Grateful For A Remarkable Life

To the Editor:

Enough time has passed that we now are able to write this letter to all our friends and the Town of Newtown.

On June 27, 2011, our son Nicholas Summo passed away peacefully in our arms at the age of 24. We were given two medical opinions for survival prior to his birth. One was no chance at all and one was 50/50, depending on the outcome of major neurosurgery, performed within 24 hours after being born. Nick’s will to live and strength amazed all his doctors, time and time again through many critical and near-fatal illnesses.

His life was filled with joy and he touched many people in his lifetime. His love for his family, neighbors, doctors, teachers, and friends was never more apparent, given the immediate response following his death.

His tremendous sense of humor as well as his ability to accept each person for who they were, without exception, drew people to him. He was the most nonjudgmental person we knew. He loved drawing, listening to music, pro wrestling, the New York Yankees, video games, horror movies, and comic books. These were his passions.

Nick was a lifetime resident of Newtown/Sandy Hook and we would like to thank the following: The Newtown Volunteer Ambulance Corps for their frequent trips and great care. The Newtown school system teachers, nurses, and Special Education Department for all their hard work. Our family, neighbors, and friends for their support and love. Also, Dr Ramon Batson, Dr Gary Schleiter, Dr Jeffrey Friedman, Dr William Hennessey, Associated Neurologists of Danbury, Dr Spryos Smith, and all the multi-specialists, interventional radiology, the neo-natal unit, the emergency room doctors and nurses, the pediatric floor and all the doctors, techs and nurses at Danbury Hospital for their vigilance and efforts over the years.

Finally, we want to thank Nicholas for giving us 24 wonderful, happy, fun filled years. Be at peace Nicky.

Tony, Barbara & Anthony Summo

Housatonic Drive, Sandy Hook                                   August 21, 2011