Sahara's smiles

Sahara Aldridge died last week. The 13-year-old fought her cancer valiantly, drawing strength from her family and friends throughout the community and the nation.

Sahara, affectionately known as "Hoops" for her love of basketball, battled her brain-stem cancer for 17 months. During those 17 months, she captured the hearts of many, including Rick Springfield, who put on a benefit concert on Sahara's behalf. About 500 attended her funeral.

Sahara's parents, Shannon and Amy, will mourn their daughter for the rest of their lives. But we hope they take comfort in the fact that they did absolutely all they could do to help their daughter. We also hope they realize how much their daughter meant to this community.

Condolences go to the family and all those who knew "Hoops" Aldridge. We hope everyone finds smiles and inspiration in the way Sahara lived.