Memories on her birthday...

I remember the day she was born, my niece, watching her grow up and being proud of her triumphs, her disappointments and her pure humanity.

Today would have been Charlie's 23rd birthday had she not been killed by a drunk driver in October. She was a friend, a mentor, a caring soul and unafraid to be herself.

On this day, I keep her in my thoughts, my sister, brother-in-law and niece Samantha in my prayers, and live up to what she believed possible -- that all people are worthy of being loved and everyone can meet their potential.