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Khaleda Hadisa Assell
( January 1 - May 8, 2016 )
Khaleda Hadisa Assell, age 14, of Denver, North Carolina entered the gates of heaven on Sunday, May 8, 2016.

A memorial service will be held for Khaleda at 2:00pm on Saturday, May 14, 2016 at Denver United Methodist Church with Rev. Morrie Lawing officiating. A Celebration of Life, alongside Khaleda’s family, will directly follow the service in the Family Life Center of Denver United Methodist Church.  The family invites all who attend to wear their favorite shade of pink in remembrance of Khaleda.

Born in Kabul, Afghanistan, Khaleda (which means eternal), was her given name.  From birth, she battled a life threatening condition called Thalassemia Beta Major, which required regular blood transfusions and aggressive medical treatment to sustain life.  At 7 years of age, she was adopted by Mike and Amanda Assell as their first and eldest child.  Despite her constant need for medical care, Khaleda brought joy, laughter, and wit to all she knew rather than bitterness or complaint.  Her smile was contagious and her strength was mighty.  She loved being with her family and friends.  Painting nails, swimming, riding horses, and shopping were some of her favorite activities.  Khaleda knew how to live in the day and understood that we aren’t promised tomorrow.  She didn’t dwell on the past or her condition, and she didn’t fret over the future and what it would bring.  This beautiful child taught us so much about life, sacrifice, and true love.  She was a blessing in every way.

Khaleda is survived by her parents, Mike and Amanda Assell and her brother, Silas Assell, her grandparents, John and Barbara Assell, Marty Barker and Elizabeth Wilson.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made out to “Christ Church – designated to the Khaleda Fund” for various projects in Afghanistan and to help providing food, shelter, and education to Khaleda’s biological family.

Posted on 10 May 2016


 

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