Episode Six: Love Finds a Way

This series is dedicated to Jazz Amira Hardrict, who passed away on September 5, 2022.

Jazz was born on December 29, 2008 in Torrance, CA. Jazz got her name because her mother loved jazz music. Jazz had sickle cell disease and spent a lot of her days in UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland. Most of the Hematology and Oncology staff there knew, loved, and spoiled her. She created something called, "Jazz Bucks," which nurses could earn for extra Jazz time.

Jazz developed a love for performing arts at a very young age. She was just two-years-old when she appeared on stage at Skyline High School in Oakland under the direction of her grandmother. As a child, she performed in Rent, Aladdin, Dream Girls, and Funny Face. At the age of 8, Jazz landed her first lead role as Simba in Three Cross Church’s production of The Lion King. Jazz also portrayed young Cinderella in the African-American Shakespeare Company's production of Cinderella and starred as Princess Jasmine in Joaquin Miller's production of Aladdin. In 2018, Jazz was featured in her first short film role, entitled, "Jazz in Wakanda."

Jazz loved cooking, baking, drawing, playing in makeup, doing her nails, all things pink and lavender, glitter and rhinestones, fur and luxury.

Often referred to as "a light," Jazz always had a strong attachment to her family and community. She quickly connected with people and was adored by nearly every child she came in contact with. From birth, Jazz inspired people to love. She was a member of the Imani Community Church, serving in the children’s choir, dance ministry, usher board, and children's church.

In June 2022, Jazz received a bone marrow transplant, with her father enthusiastically serving as the donor. Her indisputable light and bravery shined through even in the face of unimaginable suffering. On Monday, September 5, 2022, she was released from her suffering and slipped quietly into eternity. She will be deeply and dearly missed by everyone who had the privilege of being touched by her spirit.