Mona Nyman
Jay was my childhood friend. I met him when I was almost nine and he was six. Even then, he was smart as a whip and charming as could be! His bubbly personality, great sense of humor, and incredible spirit made it impossible not to smile when you were around him.
His life was far from easy, but he never let it stop him from living it to the fullest; he met and overcame each challenge with a grace and positiveness that one can only marvel at! Through hard work and determination, he got a degree in internet technology and started Disabled Online, a website designed to give disabled people a place to go to find help and resources to help them in their daily lives. As you can see, his mind wasn't focused on his own difficulties, but on helping others live better, fuller lives.
God gave him to us for 37 wonderful years, far longer than anyone ever expected. Still, being human, I can't help but wish we'd gotten many, many more. Although my heart is heavy right now, it's also heartened by the knowledge that Jay is finally free of the struggles he handled with such grace and dignity here on earth. For the rest of my life, as I've done for the past 31 years, I'll follow his example and live every day to the fullest and be a positive force in the lives of everyone around me.
My deepest sympathies to his family and friends. And to my dear friend, I love you, Jay!
Thursday February 6, 2014 at 2:48 pm