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I have known Justin for six years as an RN at Sutter Memorial Hospital. I can honestly say he is the reason I love working in pediatric oncology. He has shown the valor of a warrior fighting against an enemy that often cannot be defeated. Throughout blow after blow, he maintained his dignity and humanity. I looked forward to every shift I spent with him, even if he spent much of the time sleeping, exhausted from the leukemia treatment. When Justin was feeling good, he was hilarious, buoyant and a sheer pleasure to banter with. Practical jokes was a hobby we shared. When he was feeling sick, he was optimistic, polite and honest about his feelings. He is a role model for me, despite being 10 years younger (okay, 15!), and set an excellent example on how to handle adversity with a smile and positive attitude. Love you Justin, sorry I couldn't see you to say one last goodbye. You truly lived a full life, even if it was cut short by circumstances beyond your control. -- Jeff Gonsalves, July 9, 2007 Add YOUR opinion | Back to the top
Courage, also known as bravery and fortitude, is the ability to confront fear, pain, danger, uncertainty or intimidation. Justin Nelson epitomized the word "courage," and it is sad to read about his passing. Our family became acquainted with his fight against leukemia due in large part to the amazing support he received from our community. He will always remain an inspiration to our family as we continue with Aubrielle’s fight against leukemia. We will never forget Justin. Our deepest condolences go out to his family. -- Steve and Jennifer Anderson, July 7, 2007 Add YOUR opinion | Back to the top
Late last spring, when I was going through some really difficult days as I was getting to the middle of my chemo and radiation treatments for throat cancer, Justin showed up at my doorstep to give me encouragement and to see if there was anything he could do for me. We had never met prior to the first time he stopped by, but he had heard of my situation from his father and felt compelled to attempt to help me through some very dark days. I will always have very fond memories of an extremely compassionate and benevolent young man. I know he is in a very special place. -- Tree Plumbtree, July 7, 2007 Add YOUR opinion | Back to the top
In every educator’s career, if you’re lucky, you meet a student that teaches you more than you can possibly teach him. For me, Justin Nelson was that student. He taught me about courage and strength while facing incredible odds, passion for life while experiencing excruciating pain and invasive procedures, and the insignificance of life’s trivial worries and aggravations. With his customary sparkle, he would negotiate homework assignments and steer our “instructional time” into discussions he directed. Justin was wise beyond his years, but in his heart, he just wanted to be a kid. Anyone fortunate enough to know Justin would agree, he was truly inspirational. It was an honor to be his home/hospital teacher. -- Nancy Ortner, July 6, 2007 Add YOUR opinion | Back to the top BACK to letters index |
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