Celebrating the life of kiela gwin
February 26, 1992 - February 12, 2019
Kiela Hari Sunshine Gwin (AKA Kiel Ryosei Ronin) was an incredible friend, sister, daughter, musician, writer, artist, carer, and scientific thinker. Her deep compassion and ability to connect with others will always be remembered by those who had the honor of knowing her. Her story can perhaps bring us closer to understanding and better helping those who struggle with mental illness as Kiela/Kiel did, struggles that led to her taking her life, tragically, at the age of 26.
Some amazing things about her:
Between the ages of 17 and 23, she recorded four full albums: Dixie Flatline, Insula: Chapter I, Insula: Chapter II and Grandiose Fantasies. Listen here or look for her on YouTube, Apple Music, Spotify, & Pandora.
She was always creating things, whether with sculpy (clay), yarn, watercolors, pencils, thread, or other fun mediums.
She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Science with Honors from UNM, majoring in Anthropology and Psychology.
Her contributions to the field of Genetic Anthropology are evident in the published research papers she co-authored (such as this one). As a Graduate Research Assistant at the University of Utah, she was coding a new program to more accurately calculate statistical genetics.
She had turned her own struggles with suicidal ideation into a force of good. She volunteered countless hours as a crisis counselor for the nonprofit Crisis Text Line.
We love you and miss you more than words could ever fully express, our Sunshine. The world you left could not contain your brilliance but we will work tirelessly to make this world better for other sensitive souls like you. Our hearts will always hold you <3 <3 <3
