In memory of Olivia Lannoo

  Last Saturday balloons were let off worldwide in memory of Olivia Lannoo. 
  Olivia a 21 year old from Belgium fighting Neuromyelitis Optica passed away on Saturday 20th of May. The news came as a shock to us all despite knowing she was really unwell. Her resilience and power to overcome the toughest hurdles lead us to believe nothing could defeat her. Sadly, due to Neuromyelitis Optica complications we have lost our flamboyant star! She aspired to help others, become an OT, raise awareness and show off her make up art. Throughout her fight against NMO Olivia remembered to stay strong and be positive. She was an overcomer, thriver, warrior, talented and so much more. Even through photos her beauty shined through with that great big smile.
  I spent time working on a few projects with Olivia like Spoonie Spotlight where she shared her story and #VisiblyInvisible, a project showing what make up means to chronically ill people. I admire Olivia for being a young woman raising awareness of a rare condition. Her work within the community will always be appreciated. We will always miss her bright presence online. 
  Times like these remind patients and families affected by NMO how valuable our lives are, no matter how complex. There's a lot of anger at this disease for taking such a beautiful soul. The only thing we can do now is use the passion Olivia had to help find a cure. Our hearts grieve together through this painful reality. 

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