So I don't exactly know where to start...or how to start. Two years ago today, our lives were changed forever. Heaven gained a beautiful new angel in its kingdom. This article is dedicated to her memory. Its purpose is not to reflect on the somber emotions we felt, but more-so the happy and funny times we all shared with her throughout the time we had with her.
If I summed up her personality into one sentence, it would be: "Victoria was a kind, joyous, goofy bundle of love." She always made an effort to help someone no matter how big the task. Her radiant character infected everyone around her with joy and positivity. She also made it very well known that she was indeed The Sea Life Connoisseur of Sneads Ferry, can we all agree? Not to mention she also bragged an awful lot about her "son", Nugget (goldfish). Plus living in a beach town, it was probably one of the most perfect places for her to be immersed in her passion. A way she expressed this was through her art! Victoria was quite a talented artist. I was always amazed by the stuff she created.
I remember the very day we all heard the news. The entire school was in mourning. Most class lessons were canceled in light of all of this. That entire week was never going to be a "normal" week at school. You know what, though? We got through it. Services and memorials were held; the entire community attended just about all of these events.
A year and a half passed, and it was time for graduation. During graduation rehearsal, pins were passed out with a picture of Victoria on the pin. There was also a small (but big) quote on the pin: "Victoria; Never Forgotten." It was extremely touching to see that someone went out of their way to make these so that it can be seen that Victoria was with every single one of us as we walked across that stage. We then paid tribute to Victoria in a moment of silence during graduation later that evening.
Victoria's joy, positivity, and love will echo through all of our lives. Miss you, girl.
(Courtesy of Victoria's Mom)
Graduation Time (Courtesy of Victoria's Mom)
Spot Festival Jr. Queen (Courtesy of Victoria's Mom)
Photo by Moriah Dufrin; Me in front of Spartan Statue wearing Victoria's Pin
I know you're still by my side today, Tori. Guiding me and judging me as I eat fish sticks. Miss you, girl. Your love and humor will live on forever.
Anyone who feels they've reached a dark place in their life, here are resources that you can utilize. Stay strong. Stay with us.
Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention-Find Support
HelpGuide: HelpGuide is essentially a catalog of solutions and resources you can use to help you.
