Day: October 15, 2024

It’s hard to pinpoint exactly what made Sylmarie Ramirez-Ruiz so magnetic—whether it was her creativity, beauty, unique sense of fashion, or her boundless empathy. But there was an unmistakable quality about Sylmarie that drew people to her. She was the youngest of four children, and her mother, Sylma, always knew she was destined for remarkable things. 

In middle school, Sylmarie earned the nickname “Elmo” for her bubbly, loving personality. She embraced life with an unconventional spirit, often choosing the road less traveled—and sometimes doodling her way along that path. Quite literally. 

Sylmarie was an artist at heart. She drew wherever she could—on pizza boxes, napkins, sticky notes. And if she loved you, you would know. She left heartfelt notes and affirmations for everyone she cared about: family, friends, coworkers. 

“My whole family can attest to this,” her older brother Gustavo recalled. “When she’d stay over or dog-sit, I’d regularly find sticky notes saying, ‘Hope you have a good day, love you,’ or ‘I cleaned and organized everything, hope you like it.’ Those little notes were the highlight of my day, every single time.” 

Her sister Lara added, “Those sticky notes are like gold to us.” 

Sylmarie had a warmth that was impossible to ignore. She always went out of her way to make others feel loved and appreciated.

“Sylmarie was so cool,” her mother said. “She was caring, an empath. She was always helping others—even strangers. She’d go without so someone else could have something.” 

From a young age, Sylmarie understood the value of compassion and giving. Growing up in Puerto Rico, her older brothers were Boy Scouts who spoke often about blood and organ donation, which left a lasting impression on her. “She was little, but she knew that giving to others was the right thing,” Sylma said. 

One day, while decorating the house together, Sylmarie began speaking animatedly about her wish to be an organ donor. 

“She said she wanted to donate her eyes to someone who had never seen before,” her mother remembered. “She talked about how incredible it would be for someone to receive the gift of sight. She also wanted to donate her heart. The way she spoke about it made me realize how deeply this mattered to her.” 

Tragically, Sylmarie’s life ended far too soon, at the young age of 29. Leaving her loved ones in shock and disbelief. She was so full of love and deeply loved by others.  

On that heartbreaking night, her mother received the call no parent should ever have to receive. Even in her grief, Sylma knew exactly what Sylmarie would have wanted. Sylmarie’s corneas, bones, and tissue were all donated, giving life and hope to many. 

“We know she’s living on through others,” Sylma said. “We’re comforted by the fact that she made so many donations, just like she wanted. Somewhere out there, her corneas are seeing the world, perhaps reading or watching TV.” 

Though her time was cut short, her family finds solace in knowing that a part of Sylmarie lives on. In her honor, they continue to donate blood and have registered in the All of Us research program. 

“It’s incredibly difficult to go through this,” Lara said, “but knowing that our loved ones can help others, even in death, is a powerful and unique gift.” Her oldest brother, Sergio, added, “Sylmarie is still our light, watching over us. She taught us to find peace and joy in life, without getting caught up in the noise.” 

“We will mourn her, and we will miss her,” Gustavo said. “But as she would have wanted, let’s honor her memory by embracing her mantra: ‘Just be happy, please.’” 

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, reach out. There is help and support available. Call or text 988 for assistance. 

Suicidal behavior can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, or background. While the topic is difficult, it’s important to talk about it openly.