**Update, 10/29/08 – Ezra’s memorial service
**UPDATE, 3 p.m. — Added comments from Blizzard Entertainment in “Blizzard offers condolences to Warcraft fan who died of cancer“**
Ezra Chatterton, who many readers got to know in May 2007 when Blizzard Entertainment granted his wish, died this week after a nearly 20-month struggle with brain cancer.
Ezra fought to the end, says his father, Micah (both pictured on right), who has kept us updated throughout the ordeal.
I remember meeting Ezra at Blizzard’s headquarters last year. The then 10-year-old didn’t dwell on his cancer or feel sorry for himself. He was much more interested in relaying his character ideas to Blizzard’s artists and developers. His wish? To create a character in the World of Warcraft. Read the original story at “Blizzard makes WoW wish a reality.”
His father, Micah, wanted to say thanks to all WoW players who offered support, plus the non-Warcraft readers who offered kind words. Micah, a writer himself, also wrote a tribute to his son to share with readers. This came from Micah this morning:
Ezra died at 9:45 on Monday night. The cancer attacked those portions of the brain that control breathing, and his lungs eventually shut down. He was conscious until the very end, and though he couldn’t speak, he could still communicate with me through hand gestures and nods. Ezra was in pain, gasping for breath, and very scared, but up to a few hours before he died, he was asking for ice cream and choosing the things I read to him. As much as I feared the cancer would take his mind and memory away from him, he held onto those as long as he could.
The ironies are sickening. Ezra’s mind was always his greatest strength, and stayed strong even as his brain was malfunctioning. His spirit and his will to live life well grew so amazing powerful all the way to the point that his life was taken from him. No one I have ever met was as talented at finding the bright side of a horrible situation, adapting his worldview to whatever new hardship befell him, and generally milking every last drop of happiness he could out of life as Ezra, and he’s the one who is taken. The one person in my life who most loved living and was most exceptionally gifted at it, and he’s the one who is taken.
I say these things because I am in pain, because I miss my son so much, and because Ezra’s death is an undeniable tragedy. It is the world’s loss that he doesn’t get to do more, and fulfill his great potential. But I also hope that I can learn from his example. When Ezra couldn’t walk anymore, he turned to World of Warcraft. When he couldn’t see, he turned to music, or our pets, or food, or directing me to play World of Warcraft for him. The trick was that, as his world got smaller, he just looked at it more closely. If I am to take any shred of good from this suffering, I’ll have to learn from him.
I hope to honor my son by learning to love my life as much as he did. It will take a long time to get to that point, especially now that my greatest joy is gone, but Ezra would demand it of me. I ask the WoW community, who have been so generous and kind to us, to please help me honor Ezra by doing the same in your hearts. Ezra’s sickness and painful death was a tragedy, an experience that showed me a glimpse of how easily suffering can invade your life, but his response to it showed me how a strong will can overcome that suffering. As well, the outpouring of love from all WoW players all over the globe showed me how wonderful people can be to someone they’ve never met. Our bodies are fragile, but our hearts are incredibly strong. A tumor the size of a raisin is enough to destroy the brain, but our minds are so much more powerful and immense than the brain.
My son, Ezra Phoenix Chatterton, Ephoenix the Hunter, Squirlanator the Mage, is gone. All we have left in this world are memories of him. Please remember that he was a good person, smart and clever but also very kind, that he loved to play World of Warcraft, that he loved rice pudding and fettucine alfredo, and that he went through so much pain and still found ways to smile all the way to the end. Please remember too the kindness of Blizzard, and the overwhelming love of the WoW community. Without these gifts, Ezra would still have found a way to be happy and optimistic, just not as easily.
Thank you all for helping him through the suffering.
Sincerely,
Micah Chatterton
The Ezra Chatterton archive:
- Oct. 29, 2008: Ezra’s memorial service
- Oct. 24, 2008: Blizzard offers condolences to Warcraft fan who died of cancer
- Oct. 24, 2008: A father’s tribute to Ezra, the World of Warcraft fan with brain cancer
- Aug. 21, 2008: Ezra Update: WoW fan with cancer suffers stroke
- June 15, 2008: WoW fan’s cancer spreads but family remains upbeat
- Feb. 29, 2008: Ezra update: Still recovering, playing World of Warcraft
- Sept. 28, 2007: Ezra Update: Warcraft fan has ups and downs
- July 18, 2007: Ezra update: Warcraft fan with cancer turns 11
- June 13, 2007: UPDATE: Condition of Warcraft fan with cancer improves
- May 31, 2007, Big screen for Ezra?
- May 25, 2007: Fund for Warcraft fan with cancer set up
- May 23, 2007: Gamers show their support for Ezra
- May 22, 2007: Images of Ezra’s WoW creations, thanks to Blizzard developers
- May 22, 2007: The original story and slideshow:Blizzard makes WoW wish virtual
Subscribe to The Blizzard Blog
Godspeed little guy!!!
A beautiful tribute.
Michah,
My heart goes out to you. I know there are no words to make things better. I lost my mother to brain cancer in 2000. After reading your son’s epic and heroic fight against it I revisited my own loss. Sad, horrific, touching, and painful, I hurt for you and your family. I recall feeling happy, that she no longer had to suffer…go get your wings kiddo…
May god bless you in your time of sadness and sorrow.
