A few months ago, my world was shattered when I lost my dad in a motorcycle accident. It’s a life-altering tragedy that I never imagined I’d have to face, and even now, it still feels like a nightmare that I can’t wake up from. How do you even start to face another moment, another day without your dad?
At first, I tried to keep it together by putting on a brave face and faking it until I could find some way to cope. But the truth is, nothing prepares you for losing someone who meant everything to you.
My dad wasn’t just my father; he was my best friend, a vibrant and adventurous soul, a musician, and an absolute rockstar. He was a cornerstone of our West Orange community and a beloved Disney musician. His love for life, theme parks, and his infectious humor are things I now hold deep in my heart, carrying his spirit with me every day.
Music is something that runs deep in our family, and it’s still one of the strongest connections I have with my dad. He was a world-class musician, and I play the drums—a passion that ties me even closer to him. There’s comfort in the rhythm, with each beat reminding me of the times we shared and the unbreakable bond between us.
One of my favorite songs that my dad wrote is called “Dodici Corde,” which means 12 strings. It’s raw and unfiltered—a pure expression of his musical genius. When I listen to that song, I can still feel him with me.
My dad and I also shared a deep love for sports, especially our local teams. We were huge fans of the Orlando Magic, Orlando Solar Bears, and Orlando City Soccer. Attending games together was something we both looked forward to. The last game we went to was an Orlando Magic game, just eight days before his accident. Recently, I went to another sporting event, and it was both comforting and overwhelming. I felt his presence in the cheers of the crowd, and I was flooded with memories. It was a bittersweet reminder of the bond we shared.
Even though the grief and pain can feel all-consuming, I’ve made the choice to honor my dad in the only way that truly matters: by living my life to the fullest and moving forward with hope and resilience. As I approached the end of my 10th-grade year, I was determined to finish strong, despite everything. I transitioned to homeschooling, pouring every bit of myself into my studies, and earned a 3.5 GPA. That resilience and dedication aren’t just achievements—they’re proof of the strength my dad passed on to me.
One of the most meaningful parts of my journey is being open about my dad’s memory. While some shy away from speaking about those they’ve lost, I believe it’s essential to keep his spirit alive. Talking about my dad keeps him close, and it brings me both comfort and joy to hear others remember him too.
My journey stands as a testament to the fact that even in the face of unimaginable loss, there is hope. I deeply believe that by sharing my story, I can help others find the courage and determination to keep moving forward, and that even in the darkest of times, it is still possible to find light.
