I am so sad to report that one of our Team Alabama members passed away Tuesday morning at Children’s Hospital in Birmingham.
Essence “Essie” Nixon first came to the Games with us in 2002. As a heart recipient– even at that Games at the age of 5 she knew had been given a great gift.
At her very first Games she won a medal and many many hearts. She and her mom Nicole Maher and her sisters have been very active in Team Alabama, Camp Bridges, and the Transplant Picnic every since. Any one who knows Essie will remember her fierce determination and that special glint in her eye.
Please keep her, Nicole and all of their family in your thoughts and prayers. We will update you as to arrangements, and an address to contact her family. Team Alabama is so important to all of us–it is far more than just the competition–thank you all for your sense of love and family. Please take care of yourselves and each other.
Peace,
Joanne McGuire-Baxley
Team Alabama Co-Manager
Liver 1998
Sensabama@aol.com
205-746-2059
Filed under: Team Alabama
I had the privilege to teach Essence for 3 years. She always had a wonderful smile on her face every time she walked into the classroom. She will be deeply missed my many,many friends. Essence touched every heart with her generosity and kindness. I love you Essence!
Mrs. Jackson
Essie was a very sweet girl. Austin and Essie would talk when they met in clinic or at the doctor’s office. We will miss her very much. Bless her and her family.
Stephanie and family