February 16, 2022.
Well big guy, you did it. Ten years old today. I’ve never written you a letter on your birthday, but I’ve dreamed of your tenth for so long I can’t help myself.
I remember the day you were born, thinking “Who is this kid? Who is he going to be?” I held you in my arms for the first time in bed space 4 in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit at Boston Children’s Hospital, dreaming of the life that was ahead of you, not sure you’d even get the chance to have one.
Boy, did you have one.
I’ve watched you grow up, been there for everything, and I couldn’t be prouder of you. I remember so much about your younger days. I don’t want to forget one detail so I’ve been writing memories down furiously lately. Here are some of my favorites.
Before you were born, the anesthesiologist for your fetal intervention had to medicate you twice to get you to stop wiggling around. You were feisty from the start.
Mom and I spent first year of your life with you mostly in the hospital. Two open heart surgeries, countless procedures, and several brushes with death. As we cried and struggled and worried about what the next day would bring you smiled and laughed through it all. You were always full of sunshine.
When you were one, at first you didn’t quite know what to do with your new sister. Once you figured it out, you couldn’t have loved her any more. You were always Lexi’s hero.
When you were two you’d see kids out on Lake Boon and scream, “They’re swinging on the rope!” You’d beg me to take you out on the kayak (you only needed to ask once, you know) and we’d paddle around the lake singing America’s “Tin Man” together. You were always Mr. Enthusiasm.
When you were three you asked Make-a-Wish to build you a basketball court in your back yard. Your wish came true. We played baseball, basketball, hockey, and golf there for hours on end. As I sat on the court just yesterday, I closed my eyes and memories of you flooded my thoughts. I soaked up every one. You were always such a sports fanatic.
Age four was epic. Red Sox, Bruins, Celtics, and Patriots games. Drafted on to the Assumption College baseball team. Eighteen holes of championship golf and you played every one. (What 4- year-old in congestive heart failure does that?) Your baby brother joined our family. Right from the start, you loved Eli so much.
The beach vacation in Maine where you played and played and played and we thought, “Ari’s heart is getting better.” But it wasn’t. The next week we learned you needed a transplant. You always kept us guessing.
Four to five was intense. You spent most of the year at the hospital attached to an IV pole. That sucked. But we were also attached to each other. To me, this was a gift. We spent 24 hours together, every day, for more than six months.
Zayde, Grammie, Katie and countless other people rallied around you, too, to keep you company and help you through the sickness, surgeries, and pain. No one, however, was there more than your warrior Mom. She did everything from giving me a break sleeping at the hospital to spending countless hours with you during the day, to bringing in Lexi and Eli when everyone was well. Mom kept the family together, and gave you family life even though you were often quarantined to your room for weeks on end.
You faced everything with determination, grit, and grace. You were ready to karate chop Dr. Blume at every turn, but you also defined bravery. Crying when you needed a blood draw or an IV, but holding out your arm and barking commands to tell the nurses how to do it. I’ll never be as brave as you.
Then after 211 days the call came in. At 11:32 p.m. on March 3, 2017 your new heart began beating spontaneously in your chest.
For the shortest time, everything was perfect. Perfect heart, no rejection. I remember when you woke up after the transplant you announced you were getting out of bed to lounge in the sun in the CICU window.
In that moment, I could see you as a teenager. Doing and being everything you always wanted.
I was never so happy in my life.
Then the rejection came and you got sick. Sicker than you had ever been. We didn’t think you’d survive the first cardiac arrest, but you did. After 189 days in the hospital, we took you home.
For one magical month.
We played golf. Went to the U.S. Senior Open and hung out with your golf idol Hale Irwin. You helped Mom decorate the house for Lexi’s fourth birthday and were so happy to be there to celebrate. You’d dreamed of that for months.
Went to your first concert with a Grateful Dead tribute band. Played baseball and football with Christian Vasquez and Xander Bogaerts (which you never stopped talking about). Got invited to throw out the first pitch at Fenway.
Then you got sick again. So sick. I held you in my arms as we called 911. We lost you for a while there. I never cried more in my life.
We were only two-thirds of the way through Star Wars Episode III. I didn’t let you watch when you were younger because it’s pretty scary. But you were so mature. We talked about it and put it on. You were so excited.
We were only halfway through Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Harry just noticed the Ravenclaw Seeker, Cho Chang, was super cute! You thought that was hilarious.
When we left Frodo, Merry, Pippin, and Sam they had just met Strider at the Prancing Pony in Bree. Great adventure still lay ahead.
You wanted so badly to find out who the Last Jedi was. (Luke? Rey? Jedi plural?)
You were supposed to throw out the first pitch at the Red Sox on August 27. I thought you wouldn’t make it. My heart broke.
You didn’t care we lost our house to mold damage while you were in the hospital (that is, once we told you we were building you a bigger play room). But you wanted so much to watch the new house go up.
Next season you were going to hit leadoff for the Assumption Greyhounds. We talked about how you’d show them how baseball was done, hit a frozen rope, and then steal home for good measure.
But it was the quiet moments I cherished so much. One more page. One more time with Han Solo frozen in carbonite. One more Red Sox at bat. One more time throwing me on the pillows. One more hug and kiss. Everything one more time.
Then there were no more times. You were gone.
My world ended.
