DIVA DANIELLE

I first met Danielle Williams, in the summer of 2016. We were shooting promos for Arizona Daily Mix, the revamped morning show we were about to co-host. She introduced herself as “diva” and I remember thinking, “Who the heck calls herself diva?” In Danielle’s world – diva was a superlative: brightest, kindest, boldest, bravest, happiest. She was all that! She exuded love and grace and the two years we worked together were full of daily laughs and positivity. When she called me on Thanksgiving more than seven years ago to tell me she had been diagnosed with stage four lung cancer I was speechless, confused and in shock. How could this be? How could this healthy, beautiful soul – who never smoked, didn’t drink, and didn’t even cuss – have stage four lung cancer?! I broke down in tears and disbelief. In true diva form, she consoled me! Telling me she would fight her cancer with everything she had. And she did. She boldly battled back while showing us what real strength looks like. She braved her treatments with smiles for everyone she encountered. She continued making people laugh with her stand up comedy. She stayed strong by climbing mountains (literally and figuratively). She mentored kids and women. She used her voice and her platform to share her cancer journey with as many people as possible to help even one person find hope. She remained active in the community. She stayed in contact with her friends, calling just to say hi or sending a typewritten letter in the mail to say, “I’m thinking of you.” How lucky I’ve been to be on the receiving end. My heart is broken. I can’t imagine a world without Diva. She is more than special. She is one of one. She inspired so many with her resilience and optimism. We had the best times together and she loved life. That’s what I will remember most. She lived life with joy and she lived it to the fullest. She made a lasting difference in my world and I am grateful to have been in hers. Rest easy now my friend. I love you and I will remember our times together with the laughter and the joy you shared with me so effortlessly. To her mom Margaret & sister Jessica, I take comfort in your love and strength.