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Larry Sidebottom: A life celebrated
On 3/13/2008

Contributed by: Courtney Erker on 3/23/2008

There are different ways of coping with death or sorrow. Everyone grieves in a different way. Through writing, I've found comfort and helped others to find inspiration in such a hard time.

Larry Sidebottom passed away March 13, from a difficult fight with bladder cancer. His life was spent in the best way -- he dedicated his life to assisting those who like him, used a wheelchair or anyone who was trying to overcome a difficulty. He wasn't restricted at all by his wheelchair; Larry moved along in life taking the escalators and stairs. He helped so many people discover hidden capabilities; he never took no for an answer. He was the catalyst for so many opportunities for individuals overcoming obstacles-- his work with special-needs programs astounds me.

As the head coach of the junior Rolling Nuggets wheelchair basketball team, Larry helped ignite a flame for several young adults who use wheelchairs and who don't as well, with the passion for playing basketball. He also worked for several years with the city of Lakewood, through RISE Above, Camp Paha,and other special-needs programs. He helped to establish some of the first unified sports teams in Lakewood, and worked through the city as a sports and athletics coordinator. Larry frequently counseled people who came through Craig Hospital with new challenges and helped to motivate those came through Craig with new disabilities.

Larry touched so many people in his lifetime. So many people have come forward, with stories and memories of Larry to share, so I decided to combine them as a tribute to such an inspiring man. The following are excerpts from the many people whose lives were touched by Larry Sidebottom.

"Larry was a great person. He meant so much to me. Not only did he teach me how to play basketball, but how to live life. Larry knew how to put a smile on everyone's face. I am a better person for knowing him."
- Seth Rojhani

"To Larry:
You mean the world to me and the team. You are and always will be my hero and role model. You've taught me so much in the three years I've played on your team. You taught me how to play a great game of basketball, but also how to live life to the fullest no matter what obstacles come my way. You will always have a special place in my heart!"
- Yaremi Jones

"Larry is the big brother (that I never had). I came to Colorado on a temporary assignment for work, which was to last one year, and then I would go back East. I met Larry, got involved in lots of his programs, and twenty years have flown by. Larry has touched so many people, including myself, in such positive ways."
- Stuart Klugler

"A hero has died, but he is not gone!
He had a wonderful gift of bringing people together for a common goal- whether it be having fun playing sports on wheels, self-improvement, volunteerism, or just hanging out, having a good time.

"He had a gift for living life to the fullest... and for helping others to do so as well. He will be missed. I will weep because I miss him. But I will not weep because he is gone. His spirit lives on in all of us! Ii will rejoice that I knew him. I will honor him by living my life to its fullest- by reaching out with a word of encouragement when I see its need- by sharing what I have- by loving and quietly reminding everyone I meet that we are all on this world together, and life is what we make it."
- Deb Cousins

"Last night, I saw a new star was made in the night sky. It was bright, warm and full of loving light. I feel confident that this star is from Larry to light and guide all of you. He was a friend, a teacher, and a mentor to so many of us. He showed through all he did that the only limits we have are those we set for ourselves, because he never let any of the challenges God put in front of him hold him back. We all will miss his warm, bright smile, his contagious smile, and his never give up spirited leadership."
- Jan Greer

So many stories, so many lives touched by Larry. A truly amazing man, Larry left behind a legacy that's bound to last, along with a family of truly strong and beautiful individuals, through his wife, Denise ,and children, Dylan and Jayden, and his wheelchair sports "family."

Let's keep it goin', guys; for Larry. Let's keep it goin'.


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Showing 1-3 of 3 comments
Submitted By: Nikki Britain
posted on 3/26/2008 @ 5:52:37 AM
Rated Story
What a beautiful tribute! Thank you for sharing Larry's inspiring story.
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Submitted By: Katherine Jerome
posted on 3/24/2008 @ 7:40:54 PM
Rated Story
This is very nice Courtney! Finding a way to help other people during difficult times speaks to your abilities that are indeed, very special. Many adults never figure out, that in helping others, we also help ourselves. Well done, and thank you so much for sharing this.
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Submitted By: Erin Feese
posted on 3/24/2008 @ 9:29:55 AM
Rated Story
A beautiful tribute, Courtney. Thank you, Larry, for all you did for the community.
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Showing 1-3 of 3 comments
CONTRIBUTOR INFORMATION

Courtney Erker

Lakewood , CO

Courtney Erker has posted 13 stories and 12 comments since joining on 12/11/2006. Courtney Erker 's average story rating is 4.95.
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