Since Sam called me last week to break the news of Lissy's passing, I've teared up countless times, and wondered how to express my condolences to her family... what do you say that can possibly give comfort after such a tragic loss of someone so wonderful? I realize now there is nothing I can say that will ease what must be the most unbearable grief a family can face. All I can do is share in some of that grief, and express how amazing I think Melissa was - even before I met her, I knew she was special, in so many ways, and that she had an amazing family and circle of friends who adored her beyond measure. But what I wasn't prepared for when I finally got to meet her is how she made ME feel so special!! I think that was her greatest gift to all of us... in her presence, I felt special and loved, and she made me feel like I truly mattered to her. I think she made all of us feel that way... and having been fortunate enough to meet her, even just a few times over the last few years, that feeling will NEVER leave me! Every time I think of Melissa, I will feel love, and I will feel the warmth that her hugs infused into my soul. Our deepest condolences to you Sheila and Richard... to lose a child at any age is a sorrow no parent should ever have to face. And to all her siblings, our thoughts are with you also - we hope you can find ways to honour her memory and sooth your despair. Our love and sympathies are with you all - Celine and John
