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A note from Seth Cook's family

Posted: Wednesday, June 27, 2007 10:29 AM by Dateline Editor

We heard the news of Seth Cook's passing from his parents, who sent the following note Monday evening:

It is our regret to inform you that on June 25, 2007 at 2:10 p.m. left the presence of his family on earth to join his family in Heaven.  He will be missed by so many as there were so many lives he touched.  I believe it was Ruth Graham that said we look at death the wrong way.  We see it as we are loosing someone dear to us, but, there is a homecoming in Heaven as Jesus is welcoming one of his precious children into his arms.  Our angel boy has gone HOME, but, Jesus has given us the hope that we will see him again.

Blessings to All of You!

You all made his life worth so much.

Patti and Kyle Cook

We originally told Seth's story last year in a story called "The Remarkable Seth Cook." For more information about progeria, the rare disease that ages children prematurely and took Seth's life, visit the Progeria Research Foundation.

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Comments

I am so sorry to hear of Seth's passsing.  Seth was and is a precious little boy.  May God bless both of you and you will see Seth again in Heavan.

Sandra Hill (Sent Wednesday, June 27, 2007 12:15 PM)

First, I must say my prayers go out to Seth's loved ones.He was a person inspiration to me during m last year of college. I did a report on progeria and Seth's story was the most compelling I had heard in regards to the disease. His strength courage, and unchangable zest for life will truly outshine his circumstances behind his illness. He was loved by many, and i cannot imagine this world without all that he had to teach us.

kieashia, pittsburgh,pa (Sent Wednesday, June 27, 2007 1:33 PM)

To Cook family:
IT is so true - Seth is home. He is playing and
laughing and challenging God to a game of
monopoly.
His spirit will never leave you and in time
your spirits will soar with his.
You gave him so much love and warmth. He will
forever be wrapped in those feelings.
Through these rough days without him on earth
hold his spirit close to give you strength.
Good luck to all of you.

cherie, LI, NY (Sent Wednesday, June 27, 2007 3:52 PM)

He was an inspiration to all you have seen him or heard him speak. Had the courage most of us can only wish for.
He will be missed.
Remember to laugh when someone dies as you know what kind of life they lived and that they will be in heaven.
Cry when a child is born as you never know what they will become.

Debra, Boston, Massachusetts (Sent Wednesday, June 27, 2007 4:25 PM)

To Mr. and Mrs. Cook,
I just read the article about your son Seth.  What a inspiring young man.  I want to offer you my prayers and my sincere condolences with his passing.  If more human beings were like your son, this world would be a better place. His attitude about life will give me the courage to endure anything that life has to through at me.  Even though it is a sad moment in your lives, please believe that reading this article has changed my life. I feel like I've personally met your son and for that, I will be a better human being.  What wonderful parents you are to have raise such a wonderful son.
With all my respect.

Lisa M. Gohr, Anaheim, California (Sent Wednesday, June 27, 2007 7:43 PM)

It is sad to hear of Seth's passing.  I have a daughter that has Progeria & I heard at the Progeria reunion that Seth could not make it because he was sick.  Patti & Kyle you did a great job helping raise awareness for children with Progeria by doing the Dateline special.  Thank you for all you have done, and eventually we WILL beat this disease.

Tim, Monclova, OH (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 8:50 AM)

I was completely touch by Seth's story and courage. I send my blessings and condolences with the loss of a beautiful child. God Bless.

Kimberly Phoenix, Az (Sent Thursday, June 28, 2007 7:18 PM)

I was sitting hear at work this morning with tears in my eyes because we moved our 2nd child out into her own apartment (feeling sorry for myself) when I came across Seth's story.  After reading it I don't know who is/was more blessed.  I got such a kick out of the story.  I could almost see Seth chuckling over and over.  I know that we are both blessed with many things but the courage, strength and laughter that came from him is something greater than most of us can phathom.  I wish I could have known your little guy and gave him hugs.  You were truly blessed for having someone that special.  I kept Seth's story for days that I need to put a smile on my face.  I hope you take that the right way.  I am sure your hearts and souls filled with anxiety each and every moment especially when you knew the end might be near.  When I read the story I just saw a truly happy child who loved life.  You gave him that happy life and you deserve so much praise.  I also can't imagine having no fear and wanting to go to heaven.  I am 37 with 5 kids and I am no where near ready for heaven.  To have that courage to say I know I will have a short life...but it was a good one...and when he's ready...I'm ready.  I have a strong faith in God but even stronger now after Seth.  I can just picture him sitting on the shore fishing with his grandpa and laughing.  I am sure God supplied him with many gummy bears.  I am truly overwhelmed by Seth and your family.  God bless you all

Dawn Theis Clear Lake, MN (Sent Friday, June 29, 2007 10:33 AM)

Life takes so many different paths and we tend to take it for granted. Never again do I want to feel sorry for myself because of petty things and will I ever brush off or raise my voice at my children for simple things like not doing what I ask. I am so sorry for your loss and am so amazed by your strength. I will think of you always. Your family has the most amazing spirit I have ever seen.

