It’s crazy how time flies. This year marks the 6^th year since Jon left us. We decided to burn or “Set free” the paper cranes Lavinia so lovingly folded for Jon many years ago.  It was bittersweet because It seemed like burning something was like getting rid of it, like you didn’t want it anymore. But I realized it was not like that at all, it was about setting free just like how over the past years we released birds.

9.08.2012 – 6 years already brother. and not a day goes by I don’t think of you.

Everyday as I go about doing my own thing. I always pause and think hmm. What would Jon do today? “Aiya, he’ll definitely be taking out the Mini and drive his friends around.”  Or  “ Oh, Jon has his band practice today with Mubin and Danial, for that new gig they got at Publika. “ haha. Or “ He’s studying journalism over in UK. “ haha, oh well I miss you Jon. These 6 years without you have taught me that I have bigger responsibilities as the oldest in the family.  And that everything I do, before I make a decision  I think of what would my older brother do? Because honestly being the oldest is not fun. No one to look up to or talk to about stuff guys our age do. or just be bros and pick on each other. Well, that’s part of the journey without you. Miss you Jon. LOVE YOU LONG TIME.




Contributed by Zane and Summer

On the same night, Mum decided to burn the cranes made by Kelvin's friend Lavinia. These were made when jon was still in hospital receiving treatment. Burning the cranes symbolizes setting them free, letting JON's birds free. They have been ' caged ' for 6 years. So, with  Jon's pink candle for light we burned the cranes free. 'twas MAGICAL.

Happy Birthday, Jon!

On the 26 day of July, Jon would have been 22 years old and this year we had a few special appearances. Juss who have just come home for good from London, and recently passed his Bar. Jeremy back for the first time from Oklahom, also graduated in Engineering coupled with the good news that he will be continuing with his Masters in NYU. And Issac from Vancouver. Later Julian @ Snow Man also came who will leave for Dakota to begin his studies in piloting in his dream uni. Not forgetting Tiny Jon Liew, our newest member of the Liew family who was gifted to Bernie in May. Others who were with us were Poh-Poh, Unc Mike, Aunty Alice, Aunty Juju (Jon's affectionate name for his aunt), Berns, Yee Chai, Uncle Boy, cousins Jams, Dan, Euverne, Chyen and Owen. Our friends Janet and Sonny, Shahnaz and Aishah. 

Dr Morrie from "Tuesdays with Morrie" said "death can take a life, but not a relationship". When Jeremy was invited to cut the birthday cake and whose own birthday fell on the 25th, he shared that he would have loved to know Jon better (as through football they discovered each other and that they were cousins only months before Jon's cancer). He couldn't forget Jon and that he continues to be a guiding example for him.

Juss was also invited to do the second cutting whose birthday we celebrated on the 3rd, shared that Jon is yet to be replaced as a best friend, confidante, cousin and often thinks of him when he is studying or when he feels alone.

Uncle Mike then led us in prayer.

For me, I saw Jon in everyone who were there, reminding me that his life lives on. I still miss him. And no matter how my day has been, Jon remains my first and last thought for the day.

Happy birthday, son.