This year has been filled with great loss and tragedy for the graduating class of 2008.  I know all to well what it is like to lose someone close to you.

My son, Andrew Roth, passed away nearly three years ago.  He was charismatic, witty, intelligent, and handsome.  His enthusiasm for life was contagious and when he walked into a room, it was as if a light had been turned on.  Andrew is remembered for his bright smile and his warm heart.  When Andrew was 15, he would ride his bike 8 miles to the high school, run cross country practice, bike from here to Burger King where he worked, and then ride the remaining miles home to start it all over again the next day.  To say the least, he was a natural athlete and loved to run. 

When you look around this room, there are a few empty spaces that are hard to bear.  The heartache you are feeling for the loss of your friends is a potent reminder that life is unpredictable.  We never know when our time will come.  Let me share with you some of the awareness that has become a part of my healing from sudden unimaginable death of such young and talented souls. 

For you parents, I want you to know that every moment with your child is a blessing. There is no greater gift in this world than to have the opportunity to love and care for another human being, and this becomes an even greater gift when you have had the pleasure of raising your child.  Take time, sort through precious memories, laugh, and love with your children. 

For you children, someday you will miss those who have raised you.  No matter how many misunderstandings or personality conflicts, your parents will love you and stand by you for the rest of their lives.  The circle of life will continue.  Most of you will become parents.  Appreciate who you are and where you came from. 

My message is plain and simple.  Love one another.  This is the true meaning of life.  Without love, there is nothing.

When Andrew died, I knew that there was never a moment that he doubted that I loved him and he loved me.  Within an hour after hearing of his death, I had a profound realization that I was actually very blessed.  To know Andrew at all was a blessing.  To have been his mother for all those years was an even greater gift.  So, when you think of your friends, try to keep this in mind to help you through those hard times.  At least that is what helps me. 

There is an uncanny similarity in my son and the recipient of this year’s award.  They both share a passion for biking and running, and I am sure that Andrew would  be honored to have been his friend.  Without further adieu, I present this year’s Andrew Cameron Roth Memorial Scholarship Award in the amount of $550 to JJ Ford. 

 JJ's WVMBA Profile