Energetic, loving, short, adventurous, creative.
Mia, named Amelia, after Amelia Earhart, lived up to her name. She was a beautiful, strong, and talented young woman. She was a naturally creative person who enjoyed playing her violin, coloring, painting, drawing, writing stories, and building puzzles. Mia was kindhearted and loved her family and friends, and especially enjoyed picking on her stepdad, Skye Druce, who was her favorite person. Sometimes, Mia’s mother, April, and stepfather, Skye, still feel her presence, usually through her music playing or unexplained incidents like Skye falling from his chair.
Mia was known for being clever, funny, and always ready to help someone in need. When her mother had her gallbladder removed, Mia would come and play the violin and talk to her to keep her company. With her outgoing and adventurous personality, Mia constantly surprised and intrigued those around her. Her outspokenness and honesty kept you on your toes, never knowing what she would say or do next. She enjoyed expressing herself through her ever-changing hairstyles and outfits and documenting her style with pictures and videos. Mia loved animals and bonded with every cat that she met.
Mia had three brothers, Randall, Elijah, and Jordan, and a sister, Azilyn. She relished spending time with them. During the summer, her mother would take Mia and her brother camping to the lake, which Mia loved. She and Randall were very close, and though they butted heads, she was his fiercest protector. In 2021, Mia had a stillborn child; that loss changed her forever. Though she was young, Mia always wanted to be a mother and was looking forward to welcoming her son into the world.
She was a bright young woman who had big dreams for her future. More than anything, Mia wanted to graduate high-school and get her driver’s license. She had a job in fast food and a job in retail. She wanted freedom and was considering getting a job as a plumber, just like her stepfather. Mia and her step father spent time together going to the mall and the
racetrack, which she cherished. Her friend took her on her first motorcycle ride on his Harley shortly before she passed, which she was thrilled about. Her uncle Steve did her the honor of giving her one last ride on his bike, to the lake where they held her memorial.
Watching her daughter grapple with substance use disorder (SUD) was tough for April, especially when Mia would disappear for days. Mia called her mom every day, so April knew when she didn’t hear from her that something was wrong. April misses her daughter’s voice, her smile, and her sense of humor more than anything. Although she didn’t realize the full extent of Mia’s addiction when she was alive, she has now made it her mission to bring awareness and support to other teens battling SUD.
Amelia’s Mother, April Wiltse-Druce, provided information for this narrative.
April 1, 20014–March 25, 2023-Age 18
Portrait Artist: Jeremy Hebbel
Narrative Writer: Victoria Estes
