Emily Sue Koltonski was born on May 30, 2004 to very grateful and blissful parents. As a gift from heaven, she was loved and cherished by parents and relatives alike. A year into her short life, she developed delays in her natural development. Two years later she was diagnosed with Sandhoff disease, a terrible genetic disorder, one that would take her life at a very young age. The road with our little Em was long, with many victories, but also so many struggles. Nonetheless her life was full of love and wonderful experiences. Emily was so strong. The struggles she went through stole so much from her. Even so, her spirit was peaceful and endearing, we are blessed to have been her parents.
Thinking back on Emily's last year, she went through so many health struggles it was tough. Emily remained the sweet, strong spirit through it all. She taught us so much about not giving up even in the face of constant frustration, and about the power of unconditional love. She showed us how to be patient in so many areas, she taught us to be persistent to fight for what she needed. We are all better people for having had this precious angel in our lives. We will never forget the impact of her four short years, on life, love and friendship. Emily passed away on the afternoon of Monday, June 9, 2008. We sat in the swing on our porch drenched in sun and a cool breeze; she was unplugged from all the tubes and equipment, in our arms. She went quietly and calmly, and for a moment it was as if her spirit left her body in the arms of a breeze, and went to Heaven. We miss our Angel. We thank God that she was able to have peace, and that within her short life, it was vibrant and one that touched so many other lives. She was, is, and forever will be a blessing to us and everyone that knew her.
