'I Took My Dead Sister On Vacation — People Say I’m Crazy But It Gave Me Closure'

Brianna Payne, a 26-year-old Arizona native, experienced the heart-wrenching loss of her beloved sister, Erin, at the tender age of 18.

Tragically, Erin's life was cut short in May 2020 due to fentanyl poisoning—a consequence of inadvertently obtaining medication laced with potent opioids.

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Faced with unimaginable grief, Brianna embarked on a path of remembrance and healing, finding solace in a remarkable decision that would forever shape her journey.

"Life isn't the same without her, but I'm making the best out of it because I know that's what she would want," she told The Post.

Brianna Payne carried forward a promise made in happier times. Before her sister's untimely passing, the two had vowed to "travel the world together."

In a poignant act of fulfilling that pledge, Payne embarked on a soul-stirring journey, taking her sister's cherished remains to the vibrant playground of Las Vegas.

"I went for what would have been Erin's 21st birthday, April 17th, and it was also my friend's 30th birthday, so I got to celebrate with her, too, which helped me get through the five days I was there," Payne told NeedToKnow.co.uk.

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"There was even a moment where one of mine and Erin's songs came on, and my friend walked in and saw me crying — she had actually walked in to ask me if there was a song I wanted to listen to, that one gave me goosebumps."

Brianna Payne and her friend embarked on a special quest during their time in Las Vegas. They sought out the world's largest Denny's, knowing it was Erin's favorite restaurant.

Brianna Payne found unexpected solace and an element of playfulness during her journey to Las Vegas with her sister's ashes.

Paying tribute to her sibling's adventurous spirit, Payne carried the compact urn with her, even using it to try her luck at slot machines.

In a beautiful testament to the unbreakable bond they shared, having the urn by her side felt both natural and oddly enjoyable.

Since their memorable trip to Nevada, Payne and her sister have continued their extraordinary travels, exploring numerous states across the US and even venturing to Puerto Rico.

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"I have been doing this pretty much since she passed away," Payne said. "We have been to Puerto Rico, chased waterfalls all around Oregon and Washington, Colorado and tons of other places."

In her courageous pursuit of healing and honoring her sister's memory, Brianna Payne discovered a profound sense of closure through her travels.

With each new destination, she not only fulfilled her sister's desire to see the world but also found solace in the journey itself.

Through the tapestry of experiences and the vastness of landscapes, Payne's heartache transformed into a source of empowerment.

“I plan to continue to do this, and my main goal is to bring her to Romania with our cousin, who actually had a trip planned to Romania two months after she passed away,” continued Payne. “I know that she would appreciate it, and every time I go on a trip, she sends me signs to show that she is still with me.”

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As a 26-year-old running her own production company, Brianna Payne understands that her unique choice to travel with her sister's remains may raise questions from others. However, amidst any potential doubts or inquiries, she finds unwavering support and comfort from her family.

“My mother loves and admires that I do this,” said Payne, who plans to take her sister to Washington, DC, in the near future to visit the memorial at the DEA Museum for all those who have died from fentanyl poisoning.

“My sister was the funniest person I ever knew, so having fun is the best way to cope, because that is what she would want,” she added.

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Payne took to her Instagram to share her story and raise awareness about the escalating opioid crisis.

Since her sister's untimely passing, she has made it her mission to shed light on the devastating effects of opioids, leveraging her social media presence to educate others and spark important conversations.

Through her courageous advocacy, Payne strives to make a difference, turning her personal tragedy into a catalyst for change.

“Now, I want to use my voice and platform to help spread fentanyl awareness,” she said.

Since posting her video, several viewers have reached out to extend their condolences.

 “This is a tragic and terrifying thing! I’m so sorry for your loss,” commented one user. “Thank you so much for spreading awareness.”

“The strength it must of took you to post this,” said another Instagram user.

“I’m so sorry for your loss,” a third commenter added. “I have a sibling that is currently addicted to fentanyl and at this point, I’m just waiting for the phone call.”

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