I had the privilege of getting to know Nathan a few years ago as his AP US History teacher. Nathan was beginning to experience some of the hardships associated with his disease. He actually never told me of the health issues he was dealing with, his friends had to tell me in order to explain his increasing absences. He probably missed somewhere near half of the classes and it gives me chills to write that he still passed the very difficult and pressure filled AP exam with flying colors. We have all lost a promising scholar in addition to the young man, warm friend, witty teenager, family member, and hopeful spirit. Although this is very difficult, I am trying to focus on the lunch hours I was able to spend with him and a few of his close friends from his junior year---Brent, Jared, Trevor, Noah, and others. These great kids didn't have to come in my classroom at this time but they did nonetheless. During these lunches together, we would discuss whatever happened to come up---music, politics, history, and our own concerns on that particular day. On the days when Nathan wasn't there, we noticed. When I close my eyes I can transport myself back to the days when he would show up at my door with a smile and an intelligent conversation to have. Lunchtime with Nathan a few years ago is something I will cherish and hold close to me. He was a powerfully loved young man who currently still resides in the hearts of so many, mine included.