I have been very apprehensive to post to this and I have been wanting to since i discovered this site almost a year ago. I felt almost as if I shouldn’t because I did not know Dillon very closely, but, his death has made an impact in my life. I met dillon, and his cousin, Dylan, at a Costa Rican airport. After a long trip, many of us were waiting on our flight that had been delayed over and over. I remember seeing Dillon sleeping on a bag that took the shape of a surf board. For some odd reason I took special notice of him. I wondered who he was and what he was about but the thought was gone in a flash when I focused back onto my reality. Just a stranger. I saw Dillon every once and a while as I, and many other passengers, waited for hours. I took notice of him again for a brief moment and then returned to whatever it was that i was doing to make the time pass. When the plane was finally boarded and in flight I heard the whispers of excitement from Dillon and Dylan, behind me, “Dude, shes playing a gameboy!”. About a half hour before landing, a note was passed my way “will you go out with me? check []yes []no [] maybe, love dillon.” I laughed and looked back to see that warming smile that everyone loves. I checked “maybe” and sent it back. As Dillon pretended to act shy, Dylan asked if I would play cards with them. As we played, we talked and got to know eachother. When we landed in Miami, we said our goodbyes and “nice to meet you’s”. A one time acquaintance and really cool guy was all he was to me up to that point. Later, I ran into them in the baggage claim area and approaching me with that awesome smile he asked me for my phone number and myspace. we chatted a little more, I hugged them both, and we were on our seperate ways to our seperate coasts. When i got home, i never expected him to actually call me. Right then, i knew there was something awesome about this kid. we had a great conversation and consistently kept in touch online. I promised him one day I would visit him in California and he was always welcome to visit me in D.C. As time went by and we became consumed in our seperate lives, our communication decreased but did not completely fade. One day, i spoke to a friend of mine about going to california that summer since i had finally had the money. She agreed and the first person i wanted to tell was Dillon. On july 9th, 2007 I went on his facebook to leave a comment, “Dillon!! I’m coming to visit you!!” but before I sent my comment I noticed a few comments below implying he had been in an accident. My first thought was this was a joke or something that i just wasnt in on. After hours of investigating, trying to find some clue as to whether it was true or not I finally came across a facebook group, “Rest in Paradise DIllon Henry”. The entire explanation was there. Unfortunately since my only connection to Dillon was Dillon himself, this is how i found out about his death. I was in instant shock. I cried like I had never cried before. For months and even every now and then, I, among many others I am sure, mourned for him. I didn’t understand the emotion I was experiencing. This boy I hardly knew but knew so well at the same time. I felt like he was meant to be in my life–a wierd feeling I just can’t explain. The little time I had to get to know him is special to me. I continue to learn about him, especially through this site. I’ve never met a person like DIllon Henry and I firmly believe that there is a reason that God put us in that Costa Rican airport together that day. After his death, I was able to see the outpour of well deserved love and admiration for this boy. He inspired me and I know he has inspired many. One day, I will visit him. I promised him, and I will. Although this is beyond past due, i know that there is still hurting and my heart goes out to his family, his friends, and his cousin Dylan.

Love,

Christina
Admin reply: Your message was just what we needed to help brighten our day and we wanted to thank you for writing. It really meant a lot to us…can you please send us your Email address, so we can respond to you in greater depth? (Harriettz@aol.com)

love to you in D.C.
Dillon’s Mom (Harriet ) & Dad (Steve)