A Brave Young Soul, A Battle Fought With Courage
Many people already know, but for those who don’t, I’ll try to keep it brief. Our son, Jack Joseph Matthews, was more than just a child — he was a light in our lives, a fighter, and a true inspiration. Since the end of December, Jack had been battling cancer, showing a kind of strength that most adults could never imagine.
Through every doctor’s appointment, every treatment cycle, and every challenging day, Jack faced it all with a bravery beyond his years. He laughed when he could, smiled through the pain, and gave us hope even when the nights felt endless. We believed — we all believed — that he would make it through. He was so close. Just two cycles away from being done with treatment, and then, in a cruel twist of fate, everything changed.
A Sudden Turn, A Family’s Hardest Goodbye
Last week, Jack contracted what seemed like a simple virus. No one could have predicted what came next. His body, already weary from the fight of his young life, went into overdrive. He went into cardiac arrest. His doctors and nurses — incredible, dedicated heroes — fought to keep him going. They were able to get him onto machines to support his heart and lungs, giving us hope that with time, his body could rest and recover while the doctors worked on the other complications.
We prayed. We waited. We clung to every sign of improvement, every possible chance. But it became painfully clear that no matter how hard they tried, Jack’s little body couldn’t recover. Brittany and I were faced with a decision no parent should ever have to make. We had to think not just about our hopes, but about what was best for our boy. With breaking hearts, we chose to remove him from life-supporting measures — and in those final, precious moments, we held him close as he passed, safe in our arms, surrounded by love.
A Community’s Love, A Legacy of Hope
Jack’s life, though far too short, left a mark on every heart that knew him. He was more than a patient, more than a child with cancer — he was joy, laughter, curiosity, and pure love in its most innocent form. His fight brought together family, friends, neighbors, even strangers, united in prayer, kindness, and hope.
To everyone who supported us, prayed for us, stood by us — thank you. You gave us strength when ours was gone. You reminded us that love is stronger than despair, that kindness matters, and that no one fights alone.
We now hold only memories, but they are golden. We will carry Jack’s spirit with us every day — in the quiet moments, in the laughter of children, in every act of courage. His story is one of love, of strength, and of a family held up by the hearts of so many.
Rest now, our sweet Jack Joseph Matthews. You fought bravely. You loved deeply. And you will never, ever be forgotten.
