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Dear Mrs. White -
How proud you must be to have raised such a wonderful son. Even though we have never had the pleasure of meeting Ryan we feel as if we know him, at least a little. And how he has touched our hearts as well as the heart of an entire nation. He shook many peole from a terrible ignorance, and although you've certainly seen how cruel people can be, the courage of your family, and most especially Ryan, will remain a symbol to us for a long time. It ripped our hearts out to hear of all the emotional pain and anguish that was inflicted upon you and your family by a seemingly intelligent nation. And yet you, and most incredibly Ryan, taught us all of our ignorance and your strength (next page)
[quote] There is so little one can say, so little one can do, But you are not alone, for others share your sorrow, too. [end quote] and loving committment. We have never written a letter like to someone we didn't know personally, but we really weould like you to know how very deeply we have been affected by Ryan.
We, also, are fortunate enough to have a 6 year old son named Ryan.
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With Ryan having been in the news so much these last few weeks our Ryan asked us to tell him about your Ryan. We explained about Ryan and his battle with AIDS as well as how badly many people have treated him. Then our Ryan turned to my husband and I and asked if he was named after Ryan and if that meant he would grow up to be a good, kind person too. We told him yes. If only we could be so fortunate to have our sons grow into the fine young man you Ryan will always be in our hearts. Our hearts and thoughts are with all of you.
Alan, Ann, Ryan + Craig 2001.54.3459.1
