Remembering Guy Derrick

Guy

From 1966 to 2018 we had Guy in our lives.

When he died I spent so much time asking Why?

Why didn’t they scan?… Why didn’t they listen?… Why didn’t they value the life of someone so loved?

One day I decided I needed to stop asking why and start celebrating the wonderful brother, son and friend he was to so many.

Today as the anniversary of his death comes around for the 7th year I think about his impact on so many lives. From birth he was so special. Happy, gentle and kind. As he grew Guy was lucky to go to school, learn to ride a horse, went swimming and so many other things we were told by professionals he would never do.

I often think about how lucky he was to be born into a family and community that were so loving and accepting of a little Down syndrome boy who grew into an identity in the town.

Do you ever think about how important you are to others? Think about how important your hello, smile or wave maybe to someone? The small chat you have with someone who may not see or talk to anyone else that day. Guy taught me that the small things like smiles, hugs and waves can change someone’s day. So, I just want to ask that in his memory if we have the opportunity to change someone’s day that we do it whenever we can.

That we take the time to appreciate and make the most what we have. To remember there is always someone quietly struggling and we can make a difference to their lives.

Disability is not a choice.

To all the people in the community who remember and loved Guy thank you. You made his day.

In loving memory of Guy John Derrick

20.4.66 to 11.7.18

Forever in our hearts