Thank you “Labbits” – The 2007 JC1 RJC Orientation Group

This scrap book specially made by the “Labbits” and dedicated to Thaddeus in June 2007 was recently “discovered” in a cabinet amongst the many things belonging to him since his passing.

It had been kept in a nice red plastic bag stacked neatly and untouched for nearly 10 years! One of the reasons was that we had decided to leave things as they are till we are ready to look at them. We thought that reliving the loss of Thaddeus may be too painful and unbearable for us and having to sieve through Thaddeus’ things – his school books, his favourite keepsake items, clothings and personal items would prove too difficult for us.

How wrong we were!

We were awed by this discovery – the beautiful messages of Thaddeus written by his new-found friends at the Orientation Group, most of whom knew him for less than six months. Many described him as one who was ever so determined and passionate in what he did, always remaining cheerful and when the going got tough, he would stay positive and give words of encouragement to them. Many remembered him as someone who would bring joy and laughter to them and never ceased to crack jokes to cheer them all.

Perhaps Thaddeus’ warm and pleasant disposition had won him many friends. He once told us why he chose “pink” as his favourite colour “pink” – he would rather be “unconventional” even as a guy and he bravely and proudly carried his pink Adidas water bottle, pink ipod nano and whatever pink items he could lay hands on, everywhere in school. He even chose pink bands for the braces on his teeth. Wearing his sunshades at the back of his neck when not in use had been his indelible trademark. Yes, we all miss him.

To the “Labbit” or “Labbits” who initiated this scrap book and got everyone else to pen down their thoughts, I would like to thank you for doing this. It has now become a special “gift” for us to cherish. I have taken the liberty to scan the book and post it for us to remember the fond memories Thaddeus shared with you all. This quote taken from a page in the scrap book has a special meaning to us.