St. George, Utah – McKenna Michelle Nielson, 18, passed away Tuesday, December 22, 2020. She was born September 24, 2002 in St. George, Utah to the late Russell Douglas and Joanna Leary Nielson.

McKenna had Cerebral Palsy. But no matter her limitations, McKenna always was the strongest one in the room. She has gone through countless surgeries during her lifetime. She has had multiple hip surgeries, spine surgery, baclofen pump surgery, feeding tube surgeries, femur surgery, chest tubes, etc. McKenna always conquered them with strength and the biggest smile on her face. McKenna's mother, Joanna, devoted her life to McKenna's needs. A mother's love is unlike no other. They even traveled to Poland for therapy research and tried many other forms of therapy.

McKenna had always been an Angel on Earth and the biggest blessing to our family. She was the happiest person ever. McKenna was the person you'd want to see when having a bad day. She would make your life brighter just by seeing her smile.

McKenna loved movies and everything Disney. Especially her favorite character Tigger. Whenever someone would jump and dance around, McKenna would laugh so hard and have a huge smile on her face. McKenna taught you to love the simple things in life and to appreciate everything you have. We are all better people because of this wonderful woman.

McKenna had the most special relationships with all of her grandparents, Doug and Julia Nielson, George and Margaret Leary, and spent countless amounts of time with them. The bond that they have is so amazing.

McKenna is no longer confined to her earthly body with its limitations. McKenna is now talking, walking, running, dancing, in heaven with her beloved father, Russell.

McKenna is preceded in death by her loving father, Russell Douglas Nielson. She is survived by her beloved mother, Joanna Leary Nielson; her treasured twin sister, Kiara; and beautiful siblings: Britain, Brookelyn, Rigdon, Braxton, and Jaeger.

The family is having private funeral arrangements due to the Covid-19 Virus. The Interment will be at the Holladay Memorial Park Cemetery.