KMXT 100.1 FM Public Radio in Kodiak, Alaska
Kodiak resident Aaron Silva passed away last Wednesday. The 15-year-old succumbed to the cancer he’d been diagnosed with last May. His mother, Gaby Alvarez, says that her son was very aware during his final days.
— (Silva 1 :15 "For two weeks before … with his eyes he told me a lot.")
Aaron was diagnosed with Ring 22 Mosaic Syndrome when he was very young. The genetic disorder causes what are called global developmental delays, which include limited physical and communicative abilities. Aaron’s lack of verbal communication skills is what his teacher– Kim Dorner– thinks made it difficult for doctors to diagnose his cancer.
— (Silva 2 :22 "When he got sick … sometimes it’s hard to get people to listen to you.")
There was an outpouring of support from the community after Aaron’s diagnosis. Organizers brought the community together for fundraisers, prayers were offered and neighbors visited including one of Aaron’s closest friends, Kodiak High School freshman Tahna Lindquist. As Aaron started to shy away from visitors, he insisted that Tahna visit.
— (Silva 3 :13 "It all came so fast … but it just all came so fast.")
Aaron’s mother says that his time here was a gift. When he was first diagnosed with the genetic disorder, she was told he’d never walk or talk and that his life might be short. When Aaron was two years old, she traveled with him to Mexico City to visit the Virgin de Guadalupe. She prayed that Aaron would learn to walk and promised that if he did she would visit the iconic statue every year. One year later Aaron was walking. No matter what gave life to Aaron’s legs, Gaby kept her promise and traveled with Aaron to Mexico City every year on December 12th, which is recognized as the virgin’s birthday. This year was the only year since that first trip that they weren’t able to go.
Aaron had a way of transforming the lives of those around him: whether it be his mother– who Ms. Dorner called "an incredible advocate" and "an icon of what you want" when it comes to children with needs like Aaron’s– or his teachers who learned from him.
Ms. Dorner was in her first year of teaching when she met Aaron, who she called "the most adorable kid." She says he taught her much of what she now knows about teaching and interacting with children who have special needs.
— (Silva 4 :20 "He’s had a significant impact … certainly imprinted by Aaron.")
Tahna says that Aaron inspired her to stick up for what she believes in, even if her peers aren’t on board.
— (Silva 5 :20 "I know he changed my life … now I’m starting to say stuff.")
Aaron has also made an impact in the lives of two people he’s never even met. His corneas were donated to two people needing a transplant. His mother says the family will get to meet the recipients of Aaron’s final gift.
At the end of Aaron’s life story, Ms. Dorner says that she hopes people will remember that he was more similar to others than he was different.
— (Silva 6 :12 "People who have profound … the same desires that everyone does.")
Gaby says that her son will be missed, though the family is at peace with his departure thanks to months of therapy and their strong faith.
— (Silva 7 :08 "We prepare … I feel special."
Aaron leaves behind his sister LeAnn Silva, brother Mark Baisa, stepfather Luis Fernandez and his mother Gaby Alvarez. The memorial is at 4 p.m.Thursday at St. Mary’s Church. Repast will follow at East Elementary. Members of the community can help with costs of the funeral by sending contributions to the Kodiak Funeral Chapel in Aaron’s name.
###
