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Those we hold most dear never truly leave us... they live on in the kidnesses they showed, the comfort they shared, and the love they brought into our lives.
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[printed text] May beautiful memories give you strength in these difficult hours.
[handwritten text] You have many beautiful memo ries. I hope in time, they heal you.
Linda Gossett
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4-23-90
Dear Mrs. White,
When we lost a son to a five year battle with leukemia in 1984, it seemed as though the world came grinding to a halt. Although I don't know exactly how you feel, I still remember the pain of that May day when [redacted] left this world forever. It seemed at the time he died in vain.
Time has passed and the pain was loosened. I can finally go to the cemetary with my other children and not shed bitter tears of grief. I know now that his death was not in vain, although grief would not let me see so then.
If it helps you at all, I would like you to know that I have watched Ryan's struggle these past five years and always cheered him on. He was an inspiration to me, because as long as Ryan could keep
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going. I could go on also. I know that no matter, how bad things were for me personally, things were even tougher for Ryan, he wasn't giving up - so I refused to give up, too.
I cried every day for more than a week after he died. His picture in a paper, or a look at him on a TV apecial remimded me of what the world has lost. He was truly a fine boy. I know you must be so proud of him.
I think of him a lot - especially when I'm down. Although it saddens me to know he has passed on, his memory keeps me going. He refuses to let me give up, and his memory maked my heart glad.
I wanted to attend his funeral and tell you these things in person, but I knew that, at the time, your grief must have been
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overwhelming, and what few words of comfort I might offer would hardly be heard. I hope reading this makes a difference for you. Ryan made so much of a difference for me.
In closing, I would like to tell you that the song Elton John sang for Ryan at his funeral was absolutely beautiful. I'm ho ping that he makes a recording of it so the public can buy a copy. Maybe the proceeds of the recording could go towards Aids re search, so that this will not happen to another chidl like Ryan.
If I can do anything for you or your family, feel free to write or call. You are in my thoughts, spoken and un spoken, which I suppose are prayers. I wish you all much love.