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In Memory of Alfred (Freddie) Casavant
February 5, 1959 - September 22, 1972 |
I am so pleased to have the
opportunity of introducing you to my brother, Freddie. His life, although
much too short was a story of strength and determination that most of us
will never come close to.
You see, Freddie was born in a small farm community in Saskatchewan,
Canada. He came into this world on a cold February night in 1959. To the
amazement of everyone present, this baby was very different than the other
babies born in this small hospital. Because it was so long ago, and the
world wasn't as aware and educated as it is today, it was assumed that
this baby would not live, and if he did, he would never be able to live in
a normal family home and environment.
As usual, love can prove all things wrong. After three major head
surgeries and countless tests and procedures, Freddie's parents brought
him home to their small farmhouse. Their home didn't have a lot of things
we take for granted today, like running water and a large living space,
but it was clean and filled with love. Through a lot of work and care,
Freddie not only lived, but thrived and proceeded to develop as a normal
child.
You see in 1959, people just assumed that if you were different, you
must be mentally challenged as well. Some people also thought that if you
were different you shouldn't be out in public doing all the things we all
have the right to do. Freddie's parents thought different, and brought him
up like the other children. Wherever they went and whatever they did, so
did he.
Freddie was the warmest, kindest, most thoughtful person you could ever
hope to meet. He was loved by everyone who got to know him. After all
these years, people who knew him still refer to him as such a nice boy, or
someone so special.
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| What did Freddie teach us in the
short time he spent with us? He taught us to love, and to love everyone
the same. He taught us to laugh, when most people would find nothing to
laugh about. He taught us that our little problems could be a lot worst,
and if we don't dwell on them, they aren't so bad. He taught us that we
don't all have to look the same to be a valued part of this world. He
taught us to appreciate everyone, and to give each person the respect they
deserve. He taught us to be compassionate and welcome those with
challenges into our lives. The lessons he has taught us are almost too
numerous to list.
On September 22, 1972 Freddie was called to go home. His work was done
here. We've missed him every day since then, but smile when we think of
him, our little Angel who earned his wings and then went home.
I am proud to be Freddie's sister, and thankful that I had the chance
to be a part of his life. His presence in our family has changed us all,
and although our children and grandchildren never knew him, they share in
the same compassion for those who don't look the same as everyone else.
What better gift could he have left us, than to understand a little more
about people and to love a little deeper?
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