I first met Christina Symanski last year when she welcomed us into her home to chat with us about some of her favorite iPad apps; she was welcoming, gentle, and had a wonderful passion for art. Admittedly, she struggled with her spinal cord injury. I tried to read some of her blog posts now and again here in the online community. Just last week, she passed away willingly refusing food and medication.

Dr. Dan posted some final words about Christina. Please read:

My first reaction was to try to save her life. I reacted not as a psychologist, but quadriplegic who understood that suffering and knew that what feels intolerable can become tolerable. I reacted as a father who couldn't bear the idea that someone I cared about so much wanted to take her life.

We continued our correspondence briefly and even spoke on the phone. When I got past my own distress, I could see she was clear about what she wanted to do and even seen at peace with it. There was no anger or even despair. Just a thoughtful reflective decision.

As a psychologist, I wanted more time to listen to her, to hold her life. As a moral man, I wanted to step back and allow her respect her wishes.

Read more of Dr. Dan's post.

Team Reeve manager, Leigh, knew Christina from her high school days. Be sure to read Leigh's warming thoughts on Christina and her ability to teach in more ways than one.

Watch Christina's iPad videos.

Our thoughts are with Christina's family.

Janelle

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