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Today, we learned that Diane passed away suddenly - without warning.
We each have memories of our last conversation with her; our last glimpse of her. It just doesn't seem real.
What we will know and remember of Diane is her honesty and bravery.
Diane Carignan was one of the proud co-founders of People First of New Hampshire. She helped to build the organization in 1991 and maintained active involvement as a board officer and member from then on. Diane had strength in bringing important issues to the attention of others and because people listened and reacted, she created power.
Diane shared with us her hopes and dreams and challenges. In doing so, this allowed those around her to open their hearts and minds; to learn from her and lean toward her - to give support and also to receive it.
Diane had a strong voice as a self-advocate in New Hampshire and served on several boards and committees to stand for the rights of people who experience disabilities.
But more than her involvement with People First of New Hampshire, the Lakes Region Self-Advocacy Group and other organizations throughout her community and the state, Diane had a "life". She spoke of her family often and of the their times together. She talked about her friends and their activities together. She shared about her interest in fishing and boating and reading to young people. She cherished and invested in her true friends more than most of know how to do. Diane was an inspiration.
In love and respect and honor... Diane.
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