Theodor Adohi Forest Giles

My wonderful friend Theo was truly a person unlike anyone else, and an absolute light in the many communities he immersed himself in. I am absolutely devestated about the loss of a person so impactful, so caring, and someone I always enjoyed talking to. Theo had a love for music and art that influenced his interpretations of the world around him. He was extremely inquisitive and fond of finding meaning in simplicity. In moments where most people might become bitter he would remain positive and forward thinking. The collection of music, books, and movies I have as a result of the things Theo sent me is something I'm so grateful for. I wish I would've asked him so many more questions, I know he had a wealth of knowledge he was always willing to share. I feel like people who truly think fully and deeply are few and far between. Theo and I met when we were 14. 8 years ago. He asked me to be his girlfriend and I said yes. We had so many fun memories. Some of the most memorable were painting with his mom and playing with their dog, Nutella. We were super young, and that was probably my most awkward era as I figured out who I was. After realizing the reality of how people can be over the years, I always felt a deep appreciation for Theo being so kind and respectful during that stage of my life. We decided after a little while being friends was the better option, but we promised to always be there for each other, and we did. He was one of my best friends. I just wish I could've been there more for him. I wish I liked texting more. I planned on catching up after college, collaborating on something. I was looking forward to it. There's just certain people you know will always be there on the same page with you. Where there's a deep sense of encouragement knowing they exist because they, along with you, are genuinely looking to make the world a better place. I am so deeply saddened because it's just so rare and sacred to find a friend like that. But I have to look at this at the way he would. I think he would say something among the lines of we are all connected and live on in different ways, with some explenation that would take me awhile to understand. I'm grateful to have been Theo's friend. And I will make it my goal in the new year to share with others the things he so kindly shared with me. The nature of Theo's death is a tragic reminder of the work that must be done to achieve accessibility, integrity, and equality in all aspects of healthcare. College students in particular, while experiencing high volumes of stress, need more resources that apply to them. I'll always remember Theo, and in his memory ask you to do one thing he would always ask for, which is love one another.