It’s Okay to Cry was inspired by John Yates, who suffered severe burns while working in the Pentagon on September 11,2001. John crawled to safety leading several others, and received the civilian version of the Purple Heart. During John’s lengthy three month hospitalization he received thousands of cards, letters, even cookies from children across the country. One of those letters simply read “ It’s Okay to Cry. Love, Jessica.”
His close friend, former elementary school teacher, Meg Bragg, was touched when John shared this letter and the strength and inspiration he received from children across the country. It’s Okay to Cry is Meg’s way of honoring her friend.
