In memory of Emily Oakes-Buckingham

For our daughter Emily Oakes-Buckingham, who tragically died aged 13.

She was extraordinary and amazing, a real force of nature! She was a talented swimmer who loved nothing more than to be physically active, and was also artistic and academically outstanding. She was genuine, kind and compassionate, frequently providing support to others in emotional need, and felt deeply all injustices experienced by herself and others. She was passionate in her views, determined in her goals, and loving to her family and friends. She was also strikingly beautiful.

Sadly, Emily struggled with being extraordinary and her sense of “difference” created social anxiety and low self-esteem. She didn’t like others to be sad so she hid her sorrow from all but a very small number of close friends and family; using a fun and exuberant facade. One of the things that she needed to manage her anxiety was planning and certainty, so the last minute changes and uncertainty caused by the coronavirus measures had a massive impact on her mental health. On New Years’ Day her panic at the possibility of more of the same for the upcoming year led her to make a devastating mistake that resulted in her tragic death a week later.

Her impact on the lives of all who knew her in her short life, and the love that she gave, have left great sorrow. Our lives will never be the same without her; she was loved beyond measure and will be missed forever.

Goodbye our Rainbow Warrior x