Jessica, I remember last year when you were in Portland and you sent me a message, which I will never forget. You said you were lonely and had under-estimated how much you would miss your family. I remember feeling so sad for you, BUT then in your next sentence you wrote: I will make this feeling of isolation an empowering one and I will get through it. You were always able to find the bright spot to things no matter the circumstance. Right now I am trying to channel that courage and strength that you always had, and trying to find a way to let this empower me--no matter how impossible that seems right now. I know that is what you would want us all to do. Your strength and spirit will not be forgotten. -Michele