I first met Monica when I was her second grade teacher at St. Catherine School in Martinez. I remember her as a bright student and a sweet little angel. We reconnected when she was in the 8th grade and I returned to St. Catherine's as her teacher once more. In more recent times we have run into each other and I always enjoyed catching up with her and her family. She is still an angel!

Beautiful Monica.  How I will miss her.  Our professional dance lives intersected throughout our careers, but the place where I really got to enjoy her most was through our teaching at the Las Cruces International Mariachi Festival each November.  This conference was our time to be part of an elite team of instructors in a prestigious and intensive cultural event. What fond memories.  RIP.

I met Monica at ANGF in 2011. I went as a volunteer and she immediately welcomed me for being my first big conference. For the next 8 days I spent everyday with her. She taught me so much on how to be a better person. she told me her stories, her life struggles, all the pain she went through and all I could think about is "My God she's so strong". I'll always have you in my heart. Always.

To My Bear Cub, I wasn't done knowing you my sweet beautiful friend. I will always treasure our friendship and love. I love you and miss you!
Love, Mama Bear

From the first day I met her she made an impact. I learned early on how she would inspire with the type of life she lead. There was only one obstacle she could not overcome but she gave the fight of her life. When I think if Monica I will not ily remember her natural beauty but her inner strength, determination, talent and grace. She will always live in the stories I will share about her.