On September 23, 1988, a new life began for Ernest and Anneke Robinson as they welcomed their son, Matthew, into the world. However, their joy was soon tempered with a heavy dose of reality. Matthew, from birth, faced profound challenges. His physical limitations were severe: he was blind and paralyzed from the neck down due to deficiencies during gestation. The doctors were grim in their prognosis, telling the young parents that their baby boy had only a few hours, at most, to live. Yet, defying all odds, Matthew held on, and he continued to live for an inspiring ten and a half years.

Matthew’s life, though filled with medical challenges, was also marked by an undeniable spirit. Despite his severe disabilities, Matthew managed to communicate in the simplest ways, using a few words to express his love and gratitude. While he could not walk, see, or do many things that other children could, his ability to touch hearts and inspire others was immeasurable. His family, especially his parents, supported him with unwavering faith and strength. Matthew’s story became one of love, determination, and resilience.

Tragically, on February 21, 1999, Matthew passed away in his sleep. The loss was devastating, but Matthew’s impact on the world did not end with his death. His funeral service was attended by an overwhelming number of people, a testament to the love and admiration he had earned during his life. Matthew’s parents, in their grief, knew that they wanted to honor his memory in a way that would capture the essence of his life—not just the sadness of his passing, but the incredible strength he demonstrated throughout his time on Earth.

Ernest Robinson, driven by a deep need to create something extraordinary in Matthew’s memory, decided to design a unique gravestone. He wanted Matthew’s resting place to be more than just a marker; it needed to symbolize his son’s courage, hope, and the fight against adversity. In 2000, Ernest unveiled his creation at the Salt Lake City Cemetery—a tombstone that would stand out not only for its artistry but for its powerful message.

The gravestone, which carries an inscription at its base, does more than just commemorate Matthew’s life. It features a breathtaking sculpture that captures the essence of Matthew’s spirit. At the top of the monument is an incredible carving of a boy, depicted as rising from a wheelchair, his arms stretched toward the sky. The image symbolizes Matthew’s freedom from the limitations he had known throughout his life. The boy in the sculpture is shown as “free from his burdens,” which is a profound statement about the life Matthew led. Despite his physical challenges, Matthew was not defined by them; his strength and courage were what stood out to everyone who met him.

This unique memorial became more than just a grave marker. It became a symbol of hope, an inspiration to all who visited. The gravestone was a reminder that even in the face of overwhelming obstacles, there is light and strength to be found. People who visited Matthew’s grave spoke of how deeply the statue affected them, often leaving in tears after seeing it. The powerful visual of a boy liberated from his physical limitations resonated with anyone who came across it. It was a silent, yet powerful, testament to resilience and determination.

One visitor to the cemetery, after seeing the statue, described it as a moment of emotional realization. The beauty and simplicity of the gravestone spoke volumes, offering a sense of peace and solace. The statue, with its detailed representation of Matthew’s spirit, conveyed a message of perseverance against all odds. It had a profound emotional impact on those who saw it, reminding them of the importance of hope and the strength of the human spirit.

Matthew’s legacy did not stop with the creation of his tombstone. His parents, Ernest and Anneke, took their grief and turned it into something that would help others. They founded a charitable organization dedicated to supporting children who, like Matthew, face significant challenges. The charity focuses on helping children with conditions such as cerebral palsy, cancer, spinal cord injuries, and multiple sclerosis. The foundation provides much-needed resources to children who would otherwise go without, ensuring that Matthew’s legacy of kindness, compassion, and strength would continue.

Ernest and Anneke’s work through the charity is a way for them to honor their son’s life and the lessons he taught them. They believe that by helping others, they are keeping Matthew’s spirit alive and giving back in a way that reflects his impact on their lives. The foundation’s efforts have touched countless lives, providing assistance and support to children and families who are struggling with life-threatening conditions.

The gravestone itself remains an enduring symbol of the love and devotion that Matthew’s parents felt for him. It speaks not just of loss, but of the remarkable qualities Matthew possessed: his courage, his ability to inspire, and his capacity to bring light to even the darkest moments. The statue of a boy rising above his wheelchair, arms outstretched, is a powerful metaphor for the way Matthew lived. It’s a reminder that, even when faced with insurmountable challenges, there is always the possibility of hope, of triumph, and of freedom.

The way Matthew’s life and death are commemorated is a testament to the impact one individual can have on the world, regardless of the physical limitations they may face. Through his gravestone, his parents created a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and touch the hearts of people from all walks of life. It is a reminder that, even in the face of profound hardship, there is always a way to find hope, to rise above, and to live on in the hearts and minds of others.

In the end, Matthew’s story is not one of sorrow, but of strength, courage, and the power of love. His gravestone, as well as the work of his parents through their charity, continues to spread that message to this day, ensuring that his legacy lives on in the hearts of all who hear his story.