June 18, 2005 – January 12, 2022
Diagnosed: May 4, 2021
Abigail “Abby” Adewunmi was a passionate and opinionated yet measured and relaxed young woman. She cared about faith and family first and foremost; however, her passion for justice and service were notable. She was quietly competitive both inside and outside of the classroom. She was a phenomenal student who found time to pursue other major interests including Bible Quiz, tennis, photography, and travel.
Throughout her life, her faith, determination, giving spirit, and love for community inspired many family members and friends alike. Beginning in April 2021, Abby began to experience major headaches that would not subside with medication. She also reported double vision as she saw “two tennis balls” coming toward her during her weekly practice, and she started to have a noticeable facial droop. After struggling through her brother’s college graduation, the intensity of her headaches prompted an MRI, leading to a diagnosis of DIPG on May 4, 2021. At this point in time, life seemed to whirlwind. She immediately experienced a hospital stay as her family learned the severity of the diagnosis. She was soon enrolled in a clinical trial headquartered in Gainesville, Florida, and began radiation and chemotherapy in June 2021.
Although this illness took a physical toll on Abby, she never lost her sweet, determined spirit. She continued to maintain her quiet strength, her smile, and her thoughtfulness for others. She remained the beautiful, intelligent, and passionate 16-year-old that she was until the day of her passing January 12, 2022.