Lari Calsadillas, Bishop Ca (Sent Friday, June 29, 2007 5:29 PM)

I tell my beloved daughter that God made her and made us all.  God does not make mistakes.  Mr. and Mrs. Cook, you are blessed.  We can only read about Seth and his inspirational life.  You were loved by him.  He has made a difference in my life, just by living his with such grace.  I will remember him when I make my choices each day.  Thank you for sharing your extraordinary son with me.

Barbara Moore, Brookfield, CT (Sent Monday, July 02, 2007 1:18 PM)

Having never personally met Seth, I still cried when I heard of his passing.  To his parents, God bless you.  You did a fantastic job raising a truly inspirational son.  My thoughts and prayers are with you during this tough time.  He was, and always will be a remarkable human being.

Jennifer, Haddonfield NJ (Sent Monday, July 02, 2007 4:26 PM)

I read about Seth's life and learnt a lot, he lived a full and memorable life in his young age that most of never acheive living to an old age, and always remind myself of this before complainign about anything....God Bless you were really blessed to have such a special son.

Sita Rattan, Farmingdale NY (Sent Tuesday, July 03, 2007 11:48 AM)

Very few people in this world, reach out and touch your very soul. I can honestly say that I believe that I will be able to look at each day in a different, more positive way.  To the entire Cook family, please know that your brillant ray of sunshine will continue to live on in millions of people who have either seen or read this wonderful tribute.  I would also like thank Dateline, NBC and each and every person who in any way, had a hand in this article.  I now know, Seth Cook and I am truly blessed.

Kathryn Poole, Pine Hill, Alabama (Sent Thursday, July 05, 2007 10:23 AM)

Wow, what a special lil man. I am sitting here at work reading his story and tears are running down my face. At first it is tears of joy becasue of how he treated life and people. Then to hear he passed away it was tears of saddness. He brought allot of joy to people especially his kindergarten classes he read books to. You both have the most courage I could imagine a parent could ever have, the love and genuine caring you gave this boy is astonishing and you should be so proud of yourself and of Seth also. To me the government needs to do way more for the disease then they are, we never put our money to cure the things needed in this country. OUR country should come first but as I read along it sure seems that they are on the brink of a cure and in my heart i think Seth has something to do with this. he is probably in heaven with his grandpa right now working on this.
God bless your family and hope this finds you doing well.

Randel L Roland Cambridge Wisconsin (Sent Friday, July 06, 2007 1:19 AM)

I fell in love with Seth when I saw the Dateline show about him.  What a cool kid!  I'm so sorry to hear of his death.  He was truly happy and that was due to his own character and the love of his family and friends.  His story inspired me to support Progeria research and I encourage others to do so too.

Barbara Sheehan Chicago, IL (Sent Friday, July 06, 2007 11:08 AM)

I have been following Seth's story and was sad to hear of his passing. He was such an inspiring young man. His attitude about life as difficult as it must have been for him was so touching. I pray for his family and admire there strength.

Denise Dubisky, Allen Park, Michigan (Sent Saturday, July 07, 2007 11:40 AM)

To the Cook Familey, I just read of the passing of Seth,Iwould like to express my sincere thanks for letting us share in the life of your wonderful son.He was a special person.

Pat Spencer Ontario Cananda (Sent Saturday, July 07, 2007 6:07 PM)

I did a report on Progeria and Seth Cook in my summer Biology class last year. I presented it in front of the class and told them about Seth and how I felt he knew the secret to life. To try to enjoy every day and life life to the fullest because life is so short. His special on dateline touched me and taught me so much about what really matters. I will never ever ever forget him or his story.

David Grimes Sacramento California (Sent Saturday, July 07, 2007 7:00 PM)

This world was truly blessed by having Seth Cook in it.  God gave us a gift by Seth's presence.  Seth's story taught me to appreciate what I have and to live life to its fullest because all of our days are numbered.  My condolences to Mr. and Mrs. Cook for the loss of this precious child.  

JoAnn Kincade, Buffalo, New York (Sent Tuesday, July 10, 2007 10:22 AM)

No single person in my life has inspired me, made me cry, made me happy or made me realize what a great and fortunate life I have. And this coming from a person I have never met in person. His attitude, joy, strength, outgoingness, mature, understanding and loving voice sends a message everyone should hear. And learn from. God bless his little heart and sole!!

