Love is Why We Tell the Story

Families who have lost a child often fear their child will be forgotten — or remembered only as a tragedy. This is something our family has struggled with since our daughter, Coco Lazenby, was killed in 2015 at age 12.

That’s why the Live Like Coco Foundation sponsored the Children’s Reading Garden at the Aptos branch of the Santa Cruz Public Library—a space created in memory of Coco and other children our community has lost too soon.

Featuring a stunning mosaic by Beth Purcell and a playful, colorful sensory path by Martina Goulart, the Live Like Coco Children’s Reading Garden is both a vibrant space for families and a quiet place to remember. Inspired by Coco’s bright spirit, it stands as a joyful community hub and a heartfelt tribute rooted in love, connection, and storytelling.

We are grateful for the families, local businesses, and non-profits that joined us in this special project.