Let me tell you a story of strength and resiliency.
Let me tell you about Catalina Eleanore Ritzinger.
Cata was born on April 10th, 1993 kicking & screaming; ready for this crazy thing called life.
She is the oldest of 3 girls. She is multi-lingual speaking German, Spanish, Italian and English.
Catalina is a dancer. She has more rhythm than I could ever dream. I hope one day, I'll have the opportunity to her create her art.
I met Cata almost two years ago. We shared an instant connection and understanding of life; the bigger picture. We both love animals (I have successfully converted her to vegetarianism (:, we want to travel the world (preferably together), we want to adopt our children ( or I'll be her oven if need be), we want to be activists, fighting for the voiceless, speaking out for the injustices of this world.
We are soul sisters.
We do differ however, Catalina is a two time cancer SURVIVOR. Did I mention she's only 21?
She's undergone countless surgeries and procedures. With the news of her upcoming surgery, more devastating news, Cata has written a sort of Bucket List.
I will forever be grateful for being able to help her cross some of these items off her list.
This past weekend we traveled to Indio, California for the Coachella Music and Arts Festival. It being my second time and her first.
Now prior to our departure, I received many skeptical responses to this endeavor. Due to her health and physical condition, the only way we could make this trip possible was for her to use a wheelchair.
Not a problem. I've spent my fair share of time pushing a wheelchair,
it was 5 years ago and the passenger was my brother Chad.
Ask anyone who's been to Coachella and they will confirm the magical experience that is is. A Woodstock of this era, if you will.
I've never told Catalina this, but she's always reminded me of Chad. They share the same spirit, huge heart and those
big brown eyes.
Pushing Cata in this wheelchair for the weekend, I was able to relive all those years that I took pride in pushing Chad in his wheelchair. I felt so lucky to be in the presence of someone with such strength and despite the heartache and pain, has not allowed this cruel world to make them bitter or hard.
Yes, it was exhausting and hot and I got overwhelmed a few times this weekend, but I would do it again in a heartbeat. I will forever cherish those endless conversations in our even longer car rides to and from Indio, about life, what we want from it and what we think we're really supposed to be doing here. Those will forever be special and irreplaceable.
Upon our return to reality, to Utah and to our beloved sorority, Kappa, we hosted a summer celebration soiree called Kappa Kountry. Here's the catch, it was all for Cata.
Another sister and I decided a few weeks back that we wanted surprise her with something huge, we wanted to envelop her in love and support as she embarks on the biggest change of her life this summer. The support and attendance was overhwhelming.
Currently $7,200 has been raised for Catalina and her family. But what's more, is all of the love and positive vibes that came with the guests.
If you feel so inclined, here is the link to donate. I am amazed at the generosity and growing number of donations.
http://www.youcaring.com/medical-fundraiser/cata-s-army-/168080
Cata, here is what I was unable to form into words yesterday at our sisterhood:
I know we were meant to meet. There was some divine intervention so that our paths would cross. You are one of the reasons I am still in Utah and still a Kappa. You keep me going. Learning about your life and your family has meant more to me than you will ever know. I look up to you in so many ways. Your maturity and composure even when you were being told the scariest news. I feel honored that you entrusted in me the latest news regarding your health. I was at a loss for words. We just cried together. One of the most sincere and raw experiences I've ever had with another human.
And I promised
you right then and there, that you would never have to be alone. And you won't. I believe in keeping my promise, and I'll be by your side every step of the way. I cannot wait for the rest of our lives. We have quite the adventure ahead of us my dear. And there is no one else I'd rather go with than you. Cata and Brooke vs. The World.Namaste my beautiful soul sister,
The 20-something old soul
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