Bernard passed away on October 3, 2019 at the age of 15, following a long battle with multiple severe forms of mitochondrial syndrome.

The battles that Bernard fought may outnumber those of several lifetimes, as the syndrome is a progressive one without effective treatment or cure.  A child is supposed to GROW, and yet, Bernard was at WAR against LOSING from the beginning of his life. He won the battle with bone marrow failure at age 3; thereafter, he went through countless tests and treatments with great courage and rare bravery.  He held out hope that a medical miracle would bring recovery; that he could walk again, just like any other kids. Through all the struggles, Bernard was fiercely independent and dignified, and refused any help if he could do things on his own. Bernard was a true fighter.

Bernard was also a boy of giving - he loved to share food and goodies with neighbors and friends; Bernard was a boy of compassion – who cared about people who were suffering in fictions as well as in real life; Bernard was a boy with a quirky sense of humor, and made us all laugh with him. Bernard was a boy of adventure – he particularly enjoyed helicopter ride, waterpark, boating, fishing, travel and exotic cuisines, up to the point he could still move.

Bernard had a short life filled with unimaginable challenges; but Bernard also had an extraordinary life because of these challenges and the tremendous love and care he received from so MANY. Bernard was here on this earth to teach us that to LIVE is to LOVE .

Bernard now is in the arms of the angels and surrounded by God's love. We are all going to miss him, missing his fighting spirit, stubborn defiance and his smile.