Uche my dear, the shock waves that gripped me when I heard of your passing last night is impossible to shake off. I still don’t believe it. How can this be? How can you no longer be with us? When I heard of your illness, there was no doubt in my mind that you would make it. Even though the details were elusive and somewhat downplayed, I was convinced that no illness could conquer your fighting spirit. Death was not even a thought. You are not the type that dies; you just don’t belong to the league that gives up. And you didn’t. It may look like death got the upper hand, but you are the winner. Today you are in heaven, enveloped in the glory of God, surrounded by the beauty of His presence, sitting at the feet of our savior Jesus, singing Hosanna with the angels and heavenly hosts. What a sight it would be to behold your splendid presence in heaven! Although distance made it impossible to see you in recent years, (and I missed you by a few hours during your last transit in Paris), I will always admire the exemplary discipline, dignity and determination with which you led your life. Your remarkable beauty, intelligence and poise were admired by all and your dedication to sportsmanship was a precedent. Uche, you were always one step ahead and once more you have gone ahead to set that path to a place that we all aspire to go some day. If only we could get a glimpse óf you glowing with your golden crown in heaven, then we would cry no more. I will not say adieu for I know that I shall see you again one day. Knowing you Uche, you will be among those to open the gates of heaven to welcome us when we get there. From your friend and namesake Uche Okonkwo''