But suddenly you were better. All better. No more rejection. No more 62 individual doses of 21 different medications a day. No more round-the-clock oxygen. No more sticks, pokes, or IVs. No more central lines and never-ending IV antibiotics. No more feeding tube.
No more caths, infusions, or open-heart surgeries. No more worry that every time you’d catch a cold you’d land back in cardiac intensive care.
You were perfect again. You could do everything. See every Star Wars and Harry Potter movie. Drink all the water you wanted, play all day, and watch all the Sox, Bruins, Celtics, and Patriots games. It was pure joy.
You were pure joy.
Then you were six and your dream came true: starting shortstop for the Assumption College Greyhounds! Nailing a triple on the first pitch, going 2 for 3 with a triple play(!), and one steal; home base of course. You never did anything small.
You started kindergarten, too, something you’d been dreaming about for years. When you were three you told us you were so excited for kindergarten. We asked, “Why?” You said, “Because I’ll be going to a sports kindergarten.”
Mom said, “Honey, I don’t think there are sports kindergartens.” You replied, “They’ll build one for me.”
They did.
You turned seven and we went to Japan. You begged to see the land where, as you’d tell everyone, you’d be playing baseball for two years before you’d join the Red Sox. So we thought, “Japan. Why not? Let’s go.” The wonder in your eyes at every turn warmed my heart. You surprised everyone you met that you spoke fluent Japanese. You were the smartest kid I ever knew.
At eight, you got into your first fight at school. Of course you were sticking up for someone getting picked on, and you melted my heart once again. Add kindness to bravery. You always cared deeply about other people and their feelings.
Nine saw you make the varsity golf team at Nashoba High School. We had to fight for your tryout because third graders aren’t usually allowed to play high school sports, yet they couldn’t deny you were better than everyone else on the team. You never followed rules (leaving Mom and me to sort out all the messes), but you always followed your dreams and lived with passion. You always blazed new paths.
Now you are 10. Still my little boy. You’ll sleep forever with your Wallies, Pluto, baseball glove, and Red Sox blanket. (And I see you watching Puppy Dog Pals with Eli when you think I’m not looking!) Oh, my little boy.
Still I close my eyes and imagine you becoming a man. Most men never face even a sliver of your struggles. Against all odds you overcame every one.
Now things have changed and you’re not with me. I can’t hold you like I held you all night when you were a little boy. I can’t bury my nose in your hair as you fall asleep. I’ll never wake up at the hospital to beeps in the middle of the night, going into emergency mode to make sure you got everything you needed when you fell off the horse.
I’ll never drive you to the first day of school, feeling the excitement and the butterflies right there with you. I’ll never hold you when you are a little older but you still need to cry, and you need to do it with me. Just us, because you don’t want anyone else to worry that you are afraid.
I’ll never hold you again. Instead I’ll hold you in my heart every day. I’m so grateful for you. You’ve given me so much pride, so much joy, and so much love.
Ari, to the world you may have been just one person. But to me, you were the world.
You always will be.
Forever your best friend, and you mine.
– Dad
Ari Francis “Danger” Schultz
February 16, 2012 – July 21, 2017
Echo of Hope 
Happy birthday Ari!! Send your dad, mom, brother and sister lotssss of love today!
Thinking of you and your family on Ari’s 10th. He brought such joy to the world and thank you for sharing him with us all
This really warmed my heart , I’m even crying for y’all 😦
I just want to say that we love you and your family Ari! Hope you got a good view of the championship in heaven. I’ve never had such difficulty holding back tears in my life. They won it for you bud
As i lay in bed next to my oh so perfect 5 year old taking a nap on this rainy day, im reading this. Im baing my eyes out. He bed is shaking from me sobbing. But im trying not to wake him. How do you become so strong to deal with the worst pain in the world. I couldnt do it. Im staring at my boy looking at his perfect lips and eyes and nose and thanking god for everything my boy is. Im so sorry for your struggle and loss. He was most definitely a fighter and the light of everyones life around him. You can tell. Stay strong. Just like Ari did every single day. Xoxo
Sorry for some of the spelling errors. My eyes were so cloudy and filled with tears i didnt even notice until i posted it and re read it
Thinking of Ari on his special day…and also thinking of his beautiful family…Happy Birthday to Ari !
First of all, I came across the video of Ari where you broke the news that he was going to receive a new heart. I watched the videos that followed and to my disappointment, I found out that he had passed away. Then I found this beautiful letter. My heart breaks that such a vibrant, beautiful, kind young boy was taken from us. At this moment in my life, I am studying hard to get into medicine so I can become a doctor and achieve my dream of specialising in paediatrics. I will forever have your beautiful young boy in my heart and he will be one of my motivation to get there. I really wish he could have been here with us and I really wish I had met him. Thank you for all the joy you brought into the lives of those who came across you. Rest in peace, Ari.
I apologise if any of my words has in any way offended you, Ari or your family. I pray for peace and healing for you and your family.
03 Jan, 2017 02:38am
London, United Kingdom
Yasmin
Beautiful! ❤️❤️
❤
❤
I don’t have the words. May you and your family find peace. I’m so sorry to hear this. What a special little guy. My son is 5 also. My heart breaks for you.
I’ve never cried harder reading anything before in my life. Your love, your light, your energy, will always leave an impact in me. To see your dad and your whole family love you the way you do gives me hope that love will always prevail. Go knock em some home runs up there while you watch out for all of us, little guy. I may not have known you personally, but you have changed me in ways no one else can. You will always have a space in my heart and I love you, Ari. Thank you.
