Young Hero

As one of the many people who was blessed by knowing Richard (Ricky) Reed personally, I want to sincerely thank you for all of the news coverage you gave to him and his family (“Brave Leukemia Victim, 5, Remembered as a True Hero,” June 1).

As difficult as it is for us to grasp or understand the shortness of his life, we should be comforted for having had such a beautiful little human being like Ricky come into our lives. I am certain that he will continue to be a source of inspiration to every single person who met him, saw him on television or read about him in your newspaper.

Hats off to his favorite baseball player and mine, Padres catcher Benito Santiago, for attending Ricky’s farewell services and for being the pal who took Ricky to the ball park.

To his parents and brother and sister: God bless them for sharing Ricky’s warmth and love with so many. Such a short life and yet such a beautiful impact and a grand role model. Ricky Reed is one of life’s truly great heroes.

RICHARD M. YBARRA, Bonita