This morning when I turned on my computer, I did not expect to see anything that would particularly catch my eye. And I wish I hadn't. At around 3:00 this morning, a wonderful 16 year-old girl named Esther Earl, passed away. She battled cancer for the last four years.
Now it might seem odd that this has hit me so hard because it was not until June that I learned of Esther. However, when the HPA won the $250,000, I had the honor of meeting her via skype, although it was briefly. But that doesn't mean that she hasn't inspired me.
It's been almost 5 months since my father passed away from cancer. The effects of this disease are still very much in my mind and I remember distinctly every moment leading up to the death of my father. So although I never personally knew Esther, and only said hello to her once, I feel for her family. I know how hard it is to lose someone you love to this horrible disease. My family has just started to recover from it. I think that's why it is affecting me so much. It hits so close to home. But I want to use my experience to try to help Esther's family start healing. It is a long and hard process, especially when someone so young has been taken away from you.
When I called my mom this morning and told her about Esther, I told her that I wanted to go to her funeral. I realize how that might not be totally appropriate, but as a fellow nerdfighter and HPA member I want to be there. Because in the two months that I knew of Esther, I looked up to her. She was such an amazing, strong, and wonderful person.
My heart truly goes out to Esther's family and friends.
#DFTBE <3
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