October's blog honors and remembers Amanda Stashenko's well-lived life. Thank you to all her colleagues, clients, and friends whom she truly loved helping and with whom she loved sharing time together. Our beautifully humble and private daughter would occasionally joke that I (mom) was stalking her online. Laughing, I'd confess locating photos to make framed copies or share on my Facebook page.
We all knew Amanda in individual ways; our stories are different, yet with common threads. Amanda's prominent quality was her servant's heart. She gave her loving loyal heart, a nonjudgmental listening ear, sound counsel, friendship, encouragement, thoughtful gifts and surprises and, in the end, she even gave her organs; all to serve others.
Amanda loved God, people, our country, our military and First Responders, the NY Rangers, sushi, beauty in nature, animals (even reptiles), live music, the Garlic Festival, the Renaissance Fair, healthy practices, the color purple, dressing in jeans or gowns, seasonal activities and flavors such as lobster rolls, cider donuts, figs and blueberries.
A few of her Instagram sayings:
*CURB YOUR EGO. *IF YOU DON’T STAND FOR SOMETHING, YOU’LL FALL FOR ANYTHING. *DON’T LET THE PAST STEAL YOUR PRESENT. *IF YOU DON’T HEAL WHAT HURT YOU, YOU’LL BLEED ON PEOPLE WHO DIDN’T CUT YOU. *ALWAYS STAND ON PRINCIPLE, EVEN IF YOU STAND ALONE. *TOMORROW’S NEVER PROMISED. LET LOVED ONES KNOW YOU APPRECIATE THEM.
Thank you to everyone who has shared personal stories of how Amanda positively impacted your life. We are assembling a tribute book to include all the written correspondence received. We are deeply grateful for the calls, cards, letters, and emails that bring healing, comfort, and reinforce what we always knew. Amanda was a gift from God.
Our prayer is that we remember Amanda's special qualities and allow her legacy, love, and light to live on in each of us.
Love and Blessings,
Laura, Jorge, and Mike (Amanda's mom, dad, and fiancé)
