Tribute to Gavin O'Brien
There are some people in our lives who touch us deeply and Gavin was one of those...I met Gavin through Debra Qld over 12 years ago when my daughter was born with EB. Over the years Gavin became a great ambassador for debra, an advocate, a friend and part of the debra family.
Gavin was always humble, quiet and a true gentleman. It was typical of Gavin to think of everyone else and you would rarely hear him complain. He spoke highly of his family who promoted his independence. He would tell me how appreciative he was of the support he got from his family, friends and community, and he spoke affectionately of his mother Maureen and step father Kenny.
Gavin mentioned some years ago that it was his goal to drive a car and live independently. This passion was started by his good friend Allan taking him 4WDing and riding in David Hagan’s hotted up Ford. He would tell me fondly of how game his sister Renae was to take him on driving lessons which he loved.
Gavin’s scooter was his pride and joy. After passing some police one day with a radar, Gavin asked them to clock his speed as he zoomed passed them. He turned out to be travelling much faster than usually allowed on a scooter, but the police let him off in good jest. I reminded Gavin that Debra did not mind supporting him with dressings , equipment and camps but we would not cover any speeding fines...he took this all in good fun as it was intended.
We will miss Gavin; his quiet nature, cheeky grin and his love of life. I think we have all learnt a lot from him; that life is for living and it is not how many years you live but what you fit into those years. Through knowing Gavin it will make us even more determined to find a way for families living with EB to live a life free of pain and ultimately to, one day, find a cure.
Farewell Gavin - we are all a little richer for having known you.
Sue McKenna
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