I literally cannot stop crying… such a beautiful tribute to your beautiful son. He was such a brave little guy with an amazing smile. I am so very sorry for your loss. Sending you and your family prayers and love!
What an inspiration he is.
I cried like a baby reading this beautiful tribute. God bless you and yours. What a blessing to have had such an angel in your life. I’m sorry for your loss, admire your strength, and hope you never experience such loss again.
My little boy turns 10 today and I am so grateful for his health and will never take that for granted. I can’t imagine what you’re going through- but he is free now and happy as ever. You will se him again!
I don’t know you but I do….i am friends with Mackenzies mom and followed and prayed for all the heart warriors at BCH. I hope you know how many people fell in love with your brave adorable bright little boy. Wishing you and your family love, good thoughts and prayers and hoping that knowing how many people were touched by Ari gives you some comfort.
What a beautiful loving tribute to a wonderful gorgeous little boy! Your love for him is incredibly powerful and he will live on in the lives of all of us who have followed his story. You are a fantastic writer and did such a good job telling the story of Ari’s life. I prayed for a different outcome and I know you will see your treasured beautiful son again some day! Prayers for peace and solace for your entire family.
What a beautiful letter. It was so wonderful to get to know Ari better and understand what a truly wonderful person he was. I will pray for everyone who is suffering. Thank you for sharing.
I could not stop my tears.Ari and his families my are the most remarkable and amazing family. I know that one day you will all be together and once again sharing your precious moments. Ari is probably one of the strongest and amazing individuals that we will ever know. God Vless all of you. I know that Ari sits with God’s loving arms around him until you can once again embrace him. Thank you for sharing your story with us. You have such a beautiful ” Guardian Angel.” ♥️🙏🏻😇
Just the most beautiful, gut wrenching tribute to what must have been an amazing little boy. He knew your heart…he knew your love…he knew your soul and commitment to making his life memorable…of focusing on the what he coulds and not so much on the what we can’ts. I’m so deeply and profoundly sorry for your loss, and I hope you find some sunshine in knowing that you gave him the world in a short amount of time. God bless to you, your wife and to Ari’s siblings and extended family.
I have been following you guys for months and was praying that he would make it through all of this. What a true warrior to go through what he did with such grace and love for you all! I can’t even begin to imagine the pain of having to lose a child, I have one son and he is my World. I am so heart broken and have thought about you guys often, but all day today you have not left my mind. You guys are amazing & you now have the strongest guardian angel out there. I don’t know if I could have handled this situation with such strength as you’ve all seemed to have. I hope he gets some things named after him or in his memory. Thank you for letting us in to your life and sharing Ari with us all. I will forever be touched by this little amazing boy and will think of you all often. Love, strength, prayer, and healing from me to you all! ❤
I am so sorry for your loss. Your son was such an inspiration to many, so full of life in such a short time and so appreciative of everything he had and was given. I have an 18 month old son and I hope he enjoys everything about life as much as your son did. God bless your family at this difficult time and our sincere condolences, from my family to yours.
Our hearts are breaking for your family. Ari made such a difference in this world. We are so sorry for your loss.
You again show through your words how much your family loved Ari, and he loved each of you – and how much you fought together with him. Every day, every new challenge. Everything.
Love to all of your family from ours.
Greta and Pasha
Thank you for sharing your journey. Your lines stick with me from a couple of posts back about Ari: “People often live life quietly. They’re born, go to school, grow up, have their fun, make their mistakes, have their struggles, get married, have a career, make more mistakes, retire, and call it a day. A rare few, however, live life unbelievably. They shine bright. They don’t do anything small.” What a huge life you gave Ari and, boy is he shining now!
Yes, I loved that as well..very well said and I believe that to be true about Ari, I didn’t know him personally, but through this page, I felt like I got to know a piece of what he mean to his family and the World around him!
As a parent who has also lost a son and a cousin at a young age my heart goes to you and your family. This is beautifully written and brought memories and tears. Your family will always be in my heart!
May Gos bless you and your family. Ari is now an Angel in Heaven.
By the promise of God you will see him again in the ressurections…it will happen
I will think about Ari every time I hug my 3 year old son. I will think about Ari when I kiss my two year old daughter. I am amazed at Ari’s love for life. I am also very thankful that he had parents like you. You should be so proud of the young man you raised and the fact that he lead a fuller life than most people can only dream of. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Remember him and smile because he left a very beautiful mark on the world.
Powerful story. Beautifully written. Beautiful child. Beautiful dad so in love with his son. I followed his story through a nurse who used to work under me at BIDMC and went to Children’s. I prayed for him. He will leave a mark in the world and have his special place in heaven. Amazing little boy who lived beyond his years. A beautiful child with a beautiful dad and family. God Bless you and your family. Donna C.
Im so sorry you lost your beautiful son. Im so afraid i will somehow lose my 9 year old boy. I dont think i would be as brave as you are. Hes my whole world. Thank goodness for your amazing strength and leadership. It would be so easy to curl up and go away. Your family needed you and you responded unselfishly and heroicly. Your boy would be so proud of you. I hope that you and your family find some peace and relief from what must be overwhelming sorrow.
