Matthew Stanford Robison Memorial facts for kids
The Matthew Stanford Robison Memorial is a special statue found in the Salt Lake City Cemetery in Utah. It was created by Ernest Robison, the father of Matthew Stanford Robison, who was 10 years old. Matthew's parents wanted his resting place to be a source of happiness and hope. The memorial shows a boy rising from his wheelchair and reaching towards the sky.
Matthew's Story
Matthew Stanford Robison was born on September 23, 1988, in Salt Lake City, Utah. He faced many health challenges from birth. Matthew lived for ten years, bringing joy to his family.
Ability Found Organization
In 1993, Matthew's parents, Ernest and Anneke Robison, started a group called Ability Found. This is a Nonprofit organization, which means it's a group that helps people without trying to make money. Ability Found helps people with disabilities get important equipment they need.
The organization supports individuals with conditions like Cerebral palsy, spina bifida, multiple sclerosis, and those recovering from stroke or injuries. Ability Found even sells small copies of Matthew's memorial statue to help raise money for their cause.
The Memorial's Meaning
Matthew's father decided to create the memorial statue in 2000. The statue shows Matthew rising from his wheelchair and reaching up. This design is meant to show Matthew in the afterlife, free from his physical challenges. It's a symbol of hope and peace.
A picture of the memorial and part of Matthew's obituary (a notice about someone's death) became very popular online. Because of this, the gravesite has become a well-known place to visit in Utah. Many travel websites list it as a unique and inspiring spot.