‘A HERO IN EVERY SENSE’
Jonathan Pitre’s impact
Editor’s note: Citizen readers have responded to the news of Jonathan Pitre’s death this week with an outpouring of grief and empathy. Rarely have we seen a story affect so many people. Below is a sampling of the reader responses we’ve received.
I can’t shut off my tears. Your strength and your mom’s strength was unbelievable. Raising awareness for EB, and your fight for all people with EB, your strength in raising money for this dreadful disease will live on in the minds of people all over this world. You have earned your rest. God’s blessing to your family.
Patti Weckworth, via Facebook
Every once in a while, there are stories that come across my desk that make me take a long hard look at life and me realize that despite the continued turmoil in this country and world, there are so many more important things in life. Take the time to live, turn up the music, dance, forget the problems around you and just live. The story of this young man and how he lived life to the fullest despite his grave disease reminded me of that. Rest in peace, brave young man, your life and story will not be forgotten.
Trent Wallace, via Facebook
A very brave and beautiful soul. I’m so very sorry for your loss, Tina. You are strong and now have the most amazing young man watching over you. I will never forget him and his strength and how you can thrive with adversity and have hope for a better tomorrow. My most sincere condolences.
Manon Roy, via Facebook
I was so sad to hear this. I, like many others, have followed his story over the years and was always amazed at his strength. I was hoping and praying that all his surgeries would bring the desired results. Also, watching his mother Tina supporting him selflessly really touched me. My heart goes out to her. R.I.P. Jonathan. Every time I see a butterfly, I will feel your strength.
Rose Curley, via Facebook
My deepest love, condolences and prayers to his mother. She raised a thoughtful, kind and life-changing young man. He made a difference with his voice, his heart and his compassion for others with his illness. What an amazing inspiration for all of us.
Natalie Grace, via Facebook
Such a brave young man. May his family find comfort in his strength and bravery. An inspiration to many.
Bonnie E. Hanham, via Facebook
What an inspiration Jonathan has been to so many, including myself. It is indeed a sad day, especially
for his wonderful mom. I can’t imagine what it is like for her. May he rest in peace.
Pamela Hargadon, via Facebook
Sad news. What courage and grace despite everything. An inspiration to never quit. Condolences to the entire family.
Elizabeth Reeves, via Facebook
I’ve followed the stories and the challenges and the wins and the determination and strength of Jonathan and his mom, Tina, from the beginning. My heart is aching today for his family. Jonathan will never be forgotten and will forever be admired for his amazing strength, hope and love for life. R.I.P., sweet Jonathan, you are loved.
Tracy Kinach, via Facebook
I am so sorry to hear this. My heart breaks for his mother. They both tried so hard. I am a person of faith, but I still find it almost impossible to understand why children must suffer in this world. I believe Jonathan is at peace now and will never suffer again. It is his mother who needs our support now. God bless her with the peace and quiet she needs to heal.
Marcia Connors, via Facebook
Rest in peace, Jonathan. Tina, thank you for sharing your amazing son with us; Jonathan was such an inspiration and his determination has truly helped me with my battle with cancer. Tina, I pray that you get the support that you need, and my condolences for your loss.
Denis Dalrymple, via Facebook
Through it all, Jonathan Pitre’s spirit remained undefeated. His positive attitude, indomitable. His strength was an inspiration to everyone who followed his story, and it forced perspective into the problems we all gripe about in our daily lives. They all pale in comparison to what Jonathan had to endure day after day after day. My heart is shredded knowing he’ll never receive his one simple wish — to go home. May you rest in peace, young warrior, and may we one day live in a world without EB!
Daryl McIntyre, via Facebook
No one is prepared to lose a loved one. R.I.P., Butterfly Boy, you inspired us with your strength. You showed us never to give up on anything. My deepest sympathies to the family.
Lyette Lafrance, via Facebook
In pieces over this news. This young man. This mom. May we all keep Jonathan’s spirit, bravery and kindness in our hearts and actions always. All of Ottawa is here to wrap around you, Ms. Boileau.
Patti Murphy, via Facebook
Heaven has gained a very special angel. You have been such an inspiration to all of us. Our condolences to his mom Tina, who most certainly is a hero as well.
Anne Berube, via Facebook
R.I.P. Jonathan, thank you for letting us in your life. Now you are a star in the sky burning bright.
Darlene Martineau, via Facebook
Such heartbreaking news. Rest in peace, Jonathan. I hope you are getting to do everything on the other side that you couldn’t do here. My very deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Sharon Morgan Young, via Facebook
So sad to hear Jonathan traded his butterfly wings for angel wings. Rest well without pain, my dear. Tina continues to teach all parents the deepest lessons of love, patience, compassion and dedication.
Shannon Bruyneel, via Facebook
My heart just breaks for Jonathan’s mom. If it’s any solace, this young man accomplished so many things in his life and showed others resilience, compassion and courage. His legacy will continue to touch people’s lives long after he has left us.
Rose Chammas, via Facebook
What a deeply important person this young man was, in such few years. Truly an inspiration to
find the joy. Huge condolences to his remarkable mother, what an amazing person she must be.
Karli Patricia, via Facebook
So incredibly heartbreaking. Jonathan was so brave, a true champion, a hero, and an incredible role model for so many. Rest in peace, you have changed the world for many and your legacy will live on. My sincerest condolences to Tina, super mom and also an incredible role model.
Karen Fischer, via Facebook
An amazing and brave young man. He brought so much inspiration to those who followed his story. Moved me to tears so many times. So glad he left his mark on the world — we needed his story.
Rebecca Rose Eade, via Facebook
A true hero passed away. May his memory be forever in our hearts and minds to remind us of what humans can accomplish. He is finally at peace. Our deepest condolences to his heroic mother. May God give you strength. Our prayers are with you.
Maria Dimitrakopoulou, via Facebook
Such a brave fighter who deserved the world. Finally at peace, without pain. Know your legacy lives on and how many you helped and will help. My condolences to his family and his fiercely selfless mother.
Liz Ramik, via Facebook
To the family and friends of this courageous boy, I send my deepest sympathies. But even as our hearts break, we thank Jonathan and his family for enriching and inspiring so many of us in Ottawa. Jonathan will live in our hearts.
Beth Nicholson, via Facebook
Jonathan fought a brave fight. He was a strong young man. Through it all, he had a beautiful smile.
Sara-Lynn Condly, via Facebook
What a warrior he was. To endure the unendurable like he did speaks to courage of a true warrior. And what do we do to honour warriors? We never forget.
Mike Hagarty, via Facebook
My heart goes out to his mom, his family and his beloved dog. I was shocked to hear of his passing. I have been following his story and can’t believe how incredibly strong and courageous he was. A true inspiration. May he rest in peace, and be free from pain.
Carrie Vercillo, via Facebook
Just heartbreaking to hear of this. Jonathan, you will continue to live on in inspiration with your life story. May you witness the Northern Lights from a new place tonight and continue to watch over your mom and family. My deepest condolences to all.
Denise Tessier, via Facebook
These condolences have been lightly edited for clarity and space.