We at Celebrity Parents were stunned and saddened to hear the news that Jett Travolta's all-too-short life came to an end on January 2, 2009, reportedly from a seizure and a blow to the head. The entire Travolta-Preston family was gathering with friends and associates in the Bahamas for a New Year's vacation when his death occurred. Jett Travolta, the oldest child of John Travolta and Kelly Preston, was 16.

Travolta and Preston spoke out about the tragedy through an official statement on Travolta's Web site:

"We would like to extend our deepest and most heartfelt thanks to everyone who has sent their love and condolences. Jett was the most wonderful son that two parents could ever ask for and lit up the lives of everyone he encountered. We are heartbroken that our time with him was so brief. We will cherish the time we had with him for the rest of our lives. We have received many messages of condolence from around the world and we want to thank everyone for their prayers and support. It has meant so much to us. It is a beautiful reminder of the inherent goodness in the human spirit that gives us hope for a brighter future."

Jett Travolta's health and spirit were the inspiration for the generous and life-changing work Preston has undertaken on behalf of healthy children and chemical-free living. John Travolta has spoken often of his admiration for his son, calling him "my heart" and "Daddy's boy." The family, including Jett's younger sister, Ella, share a reportedly strong and constant bond, traveling as a group wherever life and work may take them.

The finality of life is never easy, especially when a beloved child is involved. As professionals, we cover such stories with objectivity, but as parents, too, our hearts are extra heavy. Our thoughts are with Kelly Preston, John Travolta and their family. May Jett's legacy of inspiration and goodness live on in the spirit of all who knew him.