Parents heartfelt letter to daughter after tragic dance class incident

The parents of nine-year-old Alice da Silva Aguiar, who was tragically killed during a Taylor Swift dance class in Southport, shared a heartfelt letter at her funeral on Sunday. A large crowd gathered in Merseyside to pay their respects, with many standing outside to listen to the service.

Sergio and Alexandra’s letter read:

“Dear Alice,

You were our perfect dream child. From the moment you arrived, everything was idyllic. You were a good girl with strong values and a kind nature, a lover of animals and an emerging environmentalist.

You moved our worlds with your confidence and empathy. Playful, energetic, friendly, and always so respectful. You were the peacemaker of the playground. ‘No shouting’ was a house rule you enforced, a big task for a small girl, especially in a Portuguese household.

Being around you was a privilege. We cherished every milestone. You completed us. In nine short years, we never needed time off from you. We never gave up our time for anything that didn’t involve you too, and if we did, we’d always do it separately so you could have one of us always next to you.

You were born and raised in love. We loved cuddling you every night for almost nine years, except for sleepovers and nights away with your friends. We were never apart. You liked to sleep with Mummy and Daddy, enjoyed shutting the curtains and watching Disney+ with popcorn. Our room was your comfort place. You were our comfort and peace.

As you grew up, from a princess to a pre-teen, we began to notice some changes, seeing your independence take shape. From your skincare regime to playing with makeup, to your dedication to school, dance, and your faith. Your to-do list was extensive, and we were sure you would achieve it if only you had the time.

We talked about which high school you might attend, about growing up, having a big house with a garden, and having children—children we will never help you raise. It hurts. We will never see you grow up.

A day before your final struggle, Mummy kept asking if you were okay, so much so that both you and Daddy asked why. Part of me wondered if I was being too British, but I always wanted to know that you were okay. Now Daddy feels sorry for Mummy. She has seen things no human should.

You were taken from us too soon. We often ask why. Why here? Why us? Why you? We wonder if you ever thought of us, called for us. We wonder if you felt any pain. We hope not, my darling. We then question if this could have been avoided, if we could have stopped it somehow. Many questions are revolting and we will never get over this pain, but we promised to get all the answers. Mummy has seen too much and we need to know.

We feel shocked, unimaginable pain. We miss you. From time to time, the pin drops. When Mummy says ‘good night Sergio, good night Alice’ and then it hits us all over again. We don’t hear you back.

Moving forward will be hard. Some days are better than others, but none will be perfect. Some moments we are weak and we say wild things, but we promised to always be there for each other in moments of despair. A pinky promise. We share a strong bond and we will always have each other to rely on. We won’t be alone.

We are surrounded by a wonderful community and their full support, family and friends, neighbours, work colleagues, the wonderful servicemen and women who serve the community, your school, your church, and all your friends and their parents. We have the full support of the country and the privilege of multiplying that by two. For that, we’re thankful. For now, our beloved angel, keep dancing. Mummy and Daddy will always, always love you.”

The community’s outpouring of support provided some comfort to Alice’s grieving family.