Winner of "CAT Scan" Oil Painting Announced at Pig Roast!
Winner of Raffle for the “CAT Scan” Oil Painting was announced! Dawn B. Dwyer, Derik’s Aunt and the artist of the painting presented the painting to Viv Hageman at the Pig Roast Benefit for Derik Saturday evening July 31, 2010.
Derik Congratulating Viv on Winning
Derik congratulating Viv Hageman on winning the “CAT Scan” oil painting. Oh but wait … there is much more to this story.
The Winner, Viv Hageman surprises Derik with the Painting!
Viv, is such a thoughtful and giving person. She told Dawn in advance that she wanted to give the painting to Derik. She said, “Although the painting is beautiful it really belongs with Derik, it was painted for him and it is about him and even named by his father.” So after a photo was taken with Viv, Derik and the artist, Dawn, Viv turned and said to Derik that she wanted him to have it.
Derik giving a big hug to Viv for her generous gift!
Derik naturally said, “No, no … it’s yours Viv” But after Viv insisted Derik gave Viv a big hug!
And a big kiss for Viv!
And a big kiss for Viv! This is really a heart warming story that surrounds the painting “CAT Scan” and its ultimate journey to Derik. So many people were a part of this incredible journey through their donations that were made prior to the raffle, the generous people who offered their time by collecting donations for the raffle and of course for Viv who maded this thoughtful gift back to Derik.
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September 30, 2010
Sadly on the morning of September 30, 2010 Derik lost his battle with Burkitt’s Lymphoma at the age of 23 years old. Derik did not like being alone in the hospital and seemed to always have a crowd around him when you visited him. When he passed, he was not alone. The room was filled with his mother and father, sister, aunts and uncles, cousins and very close friends.
His passing was a surprise to friends and family because with all the love, prayers and support we thought for sure he would be a survivor of this cancer. We were all comforted by the love and support that he received during his time of need. On Thursday, October 7, 2010 there was a Celebration of Derik’s Life at the same location that we held the Pig Roast Benefit. Once again there was a large group of friends and family that gathered to share their stories of how Derik touched their lives and what knowing him has meant to them. It felt very good to hear what a special person Derik was and how many lives he touched during his short life. It was also said at the “Celebration of Derik’s Life” that although his life was short, his purpose was fulfilled in the 23 years he was here, as he lived his life to the fullest and with a great smile on his face. His smile and spirit made an impression on all of us.
We believe that Derik is in a better place now and his spirit will live on inside so many of us.
Dawn B Dwyer, Artist 