Steve Matejko

One of my closest friends is Jo Batten who lived with and nannied Austin in his early years. We (my sister Louise and I) were invited to stay with Laurie, Gregg and Austin (who was about 2 or 3 then) in the mid 90's. Coming from the UK it was my first time to the States and Laurie and Gregg made a great impression on us, their hospitality and warmth was incredible. Austin was a cheeky little chap and full of zest even at that age. He was undeniably the centre of all things and the love his parents had for him was evident to all of us; what a memorable stay we had with them. Gregg driving us around everywhere and Laurie introducing us to cranberry juice for the first time, which was so novel to us Brits. One night, me, Louise and Jo went out on a serious drinking session and all felt absolutely terrible the next morning. Austin woke us with his morning call and Jo looked at me and said how am I going to get up and do this? Next voice we heard was Laurie's 'Don't worry Jo, I'll see to him' Jo's prayers were answered as she rested her throbbing head back on the pillow. Laurie and Gregg, it was a genuine privilege to have met you and your son Austin. We were kept up to date by Jo over the years of Austin's progress through life and have been following the tragic events of the past week on an almost hourly basis. We are so sorry for your loss and we're supporting Jo to help our great friend through this time of grief too. Hope one day to meet you again. Love from England, Steve