I stopped today because of you. I almost didn't as I was on my way somewhere and wasn't late, but still was driving to do something. I saw the gentleman sitting there on the side of the road, trying to push his car in 15 degree weather. No one else stopped even with the wall of cars headed by him at any given second. I almost didn't too, and then realized the moments I didn't take with you, that I didn't know I needed to and had a lack of, needed to be given to someone else. So I turned around, I stopped and watched the surprised look on his face wondering who it was and why they'd stop. I just happened to have a can in the back, the station was just across the road (a divided busy highway) and someone needed saving, even if it was just their day that was saved. So he hopped in, we got gas, got him fueled up and then out on the road again. It took 15 minutes maybe and changed someone's outlook on the day, you did more than enough once again Alicia. Just the gentle push to help someone else. The man had lost something recently too and it seemed the connection was more than just help, it was a nod to what we all deal with and that sometimes, a little extra effort is worth it and changes a lot for just a little.

With Alicia gone, and Mateo moving on to the real thing, there isn't much of a need for us to hold on to them anymore. The place that helped Alicia several times, and all of the children, received what would have been her next meals and some of the clothing. The hope is it helps at least one small child be fed for even a bit, until the next help can come. As well as perhaps help a few more with the clothing she gave.

As hard as it is in the end waiting for the unknown, being known that we save at least one and she has a purpose beyond this life - adds a bittersweet touch to all of this. Alicia Mae Lopez gave all she had life, even after this life, to try and save someone else the struggle we experienced. She did great and hopefully someone lives on in her name, even if unknown.

In the very place Alicia left us, she also uplifted us. Upon leaving the hospital, a young man was blessed with the balloon she was given - one she never would have needed but would have enjoyed just as much. Hearing his strong laughter as he ran down the hallway and shouted "I got a balloon" was the start of legacy.