I’m so sad to tell you the heart breaking news that Fr. Gerry passed away yesterday.  Caitlin and I visited him at the hospital last weekend, after returning from Haiti.  I am so grateful we had that time together.  He was unconscious, so we weren’t able to talk with him.  But it still was a very special, important time.

There are no words to describe this loss.  Fr. Gerry and I have worked closely together for a little over nine years.  His vision of a food program for the hungry children in his community is what inspired me and got the What If? Foundation started.  Gerry was a close friend and mentor and is the most courageous person I’ve ever known.  He lived his faith every day, put “word into deed”, and taught me endless lessons in patience, compassion, love, and hope.  I am so incredibly sad and the reality is just beginning to settle in.

Years ago, he passed on the day-to-day operations of the food and education programs we fund to dedicated, excellent leaders in the St. Clare’s community, who run them beautifully.  Together, we are committed to continuing Fr. Gerry’s vision of providing hope and opportunity to the impoverished children in Haiti.   I know his spirit will guide us as we continue to take steps towards change.

I’ll share more in future blogs, including news of my recent trip to Port-au-Prince.  (Caitlin and I were not able to blog from Haiti after the first day due to internet connection problems.)

Margaret Trost – Executive Director, What If? Foundation