Tomorrow marks the one year anniversary of College sophomore Melissa Ross' death. She made one mistake on one night by ingesting one drug that ended her life. In the wake of this tragedy, her mother asked that we learn something and not take our lives for granted. She wants us to remember that we are not invincible and that actions can have grave consequences.

I am afraid that many students on Emory's campus have not learned anything. There are many people on this campus who constantly take unnecessary chances with their bodies. I believe Melissa saw her time in college as a time to have fun and try new things, but she didn't perceive that what she was doing was life threatening. And, as we found out last April, it was.

Melissa Ross was a wonderful individual. She was full of life and could always make other people happy. Melissa had a radiance about her that was uplifting, and when she was around you, you couldn't help but smile. She had a positive outlook on life, and wanted to live each day to its fullest. She cared about others and gave unselfishly of herself, and I hope that everyone remembers Melissa for the joy she brought us, if even for a short time.

This weekend, from 8 p.m., Saturday, April 15, to 8 a.m., Sunday in the Cox Hall Ballroom, a Dance-A-Thon will be held in Melissa's memory to raise money for the Carrie Steele Pitts Home. It is being sponsored by Alpha Phi Omega, Emory Hillel and the Division of Campus Life.

Everyone, whether they knew Melissa or not, is encouraged to come, dance for as long as they can and help celebrate Melissa's life. There will be a table in front of the Dobbs University Center where you can pick up a sponsorship form, find out more information or make a donation this week.

Cindy Livingston
College