Parents dedicate piano in daughter's memory

A piano recital and dedication ceremony was held Aug. 6 in the atrium in memory of Amanda Wellings Dykes.

Linda and Ron Plunkett, Amandaās mother and stepfather, donated the piano for the enjoyment of patients in MUSCās Childrenās Hospital. Following Amandaās death from cancer in 1995, Mrs. Plunkett has dedicated herself to helping others facing childhood cancer. She was instrumental in the formation of a local chapter of the international Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation. It serves as a support and advocacy group to help parents, siblings, friends an survivors of childhood cancer cope with the disease and the challenges it creates.

Jan Pesavento, right, plays "After the Rain," which was composed by Amanda, on the piano dedicated to the Children's Hospital. From left are Jan's son, John, Evelyn Spratt on the violin and Dr. Eve Spratt on cello.

Amanda was an honors student at Porter Gaud. She loved to play the piano and had a talent for composing songs. She loved children. Her best friend wrote a memorial to her in the their school newspaper describing Amanda as someone who found friends everywhere, was comfortable with everybody she met and was sensitive. Her friend wrote, "Amanda treasured her friends and her life touched so many people. Amandaās smile was like a candle glowing on a cold dark night. It attracted everyone."