In Memoriam – Chad Lee, Jr.

Yesterday, I received an email from Courtney Hubbard. She teaches a 4th grade class at Magnolia Park Elementary School in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. I wrote about them in yesterday’s post. (Please read it first so that the remainder of this story makes sense.)

Here is what Courtney wrote in her email:

I received a phone call today from a student’s mother, and she informed me that he was killed in a car accident last night.

Chad was very into Ben’s story and sent him several items.  His mother wanted me to let you know that he had been begging her to go to the store to buy tons of things for Ben, but she told him it would mean more if he sent something of his own that he liked.  There’s an envelope in the “care package” with several Hot Wheels cars…those are from Chad.  He also drew Ben a picture.

As a teacher, sometimes we prepare children for things that we don’t understand WHY at the time.  We just happened to find Ben’s story on the Internet and email you.  We discussed organ donations and all of the benefits.

Chad’s family DONATED his organs!

God always has a plan for everything in our lives, and HE sure had a major plan for our class of fourth graders to team up with Ben and Uncle Vernon.  Chad was 10 years old, and I could not help but think of Adrianne.  I talked to Chad’s mother about her and how it would be wonderful for her to get his heart.  We did talk about her in class and go to the links you provided.

Chad’s mom and I both agree that Ben has his very own GUARDIAN ANGEL in heaven, and his name is Chad Lee, Jr. 

…

Our school and school district will do all that we can for them (Chad’s family).  You take care of Ben because I know that meant a lot to Chad.  I would love to share their (Ben and Chad) story with others.  I know that what was taught in my classroom wasn’t taught by accident.  It was all part of a much bigger plan.  I am overcome with emotion by it all.  Chad was the perfect student, and he had the biggest heart.

…

Thanks for all of your help.  With it, I have been able to introduce and prepare a classroom of fourth graders with what has happened.

We’ll be keeping up with Ben’s progress.  Please keep us posted!

Thanks so much for all your help,
Courtney

The following story was aired last night about Chad:

Brad Kessie Talks To Grieving Family Of Young Hero

Chad Lee The Lee family wanted to share its heart-wrenching story of a 10-year-old who did more with his life Tuesday night than many of us will ever do. Chad Lee, Junior was a fourth grader at Magnolia Park Elementary in Ocean Springs. His family believes he died in a traffic accident Tuesday night just like he lived — thinking of others first. Brad Kessie tells us about Chad Lee, Junior and his truly remarkable act of bravery.

Chad’s obituary can be read here.

Ben’s family grieve’s with the Lee family over the loss of their precious son. We will never forget their family’s caring, loving, and selfless act to donate Chad’s organs. If it were not for the courage of families such as Chad’s, Ben would not have received a second chance at life.