Celebrating Sana’s 29th Birthday: A Tribute to Her Joyful Spirit

Today was Sana’s 29th birthday. For as long as I can remember, her birthday was an event—something she celebrated with excitement and flair. She used to joke with her brother, Maahir, telling him he couldn’t be mean to her during her “birthday week.” Her love for birthdays was contagious, and she always ensured her celebrations were memorable, filled with style, laughter, and, of course, the joy of receiving gifts. This year, though, the day felt heavier. But in the midst of our grief, we were surprised by an outpouring of love that truly captured the essence of who Sana was. Her friends, those who had shared so much with her over the years, flew in and surprised us, honoring her memory in the most heartfelt way. We were also joined by a close friend from Texas, and their presence brought back so many cherished memories. Sana’s sweet friends created a donation fund in her honor to support NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness), a cause that was very close to her heart. The response has been overwhelming—so many people have donated in her memory. It’s incredible to see her legacy of compassion and care continue to live on through these acts of kindness. On her birthday, her friends sent a bouquet of sunflowers, and we also received a special bouquet from our cousin in Singapore. In those moments, it almost felt like Sana was right there with us, celebrating in her joyful way. We gathered together as a family and close friends, tying sweet messages for Sana to helium balloons and releasing them into the sky. It was a beautiful and symbolic gesture, one that felt like a way of connecting with her. We ordered her favorite desi Indian dishes—each bite a small tribute to her love for food—and, of course, we cut a cake. It had to be chocolate, her favorite. Throughout the day, we shared stories about her, laughed at some of her silliest moments, and also allowed ourselves to feel the sadness of her absence. But even in that sadness, we were comforted by how much love surrounded her. Sana was truly blessed with incredible friends—those who always stood by her, and today, they were here for us. It honestly felt like old times, with her friends filling the house with the same warmth and energy that she always brought. As we sat together, I couldn’t help but feel that Sana, my angel in heaven, was looking down and smiling at all of us. Her spirit continues to shine brightly in the hearts of everyone who knew her. Today was a celebration of her life, her love, and her legacy—a day she would have cherished, and one we will forever hold close.