Life is really unfair sometimes.
Four days ago, my dear, sweet former intern Lauren lost the love of her life, Alex. He and a friend were killed in a car accident Thursday evening. He was just 23 years old, and he and Lauren had been married for just nine months, exchanging vows in a beautiful ceremony on January 1, 2011.
I sadly never met Alex, but I feel as if I knew him from her frequent Facebook posts and the pictures. Oh the pictures. They’re one of those couples that the camera just loved. And it didn’t hurt how much they were in love with each other
The service was an amazing blend of humor, sadness and most of all, love.
But mostly, it was inspirational. At just 23 years old, Alex had already accomplished so much in his young life. A classically trained musician, he owned the very cool Music Lab in Winter Park, Florida. It’s an amazing facility that helps artists learn music, practice music and record music. Artist after artist got up tonight and described how Alex had encouraged them to keep chasing their dreams. He was living proof that it’s possible to do what you love.
He was a huge talent and the Central Florida music scene — and the world — is much dimmer without him in it.
His mother spoke eloquently about his lifelong love affair with music. He started cello lessons at 3 and by 10, was invited to perform with an orchestra in Amsterdam — he was five years younger than the next youngest cellist!
To honor his love and passion for music, his family has started the Alex Assoian Music Memorial to help other children who can’t otherwise afford music lessons. What a wonderful legacy!
If you’re a music lover or are looking for a good cause, I encourage you to check out The Music Lab’s Facebook page and see how it’s already made a huge difference in the lives of musicians of all ages. To make a donation, send it to:
Alex Assoian Music Memorial
C/O The Music Lab
520 N Orlando Ave. Suite 140
Winter Park, FL 32765
His mother offered a powerful lesson for all of us mothers. She was so happy that her beloved son had chosen to pursue his dreams. It brought him — and everyone around him — so much happiness. His parents gave him wings to fly and he soared.
And to Lauren, words can’t express how sorry I am for you.
Hug your loved ones tonight and remember to live life fully. Life really is too short.
oh….this just makes my heart ache! My heart goes out to his family and friends. 🙁 You are so right—life is just too short!
Thank you. I hate that it takes something this horrible to remind me to be kinder and sweeter to my husband, but it does. You just never know when a goodbye is going to be your last one.
Thanks for the comment.
Wow. I’m 21 so this especially hits home with me. I can’t imagine someone losing their lives at 23 with so much life left to live. I will keep Lauren, Alex, and his family in my thoughts and prayers <3
Thank you Brittany. It’s all so sad. 23 is far too young for someone to be gone. Thank you for your kind words and prayers.
My heart is breaking for Lauren and for all of their family & friends. I cannot imagine losing my husband & can’t begin to understand what she is going through. May she find peace & happiness in the memories she has of her time with Alex.
What an extraordinary young man and talent. He obviously had a gift from God. Thank you for introducing me to him and to his legacy. I have a little one who has been singing and mimicking sound since 6-7 months old to be able to check out The Music Lab and encourage my son to dream big and follow a talent that may become a passion is inspired by people like Alex. He is now an angel although I know that does not help at a time like this. I will keep his family and friends in my thoughts and prayers and remember him as an inspiration going forward.
Ugh. 23. So young. I’m sorry to hear Lauren has to go through this. 🙁 A few weeks ago, I found out my friend (who was 26) died. It’s even more tragic when they have their whole life ahead of them.
(Completely unrelated, but Lauren looks like Lauren Graham. Pretty!)
What a beautiful tribute. Thank you for sharing his story and reminding us that life is precious. My thoughts and prayers go out to your friend and his loved ones.