Although I have never met you or your son, I did read 1 article a while back regarding your son and WoW. Today as I read this story and your tribute, I was over comed with grief and sorrow and started to cry.
I am at a loss for words, and if I tried to continue it may get all messed up………….!
God Speed Ezra, may you run free and suffer no more!
God bless you Mr. Chatterton
Azeroth lost a mighty warrior this day. This is a loss that leaves a void in the online gaming community that will never be filled. /salute to you on your final logout little buddy.
Rest in peace young man. You fought a good battle until the end. My prayers are with the Chatterton family during this difficult time.
RIP Ezra
Aww, that’s sad. RIP.
Ezra, your courage is legendary. You have played this game very well and have proven yourself worthy. You may now advance to the next level leaving us behind with much respect and admiration.
This is really sad, I’m sorry to see this young warrior pass away. I remember when Blizzard gave this kid a really cool tour & did a bunch of cool things for him in game. What a bummer!
“Did he drop any good lewt?”
Sorry wanted to get that in before everyone else did.
My condolences to the Chatterton Family. Ezra seemed like a remarkable young man. I can’t imagine the pain of losing a child as I don’t have kids of my own. But if I did, I’d want them to be gifted with the same qualities that Ezra had. Outgoing, positive, smart and creative. I pray the Lord lays a hand of comfort upon the shoulders of every person that met Ezra and feels his absence. I ask this of WoW players that see this; in honor of this young man…step away from your game for a day and go outside and live. In his name, give. In his name make a difference in someone’s life for just a day. You never know, that one day could be the first of many that you do this. Think of the lives you could touch and help make better.
I will hold a moment of silence with my guild tonight in his honor.
May he rest in peace.
I actually started to cry when I read this. And I havn’t cried since 9/11. Props to the guys at blizzards for what they did, and god bless Ezra’s family. I’m sure he’s happy now in heaven.
Micah, your website has reached its bandwidth limit so I cannot visit you there. I have four children, including an 11-year old girl. I’ve been so fortunate that mine have been healthy. Please know that The Dark Disciples on US-Skywall will be honoring your son the next few days, and stand guard over Ahab to protect him from harm. May God bless you and yours, and stand by you in your difficult time. I cry as I type this.
GOD BLESS YOU ! You have the my heart in tears . Your strength to your son is a great tribute to people all over the world.Thanks for telling your story.This is a sad day for us but a great day for God as he has a true angel at his side !God Bless you and yours.
[...] Orange County Register’s Blizzard Blog has posted a message from Micah Chatterton, father of Ezra “Epheonix” Chatterton, who, as we reported yesterday, passed away [...]
Travel well.
Bless you Ezra, and you too, Micah. You have more courage than most ordinary people, and I hope you find peacefulness and love through out this tragedy, my thoughts are with you.
Strength and Honor
Good luck and God Bless you and your family.
My family’s thoughts are with you.
Micah
As a father of an 8 year old boy, your story and pain really touched me.
Ezra seems like a remarkable boy, much like my own. I cannot imagine the pain you are feeling, but know that an entire community of millions of people will fondly remember your son. It’s something i’m sure would make him happy.
I will remember Ezra and think of him often. Godspeed.
I cried when I read his story. It is a human story that tugs at the very soul of all of us. Nothing in life prepares us for death, especially that of ones son or daughter. Ezra will live on in our minds and memories. Only recently have I learned courage. Ezra had it all along. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family Micah. No amount of words can soothe and abate your suffering. But remember, many of us feel and pray for you.
Respectfully,
Ian
Shorel’aran.
Mr. Chatterton, all I can say is I bet your son is as proud of his dad as you clearly are of him. And yes, I use the present tense because no spirit so bright is ever truly lost from this world, or the people who love him. I need to go finish having a good cry, now. My warmest thoughts for you and yours in your time of grief. I hope having so much of the world share it with you lessens your pain at least a little.
Like many passed before us, Ezra, your legacy will live on. Thank you for inspiring us with your will to live and unrelenting spirit towards your life, I am sure fragments of that will be carried on in the World of Warcraft community. Scott from New Zealand.
May you walk with the earthmother always. Strength and honor Ephoenix.
To his father, I can only say I am deeply, deeply sorry for your loss. Words are not enough to express my sympathies.
[...] the World of Warcraft fan with terminal brain cancer whom Blizzard memorialized in-game, has died. My son, Ezra Phoenix Chatterton, Ephoenix the Hunter, Squirlanator the Mage, is gone. All we have [...]
I am saddened that I didn’t get the opportunity to log in and say hello. I only learned of this just yesterday.
/hug
[...] Blizzard Blog has posted a message from Ezra’s father following his passing on Monday. The community was greatly moved by his [...]
Godspeed Ezra!!!
My thoughts and condolences to his family in this hour of need.
peace, you will be missed.
The Horde lost one of their mightiest warriors.
Your Lok’vadnod shall ring through the spirits and be known even in the heavens.
A star has fallen and all the wolrd weeps for his missing light.
Micah,
Micah,
As a parent, Ezra’s story breaks my heart. I grieve for your loss. He sounds like a remarkable boy and your pride and love shines in every word you wrote about him. Whereever he is now, I’m sure its someplace happy and safe, where he is free of pain and fear.
