Aaron was my first love. We met when I was 20 and immediately had a powerful connection. Often times he was quiet and intense. He never uttered a sentence that wasn't completely thought out. He loved golf, the jacksonville jaguars, flying and recently began to fly solo and he was an amazing cook. He was the kind of guy you couldn't peg.

His friends were the most important thing to him. He would do anything for a friend at anytime. He once brought my younger sister medicine and soup when she was too poor to afford any. I didn't even know he had done it til I got home from work. At the time they weren't even close but he knew it was the right thing to do.

He taught me to play poker, to drink good scotch, how to laugh at myself, to be a great friend and got me hooked on steely dan. He always had a simpson's reference for any situation- I loved that. When I was offered the opportunity to teach children with disabilities it was Aaron who gave me the most encouragement. In our last conversation a few weeks ago he told me he was proud of the way I was changing the world & his part in that. I will hold those words in my heart forever.

Aaron had a very difficult childhood & adolescence. Even at our happiest moments he was in a great deal of pain. All the love in the world couldn't solve that. I feel so lucky for our 3 years together. His love and friendship helped me through times both good & bad. We still remained close after all these years. Every time I saw his phone number or heard his voice it brought a smile to my face. He and Isaac became friends as well and before our wedding he told me with all earnestness that he couldn't be happier for me.

There is an emptiness in my heart that I know over time will fade but I will never forget the love and friendship we shared. I know his pain is gone now and he is in a better place and for that I feel at peace with his decision. I will miss him immeasurably.