In Memory Of Aaliyah "AK" Kordja

On Tuesday, September 14th, 2021, the world went dark for us. My dear niece, Aaliyah, left this world and her family behind. She was our brightest light and the most loving girl that we could ever hope for. Over the past few days, we have heard so many stories of our dear Aaliyah, learning even more how wonderful she truly was to those around her. Like the old saying goes, "Who are you when no one is watching," and while we always knew of her beautiful heart, we realize even more now of how lucky we are to have had such an amazing spirit even for these 19 short years.

Many of you do not know much about Aaliyah's life, but in her short time on this earth, it was not easy. Nine years ago, my niece suffered brain trauma from a tragic accident leaving her with permanent frontal lobe damage. She had been suffering slowly ever since. A true fighter she was, she tried so hard to overcome this extreme obstacle and never showed the world how much she was hurting.

This past year and a half has been exceptionally difficult for her, with multiple losses within the family, specifically with hardships surrounding her father and being unjustly taken from his family. Aaliyah and her father could not have been a closer father/daughter, and this made her inconsolable. For my niece, this pain was unbearable and her already suffering soul could not handle the tragedy. She began self medicating in hopes of helping herself cope.

In spite of all she endured, she was always a go getter. She used her last dollar to register herself for school this year, not allowing her parents or myself assist her in achieving her goals. She wanted to do this for herself. Something we were all so proud of. Aaliyah had so many plans for her future and for her family. She leaves behind a heartbroken group of family and friends.

We are so incredibly grateful for everyone's love and support during this difficult time. As you can imagine this was an unexpected tragedy that we as a family were not prepared for so we ask those who have reached out to help to please donate anything you can to assist my sister and brother-in-law in lieu of flowers. Anything would help. Thank you so much and God Bless.