McKenna was unique. A one-of-a-kind personality. She was seemingly fearless, spontaneous, impulsive and free spirited. These characteristics translated into, McKenna was fun! Her magnetic personality drew people to her. She was a leader and role model who embraced every challenge and lived with passion.
Of course, there was her flip side. A compassionate, sensitive and kind-hearted soul, McKenna was always ready to help: Families and friends share stories of McKenna’s inclusive spirit and how she encouraged and welcomed sidelined kids into the group. No ask was too big.
Her plans for her senior year included being part of the news team, flag football, school hockey and Best Buddies. She’d already created the design for painting her parking space (a school tradition). Her school friends ultimately painted her parking space for her as an act of love and dedication. She dreamed of being a physiotherapist and a mother of 3.
To honour McKenna’s memory, her parents host the annual ‘The McKenna Way Memorial’ where family and friends gather for hockey games and an open skate. It is a time to remember and share stories as well as advocate for mental health. A scholarship foundation has been created. All proceeds from this book will support this foundation.
Sometimes when people pass away they become somewhat 'perfect' and larger than life. This is not the case with McKenna. She was the youngest of 3 and forced her way into your heart through her grandiose, somewhat crazy and spontaneous ways. She had a BIG personality and made her mark on every team, group, camp she participated in or attended. From hot dog eating competitions to state wide organized sport she whole heartedly jumped in an gave it her all.
McKenna fell prey to the dangers of the teen years. She can never be replaced, 'cancelled' or erased. At 16 she'd already created a lasting imprint in our hearts. Please know each and every one of us matters greatly. Know you are loved. Know you are needed. Know the world will never be the same without you here. STAY. You are loved and important in this world. Kindness mattered to McKenna and this became a part of her legacy in the way she was remembered. See the various tattoos and memories below. Live the McKenna way!
The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you truly are. ~ Carl Jung