His bravery and love of life is an example to all of us. I hope we’ll also appreciate the lives we have and spread as much love and happiness as we can.
Ezra and you will remain in the hearts and minds of a lot of people, myself included.
My your soul rest in peace Ezra, thank you for what you have contributed to the Hunter community around the world.
My condolences to the family in this trying time.
Sorean
Canada
My you find peace in the pain that you feel,
My love heal your broken heart,
A Star has fallen for the life that was cut way too short.
My thought and prayers go with you and tears are being spilled all over the world with the sad new of the loss of your amazing son. May God help you in your time of need and heal the devastating pain in your heart.
Go With Honor, Friend!
Aka’Magosh, Ezra. Strength and Honor.
/salute
Micah,
Through suffering God teaches us many things. He has given us a wonderful thing called “time” - and time will heal your wounds. Time will ease your suffering. Until then…I cry with you, I suffer with you. Though you may not have meant to you have graciously allowed us to share your pain, and I for one am glad to do so. My God bless you and your family.
Ezra - God Speed - and know that we all will remember you - its least we can do.
/Farewell
Our condolences to the family and those close to Ephoenix.
Wind to thy wings, fellow hunter. May the spirit of your pet guide you to the stars.
It saddens me to see such a young and strong person pass.
Ezra’s strength will always be imprinted on us.
Godspeed, little one. May you Rest in Peace
Micah, your family and loved ones are in our prayers. We were all touched by Ephoenix’s story, and the entire WoW community mourns with you.
Tonight’s Kara raid is for Ephoenix!
Micah,
The entire WoW community was touched by Ezra’s life. Your family and loved ones are in our prayers.
Tonight’s Kara raid is for Ephoenix, may he rest in peace.
This boys life has touched many. He was and inspiration to all. He was loved by all Horde and alliance alike.
I was very saddened by this news and feel deeply for you.
In my opinion and if others agree maybe we should all contact blizzard.
Blizzard should put a statue in all cities on all realms a tribute to this brave boy.
They did so much for him. And this final thing would be oh so nice a final tribute for one and all to always see that one final tribute to Ephoenix. R.I.P and God Speed.
[...] have been leaving tributes all day to honor Ezra Chatterton, the 12-year-old World of Warcraft fan who has left us too soon. Now, we [...]
It’s with a heavy heart and many tears that I /salute this mighty fellow hunter. Happy hunting in heaven young Ezra. I can’t think of a more appropriate time to quote Alice’s Poem:
Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am in a thousand winds that blow,
across Northrend’s bright and shining snow.
I am the gentle showers of rain,
on Westfall’s fields of golden grain.
I am in the morning hush,
of Stranglethorn’s jungle, green and lush.
I am in the drums loud and grand,
the thunderous hooves across Nagrand.
I am the stars warmly gleaming,
over Darnassus softly dreaming.
I am in the birds that sing,
I am in each lovely thing.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there. I do not die.
As a mom of a 10 year old boy and a wow player, I am overwhelmingly saddened to imagine the last moments of Ezra’s life. I wish he did not have to suffer from fear as he passed over. This touches my heart and I am hoping so much that his spirit is free and happy now. No child deserves to go through this kind of suffering. I am so sorry for your loss . I will go in game and pay tribute to the charactor and the quest that he created. I will think of your son, when I see my son today. I will try to be as fair and decent a parent to my son as I know you were to your boy. I am terribly, terribly sorry that you did not get to keep him in your life and see him grow up.
Rest in peace little guy. May the light be with you always.
/salute
/kneel
=(
Warcraft can be a highly addictive game that can seriously hurt a child’s grades and social skills. Their parental controls suck.
That being said, the game brought happiness in this situation & this reminds me of what life is really about. RIP…
I’m very sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing this story with us.
Rest in Peace Ezra. I’m sorry for what has happened. But, try not to remember how he passed but remember how he lived. GodSpeed. Micah, I couldn’t ever imagine what it’s like to lose a son. Remember on those days the sun is shining down on you, thats your son smiling and looking out for you.
Strength and honor friend.
As an atheist, I cannot offer your son prayers or the promise of eternal life, but there is a universal truth we can all understand: The beauty of life, and the power of the human spirit. Your son has died, and has left a legacy that will be remembered by millions. Whether Alliance or Horde, we are all human beings, who look out for each other and mourn the loss of one of our own.
I offer you my dearest condolences, and I am glad to understand from your response o the WoW community that you enjoyed every moment with Ezra, and cherished him. He deserved the love and attention not just from you, but from the millions of us all over the world.
-Rodivh,
Moon Guard
Your story has touched me from the very begining, when I first read about what Blizzard and Make a Wish done for you guys. I remember going out and doing the Kyle’s Gone Missing quest shortly after I read about it. I have kept up with the story ever since. So it pains me for the word of your passing to have reached my ears. My sympathy goes out the the father and family for this mighty warrior. Rest a sure that this young man is now resting with out pain, with out misery, surrounded by eternal happiness.
As a tribute to Ezra, I will be taking my guild out to Mulgore where we shall pay our final respects. Lok’Tar my little friend.
