Jay was truly an inspiration and taught so many of us from such a young age how to deal with struggles with grace and humor. I was lucky to have Jay as a friend during my years at Wescott, Maple Jr. High and Glenbrook North. I often bring up Jay in conversations and how I felt so blessed to have a friend like him during my elementary years because we were all able to learn first hand, at such an early age, how to help those in need- that someone who looks different from you is a person just like everyone else- someone who could be in class with us and learn like us (and was very smart) - someone who could still have friends and playdates with friends- and such a GREAT sense of humor- and showing us that having a disability does not define you. I remember him embracing his part as the DJ in Jukebox at Wescott and how great he was! We were so lucky to be part of his life- to celebrate his milestones- to see him excel at GBN. And now to have been part of his life through his status updates and FB and know that he was living in Las Vegas enjoying friends and fun meals and a meaningful career- I still felt connected to him. I only hope that we can all take something from the gift of having Jay in our lives- and teach our children the same lessons.