COLUMN: Rest in peace my guardian angel
When I think back on my childhood, many fond memories come to mind. Like most children, my parents worked, leaving me to spend my days with a babysitter.
My parent's go-to babysitter, Briana, was a close family friend, binding her to my family and providing me with someone to idolize.
Eight years ago, we lost Briana to cancer.
Briana was diagnosed with brain cancer. She underwent extensive surgeries, recoveries, and then she was cancer free. She had beaten this horrible disease.
Two years into remission, the cancer came back.
Through it all, Briana remained the same caring, cheerful and beautiful person she always was. She had a smile that could lighten a whole room and a laugh that was one of a kind.
I always have and always will look up to Briana, and for numerous reasons. She is one of the strongest people I know. Through all the surgeries and years of cancer she battled, she remained optimistic, keeping faith in herself. As a child, it was inspiring to see someone handle themselves in such a blissful manner.
Briana was charismatic, leaving a positive mark on everyone who came in contact with her. She always became close with the people around her.
In and out of hospital stays, she created a goal for herself: To receive a medical degree. Rather than allowing her misfortune to control her, she embraced her disease, hoping to share her experiences with others and help children with cancer.
Briana was also one of the smartest people I've ever met. Throughout her long battle, she accomplished more than most; she graduated high school with honors and was accepted to Grand Valley State University, where she had plans to receive a pre-med degree.
It seems like just yesterday. Briana was over at my house, watching over my siblings and I. We played just about every board game known to mankind. Monopoly was always favorite. Before bedtime, we always watched a movie – typically a comedy.
Whenever we have a family gathering, Briana is always missed. But we all know that she is still with us.
On Sunday, Briana would have been 26 years old. Happy birthday, and rest in peace my guardian angel.