I am from Wells and my sweet baby girl, Sophia, died in 2008. We knew during my pregnancy she had a terminal, degenerative neurological condition. We weren’t sure if she’d be born alive and if so perhaps we’d have a week or two to love her up. She gave us each season, each holiday and an opportunity to sing her Happy Birthday when she turned one. Since her death I have read many books, articles, sat with other parents and heard their stories…I have never been so impacted by anything as I have this precious letter to your sweet Ari. Thank you for sharing your heart. Please know I am available to you or your warrior wife to connect with if needed or wanted. It seems we share mutual friends as well. Prayers for comfort and all you may need each day.
I have no words – so few in this world can even imagine what you have been through and will forever live with …and without❤️ We can all learn live embrace mourn celebrate and be deeply thankful for every gift we have in our life including and most of all … life itself. Ari – you are a legend little one and you are no doubt surrounded by friends (too many) who have walked your all too tragically short path in life. Happy 10th and forever xo❤️
What is the meaning of life? All of us ponder this and many even spend many nights trying to figure out the riddle “why”. We are here to love and learn and with that brings memories. If we live to be a memory then we are alive in that memory! Ari is alive and now in so many. He is the reason of life! He is the riddle answered! Forever Ari!
Thank you, thank you, Ari’s Dad, for this beautiful tribute to the World’s Greatest Fighter and Big Boy!!!😍 and Ari,you are missed from a universe of people that loved you from afar❤so many days I wonder how you are now and know you are this bright light that will never cease in our hearts!!! Special hugs to your sweet family everyday and for them to always know that you will help them fight on in this world❤😇❤
No words for how beautiful this is. Truly touching. Heart kids have big hearts and change everyone around them, even those who only know them from the internet. Sending loving thoughts to you. We are all better people for Ari having been here. He will not be forgotten.
Ari’s life, though much too short, touched so many lives. He will remain in my heart as will the rest of your family. I am heartbroken for your loss but his impact will be a blessing in your lives. When things get rough you will always know how strong you are and who you have to thank for it. He will be with you everyday and he will send you signs. Much love.
I’m sorry you lost your boy. You sure did make the most of the short five years he was on earth. Ari was lucky to have so much love. You and your family were lucky to have such a trooper.🙏🏻⚾️🏀🏌🚣🎤
Oh, what a lovely story of the love of a father for his son! God bless and comfort you and your family knowing he’s now in the arms of Jesus.
Amazingly beautiful piece. Thank you for sharing your thoughts at such a difficult time. My heart is so heavy for all of you.
Reblogged this on Find Your Magic.
Hi Mike,
I am so touched by your words, and by your beautiful and amazing son, Ari. I’m so deeply sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing the wisdom of the world’s most energetic and brave soul with me. I’ll be thinking of you and your family long after you’ve read this message. You and your warrior wife must be the strongest team in the world, to have raised such a strong and caring child. God bless you both.
Much love,
Caitlin
Thank you for sharing Ari with all of us .He was truly Blessed to have you for Dad Mom Brother and Sister . What a beautiful tribute you have paid to Ari. We are Sending Prayers for your Family. God Bless You All
Thank you for sharing your precious boy with the world. There are no words. Only prayers, and so much love, always. ❤️
Such a beautiful tribute to a wonderful boy from a loving father. My heart breaks for you. God bless your family and may you find peace.
Mike, this is an absolutely beautiful tribute to Ari. He always brought out the best in everyone in met. He touched so many lives with his positive spirit and love. However, you and Erica have always been absolutely incredible pillars of strength and love for Ari and your whole family. May your many happy and beautiful memories bring you and Erica joy and peace. We will always be here with you and for you.
I discovered Ari’s journey with the baseball video and was immediately struck by his light – literally the light that shown through his beautiful face. He was so positive and so excited to get home but for now could he ” just get back to the game.” What a normal kid under unbelievably unnormal circumstances. When I saw that Ari had passed I literally wept with sadness. Tears for a child I had never met. My heart breaks for your family. I cannot imagine your loss but I thank God Ari had that magical month. I will continue to lift you and your little Angel up in prayer. You have my deepest sympathy. Fly high little one. 💙
A loving, tender, one-of-a-kind eulogy that I’d hoped I’d never read….such deep respect and sorrow for you all…
Mike and Erica,
My heart breaks for you and your beautiful family. Thank you so much for sharing your lives with us. Ari was so full of life and love despite the struggles that he was faced with. Ari was so brave with all he endured.
May God be with you and your family and hold you tight during this very hard time.
All our love and prayers,
The Gramley’s
I’m speechless Mike…. god bless your little warrior Ari, the little neighbor who lives on the narrows of our Lake Boon. I never had the privilege to meet Ari but he stole my heart, he stole everyones heart.. Ironic… He had the strongest will, showed more bravery, loved harder, played harder and had more zest for life than anyone I’ve ever known. I fell in love with your little boy as did the entire community. Erica, what can I say.. you are the pillar of strength to every mother on the planet. Keeping your family unit together, while inside (as I can only imagine), you were riddled with worry about Ari, about your other two beautiful children… The community cries with you, mourns with you and wants you to know that we gotcha, we have each others back.. we ain’t lettin go. The journey continues… we’re here!!!
Joyce A.
