Vigil held for girl who died in Christmas parade tragedy

Hundreds of people came to Yarmouth'sFrost Park Monday night for a candlelight vigil in honour offour-year-old MacCali Cormier, the little girl who died at the community's annual Parade of Light this weekend.

"I just wanted the family to knowthat the community stands behind them and supports remembering MaCali," said Chellesey Lusk, one of the organizers ofthe vigil.

Participants were encouraged to wear purple, which was MaCali's favourite colour.

Ahead of the vigil, Lusk told CBCNewsMaCali's family would likely bethere. She said she wantedthem to feel like they're not alone.

Lusk understands their grief more than most. In January, her infant son Mason died unexpectedly. She said the people of Yarmouthsupported her family.

"People have been really generous with their support, but I mean it's sad and it's tragic especially here in our little town. It affects the whole community," Lusk said.

About 300 people, including many families with young children, attended the vigil.

The songHallelujah, bythe late Canadian singer Leonard Cohen,was played, followed by a moment of silence.

The vigil ended with a rendition ofAmazing Grace.

Support for family

Jody Cosmanbrought her youngson Landyn to the vigil. Both were at the parade over the weekend.

"It's really sad to see the family without a loved one especially this time of year," Cosman said.

BeccaNewell grew up withMaCali'sfather. She said she'll save the candles from the vigil for her own children and tell them how the community came together in a time of tragedy.

"To show my kids that love, as a community, can be strong. And you can be weak and then be strong and deal with the hurt," said Newell.

"So when they get older they canremember the love that comes together as a community."

Melissa Bishop came to the vigil because she said she is a mother and the tragedy hit close to home. She said people should come together when a family is suffering.

"The pain these people are going through is unbelievable and I could never even begin to express that, so I felt it was important to come and be here," Bishopsaid.

Visitation for MaCali Cormier will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. on Wednesdaywith prayers at 8 p.m. at the Yarmouth Wesleyan Church on Haley Road, according to her obituary.

Aservice will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday at Yarmouth Wesleyan Church.