TO MATTHEW AND HIS FAMILY...I think the best word to describe Matthew's character is patience. Matthew had the ability to take things as they came, not complaining or demanding, but just there with that look of acceptance on his face. This is the way it is, it will be alright. I've had the privilege of seeing Matthew every week. When I would walk through that door and he would look up at me. I could just see it in his eyes. He would be saying to me, OK, what is in store for me today, will we have fun? He was always up for that! His favorite thing to do would always involve a face to face encounter. He would be sitting on my bench that I brought and we would hold hands. I would say OK Matthew, let's stand up. He would, and he would get a giddy proud look on his face and he would laugh. Matthew would always be happy as long as he knew I was looking at him and giving him praise for the extreme effort he was putting out. Or the times I would walk through the door with some gigantic piece of equipment, all excited about Matthew trying something new, like his chair and recently a walker. He would look at me and say, uh oh, now what? Matthew was up for the challenge every time. He took some big steps for all of us. I've been very proud of Matthew, his patience, his love of fun, his perseverance when things were tough. I'll miss that terrific smile, those playful sounds, that courageous spirit. I know that God won't miss them, because Matthew is right there next to God now. And he is free to be himself. Free to express and run and play and be joyful. I thank God that there are people like Matthew in our lives to show us what life is really all about. And I thank Matthews' family for the example they have shown me in loving and caring for Matthew. I know God will bless them for their acts of kindness and love. And I know that we will all get to see Matthew again some day. With Love, Susan, (Physical Therapist)

I have only known Matthew for a few months and in that short time he will have a huge place in my heart. From the first day we met there was a connection that was indescribable. It seemed like we were old friends who had not seen each other in awhile and it only took us a short time to reconnect. I will never forget the way Matthew would smile or laugh when I would pull out his favorite orange scrunchy tube. His face would light up with joy and he would kick his feet in the air knowing he found someone to play with. Matthew was so easy to please...a specific toy, a tickle, or just sitting with him would put a smile on his face. Matthew was one of the happiest kids I have ever seen considering all his difficulties. Matthew has left a little piece of himself with me and he will truly be missed. But he will always be remembered. Love always...Melissa (Care Giver)

When I first met Matthew, I was completely drawn in by his engaging eyes. Even as a tiny infant, I felt like he already knew that was his way to communicate with the world. As he grew, I looked forward to each time I saw him - to see his eyes brighten, and to feel his little hands reach up and touch my cheeks. He quickly learned how to pull my hair to get my face closer to his, and I'll never forget the sound of his laughter when it tickled his face. Spending time with Matthew each week helped me learn and accept that the simplest things in life make it special...a special song to sing, a cuddle when I really need it, or the sight of Grandma walking in the door. He also taught me that sometimes acceptance of who you are and what you are capable of is so much more important than striving to become something more. That is a lesson that has made a huge difference in my life, and will continue to as long as I am on this earth. Matthew has been a special angel in my life since the day I met him. The special place I hold for him in my heart will never fade. Every time I say a prayer, Matthew will be in it - to thank God for giving me so much time with such a beautiful angel.   Karissa (Occupational Therapist)

The last few weeks of taking care of Matthew were all good memories spending time with him. I remember Matthew's smiles, his laughs and even his cries when he was not feeling well. I know in my heart that he is in God's heaven where there is eternal love, peace and joy and absolutely no sadness whatsoever forever. I'll miss him dearly but never forget him. He'll always be in my prayers. I was the only nurse who knew how to take care of you. Goodbye and lots of love, Matthew.  ICY (Nurse 40 hours a week)

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