Kevin Hall, Bear, DE (Sent Tuesday, July 24, 2007 2:33 PM)

Wow, this little boy in the last 35 minutes of his story aired on Dateline has changed my view on life and changed my life in general.  My family has been going through alot of stress in this last year and I had really been feeling sorry for myself. I am ashamed to have had such self pity after watching Seth's story.  What a great spirit.  He is a reminder that all of us are put here on Earth for a reason. And that reason is to Glorify God. I believe Seth did just that in all that he did. He took what was dealt him and did not feel sorry for himself. It's so sad that his life was so short, but how great it is that he has touched so many people in such a short time. None of us, rather diagnosed with a disease or not, are guaranteed tomorrow.  So we should all take Seth's story to heart and remember to do wonderful things today for we might not have tomorrow.  I have such sympathy for Seth's parents, but I know they will see Seth again and that I know brings them great peace.  God Bless them - they are great people.  I have such admiration for them.

Sue, Burnet, TX (Sent Tuesday, July 24, 2007 3:03 PM)

I have only recently become acquainted with Seth's story after viewing it this past Sunday on MSNBC. Like so many others, I found it to be inspiring while both heartwarming and heartbreaking. I also found myself wishing I not only knew Seth and could spend time with him but could see and interact with the world as he did, putting petty complaints away. Remarkable was an apt word for him and what a blessing for all who did have the privilege to know him and hear his infectious laughter. I can't imagine the void left by his passing and can only hope the messages, prayers, and thoughts of all these faceless strangers who have been so touched by this special young man bring his remarkable parents a measure of comfort.  

Judy Morris, Collierville, TN (Sent Tuesday, July 24, 2007 3:38 PM)

I was spellbound while watching the story of Seth on TV.  When I saw the message at the end that he had died I literally cried.  In the show his parents said what a blessing he was to them.  But how truly blessed he was as well to have such wonderful parents.  What an example this family is to what family life is and should be all about.  God bless Patty and Kyle Cook in this time of grief.

Rosie Miller, Dayton, OH (Sent Tuesday, July 24, 2007 4:07 PM)

Thank you for bringing the message of hope and tolerance to this worldly place that needs it so, Seth.  My condolences to Patti and Kyle-you've lost such a special boy, but I know of the comfort you take in knowing that he's in a better place and he will never have to suffer again.  What a wonderful gift for the both of you to have had him and thank you for sharing him with all of us.

Jen Withey, Williamston, MI (Sent Wednesday, July 25, 2007 12:10 PM)

I send to you my wish for warm embraces from those in Heaven. I often pray for Him to wrap his arms around those we love, those in pain, those needing guidance, direction or warmth to ease the pain.  I watched Seth's story on Dateline and then read this web update.  I found myself reading faster and faster to find out how I could help or e-mail Seth to tell him how brave and warm hearted he is and what an inspiration he is to so many other.  I was tearfully saddened to reach the end of the article.  I believe that when the wind blows gently and the sun warms our faces from time to time...and we feel those once in while "peaceful glorious" moments..our loved ones..the angels above are sending love and reassurance of their peace...the warmd embraces from Heaven.  I hope Seth meets our little family member in Heaven, my sister's infant son sure could use an older angel brother like Seth .  To Patti and Kyle and extended family members please know that we will all miss Seth.

Hope Richardson, Wytheville, VA (Sent Thursday, August 09, 2007 10:56 AM)

I just found out about Seth's passing. I'm so impressed on how much your family and the town of darrington loved and respected him in every way possible. I will always remember seeing seth with Alan Jackson after a concert, and the following month seeing all of you at the exact same church my friends attended. The next summer after that I saw Alan again at a show and I asked him about seth and he told me that he was his "new buddy" more than a friend and fan. And that each time he would sing the song "little bitty" he would always think of seth-because of the way the chorus went: "It's alright to be a little bitty-might as well share, might as well smile...life goes on for a little bitty while".

Matt-Seattle, WA (Sent Saturday, August 25, 2007 7:28 AM)

I am sorry to learn of Seth's passing.  He was and is a remarkable young man.

Please accept my sorrow in your lost.

To you, Seth, please know that we will all be with you someday.

Carl Jackson, Cincinnati, Ohio (Sent Tuesday, August 28, 2007 6:03 AM)

My husband and I saw the initial program on MSNBC regarding Seth and were totally amazed at not only his strength and courage, but, of yours as well.  Last Sept my husband lost his job and because mine piggy-backed his, so did I.  While we were quite fortunate not to become homeless, although we were a week away, we lost our cable/tv service in April and I just now, while searching the MSNBC site learned of Seth's passing.  While this is quite late, our deepest sympathies, love and blessings for the courage and strength that you have exhibited from day one.

