Meet Marissa Rozenfeld
Marissa is a 24 year old Graphic Designer who currently lives in New Jersey and works in NYC. She has always used creativity as an outlet. After losing both her father and grandfather to COVID-19, she decided to turn her pain, grief, and sorrow into something that has meaning and purpose. That is when she started the "It's Gonna Get Better" project. An important part of the grieving and healing process for her was to help bring awareness, comfort and spread an uplifting message to others who need to hear it. She want to honor her father and grandfather's optimistic and positive spirit by continuing to spread the message that "It's Gonna Get Better" even on the days it doesn't feel that way.
@MarissarozenfeldWhat does joy mean to you?
Joy is being able to celebrate the little moments in life with your friends and family and continue to make amazing memories with the people you love. OH, and climbing mountains. :)
What are some of the small things you celebrate?
One of the small things I celebrate now is being able to disconnect from technology and focus on being in the moment. Whether it's going on a hike, finding new music, or going for a good run, these are all important things I like to celebrate!
Tell us about a really special time in your life, and why you treasure it.
This question is super tough because there are so many! If I had to choose one, I would say when I completed the 2018 NYC Marathon. My brother has a rare genetic disorder called Dystonia so I was able to fundraise and raise awareness for dystonia and run for those who can't. I got to experience my first full marathon with my uncle by my side as well. My father and grandfather along with the rest of my family and friends were there supporting me the whole way and waiting for me with the biggest hugs at the finish line!! I will cherish that moment forever.
We all have trying moments. What is something positive you did or chose to focus on to keep you moving forward?
This project I started for sure. I have met so many others who have lost their loved one or loved ones to COVID-19. "It's Gonna Get Better" is something I tell myself every day and knowing I can bring a little bit of comfort to other people who are going through it definitely keeps me moving forward.
Tell us about someone who's been a positive influence
in your life.
Both my father and grandfather have been such positive influences in my life. My father especially. He was and always will be my best friend. He truly was my biggest supporter. He always encouraged me to think outside the box and was always there to bring me up whenever I was feeling down. Music was something that was extremely important to us and what this project is stemmed from. He was an amazing guitarist and extremely creative. He was such a light in our family and would always put others before himself. He instilled so many amazing qualities into me and my brother. I know he would be so proud to see how strong our family is and I know he is here with me in spirit helping me spread this important message.
