Sabrina Nicole Waide, 20, passed away peacefully on October 7th, 2023, at her home in Virginia Beach after a lifelong journey with chronic illness. Sabrina was born on February 11th, 2003, in Norfolk, VA with a rare medical condition that required complex and continuous care from birth. She spent the first fourteen months of her life at Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters, where she quickly became a cherished presence among the hospital staff. She was a baby in need of both a home and a life-saving transplant, and with the Waide family, she found the love and care she needed. Bill and Melissa Waide accompanied her to Chicago, IL, where Sabrina received a groundbreaking transplant; becoming the fourth child in the nation and the first female to undergo such a procedure. Shortly after, she was lovingly adopted by the Waide family.

Sabrina had many passions that she pursued in her young life. She did not let the physical struggles of chronic illness prevent her from participating in dance, gymnastics, cheerleading, and horseback riding. She competed in the Transplant Games on the national and state levels, winning gold and silver medals in swimming, track, and bowling. She was an avid reader, crafter, puzzle master and, like many her age, she was most content listening to true crime stories. Sabrina had an infectious smile, a fighting spirit, and a sassy sense of humor. She was fortunate to be loved fiercely by several close friends whom she cherished spending time with, often enjoying sleepovers with them or taking her friends on family vacations. Sabrina’s biggest passion was evident in her love for animals. Sabrina had room in her heart for every living creature from fluffy to scaly and enjoyed fostering rescue animals. She spent most of her time with her cats and constant companion, her dog Tanner.

Sabrina is predeceased by grandparents Marilyn Fentress of Norfolk, VA, and John Boykin of Williamston, NC.

Left to cherish Sabrina’s memory are her parents Bill and Melissa Waide of Virginia Beach, VA, brother Kenny and his wife Sarah Waide of Henrico, VA, brother Ryan and his wife Megan Waide of Burlington, NC, and sister Holly and her husband John Michael Payne of Virginia Beach, VA. She is also survived by her grandparents, Nan Mercer of The Villages, FL, and Bob Fentress and Sue Mills of Virginia Beach, VA. Sabrina is also survived by Chris Nobles of Norfolk, VA and his extended family.

A memorial service in celebration of Sabrina’s life will be held on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at 11 AM at Old Donation Episcopal Church, 4449 N. Witchduck Road in Virginia Beach, with The Reverend Bob Randall officiating. The family kindly requests those attending to wear blue as it was Sabrina’s favorite color. In lieu of flowers, donations in loving memory of Sabrina may be made to Hope for Life Rescue, Inc. in Virginia Beach.

Sabrina’s legacy of courage, compassion, and boundless love for life will forever shine brightly in our hearts. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.