24/02/2026
Deanna day - 24th February 💜
Seven years ago today, the Storm cheer family lost one of their own when our wonderful Deanna took her own life. Today we remember the light and laughter she brought to the lives of those around her. Deanna was everything a cheerleader should be; a hardworking team player, confident, and sassy beyond belief. But above all, Deanna was the fiercest of friends to those she surounded herself with, and she took such joy in the relationships she formed through cheer. Deanna was truly the embodiment of life, yet the happiness we all remember and love her for masked a struggle she was facing alone; a battle for life she ultimately could not continue.
Those who knew Deanna will know her life was so much more than the circumstances of her death, and that is why I, along with some of Deanna’s closest friends, have decided this will be the last Deanna day hosted by Storm. Seven years on, it seems a fitting finale, particularly as Deanna was very superstitious, often referring to herself as a witch, and the number 7 had significant meaning for her. Regardless of Deanna’s discontinued association with Storm’s Deanna Day, those who knew her will continue to keep her memory alive, and my wish is that Storm will continue to hold mental health and su***de awareness close to their hearts at all times in her memory, particularly during the winter months which can often feel the most lonely and bleak. I can only hope beyond hope that in doing so, su***de will never devastate the Storm family again.
So, for one final time, in honour of Deanna, wear some purple today (Deanna’s favourite colour), and remember the joy, life, and bravery Deanna embodied. Check in on one another and remember above all else the value of the family we create when we are a part of cheer. Love, care and look out for each other. And if you are struggling today with battles of your own, know you are loved, wanted, accepted and needed here. Deanna, we miss you, we love you: you will be forever and always the Heart of Storm.
— Kirsty 💜🦄💫
If you’re struggling, please reach out to our cheer reps for support, or take a look at the resources provided on the slides 💙
