12/04/2025
I have been doing a lot of reflecting on my dear friend Monica - especially after reuniting with her during the pandemic, more than 20 years after our paths first crossed.
Our lives unfolded in different countries and different ways, yet they became deeply connected through a shared journey we never imagined: breast cancer.
In 2020, Monica reached out personally to tell me she, too, was facing breast cancer. From that moment, our bond deepened in a way words can barely describe.
We first met back in 1995 at a leadership camp for Deaf youth. Even then, we connected through our passion for leadership, empowerment and advocating for our Deaf communities - despite living miles apart: Monica in California and me in Toronto.
Fast forward three decades and there we were again - Deaf women facilitators, leading Americaβs first retreat for Deaf women affected by breast cancer, made possible by Image Reborn Foundation. Life has a powerful way of bringing souls back together.
Tragically, Monica passed away on November 29, 2025. Our time together was far too short but that reunion was a beautiful celebration of resilience, growth and the unbreakable bond we shared. In our conversations, stories, and laughter, I felt the strength born from everything we had endured.
I am grateful for the moments we shared. We empowered one another, believing in ourselves and in giving back - not fully realizing the βripple effectβ we were creating at the time.
Monica was more than a cancer fighter. She was an advocate, a facilitator and most importantly, a true friend who lifted me up and inspired everyone she touched.
When I look at Monicaβs legacy - not only her accomplishments but her beautiful family and the lives she shaped - one thing is clear: she built a beautiful life. She poured love into all of us, deeply and wholeheartedly.
Until we meet again. π€π»π Har Monica