I am so sorry for the pain of losing Tyson. He fought so hard, as you all did, too. I know that there's nothing anybody can say to make the pain and grief any more bearable. But that first grief, though sharp, is also precious (in my experience). Talking about everything related to someone we love who has crossed over is bitter-sweet. With that in mind, I have a few short stories to share. 

When I was substituting in the preschool and on the phone with you, Par, sharing about how things were going in the classroom and in my life, I mentioned the starvation of the people in Gaza, as it was weighing heavily on my heart. Even with all the tremendous pain Tyson was feeling and all the heartache that comes with the ups and downs of getting better and then getting worse, Tyson had room in his heart to feel compassion towards others who were suffering half a world away. 

This is who Tyson was, a truly kind, generous and loving person. 

As another example, he knew how important teaching was to you, Par, how hard you worked to get your teaching certificate and how much joy it brings you to work with young children, so he encouraged you to finish out the school year with your class. But you weren't going to go that long without seeing him. I was privileged to see the video of his reaction to your surprise visit in May, when you flew back down to Texas for a long weekend with him. He was so surprised and cried with joy to feel your love for him and your devotion to his well-being on all levels.

Lastly, I want to dwell on how loved I know he felt. Garret and Par, you did everything humanly possible to get him the best medical care. Cameron, you gave him your bone marrow (twice!) for the transplant. You rented out a home and brought Audi down there, too, to help Tyson have a home-away-from-home that was comfortable for him. You all advocated for him and walked with him every step of the way down this long and painful path, cheering and encouraging him the best you could and surrounding him with love. I know he felt that love, and all the prayers and the effort you put in to giving him the best chance to stay in his body. That love lived in his heart. And now, his love lives in yours.