Condolence: 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.

Condolence: I first met Jay when he was a wee lad at camp, and had the pleasure of watching him become an incredible force of good as a man. Even as a little boy, when we would round at night and reposition people, he always would thank us,even though half asleep. No one else did that at 2am, believe me.
When hospitalized myself later in life, no matter how ill or in pain, I have remembered his example and thanked everyone who assisted me especially on the night shift.
Through great acts , .both large and small, he inspired many to be better people.
He will be missed

Condolence: 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!