Mike and Erica, My heart and soul aches for you. It was a privilege for me to be part of Ari’s journey. I grew to love this little boy, as I would for my grandchildren. No one can make sense of the highs and lows of Ari’s journey and yours. I have put my sadness, frustration, anger and disappointment in God’s hands. I find comfort in the fact that Ari is no longer fighting but is gently resting in God’s warm embrace. I will continue to remember Ari and you and your beautiful family. Continue to write about courageous Ari because he left us such a powerful and lasting legacy and unlike you, we only know the tip of the iceberg. God Bless you in this time of grief.
Mike thank you and Erica for allowing us into your lives. Ari’s courage , determination, stamina and love of life obviously came from you both. He was so blessed to have you as parents. You still have a long journey ahead of you; two children to guide through life, a home to rebuild and broken hearts to mend. Please know from experience it will get better. The time between the extreme and consuming pain gets greater. The Schultz family will never be alone. You will remain in our hearts and minds for a very long time. A little man who more than earned his wings will be watching over you. Please take extra special care of yourselves as the healing begins, Love again from Langley, B.C. Canada. Miles and Kathie
This is the most beautiful tribute to Ari. My son Tristen was born on March 8, 2017 and had his first open heart surgery on March 10…he was in bedspace 27….Every day as I walked by Ari’s room, I prayed and always saw you by his bedside. The love we all have for Ari, for you, for your family. Thank you for sharing Ari with us, for allowing us to also love him through you. God bless you.
I was so grateful to follow his journey! Even though I’m just a fan of Ari I cried every day when I read the first rejection😥. I prayed even I’m work and always checking a new update. When I read that Ari is been cpr for 30 mins i told my self I know he can make it! July 21 is one of the most saddest day in my life 😞 my little warrior is gone…. I thought I could see him grow. Ari I gonna miss your smiles 😘😘😘
You were lucky to have him and he was lucky to have you, your bond in five short years was stronger than most parents have in a lifetime with their child. You and your family with Ari was pure unconditional love in its strongest form! It radiated through the words and pictures in all of your posts! I as many always felt that I knew Ari, even though I didn’t because his wonderful spirit shined so bright we all fell in love with him.I followed Ari because Jill is my nephews wife and went to school with your wife. I am so glad I did because he was such an inspiration and he will live on through so many people because of the light he shined on us all and will continue to do so for the rest of our days. I picture him running around burden free and causing the heavens to smile, whatever happens after we pass his spirit is stronger than ever and will always be! Thank you for sharing with myself and the rest of the world your precious wonderful Ari! I feel your pain and loss but he is finally free, healthy and strong in the hands of our loving God! I told Jill that after Ari passed I was walking to my mailbox and thinking of how sad I was and a beautiful butterfly circled around my face and than landed on my mailbox and then flew off high into the heavens and I thought that maybe it was my mom or dad that were telling me that he was in heaven and safe❤️You were blessed…….
Hi Mike,
Thanks so much for writing this. I would give you a huge hug, shake your hand, and just smile. I have all these same thoughts and feelings. People don’t know what to say because it is too scary to think about. They also don’t want to hurt you or make you feel any more pain than you already have. I will share with you this. Talking about your son with pride will always make you feel better. It had always worked for me.
Best,
8 South Alumni
Trying to find the words to tell you how much Ari has touched so many hearts.
He has the most beautiful soul and sparkle and I think about him everyday. I will keep his memory alive in my heart always. Thank you for sharing his story and know that we would love for you to continue writing to all us. You are truly an amazing family.
oh man ..I was just yelling at my kid and can’t imagine having him not here…I’m so sorry for your loss and your kid seems like the coolest kid and I will never stop thinking of him and your family….xooxox
I am so very sorry! I have pray daily for Ari since I first learned of need for donations for house to be re built! will continue praying for family! wish I knew mom’s name! I loved reading dad’s piece here! so beautiful!
Glenda Kremer
Mr. & Ms. Schultz and the rest of your family, thank you for sharing the beautful, loving and full of life Ari’s journey.. Losing a child is such unimainable pain and there is no word to say to lessen the pain and heartbreak. We all wish and long for a magic wand to see a different story and so many “what if”…sometimes lie really hit us hard.. But Ari, in a very short life, help us (the world) to define what courage, love, kindness, strong and zest for life really is.
He showed us how to appreciate life and live the most out of it. Smile, genuine happiness can really change the world. People and the rest of the world can unite. Love and kindness can thrive despite of the crazy things happening in our world.
Your son is a legend and a hero. He lift up the world and showed his enormous light with his smile, happiness, love for sport, love for his family (parents, zayde, grannies, katie, lexi, oston children hospital,etc..) There is so much more to value about life.
Live our “LIVES” like Ari.
So much heartache but he is now free from pain. Whateer they called this thing”second life” or “eternal life” at the end of tunnel, you’ll this opportunity to love for the rest of your life in “eternal life”.
I don’t want to end this messae, without giving appreciation of what a wonderul father you are and so to your wife- “one of the greatest mother” I’ll ever know.
All the love,
Ella from the Philippines
Extraordinary love story.
Wow I’m speechless with tears streaming down. Hugs to a dear family who deserved so much more time with this sweet sweet boy!
