September 27, 2017

One of the most treasured memories that I have is walking down the stairs on a Saturday or Sunday morning and seeing Matteo and Kent eating Eggs Benedict together. At that point, Domenic would be long gone after eating his cereal (much less of a food aficionado), and Kent and Matteo would just be sitting at the table, enjoying the food and each other’s company. Not rushing, because there was no need to rush. Appreciating. Savoring. This wasn’t just any breakfast. This was the Daddy and Matteo breakfast. Breakfast of champions. I wish I had taken a picture. But who could know that the simplest weekend tradition would have an expiry date? At the time, it wasn’t imaginable. Now, we remember with our words, our simple recollections and by continuing to partake in activities that Matteo loved.

Today was one of those days. Kent’s colleagues decided to do something very special in honor and remembrance of Matteo. They split themselves into three groups and blessed the families at the Ronald McDonald House with brunch for three days. I was very grateful that they included me in today’s preparations. Today’s group did an outstanding job. The morning was planned and prepared for meticulously, but what was most beautiful about today was how each individual brought something of themselves. Jason created the most well laid out plan I have ever seen, and he made the perfect eggs for the bennies. Jim made a mouth-watering gravy with herbs brought back from his home in Newfoundland. Julie and Jamie (James’ daughters) made and decorated cookies with recipes that they found on Pinterest. James was always walking around and making sure everyone was okay. He looked like a professional chef as he made the grilled cheese sandwiches. Anna Luisa continued to smile despite being elbow deep in dirty dishes for much of the morning. And of course, Kent, made perfect bacon and delicious hollandaise sauce. Matteo would have been so proud.

Working with Kent’s colleagues today was wonderful, but hands down, the best part of the day was watching the families eat. That might sound a little weird, but I really feel that there are few things better in this world than watching someone eat and enjoy their meal with GRATITUDE. When you hear “oh my goodness!” “look at this” “this is so good!” “THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR DOING THIS” it really does make you feel good. It’s not just about patting ourselves on the back for a job well done, its about getting that “high” off of helping someone. I wish more people in the world got addicted to this type of high.

Thank you Botaneco team for honouring our son the way you have this week. Your actions speak loudly and our family, and the families that you have served, are so very grateful.