Patrick
In 1990 I met 9 year old Patrick Matthews. At 12 days old Patrick had been
diagnosed with, Complex Cyanotic Congenital Heart Disease.
I am not really sure what Pom Pom meant to Patrick in the short time we got to
know each other. He was always glad to see me and always asked for and received
a balloon sword and hat. At his birthday celebrations he was always a willing
helper and straight magician to Pom Pom's silly clown comedy.
I had known Patrick for about 3 years when his mother telephoned me one day with
the news no one wants to hear.
"Patrick passed away this morning. He could not fight anymore." She told me
quietly.
It has been 7 years and I still think of Patrick and the battle he fought in his
short life. I cannot imagine the grief his family must feel losing their
precious child. I will always remember Patrick and know he gave me much more
than I could ever hope to give him.
Life...is much too precious to ever take for granted.