he has.
We all love and miss you Yamel!!!!
You will always remain in our hearts...forever...and...ever...
love always,
Patty, Cynthia, Margie, Aisha and Kathy
WE LOVE YOU!!!!!
OOOHHH!!OOOHHHHHHHH! you know what it means!!
Maria
October 15, 2001
Of the many photos I have seen since September 11th I will never forget the photo of Kevin crying over his mother's casket. I too am the mother of an 8 year old boy who I cherish and love more than life itself. Although I did not know Yamel personally, I believe people like her that chose to be EMT's, firemen and policemen are very special and should be praised and respected always, not just on days like September 11th. They sacrifice so much for so little. I am sure that Kevin will always remember his mother with love and honor her memory by becoming someone she would be proud of. I have no doubt that the bond they shared will last forever.
Michelle Blackway
October 3, 2001
What a wonderful and courageous woman. I am sorry for your loss.
Heaven has gained another angel.
I have a friend who is putting a charity together here in Los Angeles to help some of the families who have lost a loved one. Her community is helping together as one. We would like to involve Yamiel's son as one of the
families in need.
God Bless
M. Blackway
MICHELLE DANIEL
October 3, 2001
OF ALL THE PICTURES I HAD A CHANCE TO SEE IN THE NEWSPAPER, THE PICTURE OF KEVIN CRYING OVER HIS MOM'S CASKET IS THE ONE THAT STILL HAUNTS ME. IT PULLED AT MY HEART. I TOO AM A SINGLE MOTHER OF A NINE YEAR OLD DAUGHTER, AND I CAN'T IMAGINE WHAT IT WOULD MEAN TO HER TO LOSE ME, AS SINGLE PARENTS AND CHILDREN SHARE AN UNEXPLAINABLE BOND. I WANTED TO HOLD KEVIN AND MAKE EVERYTHING OKAY.....AS I DON'T KNOW HIM PERSONALLY, I KNOW I CAN NOT EXCEPT IN PRAYER, AND TO LET HIM KNOW, IF HE SHOULD NEED SOMETHING TO PLEASE E-MAIL ME. PLEASE KNOW YOUR MOM IS WITH YOU, AS LONG AS SHE IS IN YOUR HEART. YOU CAN FIND HER IN A RAY OF SUNSHINE OR IN THE SMELL OF A NEW SPRING. GOD BLESS.
david laurance
September 28, 2001
i am running a project whereby people can perform a good deed in the name of a victim of the 9/11 disaster. a participant in the project has chosen Yamel. an act of kindness will be done to replace one of the many that she did not get a chance to do.
Kim Vestal
September 28, 2001
Your mom was a wonderful person that gave all of herself regardless of the price. I hope some day when you start to heal from this that you look at her for what she was a wonderful mom and a hero to the many people that she gave her life for. I wish you only wonderful things to come and hope that you will always reflect the love and the hugs and the kisses that she gave you when you were scared or hurt and think of the so many people that she also did that for the day of this disaster. She loved you with all of her heart and she will be so proud of you as she watches you grow and flurish. May God be with you and your family in your time of need.
JoAnn Johnson
September 24, 2001
To the family- My heart is truly broken. I am also a paramedic, and until recently, a single mom. I am also now in nursing school, and wish so much that your loved one could be too. On May 3, 1999 I was the sole paramedic with a handful of firefighters, police officers, and a great EMT partner when we were caught in the middle of a devastating F-5 tornado that killed 42 people and destroyed everything in its path. While I was absolutely terrified, the actions I took that night were pure instinct- Yamel used that kind of courage on September 11. I don't think it ever occurred to her to do anything differently, only to help and comfort, and she probably would have never dreamed of being "heroic", only human. Her son can be very proud.
DJ Long
September 21, 2001
To the eight-year-old son of Yamel Marino: You are so lucky to have the love of your mother safe inside you. That kind of love can never die. Always remember she is part of you. It will help when you're lonely or sad, because she'll always be with you, right there. I have an eight-year-old son, and would hate to be taken away from him. But I would want him to remember my hugs, my hopes for him and the things I told him - to be kind to others, to work hard in school, to find the things he loves to do best and share them with others. Whatever your mother told you, that will be your private treasure chest filled with love forever.
God bless you.
Lori Glore
September 21, 2001
As a 27-year-old single mom of a 4-year-old little boy, I want you to know that my heart goes out to you. I know how hard it is to raise a little boy all by yourself. I did not know Ms. Merino, but I am so proud of her for making a good life for herself and taking such good care of her son. He was very blessed to have a mom like her. I pray God will give you all peace. His peace is beyond understanding.
McKenna Cole
September 19, 2001
No greater love exists than the one that leads a person to lay down their life for others. America is a better place because of your unselfish dedication to fellow citizens. You embody the spirit of America and love. May you rest in peace. Americans will never forget your sacrifice.
Veronica Ayres
September 19, 2001
My heart goes out to the family and frinds. May you know his passing was not in vain, but acting unselfishly, to save others. For this reason he will always be remembered as a Hero to this great country we live in. God Bless!!!
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