On the sunny morning of Tuesday, April 14th 2015, Dolly Aquino sent a text to her  21-year-old son Patrick. She was  checking up on him as she normally did, and to make sure he settled in ok.  This morning, however was different, as Patrick's mom had a sinking feeling that something was wrong. Almost 10 kilometres away, Patrick Aquino didn't wake up to see the light of day. He had just moved out of the family home the day before. He was very excited about  being on his own and figuring life out.   He told his Aunt  2 days before that he had recently been hired by a local restaurant and was also seeking  to find part- time work. So he put the wheels in motion by visiting businesses the day before that could help him. Despite his efforts, life was not at all  simple for this young man.  He had struggled with anxiety in the past year.  While he had family that loved him and one that always supported him, it now appears that Patrick traveled down a path that no one could have imagined.  By Tuesday afternoon, his heart had stopped at least 5 times.  The Doctors and Social Workers informed the family that there was nothing more they could do.  And just like that, he was gone...

His toxicology report came back with multiple prescription drugs,  and included a narcotic Fentanyl. The Coroner ruled his death an accidental overdose. Devastated by this tragedy, the family is now having to deal with the emotional and financial side of burying their son. Parents do not plan for their child to pass away before them, let alone pass away in this manner.

We are using this forum for donations and/or support  for the Aquino Family.    This story is also shared to create awareness, as his tragedy is becoming a serious epidemic in cities across Canada.  


FINAL SERVICES:

FRIDAY: Viewing/ Wake: Friday,  April 24, 6pm-10pm at  Valley View Funeral Home, 14644 72nd Avenue, Surrey, BC

SATURDAY:

a) Funeral Mass: Saturday,  April  25th at 10:30 am at St. Bernadette's Parish, 6543 - 132nd Street, Surrey

and then driving to:

b) Interment: Valley View Funeral Cemetary, 14644 72 Ave, Heritage Gardens

and then back to:

c) Reception and Celebration Life
Community Hall at St. Bernadette Parish 6543 132nd Street, Surrey


Thank you in advance for your prayers and donations,

From the Family and Friends of the Aquino Family

note:
Patrick was loved by many.  And many hearts are filled with sadness and despair .  We hope his story encourages others to reach out and realize  how much they're loved and that there are always choices. 

"A letter to family and friends" poem
My world was long and narrow.  There was so much to understand. I was young and sometimes foolish, and didn't stop to take a stand.  I let my life run pass me because it's what youth do. I didn't think it would hurt my family.  I wish this were not true ...   Please know how much I love you- my leaving was not planned.  I now have a new journey, in God's almighty land.  He gives me peace and happiness, and I smile so much more. Here I can finally rest, with God whom I adore .   And to my dear friends I’d like you to picture, what was to happen next.  I was to build my life up and work hard to find my best, to grow old and raise a family- I think this was my plan, but now I leave you to live life, so please give my gift a thoughtful hand...

From a young soul reaching out

note: expressed permission to post Patrick's story provided by his Father Patricio, brother Laurence and sister Kristina.