Evan and I studied abroad in Rome together in Spring 2010. I found him a bit shy, but noticed how when he did speak, it was so earnest. He spoke of his family, friends and sisters at home with a lot of love, and this made me want to be his friend. Aside from joking around in classes and going out in big groups, I didn't get to know Evan until there was a month left in the trip, when 10 or so of us went to Alghero in Sardegna. That weekend was spent at the beach, making dinners together, and hanging out in our sweats. I don't think anyone that was there will ever forget that trip. We almost got stuck there due to the volcanic ash, and I won't lie- we were a little disappointed our flight was still running when we got to the airport.
A few weeks later, we all went back to the U.S. I saw everyone for our friend Camille's birthday over the summer, and that was it. On Labor Day weekend, just as classes were starting at Loyola, where half the program was from, Evan passed away unexpectedly. My friend Abby and I dropped everything the night we found out and drove up to Baltimore, to our abroad family. The majority of us stayed up until 6am consoling each other. I like to think had it been any of us, we would have acted the same. We had all experienced the fullness of life together, with so many unrivaled memories, in such a short amount of time. To lose someone so quickly after really gave us perspective on how short life is.
Most of the kids from the program have since graduated and moved away. I really only keep in good contact with one or two people. But I know all of us took a piece of Evan wherever we went. His friends from home made bracelets that say, "there's more to the story." I know there is. All of us who were able to spend time with Evan know that life gives you these opportunities with reason: to treasure them. I know each time I hesitate to try something new, or talk to a new person, I think of how Evan made sure to live a full life in his 20 years. And so each time I push myself, it's for Evan. Thanks fucker. I'm doing a tongue wag for ya.