-A friend from Garona
Looking back two years ago, when i first read the artical about him and Blizzard, I can remember only one thing which is: God, what a snotty kid… Now thinking about, I realized how immature I was and only really cared about myself. Thanks to Ezra I realized that the world isn’t fair, and how wrong it was of me to think of that. Reading this artical really touched me, and actually I cried which is quite embaressing for a 16 year old boy., so good luck to you Micah, and remember your son is always with you.
My mother died of brain cancer as well three months ago. I couldn’t stop myself from crying through some of this article; my grief is still strong. I wish your family the best, may the remembrance of his strength provide you to go on without him.
Godspeed little guy. .
Strength and Honor my young friend,
I can only hope that there is a real bird of fire waiting for you on the other side.
Ride hard and ride well.
He and his story has had a tremendous impact on my life. I’m able to find meaning in each day that I am blessed with because of him. Ezra, his family and friends are all in my mind, heart, memories and prayers. Never forget him and his memory will live forever.
My mother died 6 years ago of cancer and she too showed the amazing spirit of people who see the positive side in any situation. Your son sounded a great kid who would, i have no doubt grown into a great man if he had the chance.
Sadly not to be, rest in peace Ezra, you humble us all in your bravery and spirit.
If bravery would have been enough you would have beat the disease in a second!
Ezra will be remembered by millions.
Prayers are with his family.
I am a chinese person,
I hope you have good lucky.
- -！ 祝愿你能够在天上玩WOW
一个来自中国玩家的祝福~！
Im form china
Even though I come from far away China, but your story touched me!
May God Bless You!
From China Xiangtan University
愿你的灵魂的到安息！
在梦中的艾泽拉斯！
继续你的战斗！
命运不可能把你击败！
你只不过是战死沙场！
去天堂找寻快乐！！！
�окой�� � ми�ом мален�кий о�о�ник.
From russian friend.
一路走好 希望你来世不会再有那么多痛苦
RIP! Ezra.
希望在天堂里找到属于你的那份幸福，天堂里你不会在痛苦，灵魂得到安息。一路平安。
I read Ezra’s story when it came out. I felt very happy.
Now I regret not meeting him ever
Good bye, Ezra.
一路走好~
愿风指引你的道路
WHATS HIS LOOT? EYEPATCH LOL
一路走好
！！！
唉 真是可怜
永远祝福你 WOW玩家永远是一家人
I want you hold you, so you don’t fall, Ezra, I want dry your tears if you feel sad or scared.
But now i don’t need to dry tears, ‘couse you don’t feel sorrow anymore.
You don’t need someone hold you anymore, ‘couse you have wings now.
Fly high, little one. Fly high.
You will be in our hearts.
一个人能实现自己的梦想是一生中最难的事情,梦想如果实现是对自己生命最大的肯定!愿你天堂快乐充实述说自己的故事!
God bless you.
That’s a tough story to hear. My utmost condolences to his family and friends. It may not be anything, but we can enjoy WotLK for Ezra. When Naxx gets cleared, it’ll be in Ezra’s memory.
艾泽拉斯大陆永远留下你的足迹。
best wishes for you .form china
一路走好！
I was almost brought to tears, I have a 9 year old daughter who lives in the states I miss her so much, after reading this moreso. Make realize how fargile we are and how precious life is.
Ezra, many blessings to you friend.
Greesting from Puerto Rico.
Urok
Virtus Et Honor Guild
Quel’thalas
希望你一路走好 中国玩家
希望你能在天堂过的快乐,Ezra.
来自中国的问候
默哀……
中国大陆＠六区＠海达希亚＠联盟＠暗夜精灵＠牧师＠陈少举
／祈祷
/pray
IM SO SAD!~一路走好！～
you are always in Azeroth~~
May you can also play wow and feel our blessings in heaven~~
best wishes to you~~
weiwei,from china
pray for you!
God bless you.
I for one am glad this kid is dead. It’s embarrassing looking at all these comments and people pretending to care about some kid they’ve never met.
天堂里有魔兽世界 魔兽世界里有天堂家族 归宿天堂是归属魔兽世界的伊始 中国大陆 二区 埃苏雷格 联盟 德莱尼 法师
天堂家族家长
Best wish . China .
Damn, i was really really hoping to read one day some headlines starting with Ezra’s miracle recovery…
My sincerest condolences go out to all his Family, he has shown us an example, that none of us will ever be able to follow. But we will sure as hell try.
Godspeed, little Man!
Condolences from Norway.
死亡并不可怕 小伙子 你很勇敢 虽然我们相隔甚远 但是 我很敬佩你 我比你大 但是如果我得了这种病 可能就不会那么乐观！你是最棒的 来世继续（魔兽世界）等着你的归来！
/salute
My sincerest condolences to you and you’re family Micah, may your little guy find peace wherever he goes, his story should be a testament to us all, no matter how bad we think we have it, someone else has it worse, but still tries their hardest to make the most of their life
godspeed Ezra, now take your place at the table of the gods of azeroth
中国网通2区阿迦玛甘服务器 长河飘雪 上帝眷顾他所爱的人
..b happy
希望来世继续你尚未完成的魔兽世界,祝福你在天堂找到一个好的归宿.
祝福你在天堂的日子还是那么的开心
愿你安息,无畏的勇士,你的宝宝将永远陪伴着你
thanks for your joining wow,showing your great bravery and strong mind, and we know your great story,this may guide us in our future life.
