A brief story

We'll miss you dearly Matt.

I just wanted to share a brief story of  an expreience that I had with Matt several years ago.  I first got to know Matt when he moved out to the South Bay through a friend of mine, Todd Brooks. 

In the summer of 2003 I had decided to volunteer at the Ronald Mcdonald house camp for children dealing with Cancer.  I was profoundly impacted by this experience, and hadn't realized how much until I returned home and went out with some friends, Matt included. 

Towards the end of the night I found myself overwhelmed with emotion and sorrow for many of these kids with whom I had grown so close to in such a short period of time.  Matt, being the kindhearted soul that he was, had taken notice and followed me outside to see if he could be of comfort.  I must admit, I don't remember his exact words, but do remember his presence there.  While I was breaking down he put his arm around me and offered me great comfort in my time of need. 

I was about 6 years his senior and remember thinking what a wise, kind soul he was at such a young age.   I know myself as well as all his friends in the South Bay will miss him dearly.  He truly touched a lot of lives in such a short period of time.

Love and Prayers,

Garrett and Sandy Vilven