Meet my dear friend, Anne

My friend, Anne McConville, was the best friend I ever had. I was so lucky to have her as a friend. We had a true kinetic connection and she made me laugh like no one else I ever knew. We had almost a 30-year friendship at the time she passed away one year ago today.

I met her in 9th grade and we were fast friends. We sat right by each other in homeroom our freshman year of high school and we connected instantly. Her humor and charm drew me to her and I immediately felt like she was someone I could trust. I knew she’d be a lifelong friend, and she was.

Anne knew the basics of being a true friend. She was honest, loyal, and caring. She always made sure she included me in her life, even after she got married and had kids, which is usually a time when friendships with single girls fade away. She didn’t care whether I was the 3rd wheel, 5th wheel, or 13th wheel! I was her friend no matter what and it was important to her that I was there.

This picture of her is my favorite. I remember when she gave it to me, right after she had her daughter, Meredith, and I fell in love with it. I thought it truly embodied her spirit and moreover her happiness at becoming a new mom. I have it on my desk and look at it every day, knowing that even though I can't see her I know she's still here.

I could not have asked for a better friend. Although she's not with me in person anymore, she is in spirit and I genuinely feel her behind me in my work and in my life. I know she’s up there looking out for me and as much as I wish she was here, it’s nice knowing she’s got my back in the afterlife too.

Today I celebrate her life and the friendship we had. I miss her every day yet I know she’s always with me, supporting me. I love you my dear friend. You are never forgotten and forever in my heart. Please keep my Molly safe and I’ll see you when I get there.