Jennifer Amaral, the older sister of 23-year-old Julian Amaral, has shared an emotional tribute as the family continues to mourn his tragic death. The university student's body was recovered from the Tagus River on Sunday after he was reported missing following a boat party in Lisbon. His disappearance sparked an extensive search operation and a desperate public appeal from loved ones hoping for information about his whereabouts.

In a heartfelt message posted on Instagram, Jennifer reflected on the special bond she shared with her younger brother and the devastating reality of losing him at such a young age.

"Dear Julian, being your sister was the greatest privilege," she wrote. "You made me laugh, smile, reconsider so many things. You trusted me with your life."

Jennifer described Julian as someone who could frustrate her and make her laugh in equal measure, recalling the unique relationship they shared as siblings.

"You were always the one to annoy me yet make me laugh in the same breath," she continued. "I cannot understand why I only got 23 years with you."

Despite her grief, Jennifer vowed to honour her brother's memory by carrying out the plans and dreams they had discussed together.

"But what I do know is, I will live for you. I will accomplish everything I said I would when we spoke. I will go to the places we planned," she wrote.

The tribute ended with a poignant farewell to the brother she affectionately described as her "beautiful baby brother."

"But more importantly, I will never forget you and never stop loving you. Sleep well my beautiful baby brother. I love you so much. #LLJ."

The Search for Julian

Julian Amaral vanished after attending a boat party in Lisbon while on holiday in Portugal. According to reports, the 23-year-old was last seen during the event before failing to return to his family, prompting growing concern and a large-scale search effort.

In the days following his disappearance, relatives used social media to appeal for information and raise awareness of the search. Jennifer was among those leading the public campaign, sharing updates and urging anyone who may have seen her brother to come forward.

The search came to a devastating end when authorities recovered a body from the Tagus River on Sunday, later identified as Julian.

His death has left family, friends and supporters heartbroken, with tributes pouring in across social media from those who knew him and from strangers touched by the family's ordeal.

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