My cousin Megan and I were 10 years apart and grew up in different states, but I have many memories of her and our family. I remember visiting her, my aunt, and my grandparents in Pennsylvania when I was a kid, Megan attending my wedding in California, visiting her at a Disneyland hotel while she was on her senior trip and playing uno or Mexican train at family gatherings.
When Megan and my aunt moved to Arizona, Megan became very involved in the Junior League and in supporting her community. She even walked for the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation (JDF)—now Breakthrough T1D—for my brother, who continues to live with this disease today.
Megan loved pink, shopping, bargain hunting, brand names, and anything that sparkled. She was the queen of finding something free for her birthday! She was often a bridesmaid because she had so many friends who loved her and wanted her to be part of their special days.
Megan had a busy 2026, starting a new job in April, in a friend's wedding in June, followed by training for the new job. She was living her life and enjoying the people she loved. Then, seemingly out of nowhere, everything changed. Over the next several weeks, Megan became seriously ill, and our family found ourselves facing a devastating and unimaginable diagnosis: CJD. Her illness progressed quickly, and unfortunately, we lost Megan at just 47 years old by mid-September.
Her life was far too short, but the love she gave to her family, friends, and community will continue to live on. I’m walking in Megan’s memory—to keep her spirit and her story walking forward, and to help the CJD Foundation support research, education, and resources for families impacted by this devastating disease.
Rest in Peace, Sparkly Meg ✨
You will always be loved, always be remembered, and always be part of our journey.