Notes Written in the Cards We Received
“Reid always seemed to be larger than life – so full of life, energy, and his easy smile. In our minds it still feels like he is still here with us. We cannot imagine the depth or your pain and sorrow. At this time it may not be enough to know that others are in disbelief that Reid is not here with us. Unfortunately we were away when we were told of the shocking news. We had hoped with prayers we could prevent Reid’s cancer from taking him from you. The message took our breath away; we were stunned.”
“[We] were deeply saddened to hear of Reid’s passing. You now have the difficult task of living on without his physical presence, but his remarkable spirit is with you and with all who knew him and knew of him. He gave all of us an example to be followed. In his young life he taught us how to suffer with dignity, and to use suffering as a way to unite people. He gave a true example of holiness.”
“I just wanted to express again how sorry I am about Reid. I feel very privileged to have known him. It was clear from our first meeting what a remarkable and accomplished young man he was; smart, charming, wise but also endearingly innocent. My respect and fondness for him only grew as I watched him go through his ordeal. He faced his illness with such determination, courage, and hope. He loved his life, his family, his friends, and Bethany. And from seeing the overwhelming number of people at his wake, it was clear that he touched so many and lived such a full life. I’m not going to forget him or what he taught me about faith, determination, resiliency, love…and cats! (Not all our conversations were serious).”
"I've just received notice about Reid's passing. I remember how wonderful both he and his brother were during the 9/11 attacks - both boys rushed to donate blood right away. You've been given a gift and I know you appreciated the gift of being father to such a great kid. I wish I had met him, he had to get his generosity of spirit from his Dad and Mom. My love and prayers are with you and your family. Please remember how much your friends care."
"I read with much sadness your note about Reid and his valiant struggle against this terrible illness. He was a fighter and, from what you told me during our conversations, wanted so desperately the chance to come to Columbia and enjoy his undergraduate years, just like any other 18-22 year old. I'm so sorry that he was never able to realize that dream. Your description of his last days and of the service and mass celebrating his much-too-brief life was very moving, and a tribute to the person he was. I am sorry that I never had the opportunity to meet him and--more importantly--that that Columbia dream to which he held so tightly never became a reality. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers during these difficult days."