Thank you,Ezra,may you happiness in heaven.
再见，亲爱的魔兽世界玩家，永远怀念您！
愿圣光与你同在.
上帝有知,一定会将天堂里最好的位置留给你,孩子!
I am really saddened by your loss Micah. I never knew nor talked to you or Ezra, but I am truly and deeply saddened to hear that he has pass away. I remember first reading about you and your brave son when he was given the opportunity to be a developer for a day. I was overjoyed to hear that a large and wealthy company such as blizzard was able to do something so humble and noble for one of their own customers. I remember also wishing him the best and hoping that he would pull through this. Finding out that Ezra has passed away came as a real shock to me, it was much too early for him. He still had a full life ahead of him and it’s a cruel world that a tragedy like this can occur in. Reading this has brought tears to my eyes and made me sad beyong belief.
May god watch over you little tauren guy, i hope that you’re enjoying greener pastures and smiling down upon us. From the bottom of my heart, /moo
-Kaos-
祝福你在天堂也能快乐
Ezra,愿你在天堂一样快乐
Death is a horrible thing. It’s even worse when it happens to such young people. My condolences.
可以看出你很开心
我会记住你的
一个了不起的男孩
在过去的日子ＷＯＷ有你很精彩！
∩．∩
你的精神世界永存。
thanks for you teach me what is never give up!
祝愿你在天堂永远安宁，永远的朋友！
一路走好，虽然大家并不相识，但是我们都会记住你，为你祝福
走好吧朋友，中国玩家
虽然你在WoW中随风而去.迎着神圣之光走进了大地母亲的怀抱.但是请不要悲伤.要像WoW中的勇士一样坚强离去,因为在WoW中依然有着你的伙伴…他们都会永远的记着你…..安息吧….亲爱的小勇士!
你的故事我在杂志上看到过了，希望你在天国保重。
“ 我想要一把能发射火箭的弩，它能每10秒造成300点的伤害”。 保重吧，天国会有的。
Do not stand by grave and weep.I am not there. I do not sleep.
我是万千呼啸的风，飞过白雪皑皑的诺森德。
I am a thousand winds that blow ，across Northreand’s bright and shining snow.
我是柔和细腻的雨，洒落西部荒野的金色稻田。
I am the gentle showers of rain,on westfall’s fields of golden grain.
我是清幽安静的晨，弥漫在绿色茂盛的荆棘谷。
I am in the morning bush,of Stranglethorn’s jungle,green and lush.
我是威武雄壮的鼓，踏过无限草原纳格兰。
I am in the drums loud and grand,the thunderous hooves across nagrand.
我是温暖闪耀的星，照耀达纳苏斯的静谧长眠。
I am the stars warmly greaming,over Darnassus softly dreaming.
我是歌唱的鸟，我存在于一切的美好。
I am in the birds that sing,I am in each lovely thing.
不要站在我的墓前为我哭泣。我不在那里，我从未离去。
Do not stand at my grave and cry,I am not there.I do not die.
RIP Ezra
Condolences, and thank you for sharing.
聖光與你同在！十 阿門~
[...] Ezra一直与病魔做着斗争，得到了魔兽世界玩家的关注和支持。他的父亲Micah表达了对暴雪和魔兽世界玩家的感谢，这使得Ezra感到快乐和乐观。暴雪和玩家们都表达了悲伤之情。点击这里查看：A father’s tribute to Ezra, the World of Warcraft fan with brain cancer，Blizzard offers condolences to Warcraft fan who died of cancer。 [...]
一个孩子…一个幸福的孩子…
希望在另一边继续幸福!~
上天保佑你,我永远支持魔兽世界,愿你在另一边快乐幸福!
I don’t have the words that would say how I feel. I don’t have the words to truly pay tribute to this child that has learned to live life better than I could ever hope to. I don’t have the words to console his father or take away any pain that he surely feels.
Still, saying nothing at all is far worse than saying something wrong. Godspeed, and may your life be strength for those that know not yet what it means to live. Peace to you and your family.
And to all of those people who are disgustingly cruel enough to ask about loot.. may you find a heart because you surely do not have one.
安息吧勇士!
艾泽拉斯永远记得你!
Ezra，首先我想感谢你助暴雪公司完成设计出这么棒的游戏，真的，很棒！但对于你的去世我们真的感到很难过，希望在天堂里你的宠物会永远陪伴着你，我们为你坚强的意志感到骄傲，对了，不要忘记来生你要把你未完成的继续做到更好
愿风带去我们对你的哀思.愿你在天堂过的幸福.
#91 - luckystar:
What is embarrassing is seeing someone unable to even shut up over his/her envy of the love of others in moment like this. It must be very sad to be you.
I’ve got a life full of hardship and pain. I too lost someone very close because of cancer not so long ago. Yet I find warmth in the outpouring of emotion from strangers from all of the world towards this boy and his family.
Since noone else seems to have mentioned her, I will offer my condolences to his mother. I cannot imagine the pain she must be in, losing a child so early. May you find comfort and relief from the pain somehow.
And of course, my condolences to the rest of Ezra’s family. Such a beautiful child he was. Such spark and life in his face, shining with courage and happiness. Unfathomable that a child like that should die in such a horrble way.
