At Butterfly Bridge Foundation, we believe in turning grief into grace and memory into legacy. Our mission is to support families in Wise and Parker Counties who have experienced the devastating loss of a child by providing compassionate resources, healing programs, and a sanctuary for remembrance. Through community, connection, and care, we help families find hope and strength as they navigate their journey toward healing.
Sanctuary
A place of peace, reflection, and remembrance — the Butterfly Bridge Sanctuary will honor the lives of children gone too soon while offering families a space to heal surrounded by nature, hope, and love.
Support
We provide compassionate resources, guidance, and community for families navigating life after loss — ensuring no one walks their grief journey alone.
Service
We stand beside first responders with mental health and wellness support, recognizing the emotional toll of their service and helping them find strength through connection and care.
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October 29, 2025ABOUT
The Butterfly Bridge Foundation was born from both heartbreak and hope. Founded by Stephanie Schladitz, who tragically lost her sister, and Ryan Schladitz, a firefighter paramedic who has witnessed the unimaginable pain of child loss firsthand, our mission grew from a shared desire to turn grief into something healing. Together, we envisioned a place where families could find comfort, connection, and peace — a sanctuary built on love, remembrance, and community.
What began as a dream is now becoming a reality. The Butterfly Bridge Foundation is working to build a community sanctuary and memorial garden — a serene space dedicated to honoring children gone too soon. Beyond remembrance, our mission extends to supporting families navigating loss and the first responders who carry those memories with them. Through community programs, resources, and future grants given in the names of the children we honor, we aim to build bridges of healing and hope that will last for generations.
The Founders
Stephanie Schladitz, Founder & CEO
Stephanie grew up in the Chicago area, where her deep sense of compassion and community first took root. Today, she works as a business consultant, helping organizations grow with purpose and integrity. Alongside her professional career, Stephanie dedicates her time to volunteering with several community and nonprofit organizations, driven by her desire to make a difference in the lives of others.
After the tragic loss of her sister, Stephanie was inspired to turn her grief into something meaningful. Through The Butterfly Bridge Foundation, she channels that experience into creating a sanctuary of healing and remembrance for families who have lost a child. Her vision is to build a place where love, support, and hope can flourish — a reflection of her lifelong commitment to helping others find light in even the darkest moments.
Ryan Schladitz, Co-Founder & COO
Ryan grew up in the Chicago area, where a strong sense of service and community shaped his path from an early age. A proud Marine Corps veteran, he carries the values of honor, courage, and commitment into every aspect of his life. Today, Ryan serves as a firefighter-paramedic, dedicating his career to protecting and caring for others in their most difficult moments.
Beyond his professional work, Ryan volunteers with several organizations and local schools, mentoring youth and strengthening community connections. Having witnessed the heartbreak of child loss throughout his career, he was inspired to help families find healing beyond tragedy. Together with Stephanie, he co-founded The Butterfly Bridge Foundation to create a space of love, remembrance, and support for families and first responders alike. His compassion, leadership, and lifelong dedication to service continue to guide the foundation’s mission and vision.