Remembering 10
Kristin Mary, Mona's friend, US
Hi Esther. I can't even imagine how horrible this is for you and your family. I will definitely be at the memorial. Mona and I met in McLean 2 years ago. I don't have any pictures of her since we were not allowed to take photos there. I came into McLean terrified. I was the first month of my freshman year of college. Since I am from New Jersey, I had no family or close friends in Boston. Mona was one of the first people that I met when I arrived. We talked a lot that first day and I felt so welcome and comforted to know that I could talk to her without judgement. I appreciated her kindness and warmth. If you can think of anything I can do to help your family during this time, please do not hesitate to ask. Sending love your way. Kristin I can't believe she is gone either. I only knew her for a relatively short time but she has had a huge impact on my life. I can not begin to imagine how much pain you are going through right now. She was a truly special person. 
Kadeelyn Konstantino, Mona's friend, US
This is a photo I have of us from last year, it is the wallpaper on my phone and my Facebook photo. I also have a printed out copy in my room. Mona took a piece of my heart with her when she left the earth and I'll never get that back. She holds a special place in my heart and will forever. I solemnly swear I'll never forget her and will treasure every memory I have of the two of us from going to Strand in New York, to the candy store and getting too much candy and eating it all during a sleepover. Or our endless phone calls at all hours of the night to talk about everything and nothing - I knew I could always count on Mona to have my back and I knew she understand the difficulties I lived with every day as someone who also struggled deeply with mental health issues. Mona and I met in Texas in 2015 and instantly cliqued and connected. We could tell each other anything, and I always went to her for the best advice. Mona wanted me to read her favorite series, Harry Potter, as I never had, and now after her passing I am finally reading it and wishing with my whole heart that I could talk to her about all the craziness that goes on in the stories. Mona made me feel less alone and like someone cared about me at all times, she always volunteered to answer the phone at 3 AM when I was having a breakdown. She didn't want me to suffer alone, and I thank her wholeheartedly for that - I did the same for her many times. I wish with my whole heart that Mona was still here and I that I could just get a text or phone call from her and hear her voice. I miss her more than words can say, and my life will never be the same. I lost my best friend, and no one can ever replace her. I love you Mona, like an elephant I'll always remember you. Always. Love Kadee your coffee loving, sarcastic, make you laugh, hold you when you cry, best friend. |
Mona's first smile with hope for a meaningful life, after 8 years, 2015
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