My connection to Aaron started in 1985 when my family invited a teenage girl named Colleen McCarthy into our home. She was quickly accepted as a part of the East family.  Throughout the years we stayed in touch but in the early 2000s I had an opportunity to work closely with Colleen and Reed. My brothers and sister had always been known as uncles and aunts to Aaron. He always called me a Uncle Matt which I gladly accepted. Throughout that season of life I got to know little Aaron pretty well. He was a sweet kid with a knack for pushing the limits but always winning you over with that sweet smile and cute squinty eyes.  He had a passionate love for his mom and dad. They defended their son with the passion of lioness defending her cubs. When the season of our life in which we worked together was over we went our separate ways.  However I never lost the connection of considering Aaron my nephew and Colleen and Reed as family.  I will always remember that sweet young man that was taken far to soon. I love ya buddy and hope to see you soon. 

Uncle Matt