This is about the life and legacy of my twin sister, Angela. I could spend a lifetime telling stories about her and the adventures we shared. Though she left us far too soon, she lived a remarkably full and meaningful life, a life devoted to serving and protecting both her country and her community.

Angela and I had the privilege of serving side by side during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Eventually, our paths diverged. She followed her calling as a Chicopee Police Officer, once again putting the well-being of others before herself, including myself as she supported me throughout my continued journey into nursing and academia. Angela embodied everything you hope to see in a dedicated officer and public servant. She built trust effortlessly and fostered respect and unity everywhere she went. She had a natural gift for connecting with young people, whether she was shooting hoops with kids at the Boys & Girls Club or checking in on children throughout her district.

As a pediatric emergency nurse, I am constantly humbled when patients and families recognize me as her twin and share stories of the impact she made. Their words remind me that her presence is still very much alive, guiding me from above.

Outside of work, Angela loved creating memories with her fiancée, Lauren, and their cherished fur babies, Malikai and Charlie. Malikai was truly the love of her world who passed away shortly after, a heartbreaking testament to their unbreakable bond. Angela also adored being an aunt to our large and lively army of nieces and nephews, pouring so much love into each of them. Family time meant everything to her. She was the daughter any parent would be proud to have, the sister and twin we all aspire to be, and the kind of soldier and police officer who embodied genuine honor and pride.

Together, we can keep Angela’s light alive by spreading the love and unity she championed. The Angela Santiago Foundation carries her spirit forward by empowering and inspiring children through education, sports, fitness, and recreation. Let us honor her extraordinary legacy and uplift the generations that follow.

With love and gratitude,
Shavonne