To a woman I knew, a beautiful face with an even more beautiful heart.
When I came to the Riding for the Disabled Carine centre in 2010, I was just the average fourteen year old kid obsessed with horses. I wanted to learn all I could about horse care, and in turn, I learned so much about childcare for the special needs children.
I remember when you began to volunteer, not long after me. You had just moved from the Netherlands to Australia to be with your boyfriend, and yet you were destined to also be with us for the 5 or so years that you dedicated your life to.
I remember when you finally got your coaches license, how excited you were. I remember all the days you would be with Melissa and I - as a leader, sidewalker, coach and friend. Even though Melissa cannot tell you, I'm sure she remembers your bright, shining and kind face.
I remember when we were about to move back to Adelaide, and I was stressed and crying all the time because we didn't have a home. How you pulled me over and hugged me, told me it would all be okay and to just cheer up.
I remember your voice. Soft, gentle, and positive, with a really pretty Dutch accent. Your laugh at a funny joke that was shared around the table, or the fact you teased me cause I would always eat the cake and cookies.
I remember how passionate you were with the horses. You loved them all, and you were hardworking. I'll never forget how we joked about Silver always farting.

I have so many memories of the time I was at Carine. You were my favourite coach. You were one of the kindest, loving souls I've ever gotten to know - you were born to care for others, born to work with children. They loved you, and you loved them. Any time I'd go to the RDA, even if I was in a horrible mood, I'd always be left feeling happy because that's the vibe you brought. You made everyone happy and smile around you.

Dafne, it's with the saddest, most grieved of hearts I even have to write this. I had no idea on that fateful day, you'd be boarding the plane that was tragically and cruelly shot down by terrorism. I had no idea until yesterday what had happened to you, and your loss is felt amongst all RDA Carine volunteers.

I promised I'd return one day. I said I'd come back for a visit, and I will. It's just a shame I'll never see your face again, or hear your words, or feel your hug. I will always miss you, I will always remember you. From myself, the horses, the RDA Carine volunteers, the RDAWA community, the school you taught at, your family, your friends, your colleagues and of course your partner - may you rest in peace.

Dafne Nieveen
1977 - 2014
Victim of MH17
Coach. Colleague. Friend.