Errol Milner Clifford 2006-2009

Errol Milner Clifford was born with a significant heart defect and a cognitive disability that prevented him from walking or talking. As we grieved the child we had anticipated, Errol’s full-bodied smile and irrepressible laugh turned our sorrow into joy, and taught us that many of the best things in life are unexpected. Inspired by Errol’s delightful spirit, friends, family, and neighbors rallied to support our family’s significant emotional, physical, and financial needs, through countless acts of selfless generosity. When Errol’s courageous heart finally failed him on December 23, 2009 we were left numb with grief. In these dark hours we listen hopefully for the echoes of Errol’s brilliant laugh. This blog is the story (starting from present and working back to Errol's birth) of the life and times of the amazing Errol Clifford.


Thursday, May 31, 2007

Laughing out loud


One day, Errol may talk. For now, at 14 months, there are no words, but there is plenty of laughter. Today was an especially uproarious day: Mama's songs, Errol's bouncer (think baby, not bar), and his favorite dinner (lima beans and sorrel - go figure), made him shake with laughter. Errol's happiness is audible and ubiquitous. I write Errol's story because Errol can't, and although he has no words (yet), Errol's smile tells you all you need to know.

3 comments:

Unknown said...

After a long read, two tearful eyes and one quick trip to wikipedia to look up "sorrel," I am touched by your joy and strength. Thank you.

Anonymous said...

HI Jonathan,

It was great to run into you at breakfast the other day, and then I saw the article about your blog. Errol is as handsome in his photos as he is in person, and Owen has million-dollar hair. I wish you and Cary the best. I hope we cross paths again sometime.

Kelly

Anonymous said...

Dear Jonathan,

Thank you for your blog. Errol is so cute as is Owen! My son, RJ, was also born with RTS. He is now 7. He too is truly a gift though his big sister doesn't always think so.

By the way,the smiling never stops.