For Papouli, Pam and Michelle

Little Angel

By Danny Tanner

Foreword

It's only been ten years? How could that be? How on Earth could I let something like that happen? No. Scratch that. Why could I let it happen? Why would I allow a horrible person…Alright. Before I get too caught up, let me start over from the beginning.

First off, let me introduce myself. My name is Daniel Tanner. I am a former talk show host and I live with my large family (Too many to name) in San Francisco. I am also an activist against kidnapped and murdered children.

You're probably wondering why how I got involved in something like that. It's a long story and that is why I'm writing this memoir.

Over the years, I've had family, friends, colleagues and neighbors asking me if I've had plans to write a book. At first, I didn't want to because I was afraid writing one would open already healing wounds. I was spiraling in and out of depression. There were days when I wouldn't get up out of bed or eat or try to do anything else. The only thing I could do well was cry or stare at the ceiling all day long.

My two daughters, plus my stepdaughter, were the ones who told me inspiring thing: "Dad, you've gotta keep smiling. You've got to keep smiling for her. She'd want you to."

But I didn't always want to smile. Eventually, I did. But I didn't always think like that. Learning things like that, is what helped me through the last five years of my life.

But it's still hard. Everyday, I grieve. I mourn. I weep. I try my hardest to smile, but it's a struggle.

You see, ten years ago, I lost my youngest daughter, Michelle Elizabeth. Michelle was kidnapped while walking to school with her friend. She was later murdered. That is why I began an activist group called the LPAG (Little Princess Advocate Group) in Michelle's memory. I started the group to help other families prevent having their children end up like my daughter did.

Michelle was only eight years old. Her kidnapping and murder is the one event I'll never forget. This story is for me, you, my family and also Michelle's.

Michelle, my little princess, this story is for you. Oh, how I miss you…

Danny Tanner

November 2006