Several months ago it was announced online that nominations were being accepted. They wanted people who were in inspiration to their community. Nancy Jensen (Jessica's Mom) nominated Matt! Matt and Jessica have become great friends and Nancy felt that Matt should be chosen. She told how Matt was an inspiration not only in his own hometown but also to the CHD community. He was selected and the head of the committee that called to confirm it said "everyone cried when they read this kid's nomination."
In a message to the PDHeart list, Nancy wrote:
Many of you have requested the letter that I wrote nominating Matt to be a torch bearer for the Olympics. I wrote a nice, long, emotional and informative letter, then they wouldn't take the submission because I was limited to only 100 words. I guess they don't know me very well, do they? So in only a couple of paragraphs, I tried to get across what I wanted to say about remarkable Matt. Here it is:
Matthew is one of the bravest young men there is. He has survived 7 heart surgeries and 3 other major surgeries as well. He has lived with congenital heart defects his whole life and is a wonderful example. He also helps to raise awareness for Congenital Heart Defects which is the leading birth defect. Matthew also helps others by offering support to "heart" kids such as my daughter. Matthew has improved my daughter's quality of life by being such an understanding online friend. Matthew deserves the honor of being a torch bearer more then anyone I know.
Matt's date to run with the torch was December 26, 2001 at 2:15 in the afternoon. The place: Pearl Street from Main Street to Service Street court sign (before Ann Street) in Hartford, Connecticut.
Without further ado, here are the pictures!
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Matt getting
off the shuttle, turning on the gas, |
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