Those who knew and loved Sahara Aldridge said their last goodbyes Saturday.But they also pledged never to forget the Cape Girardeau 13-year-old who inspired people at home and overseas, and to use her life as an inspiration for their own.
An estimated 500 people attended the service to mourn Sahara, whose 17-month battle with brain stem cancer ended with her death Monday. But they also praised the girl who several speakers called a hero and an inspiration for living a better existence.
"The ... number of people here is a testament to the fact that her life counted," said Steven Bradshaw, pastor of students at Lynwood, during his opening remarks.
Several people who knew Sahara in many capacities spoke about her life and the inspiration it provided them, from her former principal Frank Ellis to Mayor Jay Knudtson to Rick Springfield, the rock and "General Hospital" star and family friend who played a benefit concert in Sahara's honor at the Show Me Center last December.
Springfield, whose string of 1980s hits included “Jessie’s Girl” and “I’ve Done Everything for You,” performed last December at the Show Me Center. Proceeds went to Sahara’s family. Springfield also used his Web site to encourage fans to support the Aldridge family spiritually and financially.
Springfield is a longtime friend of the family.
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