The year is 1995, and my parents have finally allowed me to take the summer to tour in a VW van across the country with my boyfriend, Evan, and our band. Yes, my dream to be a singer became reality. Even with Clarissa, Evan’s jealous ex-girlfriend, as the lead singer, it’s my presence on stage that led us to a major record deal. There are moments you’ll always remember in life, but I can’t imagine anything more cool than hearing your song on the radio for the first time. 

But being a rock star isn’t as easy as it sounds. Using alcohol and drugs as coping mechanisms, nothing but tension surrounded me, hurting my still-blossoming relationship and continued grieving over my sister’s death.