www.roanoke.com

It seems like almost every day I think about how amazing it is that people let us into their lives as journalists. We often share very private and personal moments with those whose stories we are telling.

A year ago, a good friend and fellow roller derby girl Brooke Smith was diagnosed with Aveolar Soft Part Sarcoma, a very rare form of cancer. After being diagnosed, Brooke wrote a blog talking about her life, fears and dreams. After reading this blog I wanted others to hear her story and the things she believed. I felt that if people took what a 21-year-old had to say to heart, their lives may be impacted, even changed.

The night before the story came out in the Roanoke Times, Brooke had called me because she wanted to get out of the house. We went to what was the Greystone Tavern in Salem and danced like crazy. During the evening, she told me that all she wanted was for the story to help people. I believe it did.

Brooke passed away yesterday morning and I had to say goodbye to a great friend. Brooke taught me a lot of things; to smile, always give a hug when you leave, and that life is too short to cry over the small things.

I believe our friendship was strengthened throughout the time we worked together on her story. Through the story, I was able to spend time with her in many personal situations that I may otherwise not have been able to be at.

I will cherish the night we drove up on the parkway to look at the full moon in July, the sleepovers we were able to have and the lessons she has taught me.

http://www.roanoke.com/wb/185721