But never forget that every day, children die because of the cruelty of their fellow humans. This child was blessed wih love and compassion as he passed. Many die alone and abused, never to have seen a kind smile, heard a loving word or felt a soothing caress.
So sad, my condolences to his dad and family. It made me hug my son a little bit harder today. If there was one thing I could change in this world, I would take away the suffering from children. With a nephew who recovered from cancer, I know how hard it is.
I think its amazing what his dad did for him and how he gave his son so much in the time he was here. I am sure he is still fighting murlocs in a better place but without the pain anymore. RIP.
中国玩家WOW电信一区山丘之王联盟，人类FS前来祷告！
走好，弟弟！
So sad it made my cry…
while my children walked into the room and asked “dady, why are you crying”
the only thing I could do is hug them.
I’m wrecked with grief for your son.
my he rest in peace.
Ezra was the coolest kid I’ve ever known! He has given me strength and inspiration… so much that I can’t explain. Even when he was in pain, he was able to tell me that he was proud of me for being strong through my surgery… one that I wish he could have had instead.
Micah, you have got to be the world’s most incredible dad. You have done so much for your son to support and love him. I’m so proud to call you my friend.
I love you both, Ezra and Micah… and I have no idea how much pain you must feel, but Micah you should be so proud of the strength and courage Ezra showed. I’ll miss you Ezra.
My deepest sympathies to the family of this child. It is most unfortunate that this awful disease has claimed so many lives. When it claims the life of a child, I feel a bit more sadness. He’s in a better place now and his the memory of him will live amongst WoW players worldwide. God bless you Micah and Ezra.
X
老兵不死，仅仅隐退
I just found out about Ezra I wish I would have met him.I have 5 children all 11 and under we all enjoy WOW and its because of people like him.God bless him and his dad and hope for the best for him and these hard times.We will miss u Ezra
my soulfelt condolences to your family, we just read all the info today.. to late.. his memory will live forever in my heart.. i will nvr forget ezra, our children play, and my osn is the same age, we will all make a char on his realm in his memory, the pain is unbearable, and to micah, we hope we can find and play w you from our family to yours..
We will be raiding on Khadgar tonight in honor of your son.
The horde did indeed lose a mighty warrior, my respects to you Ezra and Micah. I am considering creating my first Hunter in his honor, godspeed little guy.
Very sad to here about this passing. From Trollbane/Khadgar to send my regards. May he Rest In Peace
I only hope that there are more people in the world like Ezra.
So brave…
I would be really glad if Blizzard made another tribute to this truly inspiring person.
I wanna be like Ezra when I grow up…
Ryan
I had the privilege of spending Easter 2006 with Ezra at our yearly family gathering. I remember him as being a sweet and gentle young man and marveled at his patience as he played with the little children. I am deeply sorry for your loss.
rest in peace little warrior
I’m french (so excuse my poor english)
I heard in 2007 about the story of Ezra.
And now is gone, i hope that god help him
i’m father too
there’s nothing to say only pray for him and all this family
Rest in Peace Ezra, I know you are in a place where there are no wipes and all your drops are Epic. I pray that your family finds the strength as I know you will be missed.
Micah, thank you for the tribute, I cannot imagine the pain that you are going through as I play with my 10y/o son. I can only hope that there will be some point that you will get a moment to be given a break from sorrow and the loss that you must be feeling our prayers are with you.
God Bless you and your family
Ephoenix , you will be honored for all time in the annals of both the Horde and Azaroth.
I will honor your memory and light a candle for you and your father.
****************************************
I have a 13 year old grandson who plays WoW as well (as 3 of my kids and much of the rest of my extended family does) and I cannot imagine the heartbreak of this family to losing this great young man. My condolences go out to his family and his many, many friends.
Charlayne
(Roseamort, Engines of Hate guild, Argent Dawn server, level 56 Blood Elf)
It is a sad tragedy that the world has lost such a wonderful soul. I hope that Micah knows many of us feel much pain for the loss of his son. He was indeed a great kid and I hope your pain is somehow lessened with the all of us grieving with you. We will always remember Ephoenix.
Spoonmanny, Silver Hand
I will remind our guild that the way this young man lived and played
should be the goal for all.
It is an honor to walk where he walked.
Romferedir
Strength and Honor Ezra, the Horde lost a mighty warrior today.
Ezra, while I never knew you, I can imagine what type of person you were. Your father was my best friend growing up, he helped me become the man I am today by his good example. So I know you are just smart, thoughtful and creative as he is.
While I have not seen Micah since I was 12 years old I know his heart, he loves you more than anything else in the world.
To Micah and the rest of Ezra’s family, I am always here if you need me, my heart, thoughts and prayers are with you.
-Kevin Mountain
AKA Henil Draka
how was ezra in arena?
My sincere and deepest sympathies go out to you and for your son Ezra as well. When I first starting playing the Horde faction, your son’s quest caught my attention. I am very glad I stumbled upon it and helped. But most importantly, he will be remembered by millions of online heroes, and that he himself is a legacy which inspire us to become better individuals. Thank you for such inspiration. Strength and Honor.
Very soulful and moving story and tribute, I hope that one day if I’m ever blessed to be a father I can be one as good as you.
