Melanie Pang
When I think about Emily, the words that come to mind are Open Arms. She was one of the warmest and kindest people despite all her struggle. I remember touring the National Civil Rights Museum with Emily and being in awe of how much injustice frustrated her, how a lack of empathy or kindness seemed so unreasonable to her, and she wasn't afraid to speak up about it! She would tell me that it's because she knows what it's like to not feel understood, and yet she always wanted others to be treated well and with love. I will always carry that part of her spirit with me, as there are so many like myself who benefit and can learn from her example of unconditional kindness. To Emily, Sherry, and the Toarminas-- thank you for letting me join for a small part of her journey. I'm so grateful to have known Emily, to have loved her, and I hope she knew it and feels it even now. - Melanie Pang
