Mark Merlino is the core reason for countless friendships, marriages, careers, gatherings, newsletters, zines, websites, and so much more.

I've been a furry for literally as long as I can remember, before I knew what it was. I have a video of me on my sixth birthday in a head-to-toe animal costume, where my dad suggests from behind the camera, "You're like a furry, or something".

I'd been drawing anthropomorphic animals since I could hold a pencil. I was obsessed with anything that had a talking animal. By 8-9 years old I'd discovered furries on YouTube, and my life has forever been changed. My entire life path has been impacted by someone I never met.

It's hard to believe I was at the same con as him just last year. He's made an impact world wide, and will continue to do so well past his death. Furry is endless, and there will always be someone to keep his vision alive. We owe a lot to Mark and Rod.

Long live Mark Merlino, who will go down in history for changing the world with his passion and love. Never forget those who came before us and gave us the bursting community we have today.