Dear Emma. I miss you mate

Losing my friend Emma earlier this year was just absolutely heartbreaking. She wasn’t just a friend, she was one of those really rare, incredible people that just knew how to light up a room, and 100% lit me up every time we saw each other.

Her humour and energy, she was so lovely. We shared so much, from DJing together at some spots, to late nights filled with laughter, and even some quieter moments that meant the world. I still remember when we’d just look at each other and burst out laughing without saying a word

I’ll never forget when she was going through chemo. It was tough, but Emma still managed to find the fun in it all and embrace every moment. We’d crack jokes around it, and some of the funny things she shared with me on other stuff. Somehow, she turned even the darkest times into something lighter. She was just that kind of person.

And then there was the cat. I still remember that day when you was like, wanna go pet a cat? You looked after one for a friend, and let me tell you, Emma had a way with animals (see picture, cracks me up every time) That day of caring for the cat, was filled with easy moments and simple happiness, like two mates just taking on the world, one little purrer at a time

I was back in the UK when I got the news that she’d passed. It was a real gut punch, losing someone so full of life. But when I think about Emma, I really remember all the good times, the laughter, the music (and her love for drum and bass too!) and the bond we shared. She was one of my true friends, and that’s how I’ll always carry her with me. I miss you mate and love you.

Hope you’re shining bright and hopefully see you soon chief xx

Aaron Mouland

Quit drinking on 23 July 2021 after a two-day bender and swapped bars for border crossings and 12-step meetings. Three sober years, 36 countries, 113 travellers (totally dry), fuelled by street food, jelly babies, and a broken Google Maps app. Wandersober is my journal, my SEO lab, and my mission. Featured in GQ, Mirror, Evening Standard, MarketWatch, and more.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I booked my first sober trip off this site. It actually changed my life. I didn’t think travel could feel this alive without alcohol.”

– Alex, weekly reader

Read my story