Candle 11: Best Friend - Kathy, John, and Steven Ingato
Song: “You are my sunshine after the rain” -98 Degrees

Even though this person isn’t with me now, I will cherish her and our best friendship forever, We did pretty much everything together, from shopping, to doing our nails, from swimming, sleepovers, eating out, laughing, playing hide-n-seek, and just being best friends ever since we were little. I remember one time coming home from the Short Hills Mall, the CD from 98 Degrees was playing and a song called “You are my Sunshine after the Rain” came on. Kristina, my best friend turned to me, and said, “you are my sunshine after the rain!”... so to my Kristina, wherever you may be, when I look up into the sky and see the stars I know you are looking down on me smiling and that you are peaceful in Heaven. Please Kathy, John, and Steven Ingato, please come up and help me say “hello” to Kristina and light candle number eleven.

Kristina: My Best Friend

Krissy and I met in the 4th grade and were best friends right away. I never knew someone who I could have so much fun with. We were like sisters, the inseparable two! I remember where I was and how I felt when I heard the news that Krissy had cancer. All I could think of was that it all was a bad dream, a dream I would wake up from... but I never did. Krissy struggled, but she was a fighter, and I tried never to leave her side. She was my best friend and soon to be my ANGEL. I decided to call Krissy one morning earlier than I usually would, just to tell her I loved her. I never got the chance. That had to be the hardest day of my life, September 3rd. Ever since Krissy’s death, she has become an inspiration to all those who knew her.

Having Krissy as my best friend is the best thing that ever happened to me. Each day is a reminder of what she has done for me to make me who I am today. Even though Krissy is no longer with us, she is in my heart and mind with everything I do. She gives me strength, courage, and heart when I need it most. I will always be thankful for our memories. I try always to be a teenager, not only for me, but for her, because she never got to be one.

It’s funny, sometimes I just know she’s with me, laughing or just saying, “Morgan, you can do it!” and I do, just for her. Tears always fill my eyes while talking about Krissy, she means the world to me and always will. I always will pray for Krissy, her family, and for all the kids like Kristina. I will remember her always and forever. I Love You Kristina Marie Ingato, my best friend FOREVER.

- Morgan Pomerantz, “Kristina’s Best Friend” (September 2003)