This was so beautiful.
hank you for sharing this beautiful letter with all of us. Thousands of us, many people that you don’t know even know, kept track of your struggles. We all hoped and prayed every single day for a miracle for Ari. We all wished that things would get better for Ari. We all wanted him to live. We all wanted him to enjoy life free from pain and suffering. We wanted you and your family to see your son grow up. We wanted to collectively pass strength and hope to you and hoped that our collective prayers would be transformed into a miraculous recovery for Ari. But, sadly, painfully, he didn’t recover. He left us all behind for something better but while he was here on this earth, he showed us all, those of us that were watching, what beauty is and what love is and so much more. He showed us how marvelous and fragile we all are. He showed us how wonderful a single human being can be. He showed us how to enjoy every single day, each and every moment. He showed us how many people there are in the world that have the capacity to deeply love and care for a person and family that they never met. He showed us how to be strong and how to approach each day with optimism and joy. He showed us that there is good in this world and that there are many kind and decent persons, He showed us that, no matter what, life is worth living. We showed us the meaning of a family and a community. He showed us how to love one another and to help each other whenever we could. He showed us how to reach out to a total stranger and lift them up. He showed us how to set aside our own troubles and think of others.
Ari was beautiful. He was a wonder and a miracle and he will never be forgotten, by any of us.
I cried as I read this can’t imagine you’re pain. I keep you’re family in my prayers and my thoughts. I followed his journey and when he went home I cried when he passed I cried. May you’re heart hurt a little less everyday and his love help you heal.
What a brave and loving letter Mike. You haven’t been out of my mind for years now and we’ve never even met. My signature method of providing comfort is touch…sending you all enormous hugs in the hope that they’ll cradle you, just a bit. xoxoxo
Mike (forever Ari’s Dad),
I never met Ari or your family, but was certainly touched by him, after viewing that video of him, running the bases, outside the hospital! As I showed my husband, who is a huge Red Sox fan (as I), we smiled so wide and fell in love with Ari instantly!❤
I’m sobbing reading this beautiful story of a father’s incredible love for his child. You couldn’t honor his life any better than what you’ve shared with the rest of the world. I feel I really got to “meet” who Ari was in this life, before he moved on to the next.
Please know his short life with us will never be forgotten. I know I’ll probably get to the next life way before you and your family. It will be with great pleasure to meet your little warrior and get a hug and a kiss. I’ll make sure to be in the stands as he clears the bases, with a home run over the light towers, at heavens Fenway Park!⚾⚾⚾
At first I wasn’t sure how this letter would end until I read “Then there were no more times” I lost it, I am still pulling it together as I write to you. My heart aches truly as true as anything can be I’m so sorry. I want to say so much but nothing seems right this is just so wrong. If you all need to talk about anything at all please feel free to look me up on facebook and I promise I’ll be there for you anytime!! I pray god paves the way to healing with signs of your boys spirit or energy as it was clearly strong. And in closing GO SOX!!!! with love from New Bedford Massachusetts… Amanda Kircher
Such a loving and beautiful testament to Ari’s life. I lost my husband to an unsuccessful heart transplant. I cannot even begin to know how Ari went through years of treatments & hospitalizations and always came through as a bright light in your family. In his short time, he touched so many lives. My daughter works at Assumption and has followed Ari’ s story throughout.
May God hold you and your beautiful family in the palm of his hand during this most difficult time. Remembering you and your family in my thoughts & prayers.
Mike and Erica and family,
What an amazing little man your Ari was. Always with the smile, and you could just see all of his enthusiasm for everything.
I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful boy. He truly touched everyone he met, and through Mike’s words and videos, many who never had the joy of meeting him. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Nothing will ease your grief, but maybe knowing that there are many of us “out here” who continue to support you and your works will make it just a little easier. Rest easy, sweet Ari. You made more difference in the world in the short time you were here than some who live to 100. May you all find peace.
Oh Mike, I am so so sorry for your loss! I cannot begin to imagine the pain you and your family are experiencing. Thank you for your beautiful words, and please know that Ari touched so many of us that knew him. He certainly bowled Sam over, and we will think of him with fondness for years to come. You all are in my thoughts and prayers ❤
Mike and Erica, I can’t tell you how sorry I am for your loss. My only brother had a heart transplant 19 years ago, and I know about all the struggle.
Please know that your family is loved all around the world. Ari will forever be in my prayers.
Sending all my love from Brazil,
Flavia
Mike,
I have no words. You’re an amazing father and an amazing man. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you and your wonderful family during this time.
David
Wow, tears…..i am so sorry for your loss but so happy for you that you were able to make so many wonderful memories. I will hold my heart warrior even tighter and never take a moment for granted.
What a beautiful little man he was. May your family find peace in the fact he is finally whole. What an incredible father. Everyone here was blessed.
Wow. That was beautiful. I just yelled at my 2 year old but I’m going to put my phone down and go hug her. Thank you for sharing your story with us.
Beautiful tribute for a beautiful boy. You were so lucky to have such a special relationship and help Ari live his life to the fullest of his ability. His healing is complete and yours is just beginning. My prayers are with you and your family.
So truly sorry for your pain and great loss!! Thank you for sharing Ari’s life with us!! He lived life to the fullest with a smile on his face no matter what!! oh, the things we could learn from him
!! Wishing you all peace at this most difficult time!!!
Ari was just so awesome. So much life packed into 5 short years. I’m so sorry for your loss.
Beautifully written. Ari was so strong, such an inspiration. I think of him daily. Hugs to you, Mike, to Erica, Lexi and Eli 💞
You are a wonderful father. He was so lucky to have you as his dad. Best of luck to you with this moment and all the ones that follow 🙂
Your tribute to your son is beautiful. I’ve been following the story through. I heard the terrible news in July but wanted to hear it from you. I have a 9 year old boy with heart issues and type 1 diabetes. They truly are our heros. I pray for you to be together again someday, I’m so sorry for the families loss from the bottom of my heart. God bless you all.