Ezra, I’ve never seen or knew you in person. I’ve only read and heard about you. You were a strong boy, I know because i can feel it from the things I’ve read abt you. Your will and determination were with you all the way, till the very last. You are a great example not just to kids all around the world, but to everyone.
To the Chatterton family, Although you may not have met/heard/seen me, my thoughts and prayers are always with you.
My sincerest condolences.
Ivan.
Condolences to you and your family in this trying period, Micah. I cannot imagine the pain you are going through now.Though I have never met Ezra, his story has inspired me and taught me what it is like to live with courage. He has given the WoW community a valuable gift and we will always treasure it. God bless.
Gabriellel, Human Rogue, Shadowmoon.
The Horde lost a young and courageous warrior today. I’ve read/heard stories abt you but did not actually knew you in real life. Your stories and bravery has indeed touched my heart. You were a great example to everyone in the world, Your will, your determination.
I know that you, Ezra, will never stop walking, will never stop fighting.
I grieve for your loss.
God Bless you and your family,
My Sincerest Heartfelt Condolences
Biiggles/Grievion US-Dragonmaw
Micah, I have met few people in life who touched me as deeply as Ezra has through his love of life and joy of sharing his passions for his pets and WoW with the world. Now that he has leveled past me I can only salute the impact he has created and shed a tear over what might have been. He has handed on a powerful legacy to us and I am humbled by the gift your family gave sharing him with the WoW community and world at large.
As I pass his dog in game I will stop and pet him and remember the hunter who bravely went ahead of us into the next portal.
God bless you and your family. Ezra will be remembered.
Condolences to you and your family, Micah. I cannot imagine the pain you must have to go through. How Ezra lived his life so fully and courageously will always be remember by the WoW community. Take care and god bless.
Gabriellel, Human Rogue - Shadowmoon.
While I am sorry for your loss Micah, I am glad that Ezra has made you so proud to be his Dad. I know Ezra has gone to be better place and I pray for him. May you spirit live on forever in the WoW community and in the hearts of all. R.I.P.
Love,
Gab/Khaël - Shadowmoon.
RIP little fella. You will be missed.
Well, It’s hard to see my computer screen through the tears after reading that tribute from a grieving father regarding his beloved son. My prayers are with you Micah, may time help to make this loss more bearable. Awesome that you both came to love Warcraft and were able to spend so much time together in an activity you both enjoyed. I take away from this a resolve to cherish the time I have with my children, for who knows if one day I might be in your position. God Bless.
It really break my heart and bring tears to my eyes when i heard that a fine young man like Ezra is gone forever.God bless you and your family.
Mr micah pls do be strong and know that Ezra will always be with you.
My condolences.
Azeroth has lost a fine and mighty warrior but his spirit will always remain. RIP little brother, for you will never be forgotten.
Strength and Honor
Go with the Earthmother, ePhoenix. Strength and honor.
not sure that i have ever been this close to crying at my computer while at work before. RIP the world will miss you and we look forward to meeting you in the next.
Godspeed Ezra. RIP and may you fight on in your own WoW, one we will all someday arrive at, leave some epics for us.
Godspeed Ezra.
GodSpeed Ezra. Strength and Honor.
/kneel
Fowler - Blood Elf
Killrogg
Rest in peace Ezra
Be with the Light. :’(
Strength and Honor!
Karvan - Draenei
Bloodfeather
[...] his passing, his father wrote a beautiful tribute to his son in which he thanked the WoW community for their outpouring or support and challenged us [...]
Sometimes we with perfect health take our health for granted.
I for one are going to spend an extra hour with my kids tomorrow in memory of this special guy.
RIP the hunter who went through the REAL dark portal
圣光与你同在！
My wife, “Kiitiara” and I cannot say enough to honor Micah and Ezra for their courage and strength. Micah, our hearts go out to you. We cannot even begin to imagine your pain. Ezra, you bring honor and glory to the Horde. All players, young and old should be inspired by you. Ephoenix will not be forgotten!
Bright Blessings to you both. /salute
Starbrand & Kiitiara
BE ‘locks
Aurora
Khaz Modan
Dear Micah, Thank You for these words:
“When Ezra couldn’t walk anymore, he turned to World of Warcraft. When he couldn’t see, he turned to music, or our pets, or food, or directing me to play World of Warcraft for him. The trick was that, as his world got smaller, he just looked at it more closely.”
Your words have helped us all to know him better.
R.I.P. Ezra.
All too often, we read or hear similar stories of the valiant young warrior who handles life’s inequities with a good deal more aplomb than those of us who are older and supposedly wiser could ever hope to attain.
Surely, nothing that we can say or write can come close to easing the pain of loss that this family must feel, but the spirit and courage with which this young man faced life and death says volumes about him and his family, his parents.
The world can be a dark place more often than not and it is a great loss when a candle that shines so brightly is taken away. I hope that each person that reads this or any story about Ezra, will walk away with just a tiny bit more positive attitude, faith, goodwill and tolerance.
Each day, we come face to face with scores of people. We have the opportunity to affect their day. We never know what they might be going through. Maybe a simple smile or a kind word can make a huge difference in their life. Pay it forward.
I wish to say I feel your pain, but Its impossible for me to put myself in your shoes. All I can say is I am so so sorry for youre loss and I hope you and youre family will find hapiness once moore. As you said youre son would have wanted it for you and youre family. I love what you said ” Our bodies are fragile, but our hearts are strong.” Again Im so sry for youre loss.
