Mason Ott

July 6, 1983 -- September 11, 2000

Tomorrow will mark a year since I lost my cousin. I thought I would look up on the information about the disease, and I stumbled about this site. I read all the different stories about people who have been affected by the disease. I want to share my story.

My cousin was the sweetest, active, fun guy I knew. His case was unlike others. He didn´t have time to think it was the flu or go to the doctor. Mason felt sick during the day on Sunday. He felt well enough to go to his girlfriends house, and watch a football game with his dad. After watching the game he went upstairs to take a shower. His dad went upstairs to check on him. After telling his dad "I don´t feel so good" Mason´s mom called an ambulance. These were Mase´s last words. He went unconscience. His dad tried to revive him and give CPR. The ambulance arrived, unfortunately Mason died at 2:00 a.m. that night. The story of his death couldn´t be any longer. Mason´s life was taken too fast.

I can´t even tell you what it is like to loose him. Everything aches when I think about him. And now, a year later, knowing only time can heal, I don´t feel that much better. I just hope that other people can learn about the disease, and help their children, friends, and realtives. I don´t want anyone to go through what I am going through or what my family is feeling right now.

Marta Ott