Incredibly beautiful portrayal of YOUR story. Thank you for allowing it to touch the lives of and open the hearts of so many. Holding you and your family in my prayers.
Mike, you have a real talent for emotional writing. That was beautiful. I’m sure it wasn’t even that hard, however, when being guided by the memories of someone like Ari. He was blessed to have such a caring mom and dad.
Dear Ari’s family, we are so very sorry for your loss. Words can not express the heartfelt sorrow I felt as I read your message about your beautiful son. I know that grief is individualized, but we also lost our sweet daughter Katelyn, who had a heart defect, at Boston Childrens Hospital in 2002. She lived only a short 12 days, but each day seemed like a lifetime filled with so much love, so much sorrow and so many decisions. From a great prognosis to waiting for a heart that would never come to now 15 years of remembering, honoring and imagining who she’d be today, everyday. I wish I could give you magic words to heal your heart, I wish I had them for me. I can only say with time I have gotten stronger to handle those waves of saddness when they arise. There is a song “who you’d be today” that speaks about “wearing the pain like a heavy coat,” it is very true. I wear my coat everyday and I want to because with great grief is great love and the two are so intertwined I cannot separate them; and I don’t want to- that being said I live. I live and eventually found that place where happiness and grief can coincidence and I am ok. We will pray for you and your family- for peace and strength during these very difficult days. (Please know there is no grief time table and we are all different- I share only to say you are not alone and we are walking along side- here if you need us.) If you or your wife ever want to talk, my husband and I would be honored to be there for you. In sympathy, Melissa
Crying
My heart breaks.
A beautiful tribute to your beautiful boy. I can never imagine how much pain his loss has caused you and your family. Just as her was brave, you too are brave. Though I never met Ari, he reminds me to love harder and cherish every second with those that I love. Thank you for sharing your journey.
Not even sure where to begin, firstly my deepest condolences for your family during this difficult time. There was no doubt that Ari was the strongest little kid around. It’s so inspiring to read about his strength during his sick times. I know that Ari will be watching over and protecting your family. When I heard about his passing I was overwhelmed with sadness but all I could think about was that he was the happiest little boy ever and it is so incredibly clear that he had the best and most loving parents and family ever. This letter just goes to prove that he made the best of every day. I hope that you are able to cherish these memories forever. Rest in the sweetest peace little angel I know that you’re hitting home runs in heaven.
Oh my, Mike. I could barely make it through your post. Your words break my heart. Ari was the sun. Your little boy was a blessing to all who knew him. I pray for you & Erica and the kids. xo
What a beautiful tribute and heart wrenching ending. One can tell that Ari was definitely an old soul. I know we are supposed to believe that everything happens for a reason, but for the life of me I cannot think of one in this case. It just doesn’t make sense at all. Thank you Mr. And Mrs. Schultz for sharing Ari with us. I am a better person because of it.
Fly high sweet angel Ari. I can almost see that big ornery smile from here.
Your little boy captured my heart the first time I came across the video of him being told he was getting a new heart. This was the first time Ari came on my radar, and the first time I cried seeing how happy he was. I started following his story from then and all the posts and updates really put up emotions through a wringer. I adore your son and I can’t even tell you how much I admire the strength and dedication, and the love you and Ari’s mom have shown him. You guys are superheroes in your own right for enduring with him, encouraging him, helping him to have some semblance of a normal childhood, and for giving him the support he needed to feel confident in letting his personality out, for not allowing him to be weighed down by all he went through. Ari is too special, too pure for this world, and I honestly believe wherever he is now, he is the happiest person and that big, beautiful spirit of his is shining bright. I have to believe that… I have never cried so much for a child I never met, and he deserves all the happiness and peace. This letter was heart breaking and beautiful, and despite the sadness I’m feeling and tears I’ve just shed, I thank you for sharing this with us. I pray your family finds the solace you all deserve.
My love and thoughts are with you in this sad time. I’ll never forget Ari, even though I never met him.
Thank you for sharing Ari’s life with all of us. You and he have touched so many people, showed us so much about living as much as you can. And we all are mourning with you. I’m sorry for your loss, and I know that I hug my son a litter tighter for the memories you’ve shared.
I am so sorry to read this news. I am sending loads of love to you and your family. Devastating.
I never had the privilege to meet Ari or the rest of your wonderful family, but the impact you’ve all had on my life cannot be understated. With that being said, I can only imagine the incredible impact Ari had on your lives, and for that, you are so, so lucky. Best wishes and prayers for all of you and this troubling time. As a Mets fan, I’m pulling for the Sox this year on Ari’s behalf ❤
What a beautiful tribute to a beautiful boy. There are no words that will heal your forever broken heart but I hope you find the littlest of peace knowing you forever have the best guardian angel til you meet again❤️
I lost my son to HLHS and PVS at 4 months old. I’m so sorry for your loss. You have crafted a beautiful letter to a little boy who seemed to be a remarkable young man. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
What a beautiful father/son bond you two had. I love the pictures you shared and your words are heartwarming….even though they are sad, they bring a smile, which I (not knowing your Ari, personally) think would have Ari smiling. 🙂
Such a wonderful story of a very brave little heart warrior. I know the struggles, heart ache and blessings that go along with life with one of these little soldiers, as my grandson Jerron is also a CHD warrior ❤️ They teach us so much about life and what is important. Prayers for your family – thanks for sharing your little guys life with us!
