From Maggie

Hi Everyone,

I’m AJ’s younger sister, Maggie. 

Dad died when I was just over three years old. So unlike AJ and Will, most of my memories of dad have been mostly retold by mom, meaning I never truly knew him. 

Throughout my life a part of me has always been closed off to friends and even family. Hearing my peers talk about their dads and how great they are has made me hesitant to speak because I’ve felt as though no one truly understands how I feel, not even the closest of friends. Not even family members.

Growing up, mom would always refer to us as “The Dream Team.” AJ, Will, Mom, and me against the world. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized that my siblings are the best gift Dad and Mom could have given me. From late night talks in my room with AJ, rolling down the car windows in the summer and blasting Taylor Swift with Will, and planning the future with Mom on our weekly walks, I truly believe we are the dream team.

Something I do remember (especially because Mom always talks about this) are the countless dancing and singing performances I put on for dad and the rest of my family.

From belting out “Let It Go” from Frozen, to U2 songs my mom constantly played, I know I put a huge smile on Dad’s face. I would have everyone sit on the couch as I emerged from my room in my bright pink leggings, a blue dress on top, and all kinds of wacky accessories. Dad would be clapping, singing along, and admiring my unique dance moves, while mom had her camera out. 

He was always there cheering me on, and still is. Anytime I’ve had a hard day, I like to think he's there, sitting beside me, smiling just as big as he once did.

In my family's upcoming adventure of walking the Camino, I hope to open up that part of me that has always been closed off. To see dad not just as a friendly stranger, but as a best friend who will be right by my side as I get to Santiago de Compostela. 

I may not always show it, but I am incredibly proud of AJ and his efforts. He has now raised just about $13,000 for the SFA. I am proud to be his sister and to have the opportunity to share in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Thank you for all the support. I know if dad were still here today, he would have that giant smile that I love so much. 

AJ will write next week.