As I reflect over the events of the past couple weeks, I never thought that one of my children would leave this earth before I did. Wow, what a wake-up call that is to the parent of a child that they love so dearly. 10 days later, not knowing exactly what happened to Scott is still very frustrating, but I know that will not bring him back. To celebrate his life and legacy is the best path for me and my family.

Scott was the youngest of four children, who was always loved and protected by his siblings. We learned very early in Scott’s life that he was a very strong person. The events around his retinal blastoma, and going through all those things before he even knew what it was, was very trying and very sad to watch. Thank God that everything went well, and he did not suffer from any further effects other than losing his right eye before the age of two. I recall as though it was day I took Scott to the Doctor to check out what we thought was a "lazy eye", only to find out that it was so much more. I remember he was so scared and he did not want to let go of me at any time, but Scott being a trooper, he came through with flying colors.

We continued learning over the coming years that he was a very strong young man, he never let a disability stand in his way. He was active in life and loved hanging out with his older brothers and sister; wherever they were Scott was right there with them! He loved sports as a young boy and loved to play basketball, baseball, and football later in his teenage years. I am so proud as his father that he was so successful in everything that he did due to his perseverance and kind spirit. Later in his life he leaned to play golf and he always looked forward to teeing it up with me, Kevin and Austin. We had been on a golf trip in April and he loved being with his brothers.

I spent some time with Scott's boss and some of his co-workers at the printing company while in Texas following Scott's passing, and they all adored and loved Scott! In talking to his boss, Scott was revered as a servant leader and someone that could always be counted on. She always challenged him to learn new things, and even though out of his comfort zone, he jumped in and flourished. After also meeting with a couple of Scott's production workers while at the plant, I learned how much they loved and adored him, as though he was their son. That visit reassured my heart that Scott was very well taken care of by so many who cared so deeply for him.

Scott had dear friends in Chicago and Texas, who are all hurting as well. He became very close with Kevin Lamb the past few years, and had also found the love of his life in Peyton, and seemed so happy to have Peyton in his life.

Just a few of the many things I will always remember about Scott is that he was so happy for the most part, and always respectful and kind to those around him. That cute smile and infectious giggle will be an everlasting memory of Scott. If you have never had a "shiver, shiver" from Scott, you have truly missed out.

I know we will never be able to fill this void that is left from his spirit not being here with us, but I know in my heart of hearts that he is in a much better place. I know there was a celebration with our father in heaven and those who have passed before! I often think that Scott was too good for this world and God needed him back at home to help with the work on the other side.

Many thanks to all those that have reached out to me and our family during these difficult times, the endless prayers and kind thoughts have helped us so much through this time.

Gods speed,

Sheldon Phillips - Father and friend