We Are On A Mission... Matthew's Mission
We Are On A Mission... Matthew's Mission By
Kathleen
Haikes,
Scranton,
PA
This story is about the love a person with Down syndrome can leave behind and continue to be shared with others. Three years ago, our lives changed in a way we could never imagine. On our family vacation in Avalon, NJ on August 19, 2010 our brother Matthew James Newell died in his sleep of a seizure. Matthew, 24 years old of Scranton, PA had just been diagnosed with seizures, something very treatable. Our beauiful brother, the youngest of five children to Harold & Judy Newell was the light of the family. He truly was a gift and yes he had Down syndrome, but we were the special ones for having him in our life for a wonderful 24 years. Christmas was Matthew's favorite time of year so in December 2010 our family kicked off a foundation called Matthew's Mission with our first annual breakfast with Santa. Over 500 people attended. It has become a family tradition here in Scranton, PA with over 900 people attending this year. All proceeds from our events are then donated to those with special needs. Matthew showed our family the true meaning of love and what better way to share that love than with others during the holiday season? It is amazing to see how the community comes together and shares in Matthew's love especially during the holiday season. He continues to live on and continues to help those with special needs - it is as amazing as he was. We are on a mission... Mattthew's Mission!