My mom was my best friend, someone who loved me unconditionally, who was proud of my every milestone, and always instilled greatness in me. In 2022, I contemplated on starting a clothing brand. I said, "Ma I want to start a clothing brand" she said, "do it." and I got it done. I launched my clothing brand. Whatever it was in life that I wanted to do, she was dual enrollment classes, wanting to graduate early— anything she was right by my side, and when she left me, a part of me left with her, resulting in me having to put my brand on pause.

She told me and my sisters, word for word, she said, "Y'all are going to miss me when I'm gone." and we would be like "Ma stop talking like that cause when you leave, we're leaving with you." It's been three years, and I find it hard to believe i'm alive without her today. But, everyday I have to tell myself to keep going, keep showing up. Keep showing up for not only you, but for her as well, because i'm sure she would be proud of how far i’ve come.

I wanted to create a space where individuals who have experienced losing someone, come together, focus on their wellness, and have different events to look forward to, knowing that there can still meaningful moments in life after a loss. If it's one person's life I can help make a little bit better while grieving, then I know I've done something good with The Denise Project.