Brittany was my older sister. My overseer. She was always looking after me, making sure I was alright, even when she wasn't. She put Ashley's needs and mine before her own. Every time.

She wore her heart on her sleeve. You always knew where you stood with her. And if you were in a room feeling alone, she knew it. I remember watching her stand up from the "popular kids" lunch table at school... walk across the cafeteria, sit down next to a kid eating alone, and introduce herself like it was the most natural thing in the world. I remember her climbing up onto a park bench next to an older gentleman she had never met, just to learn about his life. Just to make sure he felt seen and didn't feel alone.

That was Brittany. Her light expanded beyond her physical body. If she was in the room, you knew it. And if you didn't, she made sure you did.

What I know now is this: the unique darkness you've lived through is the unique ability to empathetically understand the darkness others carry, too. That shared experience is how we guide each other toward the light. It's a responsibility we carry.

And it is in this serving of others that we find our purpose. And if you are grieving, the best thing you can do is get involved. Contribute. Show up. Especially on the days you don't want to.

Brittany used to say: "Be the reason someone smiles today."

This site exists because of Brittany. Because of what she would do. Because of what she did every day, without thinking twice.

That's why we built this. That's why we come back every year. And if you found this site, if something brought you here today, know that you are not alone. We share your grief. Your mourning. Your darkness. Together.

This is the porch light she would have left on for you.