Showing Up Every Day

A Reflection on Seana

Katherine • Irish Dance Teacher and Friend

 Seana was a beautiful soul who embodied curiosity, kindness, and determination. Fierce in spirit and always ready for fun and laughter, she made it her mission to live every moment to the fullest. Meeting Seana meant knowing you mattered; she had a special gift for making everyone feel seen and loved.

 I first met Seana as her dance teacher—a wide-eyed little girl filled with passion, dreams, and an insatiable desire to learn. Watching her grow into an exceptional young lady was a privilege. She charged into adulthood with tenacity and purpose, inspiring those around her to be better and to show up for one another. 

 When DIPG entered Seana's life, it could have dimmed her light. Instead, she chose to befriend her tumor, turning her battle into a journey of profound inspiration. Seana refused to be defined by her diagnosis; she let her true light shine, leading us with incredible courage and resilience. Through her example of getting up each day and living with purpose, Seana taught me that showing up every day for yourself and others, no matter the challenges, was the way life was meant to be lived. 

 Though I never had the chance to discuss life after her passing with Seana, I know she would want everyone battling DIPG to feel loved, seen, and empowered—just as she made everyone feel. Sharon and Kenny are embodying this message now, launching The More Than Exceptional Seana Foundation just six months after her passing. Though they ache for their daughter, they are showing up for others, just as Seana would have wanted. 

 Through this foundation, I believe we can celebrate Seana's light and her unwavering spirit. Together, we can inspire one another to embrace life, support those battling DIPG, and shine brightly—just like Seana did.