My mom was sick for a very long time, and I was scared because I never knew when or if she was going to die. It was hard to imagine my life without my mother.

I cannot really remember my first thought when I learned my mom passed away, but I remember feeling very sad and very surprised too. I did not want the news to be true even though I was expecting that day to come because I knew she was sick. I was just surprised because it was too soon and I was too young to be without a mother.

I was at my granny's house when I found out the sad news. My aunt got a phone call, and she told me what happened. It still did not feel real. I did not want it to be real. But it was. That feeling did not last long. It really hit me at her funeral. She was really gone. I was really sad. Really, really sad. I miss her so much! I especially miss her cooking. No one can make my favorite like her – mac n cheese. I could always count on her giving me hugs, kisses, and smiles. I miss her calling me Zaiah the way she did.

I never thought in a billion years, that I would lose both parents within two months of one another! It was more than a big surprise to me. I was home with my papa, and my neighbour who lives upstairs told me. Once again, I got that feeling that the bad news did not feel real. People talking about him passing away on the news and around me made me realise it was indeed real and I felt the extremely upset and hurt. I did not want to lose both parents. It just wasn't fair.

What I miss the most about my dad is him buying me the latest sneakers and clothes. He had good style and kept me up with fashion. I wish I had something personal of theirs to hold on to that would remind me of them. I think about both parents all the time when I am alone, especially when it is quiet.

Friends and family that have helped me live a normal life since all of this are Shieko and Shaheem. My family has always been close, but they have helped me by sticking by my side.

I would like everyone to know that my mom was a good person, and she always took her kids to dinner and we had a good time together. I want everyone to also know that my dad was a hard worker. He would always tell me to stay out of trouble and be a good person.

I have big plans to make both of my parents proud. I want to make both of my parents proud of me by graduating from high school and going on to college on a cricket scholarship. One day I will be a Professional Cricket Player.