MUKSEGON, Mich., (March 25, 2014)–The Sima family has received an outpouring of support from West Michigan and people around the country after after six-year-old Gavin from Muskegon County lost his battle with cancer.
We first told you about Gavin last week when hundreds showed up for a vigil for him, his story though still continues to inspire many.
Gavin’s mother Anita says over the past three years they haven’t been alone in their battle thanks to the support of the community.
Anita says one of the most remarkable things has been the amount of support they have received from people that didn’t even know him.
“There’s something to be said for the support of a community and I have learned that from this and I cant wait for the day till I can pay that forward,” she said.
Anita says it was Gavin’s attitude about life that inspired so many, the way he lived life to the fullest never losing his big smile.
“The pokes and the medicine and the extended hospital stays he made the best of it, made friends wherever he went, he was constantly happy and smiling. He got out of bed every morning whether at the hospital or home, he would say “what’s happening today, what are we doing today.” He made us enjoy everyday.”
Anita says in the future she hopes to help other families going through similar situations or even focus on efforts to raise more awareness for childhood cancer.
A visitation for Gavin will be held on Wednesday, March 26 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral Homes, Inc. in Norton Shores from 5-8pm. A celebration of life service will be held at 2pm on Thursday, March 27 at Kainay Community Church with Pastor Joseph Vest officiating. Gavin’s burial will take place at Laketon Township Cemetery.
Gavin’s family is asking those planning to attend either the visitation or funeral to wear their favorite “Gavin T-Shirt” or his favorite color, blue.
If you’d like to buy a shirt to help Gavin’s family with funeral expenses, those can be purchased here.
