On April 28, 2013, our lives changed tragically and inexplicably when our 14 year old son died suddenly. In the four weeks that have followed, it has been the love and support of our family, friends and community that have given us the strength to endure. From that very first moment when he collapsed on the street, strangers rushed to his side to revive him. Over the subsequent 24 hours it was the tireless efforts of EMTs, police, nurses and doctors from Oakland, and the Chilton and Columbia Presbyterian Hospitals who refused to give up that enabled our family and friends the opportunity to hold Michael’s hand and kiss him one more time.
We are so grateful for the ongoing compassion we have received from so many extraordinary people in our community. We are incredibly thankful for all the meals, flowers, cards and letters that have poured into our home since that fateful day. We are humbled by the hundreds of people who waited hours to pay their respects to us and say goodbye to Mike. We are indebted to the friends and members of the community who came together to plant trees and flowers, prepare food, wash our clothes and take care of the day to day things that need to get done because life does go on.
We also want to thank Michael’s coaches and sports associations who have done so much in Mike’s name. He was an avid football, lacrosse and hockey player and the coaches, parents and players from those teams have honored Michael in so many heartfelt ways. There have been a great number of tributes, honors and fundraising efforts for Oakland Recreation and Cystic Fibrosis. We especially want to recognize the coaches and parents from the Franklin Lakes Lacrosse team, Bergen Edge Hockey team, Oakland Rec football and the Indian Hills Baseball and Football teams. Many players are honoring Mike by wearing “ MA – Forever a Brave” patch or one of his numbers “72” or “99” on helmets, caps, jerseys, cleats and various other pieces of sports equipment.
We want to acknowledge the Manito & VMS teachers and administration who have supported Mike over the years. Thank you for challenging him, supporting him and most importantly – believing in him. Thanks also to others in the community who have truly made a difference – OLPH, Oakland Memorial Home, Oakland Fire department, TNT Bootcamp and Juniors Pizza to name a few.
We want to thank Mike’s friends and classmates who have not only honored Mike’s memory through a dedicated Facebook page but also for their poignant cards, letters and stories. People have been so willing to share their favorite “Mike stories” which have brought us joy and laughter during some of our darkest moments. You are always welcome at our home for a little wiffle ball and knee hockey.
Lastly to our friends, who haven’t stopped holding our hands and wiping away our tears – we are eternally grateful.
During this incredibly dark time, we have been humbled and awed by the human spirit and strength we have experienced and we want to thank all those who have touched our hearts and honored Mike’s memory. We will never forget your kindness.
Dave, Jill & Brady Altana
Oakland