To Joey

To most people, super heroes have special powers or can do something not possible by humans. To the people who knew you, you were a super hero everyday.

I don't think I'm alone when I say that you left us unexpectedly. I think most of us got use to your sickness as being normal and forgot about the strength that it took you to get through the day. That's why when you left, it was unexpected.

People say, 'it's always the good ones that go.' It makes people question faith and wonder if God exists. And it sucks. But I understand why. It is the good ones who show us what it means to live. You are the kind of person who makes others appreciate life.  When we take life for granted, you show us how we need to love every minute of it. You're strength and passion for life gives us life instead of letting it get sucked away by wasteless negativity. Because of you, we think twice about dwelling on things we cannot change and give us the courage to face life's challenges head on.

Joey, you touched everyone you met. Whether they knew you for five minutes or five years, today we all mourn the loss of a true superhero. A person who dealt with ongoing health issues day-after-day, as well as the other hardships life has to offer, only to be the one most passionate about living. You thirsted for knowledge, cared for everyone you came in contact with, and always showed us the most selfless version of yourself. I'll always remember your  hilarious Jeelu temper, gracious smile, and heartwarming hugs. 

Thank you for being so welcoming and open in letting all of us get to know you. I know I didn't know you as well as many others, but I didn't need to know you for long to experience your charismastic character. You treated everyone like family and because of that, we all lost our brother.

I speak for everyone when I say we lost a true superhero. And I speak for everyone when I say we all gained a guardian angel. I know a piece of you was left with all of us and we will forever carry you in our hearts.

Joey, thank you. Thank you for being a role model. Thank you for being a symbol of strength. Thank you for battling through life like you did so that we all had the opportunity to be touched by you. Most importantly, thank you for being you. 

You are the true superman and for that, we all have someone to believe in and are forever grateful to have met you.

We love you, Joey.