The power of social media is astonishing.
On the 2nd of December a warehouse fire in Oakland, California claimed the lives of 36 people.
One of the victims was Griffin Madden. Griffin’s girlfriend Saya Tomioka wanted to find a special photo of them that a stranger had taken in New York over a year ago and asked people on Facebook to help her.
In a public Facebook pose she wrote:
”This morning I remembered the first time I went to Times Square, June 16 of 2015. Griffin and I just finished watching The Book of Mormon on Broadway. I remember tears swelling my eyes because the city was so beautiful and amidst all the lights, I got to look at the brightest light of all, my sweetie. I cried, and we kissed. Some random photographer captured this very moment, this very kiss.” She explained.
”I never got his name, and he just simply showed us the single beautiful snap shot that he was able to capture.”
I’ve always longed to find this particular photograph and thank the photographer. Friends, possibly with your help, I can be reunited with this photograph, this treasured memory that I’ll always keep in my heart. I don’t even know if it’s possible, but please share this status if you think it is. I need some light right now…. I need a reminder of the brightest light of all—love. Thank you for those sending us love and prayers, I hear you and I feel you. Our community mourns. I love you, gg, my sweetie chan.”
Only four days later, the photographer who took the beautiful photo was found and got in touch with Saya.
The photographer, Arken Avan, was contacted by several people and he told ABC news that initially he could not find the photo.
He checked several hard drives and could not find it.
He had to sort through 2000 photos before he located this one.
“I found the photo. I was shocked,” he said. “I couldn’t believe it. I was happy, but at the same time I was very sad.” He said.
Avan posted the photo on her Facebook chain, saying, “Miracles happen, Saya.”
‘And I actually remember this moment,” He explained.
”Young lady was holding pretzel in her hand and young man had lipstick on his cheek. What a beautiful and adorable couple I thought. At that moment and seen them kissing. I’m sorry for your loss and hope you will keep these pictures for memory, forever.” He said.
Saya posted her own message thanking those who helped her find the cherished photo.
”To my friends, family and strangers, thank you. There are no words that could even begin to explain my gratitude for you all. Every message, every share, every comment mean the world to me. Thank you all for your kind and generous donations; we are so amazed. Thank you all for sharing your beautiful memories with Griffin, keeping his light alive.” She said.
