In Memoriam
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(read by Lori Gehan)
Kevin and I met at Fall Rally and we immediately he would be king. Next
time I saw him, it was at SRD – we sat next to each other for many
awards that day: Chapter King/Queen, KOPS Grads, etc. I knew he was
our State king but he never told me. We immediately became great
friends because we shared the same goals and his struggles. We even had
competitiveness with our FIT BITS. Some of the most memorable moments I
have of Kevin is his ability to talk and his ability to inspire. He was
definitely one of the most motivational and compassionate men I have
ever met. He wanted to help as many as possible especially his wife and
children. We all wanted Kevin here today on stage as our king so I
thought I would share with you a letter as I think Kevin would want to
have written to all of us today.
A letter to all my TOPS friends from heaven, I know many of you are
saddened by my sudden death on September 20th, 2013 but know I live on
in your hearts and your thoughts. Don't cry for me....instead smile. I
want to tell you to never, ever give up. I died doing something I
loved.....walking. My greatest accomplishment was losing almost 100
pounds and becoming state king. Sometimes in life, God must take people
when you least expect it. Don't use my death as an excuse to give up.
I don't want to hear you say or think why should I try, because Kevin
lost 100 pounds then died. That's not the truth. Along the way I
inspired and motivated as many people as I possibly could every day. I
want to ask that each and every one of you rededicate yourselves and
give your all in everything you do. Remember, weight loss is a
lifestyle change, and includes exercise and healthy choices. Do
something every day to make others smile or help them to get healthy.
Live, every day, because only God knows when it's your time. Always
take time to smell the roses and remember I am right here looking down
and encouraging you.
I'd also like to take this time to mention some special people in my life:
1. To my wife and kids – I'm always here if you want to talk. I will see all your memorable moments and I will be smiling down.
2. To my TOPS chapter in Abington – I can'[t thank you enough for all your support and encouragement along my journey.
3. To Gail Lewis – you are the greatest mentor anyone could ask for on my road to becoming king.....without your help, I would have never been a success story. Keep doing what you do best.....helping others.
4. To TOPS Headquarters – thanks for the many wonderful memories you have given to me and many in my last year of life. I am so grateful for having the opportunity of becoming king and being able to attend IRD.
5. To all my neighborhood girls, keep moving and inviting others to our chapter – pick up where I left off.
6. To Paige and Gail – you have my yellow roses – I hope that always helps to keep you on track.
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