Karray Cox
Although I never had the pleasure of meeting Philip, he has held a special place in my heart for 18 years. It was at that time that I was on a journey to find my own son’s condition. One evening amid this process, we went to dinner with my lifelong friend and her husband. As I described Angelman Syndrome to her on our drive home, she exclaimed how that sounded just like a family friend by the name of Philip. At the time, neither Philip nor my son who was 2 at the time had received their diagnosis. Despite that phase of our journey being filled with heartache and concern, I remember the comfort I felt as my friend described Philip and the immense love his family had for him. As she told me about his infectious smile, happy demeanor, and other characteristics, I knew that Philip and my Ashton shared a bond...a bond that is unspoken...the bond of being born and living with Angelman Syndrome. Although I’m terribly saddened to hear of Philip’s passing, I am comforted by the fact that he was surrounded by love every single day of his life. You see, individuals like Philip and Ashton exude an almost magical energy that touches all of those around them. Without saying a word, they leave an impression on the hearts of all they meet. They love freely. They laugh hysterically. They share their innocence with the world. In doing all of these things, they make it a better place. Rest in peace, sweet Philip.
