Thaddeus’ 18th birthday celebration

It was not difficult for us to decide on “celebrating” Thaddeus’ 18th birthday on 24 March 2008, exactly 9 months after he left us on 24 June 2007.

As Catholics, we know that Thad has gone to a better place called Heaven, his eternal home with our Lord and that his spirit continues to live on and for that reason, we continue to remember Thad’s birthday each year. Indeed, we have been celebrating his birthday every year on 24th March with a simple dinner with our loved ones.

24 March 2008 was especially memorable for us because it was the first time we sang the birthday song to Thaddeus without him being physically with us. Tears filled our eyes as we stood stoically trying to suppress the grief and pain that engulfed us. We held a Memorial Mass for Thaddeus followed by a book launch at our Church canteen. His aunt, Belinda wrote a book “Running the Full Distance – Thaddeus Cheong” and we decided to launch the book on his 18th birthday. The funds raised were contributed to the Church building fund for indigenous people in Sarawak. Many came to wish Thaddeus “Happy Birthday” – the RJC cross-country runners, ex-school mates, relatives, St Francis Xavier Church parishioners and friends. Everyone thanked us for doing such a wonderful event in remembrance of Thaddeus.

Thank you everyone for the birthday wishes and words of comfort you had penned for Thad and us. We appreciate the care and support extended to us. Thad’s cross country runners hold a special place in our hearts for they have always been there for us, supporting and encouraging us.

Even though you are not with us, Thad, we will always love and remember you and you will always be in our hearts.

Thaddeus’ mom & dad