celebrating Chris

One of my good friends from UNL, Chris, took his own life on November 5th; needless to say the past few weeks have been filled by coping with the loss as well as celebrating his life. Chris was a second year doctoral student. He had received speech therapy for most of his life for stuttering and was working towards his Ph.D. to help others like him. Chris was an amazing person, his laugh, smile, and squeal of excitement could brighten anyone's day! During my senior year as an undergraduate, he became a great role model for me and loved offering advice. Chris had a sassy free spirit and loved to dance. My best memories of Chris are those which included Rock Band and chips & salsa. Chris will never be forgotten and I am so glad I was able to be a part of his life.

My speech path friends from UNL at my Ugly Christmas Sweater Party 2009--
Chris is front right

Chris came to watch me present my UCARE poster
Walking back from chips & salsa
He always reminded me that I was his favorite Loper