No sports talk in this space today, instead I want to tell you about a special event coming up for a very special person.
His name is Jaden Weeks. He would have been 9 years old in November.
(Picture taken by Daily Gazette photographer)
I knew Jaden for less than a year. We met during the Childrens Hospital Telethon. He was in the hospital with his mom Jessica as Jaden battled mitochondrial disease. He came down to the play room to talk with us about his stay in the hospital and play with Gem, the therepy dog. Jaden had a huge smile and questions about everything that was going on. He could have have been more engaging if he took classes for that purpose.
Over the months that followed, we met on several occasions, most of the time in the hospital. The last time I saw him was about a week before he died. He was laughing as we played a game where I say yes, he says no, back and forth quickly like Bugs Bunny used to do....I really can't explain it, you had to be there.
Jessica called me on a Sunday morning November 2nd to share the bad news. As sad as I was that day, I was also happy that Jaden was now pain free and able to play and laugh and cause mischief in a better place. I know Jessica struggles everyday with his absence, as do Jaden's friends at Paige Elementary School.
On Sunday June 7th at Paige (104 Elliott Street, Schenectady, 12304), the PTO will lead a memorial day for Jaden and his family. They have planted a special shrub and will dedicate a memorial stone in his honor. The day starts at 1:30pm and will be followed by a gathering in the school cafeteria with a light lunch. The school PTO is accepting donations to help defray the costs of the memorial and to help with programs that benefit the children of the school. To make a donation, send a check to the Paige PTO c/o Howard Williams 80 Hillcrest Avenue, Schenectady, NY 12304.
It should be a special day for a very special person. I hope to see you there.
Rich
