NDSouth:Matthew

This is probably the hardest post, we at New Day South, have ever had to write. Little Matthew left us less than a week ago and and all of our hearts are still broken. But through the pain and sadness, his life is a life worth remembering and rejoicing over. He died loved and cherished by so many people and he will be greatly missed.

Matthew arrived in our care at just four days of age on September 19, 2012. His orphanage called, asking for us to help knowing that without our help, this little newborn would not survive. Of course we said yes, and Matthew was brought to Guangzhou where he immediately underwent his first surgery. 

After several weeks, Matthew was released from the hospital and arrived at New Day South. The other children were so excited to meet their new little foster brother! He was so tiny and absolutely precious. We all immediately fell in love.

Matthew had a long road ahead of him with at least three more surgeries over the next few years. Even though it would be hard, we were all honored to walk that road with him and give him a chance at life by providing the love and care he so desperately needed. 

Little Matthew was in and out of the hospital time and time again with sickness or surgery. But he always amazed us and pulled through. 

It was an honor to watch this little boy blossom into the precious child he was the day he passed away. 

Many of you fell in love with his sweet smile, just like all of us at New Day South did. He had a smile that would light up the room and you couldn't help but smile right along with him. If you were having a bad day, just a few minutes with Matthew and your day would be so much better.

Matthew was also known for his "crazy hair." No matter how many times we cut it or tried to "style" it, it had a mind of it's own.

Matthew was loved by everyone who met him. He was especially loved by the nannies and staff at New Day South. He will always hold a special place in each of our hearts.

We watched as he reached milestone after milestone. We rejoiced with him when he learned to sit up, crawl, and pull himself up. When he passed away, he was so close to taking his first steps. We were all anxiously awaiting that day.

Matthew was the example of JOY which is defined as: "a feeling of great pleasure and happiness." Of course he had his moments, usually when he was hungry or tired, but for the most part Matthew lived out exactly what joy should be.

Matthew was loved and he was cherished. His absence will leave a void at New Day South in the upcoming months.

Matthew taught us what it means to love and to live each day to the fullest.

Matthew celebrated his 1st birthday on September 15, 2013, and his 2nd birthday was just a month away.

Of all of the children currently at New Day South, Matthew had been with us the longest.

One of Matthew's many talents was his flexibility. We were always amazed at how easily he could put his foot in his mouth! Literally!

Matthew was great at going for haircuts... he had been through it just a few times!

In the last few months of his life, Matthew developed such a personality. He was constantly making us laugh with his funny faces...

... very excited expressions....

... and of course his love for his beloved purple cupcake purse and pink bracelet. 

After all, aren't those every little boy's favorite toys?

Sweet Matthew, you made New Day South a place of laughter, joy, and smiles. You are so loved, little one, and you will never be forgotten. You will be missed by so many. Those who knew you in person as well as those who knew you from social media.

Thank you, Matthew, for allowing us to be a part of your life and for bringing us such joy. We love you, sweet one, and it was an honor to love you during your short time here on earth. Matthew, you are missed and you are loved.