My mother’s paternal grandmother was Catherine.

My father’s paternal Grandmother was Katherine.

My father had a younger sister was named Katherine or Kay.

Kay died from polio at the age of 6. My grandmother never got over losing her little girl.

I think my grandma was probably confused because she said I was named after Kay.

In my mind, it was a sweet tribute to my aunt who never got to grow up.

As I got older, my attitude shifted. I started feeling creeped out about sharing the name with a dead 6-year-old.

My mom set me straight though when I talked to her about the confusion.

I was and still am relieved to be partially named for my great-grandma who lived to the age of 106.