Page 246 - The Exceptional Harley Fetterman

JUDY K JOHNSON

Harley's unshaken, heart-centered character did not waver, nor his
spiritual depth diminish in spite of what he was soon to face. Harley's
next thoughts were of his parent's impending grief and he sincerely
requested of extended family by his side to always watch over his
parents. He knew they would have an immense burden of sadness
after his passing. Harley's final thoughts exemplified his loving
devotion which remained strong even as his time grew short.
On the dark and cloudy day of his passing, it rained all morning as
Kevin and Beth huddled close to Harley sensing there was no hope.
The hospital staff slowly removed his medication IV until he only
had the breathing apparatus and his pain meds. As time inched slowly
forward, they had a vague, fleeting notion that perhaps they might get
a miracle. But at some point, his breathing became erratic. Then...
“Ooohhh!” Harley unexpectedly sighed in surprise and wonder.
Harley was gone. Eventually, Beth slowly looked up—the sun was
shining! Moments later, a friend from church posted online that she
had just seen a rainbow coming from the medical district and thought,
“Harley's got his wings!”
st
On July 31 , Beth informed all of Harley's dedicated friends and
supporters via FaceBook, “I lost my best friend and hero about an
hour ago. I love you Harley Fetterman. Harley has been my world for
18 years. Today, my world came crashing down. I feel so lost.”

Every one reading this devastating message, stunned to their core,
felt an immediate flood of tears sensing this event would profoundly
affect them forever.

Harley passed away just 29 days after his 18 birthday.
th
Harley's obituary ran in various Austin news publications and
broadcast media. Those in the public who had not yet become aware
of his passing were shocked and dismayed to read:
Harley Franklin Fetterman, 18, of Austin, Texas passed away
Sunday, July 31, 2016 at Texas Children's Hospital in Houston from
complications following a thirteen year battle with cancer. Harley
graduated from Bowie High School in June 2016 while attempting a
bone marrow transplant.

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