Featured Letter: Thomas Cutinella’s parents thank the community

We wanted to thank our family, friends, neighbors and SWR community for all their love and support during this very difficult time. We continue to truly appreciate the generosity not only given to our family, but to our football family as well. 

For those of you who may not have known Thomas, he was a truly amazing and unique person. He was a selfless person who always went out of his way to lift someone’s spirits, let them know they were important and let them know he was there for them. He just knew, he just understood and he never took anything for granted. Thomas loved his friends, cherished his family and valued his country. He touched so many lives and we know that he will continue to touch more lives each and every day.

Thomas was tragically taken from us after getting hit during a Varsity football game. The outpouring of love and support we received was tremendous. A scholarship fund under The SWR Wildcat Athletic Club at youcaring.org has been set up to honor Thomas and all that he stood for. To help another student who exemplifies Thomas’ character and morals would not only be an honor to recognize, we treasure the opportunity to help them in some way achieve their goals and dreams.

Thomas was always a giver with tremendous leadership qualities in the classroom, on the athletic field and in the community. He had many ideas and dreams of his own. This was the only draft we found on Thomas’ computer and we felt obligated to share it. This was a club that he wished to have started. Maybe people in your own community could implement the idea and start some type of club in Thomas’ name in their own school.

It went as follows …

It was in the beginning stages, but Thomas would have been honored to see people go forward with this idea in his name. He said it best in his ending remark.

Thank you all again for your continued love and support. Together as a family and community we hope to continue to try and heal. Please keep Thomas’ legacy alive and be the best that you can be.