OPINION | Barry Richard: Dying 9 Yr. Old Wants Christmas Cards

Perhaps you've heard the story of Jacob Thompson.  Perhaps you have not. Either way here it is.

9 year old Jacob Thompson of Saco, Maine is expected to die before Christmas, his favorite holiday.  The spirited youngster has been diagnosed with stage four neuroblastoma, a death sentence.  The cancer is spreading rapidly and has now impacted his hip and his head.  His family has decorated his room at the Barbara Bush Children's Hospital for the coming holiday that Jacob most likely will miss.

Jacob has one last request before he passes.  He's asked that people send him Christmas cards. Tens of thousands already have.   His favorite animal is the penguin.  Many of the cards and gifts that have arrived at Jacob's bedside are penguin themed.  His parents say anything send to Jacob will be shared within the cancer community.

Perhaps before the stress of the malls and the parties creeps into your holiday psyche you can take a moment and appreciate the season for what it is intended to be about and that is the joy of giving.

Send a card to Jacob and I guarantee your holidays will be a whole lot brighter.

Jacob Thompson

C/O Maine Medical Center

22 Bramhall Street

Portland, Maine  04102

Editor's Note: Barry Richard is the afternoon host on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from Noon-3pm. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.