The Baker Family expresses gratitude for community support of Stephen ’20
In a time of darkness, the Bishop Hendricken community is a shining light. This was brought home over the past two weeks when Stephen Baker ’20 was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma. Our community immediately enveloped the Baker family with its love and warmth. Led by Christopher Cox ’20, our senior men jumped into action with a GoFundMe page, raising $10,000 for the Baker family. WPRI 12 will be doing a story on Steve and his courageous fight in the coming days.
The Baker family is a very special gift to us and to St. Kevin Parish and School. Stephen has led the way in his years at Hendricken. As a school community rooted in the Gospel, built on a Savior who loved the sick and reached out to them, we are grateful for Chris and all those who spearheaded this effort to assist the family and to show our love, support, and prayers. The moving Facebook video featured below, watched in the hospital room by a tearful mom and smiling Stephen, shows once again that Hendricken cares, and once a Hawk always a Hawk. Our prayers are with this courageous young man every day until he returns to us healthy and smiling again.
The Bakers have asked me to share the letter below, along with their profound gratitude to our Hendricken family.
Fr. Robert L. Marciano, KHS ’75
President
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Hello everyone!
As you know, Stephen has been diagnosed with stage two Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. He started his first treatment cycle on April 8th and is doing well so far. He had a minor setback a few days ago that landed him back in the hospital. I am hoping to take him home this weekend to his father and brothers that patiently await him.
Stephen’s diagnosis came to us on April 1st. That night, support started pouring in from loving family, friends, co-workers, and our beloved Hendricken and St. Kevin communities!
On April 2nd, we met with the oncologist at the Tomorrow Fund to discuss Stephen’s treatment plan. On the way to our appointment, I received a phone call from an administrator at Bishop Hendricken. He was calling to inform me that the seniors had reached out and wanted to help Stephen and our family in some way. I expressed our gratitude and asked for prayers.
The following day, I received another phone call to inform us that the senior class had started a GoFundMe page for Stephen. I was taken back at first, and then asked myself, “why would that surprise me?”
Stephen’s last four years at Bishop Hendricken have been a blessing to say the least. The friendships and bonds that have been created are a priceless gift, not only to Stephen, but to our entire family. The dedicated teachers and staff work tirelessly to help parents develop our sons in heart, mind, soul, and body. This community not only embraces God’s word, but more importantly, lives it. These young men are remarkable, they are selfless, and they are constantly using their gifts and talents to help others.
Our family is so grateful for all the special people who have enriched Stephen’s life from the very beginning to present day. We all play an important role in each other’s lives, no matter how big or small. I simply cannot express in words the heartfelt gratitude my husband and I feel for everyone’s love, prayers, support, and generosity. These are very surreal times we live in, but it is such a privilege to be surrounded by so many people who genuinely care and want to help despite the crosses they may carry, especially during these times.
You are all in our thoughts, and again, we cannot thank you enough for your prayers and kindness!!!
Warm regards,
Steve, Kerry, Autumn, Stephen ‘20,
Ryan ‘22, Zachary ‘23, and Ethan (6th SKS)
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[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-8Xw_HOfvU[/embedyt]