Amazing Archie

Today I had the honour of attending the Celebration of Life of this little gorgeous fella, Archie Watson. He was the very much loved Grandson of a friend of mine and sadly lost his battle against Tay Sachs disease on the 25th April, at the tender age of just 2 1/2 years. He was such a beautiful and amazing little boy and it is such a tragedy that he lost his life to this dreadful disease.
The family have been truly amazing throughout their time loving unconditionally, caring for him and raising awareness of his condition and funds for charities that have been such a support to them. I have nothing but complete admiration for the entire family, and their bravery was just so overwhelmingly apparent today.
There must have been at least 500 people at the service today, many of us with balloons, as requested by the family to let loose into the sky at the end of the service. It was an emotional sight seeing all the balloons of all shapes, characters and sizes flying up into the sky, amidst the snow flakes that were descending.
The service itself was a true celebration of little Archie's life with songs from Seseme Street and Lion King sung and heartfelt words read out on behalf of Archie's Mum and Half Brother. Archie's Daddy also spoke so bravely.
But, amidst all the family's grief and heartache there is some joy to help them through; Archie's baby sister Matilda, arrived safe and well into the world on 29th April. My prayer is that the undoubted love and joy she brings will help Archie's parents and family through their grieving process. And as, his parents believe, she is the embodiment of Archie's circle of life.
May God bless them all.