5 years ago today.....9/11/01

Suzanne Kondratenko, a Chicago resident was tragically killed on September 11, 2001 while working at the World Trade Center. Though most of us did not actually know her, we mourn the loss of her life along with the people that did.

She was the third daughter of eight and was very close to her youngest sister, Paige (born with Down syndrome). Aimee, one of Suzanne's older sisters, said the Paige was one of Suzanne's greatest joys. Paige (age 8 at the time) had just learned to walk right before Suzanne's death. Aimee said that when Suzanne's parents would let her know when Paige accomplished something new, Suzanne would run around the office and tell all of her girlfriends. Suzanne and Paige were similiar in many respects, they both enjoyed reading and had a silly sense of humor.

She graduated from St. Mary's College (Notre Dame, IN) in 1996. John Shinners spoke about her here.....he said "She embodied what it means to be a St. Mary's woman: liberally educated, open to the world and to making it better, big-hearted, graceful -- in the best sense of that word -- in love with learning and with life, an inspiration and a delight to anyone lucky enough to know her."

She was a senior consultant for Keane Consulting Group. She was in a window-less conference room meeting with 6 Aon insurance executives on the 92nd floor of the south tower. They did not see or hear anything until the commotion and screams interrupted their meeting. Sadly, they did not make it out in time. Suzanne was 27 years old.

Today, as you go about your daily routine, think about those that lost their lives 5 years ago. Pray for their familes. Be thankful for your lives and for your familes and don't take anything for granted.

Live everyday like it may be your last.

Thank you Suzanne for making this world a little better.