​From:

Thomas C.L. Haddy

 

McKenna Terrington was one of my classmates at Trinity Lutheran School. We had been together in school since kindergarden all the way to the 8th grade. She was born April 20, 1998 and passed away on January 27, 2014. She attended Jefferson high school after Trinity. 
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She passed away at a Childrens Hospital in Washington DC from complications due to a bone marrow transplant. She was always the nicest in school, never caused trouble and was one of the strongest girls I knew. In school, she was sick often, missing sometimes a week at a time. Yet even with all of that, she always seemed happy. She had trouble staying healthy. Her illnesses would sometimes result in her being in a wheelchair during class. 

 

McKenna never did anything bad. She set a great example to anyone she met, inspiring others to live life to the fullest, to never give up, and to always find the good side in people. It's sad to know someone so friendly, so kind, could pass away from our world. She was my hero. She taught me to respect others and to live life because one day it could all end. She inspired me and taught me that when the end of our road comes, that I want to be remembered the way she was, kind, beautiful, talented, smart, and most of all, brave. 

 

McKenna,

My thoughts are with you

 

 

 

 

From:

Kayla Dircks

 

My name is Kayla Dircks and I went to school with McKenna Terrington at Trinity Lutheran school in 7th and 8th grade. Even though I didn't get to spend years growing up with her, I felt like I've known her for so long. Starting a new school, I was very nervous and didn't know what to expect. McKenna was one of the first girls to come up and make me feel welcomed. I remember the first thing she said to me was "my name is McKenna, I like your shoes" that made me laugh. Eighth grade was the year that we became really close.

 

She helped me with my boy drama and she never said anything negative about anybody. She was easily the nicest person I have ever met. She was so happy even when she was sick. I remember when she had to be in a wheelchair, we would all take turns pushing her around and riding on the back of it. The most memorable time with her was when our class was doing track over at Kingston and she was in her wheelchair, and I was the one taking her back up to school. Next thing you know, everyone had left and they locked the gates so we were stuck inside! We were freaking out but laughing so hard at the same time.

 

McKenna was a beautiful person both inside and out. She was always so brave and always saw the positive in things. It's tragic what happened to her, I think I can speak for everyone that we wish she was still here with us, but God had a plan for her. She's in a better place now. I love and miss you McKenna! Not a day goes by where I don't miss you.

 

 

 

From:

Lisa Engle

 

I was blessed to have McKenna as one of my cheerleaders for a season. Although she had to wear white gloves because of a skin condition and her feet would get sore as well, she did it! She did it with a beautiful smile on her face!!! That is the spirit and courage we all want our children to have and one we will always remember!!!! She was one of our own and I pray this bench and tree can translate into the kindness and gentle spirit that McKenna showed everyday! We love you!!!