Alana and I were close friends for over 20 years. She passed away in October 2018 after battling cancer for two years with tenacity, bravery, and humor. She was loved by many, and we were devastated by the loss. A writer, comedian, editor, filmmaker, and self-described ‘bon vivant’, Alana was an expert at enjoying life. She found her soulmate in Malkia Amala Devich Cyril, and their wedding was a beautiful mix of poetry, activism, and really great hats. When Alana died, I offered to sew a memorial quilt for Malkia, and the process of making it was deeply moving for me. I loved spending time with Alana’s clothes and shaping them into something that felt joyful and bright, like Alana. And knowing that Malkia would find comfort in sleeping under Alana’s quilt every night…that felt like a gift to them both.
all photos of Alana’s quilt © Benedicte Lassalle
