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When I first got the news that my good friend had passed away today, it hit me like a ton of bricks… That is until I took a deep breath and remembered her for the beautiful person that she is. Then I gave thanks to God for allowing such a beautiful angel to find her way into my life.

It’s crazy how a brief encounter at a stepshow all the way back in 1995 could turn into a lifelong friendship. How influential a bright smile and a fighter’s heart could be on my perspective. How much more beautiful the world seemed after a heartfelt conversation with her, my sister. The way she lived, her always positive attitude, and her passion for doing for others was a constant reminder that I simply do not have the right to feel sorry for myself.

The kind of woman that she is was never more evident than when I spoke to her while she was waiting for a Liver transplant and the odds started to appear to be stacked against her. What did she say? She told me that no matter what that she was blessed, thankful, praying for the other patients in the hospital who she felt had it worse than her, and going to continue fighting and fighting and fighting….

No matter the circumstance her message was always consistent – Get Up!! Keep Fighting!! Keep Smiling!! Keep Loving!!

Nef, I will miss you dearly and already look forward to having our next conversation on the other side. I am thankful that you have found peace and finally found a place big enough to hold that beautiful smile of yours. Love you always, your brother… ~ Sean King