Rest in peace Ezra. No longer will you haf to fight any demons.
Kind regards from Reex(magtheridon)
Truly inspiring. Every time I see Kyle now…
Thank you.
Strenght and honor Ezra, I just want to say reading your story has really opened my eyes even more to how short and cruel life really is.
Travel well young warrior, I know you will bring a superior light to heaven, as you did hear on earth.
And know I will go and feed your dog later when I get on. R.I.P you brave brave young man.
To his family, I am very very saddened by your great loss, my thoughts and prayers go out to you all, for I can not even imagine how it must feel, though I do know how sad it makes me.Best wished to you and yours from the very bottom of my heart.
That boy is an hero
[...] Tribute to Ezra from his father [...]
We that play the game obviously play for different reasons. I play because of the lore and escaping the real world for a few hours. Ezra seemingly played because it was the only world he could fully experience. And the fact that Blizzard allowed him to contribute to what had become his life is phenomenal. (I’m starting to cry as I type this lol).
The worlds, both virtual and real, have lost the last type of warrior remaining today. His ability to push through his disease and the adversity in front of him is both admirable and awe-inspiring.
Micah,
Our thoughts go out to you from Anvilmar. We never met your son, but his spirit will be with us.
Strength and honor friend.
/kneel
Kaatus, of Anvilmar
Officer of Society of Misanthropes
Truely sorry about your loss, Mister.
It is very sad to see such a strong little one go by like that.
But, I know that you, as a parent, made his life just so much better, by taking care of this blessed child. There are many kind people out there, honoring your son, for his bright outlook on life.
I know that Ezra would be very thankful for what you did for him.
I may not yet understand how losing a loved one feels, for I am only 14 and have not lost a loved one yet… But, I know it is a very terrible feeling.
I don’t think I ever met your son on WoW…But, I’ve always wonted to.
Best of Wishes for Ezra in the afterlife…
And my God help you and your family recover from this tragic point in time… <3
- Ash ( I aplogize for any grammar or spelling mistakes…Dyslexia isn’t the best thing in the world )
( AKA Shirakle, of Azgalor )
Shorel’Aran.
Rest in peace, Ezra.
-Allurien. US/Ravenholdt.
so sad RIP
I must say, I am a 30 year old guy, in the army and I never cry.
This story made me cry.
Ezra, i didnt know you or never even heard your story until today, but you are a much braver stronger person than most adults I know, including myself. Your story really has touched me, and I wish you Godspeed.
To Ezra’s dad….being a father myself I cannot even begin to comprehend what you are going through. You raised a fine young man and its a tragedy that he was taken from the world so early.
Your son, even though he was only 12 years old, has touched more people throughout this world than any adult I know.
Hold your head high, you are an outstanding parent and have every reason in the world to be proud of the young man you raised.
[...] A Father’s Tribute - I first read about this boy visiting the Blizzard HQ a while back. Recently the unfortunate inevitable has happened. A very touching story. [...]
rest in peace, mighty warrior of azeroth.
you will definitely be missed.
that just broke my heart…As a father i can somehow relate, but still not comprehend. I sure hope you got the real deal in the angel world Ezra. Your very own wings! Fly high kid and may you rest in piece. My sincere condolenses to Ezras family and friends.
[...] WorldofWarcraft.com OCRegister.com Tags: gaming, WoW [...]
Godspeed son, live on forever as a mighty one
I don´t even know how to start this…
I’ve take knowledge of this tale only minutes ago. I just wished i knew about it sooner.
I am a father of a, thank God, recovering cancer patient. He had leuchymia and made a bone marrow transplant with his sister so i think i can get a glympse of what Ezra’s father is experiencing.
We are both wow player’s and the game has been a companion, an escape, a friend.
He’s healthy and i am going to kiss him goodnight after i right these words.
I don’t even imagine not being able to do this simple thing.
My thoughts are with Ezra.
My heart is with his father.
A big hugh from Portugal.
Read about Ezra before, but i didn’t know that he had died.
I’m not someone who cries easily, was ages since last time. But when i read this, and when i think about it the tears come flooding.
I can not even begin to understand the pain you must be feeling.
You will meet him in the afterlife, i’m sure of it.
Godspeed
Aka’Magosh, little hunter. Azeroth was better for your presence. Strength and Honor.
/kneel /salute
May he rest in peace
I heard about Ezra and his contributions to the game in the middle of last year, and while I admit to being jealous of what he got to do, I couldn’t help but thank him for it. The more I read about him, the more I couldn’t believe how amazing of a person he was, even through the worst circumstances and pain. It was warming to know that there was someone of such light in the world, no matter how grim things may look.
Today I came to this site to get Ezra’s story for a friend, sparked by him taking the quest that Ezra created, and I saw that he’d lost his life, and… I was sad, to start with. When I came to read this tribute, I was fully moved to tears… I hardly even know what to say, but thank you, Ezra, even though I may not have met you either in game or in life, for being such an inspiration in more than one way. If there is an afterlife, I know you’ve found your way to the highest tier of the best of it.
Strength and Honor, my fellow Hunter.
Vuliatis- Moon Guard