Team Antigua Island Girls is mourning the death of veteran broadcaster and communications professional Marcella André, remembering her as an important part of the team’s historic journey.

In a tribute posted Thursday, the group said André was among its earliest administrative volunteers during its Atlantic crossing and served as a vital link between the rowers and supporters at home while they were thousands of miles away at sea.

Behind the scenes, André helped manage the team’s social media presence, sharing its progress, challenges and achievements with audiences in Antigua and Barbuda and beyond.

“Marcella was more than a supporter of our team. She was part of our story,” Team Antigua Island Girls said.

The group noted that only days earlier it had appealed to the community to rally around André as she faced serious health challenges.

André died Thursday morning at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, according to reports. She was a veteran broadcaster, communications consultant and entrepreneur whose career included work in radio, public relations, marketing and professional development.

Team Antigua Island Girls extended condolences to André’s family, friends and loved ones, saying her contribution would remain part of the team’s history.

“Marcella helped us carry our story across an ocean, and we will carry her memory with us always,” the team said.

It ended its tribute: “Once an Island Girl, always an Island Girl.”

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Team Antigua Island Girls Mourns Marcella André.