I’m balling like a baby here. What a special little man. What a special Dad and family you are! Thank you for sharing Ari with us! Ari is whole and pain free now and you WILL hold him again! Trust that God will make that happen.
Thank you for sharing such a poignant tribute. Ari has touched us more than you know. That little guy had more courage, determination, stamina, and sweetness than most people have in a lifetime. His memory will live on in your hearts. Just think, he can go wherever you go now, freely. You have also shown much courage in the daily challenges of raising a family, providing a healthy home for your family and being the rock for Ari. We pray you can take comfort in the best life you provided Ari. Seeing his happiness through this journey is a testement of your love and commitment. He earned his angel wings! Peace and comfort to you and your family.
What a heart breakingly beautiful letter you’ve written. A tribute to a child that defied so many odds, smiled like he knew the meaning of life, and an amazingly strong little boy. Fly high little man…..we will remember you always ❤
Beautiful. What a tribute. I wish all children that kind of love and friendship from their dads. I’m so very sorry for your deep loss. Thank you for sharing
Ari was special beyond words as you so eloquently have shown us through sharing his exuberant personality, but far too short journey with us all. It is simply heart breaking to know how painful it must be for you, your wife, your children and extended families to suffer this incredible loss. Through each blog entry shared though, it was proven Ari gave so much to his family, never mind the world, on how to really enjoy life, despite living with limitations. His smile and enthusiasm were unsurpassed and has taught so many others to truly appreciate every day . Ari was such a beautiful little boy who will always be missed, but definitely never forgotten. Peace and ❤️ to you all
Thank you for giving us a little piece of your beautiful Ari with your words and videos. That was all it took to draw us in to hold our hearts. I feel blessed to have been able to see how special your little man was. You and your family have my thoughts and prayers and Ari will forever be a reminder to me, that through it all, no matter how hard times can get, you live life to its fullest.
profound love…that was all Ari knew…a child who embraced the life he had and the people God placed around him to cheer him on and cherish him…there is greatness in his story…thank you for sharing it with all of us…we all take a little Ari into our hearts through your beautifully written words…Prayers go out to you
Mike- this is gorgeous. What a kid. Always and forever your son.
Thinking of you and Erica every day. What a privilege and a joy to know Ari and your family.
Jess
Sent from my iPhone
Jessica Lindberg 815.978.3663 Sent from my iPhone >
What a truly beautiful letter to honor Ari and what a smart, fierce little boy he was. So many of us have never met you, Ari, Erica or the rest of your family, but we have come to know you through this blog, videos and Facebook page for Ari. He was only in the world a short time, but he loved every single minute and didn’t waste one. He made the world a better place because he was a part of it. Thank you for sharing your journey and please know that so many of us hold you in our hearts, prayers and thoughts and as you wrote Ari is blasting those baseballs to home runs, shooting baskets at the last second of the buzzer for the win and getting holes in one as he goes through all 18 holes of the golf course. We will miss you Ari. You showed us how we all should live each precious day that we are given and bring joy to others in our world.
What beautiful profound words. The two of you together exemplify the true meaning of love. I stumbled upon a post anout Ari many months ago and was drawn to his amazing zest for life. He has touched many during his short stay on this earth but will certainly leave a legacy of love, life and bravery. I sit here with tears in my eye and a pit in my stomach only imagining how much this hurts. But I love this letter ….and I know Ari will too…hold onto the beautiful memories gave to you. And thank you for sharing such a beautiful tribute to your precious son. Much love to you and your family …..xo
What a beautifully written love letter to your sweet little boy. I am so sorry for your loss. Lots of love amd strength as you walk your life in honor amd memory of Ari. I wish we could have met him. I know my 5 yr old boy Charlie and he would have been fast friends.
A beautiful tribute to an amazingly brave and wonderful child from his ever caring dad.
Ari touched many lives, to see my 20 year old son, a student at Assumption College, breakdown when he heard of Ari’s passing was overwhelming. His journey was short, but he certainly made an impact on a lot of people. He will be missed by the Assumption community. Our hearts are with you.
This is a very beautifu,l loving letter any father could have written to their son. My heart goes out to you and your family. He had begun a new journey with God. One where there are no machines, no tubes, no needles. Just an endless playground where he can run and be happy. Where he can watch over his family. He was a joy and blessing to his family even though it was for only a few short years. Please take comfort in knowing what a beautiful boy he was and always carry him in the deep recesses of your heart. God bless you and your family at this time of sorrow.
One of the most powerful and loving letters I have ever read. Our hearts are breaking for you. We know such a loss and we pray these amazing memories can hold you tight. Hoping your mighty little man is with our amazing son,Jeremy, playing sports together. XO
🌞😘🙏
My heart breaks for you and your family, but how blessed are you to have made these memories and given Ari such a beautiful and fulfilling life. I am sending my healing thoughts to all of you during this difficult time. Thank you for sharing such a beautiful store ❤
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That was beautiful. I will hug my kids a little closer tonight and remind myself to focus on what’s important. I am truly so sorry for your loss and so sad that I never got to meet Ari. He is my hero.