Grant was born with Hemophilia B, a genetic bleeding disorder that did not allow his blood to clot normally.  The treatment for his condition required the use of Factor Concentrate, a medicine that is made of components of human blood and is administered intravenously to replace what his body did not produce in order for his blood to clot when injuries occurred.  In 1982, at the age of 2, Grant was infused with Factor IX to treat an injury he sustained from cutting the side of his tongue with a plastic fork.  Little did we know at this time that the very thing that was to "help" him would someday "kill" him.  At the age of 2, Grant was infected with HIV, the virus that leads to AIDS.  

   Prior to 1985, blood and blood products were not tested nor were they treated to reduce the chances of blood borne diseases such as AIDS, hepatitis and others, even though it had been known that heat treatment would kill many of them.  To the drug/blood manufacturers it was "Not cost efficient" for them to pull their stock and clean it up.  In 1985, the United States government's FDA stopped the sale of any blood derivatives that had not been tested and treated.  This was three years too late for Grant and approximately 10,000 other people with hemophilia living in the United States.  

   God gave us 15 more beautiful years with the bravest, smartest, most loving son anyone could ever have.  From the day that I told Grant that his life would be cut short, he never cried, whined or looked for sympathy.  He just stood strong and faced the rest of his life and his destiny head on, never looking back.  At the age of 12, Grant became a teacher, a politician and an icon with values and determination.  He fought for justice for the community and for fair treatment for all people living with HIV/AIDS.  He faced discrimination and prejudice without fear and taught the lessons that he had experienced. 

  Grant fought his battle strong and hard, drawing his strength from his multitude of friends and family members who gave him support in all that he did.  Friends and family were his life, and every person that came into contact with him was blessed with his knowledge and courage.  He was a friend to hundreds. 

   A person recently told me that Grant was not of this earth and that he must have been sent here with a specific job to do.  As his mother, I was fortunate to have been a part of his heavenly mission. 

   Grant was my oldest and first-born child, the first one I held in my arms and felt the undying love that a mother feels for her children.  He led me through the valleys and the hills, holding my hand and giving me the courage to be strong.  He formed me into who I am today.  He also instilled values and beliefs into his natural siblings, Blake and Ashton and his adopted siblings, MaKayla and Kymberli.  His multitude of friends and acquaintances have told me time and again how much he changed their lives many years ago and that his memory will always be in their heart and soul. 

   Grant, my dear son, we all love you and miss you so much.  It will be forever hard to bear, not seeing your beautiful smile, your sparkling, angel blue eyes and not hearing your contagious laughter.  You made us smile so many times for 26 years and you continue to light our lives.  Until we are with you again, hold tight to Jesus and watch over us as we continue our earthly life.  We love you and miss you more than anyone will ever know.  Thank you for being our son, brother and friend. 

Mom & Dad,
Blake, Ashton, MaKayla & Kymberli
and All Your Friends