Seven years after kate spade’s suicide, best friend elyce arons shares their story

Spade, known to close friends as “Katy,” died by suicide on June 5, 2018. Arons met Spade when they were freshmen in college, and their friendship blossomed into a business partnership that helped build the iconic Kate Spade brand. The memoir offers a rare glimpse into their personal connection and Spade’s private struggles, which Arons describes as “a permanent ache.”

In an excerpt published by PEOPLE, Arons recalls visiting Spade’s Park Avenue apartment days after her death. The once bright and meticulously kept home was dark and chaotic. As Arons opened the closet door to retrieve clothes, a swarm of moths flew out. She instinctively yelled, thinking Spade might be playing one of their old pranks. The moment underscored the painful reality that her friend was truly gone.

Their story began in 1981 at the University of Kansas and continued through the rise of their handbag business in the ’90s, alongside Spade’s husband, Andy, and partner Pamela Bell. The brand’s success grew quickly, leading to CFDA honors and global expansion. Despite professional triumphs, Spade’s private life became more complex. After launching a new brand, Frances Valentine, in 2016, she died two years later.

Arons admits she’s still processing the loss. “Those who loved her continue to grapple with her loss, seeking peace with a decision that left lasting heartbreak,” she writes. Her message now is simple: cherish the people you love and never take their presence for granted.

We Just Might Make It After All will be released June 17 and is available for preorder.