Stephie Sereque (Sent Tuesday, September 04, 2007 9:02 PM)

I am sorry to hear of your son passing but was glad to hear of his homecoming. I am glad to know that we have all been blessed and knowing of such a strong family and such a stronger young man. You story has not only touch my heart but millions of others has you have read the many blessings from well wishers and friends. I thank you for having the courage tobe able to bless us with sharing your sons spirit and enthusaim for life. be blessed and comforted in knowing that you and him will be reunited one day. be blessed and never forget his zest for life and others.

Monique ford jacksonville florida (Sent Thursday, September 27, 2007 11:59 AM)

I saw the original DATELINE story on Seth, and later sent him a card just to tell him how much I admired him.  He was wise beyond his years, and your story touched my heart.  Please know that Seth will never be forgotten and will live on in our memories forever.

My thoughts and prayers go out to you all.

Christy Brohard, Gilbert, AZ (Sent Monday, October 01, 2007 12:21 AM)

My name is nicole busch, I have many memories with seth i remember when he was around two and me and casandra largent would go to his house and play with seth he was so much fun to be around and so darn cute!It broke my heart to hear that he had past he never had an illness to me i thought of him as a any other child you cant judge someones apperance but for who he was its whats inside his heart which was filled with hope, happiness, and love i never got to say goodbye but i can always say see you later god bless him and everyone who had given him the best life he could have.                                           always and for ever nicoole busch

Nicole Busch chehalis, wa (Sent Tuesday, October 09, 2007 3:27 PM)

I just recently read the story on Seth.  And it made my day.  I know from the story that he was loved and lived a blessed life although it was short, he crammed a lot of love and living in it because of his loving parents. Your trust in the Messiah and the love of him that was instilled in Seth will assure him a place in heaven and trust me he is truly in a better place because he is with the Father.

Freddie Scott, Denver, CO (Sent Friday, November 02, 2007 1:36 PM)

That is soooooooooo sasd and i am soooooooooooo sorry i am doing a project on progeria and i am trying to find someones life to base it on i am so sorry god bless you and your family

riverton illinois (Sent Tuesday, November 27, 2007 4:05 PM)

Patti & Kyle

It is March 2008 and I still think of Seth on a regular basis -- his presence was just that big for alot of us.

Please know that as Easter is approaching, that Seth is also resurrected in our hearts and minds and that he still is with us -- just as he is embracing you (and Bullet!)

Love and Comfort,


Bonnie Brayden (Shoreline,WA) (Sent Tuesday, March 04, 2008 2:41 AM)

As I watch Seth's story this morning on MSNBC, I see pure happiness in his face along with the bravery of a thousand men. What a free spirit he had on earth and now he can move that free spirit in Heaven and earth combined, He is with you, he's with all of us. Thank you dearly for sharing your story.
God bless you both.

Ashli Fort walton beach, florida (Sent Saturday, April 19, 2008 6:55 AM)

I just watched the "The Remarkable Seth Cook" on MSNBC.  What an amazing story of a loving family and community.                

Shawn, USA (Sent Saturday, April 19, 2008 7:06 AM)

I watched Seth's story on MSNBC this morning, and he was a true inspiration to everyone who suffers from the same terrible condition. God bless you and your family Kyle and Patty.

Mike Carolus Lewistowm, Pennsylvania. (Sent Saturday, April 19, 2008 10:37 AM)

Hi Kyle and Patti,

I just watched Seths story again. I'll be playing his personal anthem on the air Monday, 'little bitty'. The Spirit of God was in, and all over your son and you guys.

In Christ our hope,

Ichabod Caine
KMPS Seattle

Ichabod Caine, Seattle. Wash. (Sent Saturday, April 19, 2008 4:53 PM)

Its been awhile since anyone has wrote anthing in here. I have enjoyed the story and am glad that he lived his way till the end. Be safe up in heaven. Thanks Seth.

Kenny, Virginia Beach, Va (Sent Saturday, April 19, 2008 5:01 PM)

i just watched the remarkable seth cook on cnbc and the whole time i was praying that it would not say seth had died at the end. you both just need to know what a great job you did as parents. just watching that show made me feel touched by seth and realize my problems are not so bad. god bless.

aimee, mission viejo CA (Sent Saturday, April 19, 2008 5:06 PM)

to seths family, just saw seths story on msnbc, wow what a story what a fine fine young person seth is, he touched my heart deeply, prayin for him as i am watchin the story not knowin he is already in heaven, then i said isn't heaven great seth, till we meet, god bless uand your very special mom and dad and doggie too......luv laura

laura perretto bay shore ny (Sent Saturday, April 19, 2008 5:07 PM)

I just watched the program on msnbc.It was so touching. For almost 48hrs I have been down, feeling sorry for myself becos I am unable to work as a foreigner. I feel like I am losing out on something and I worry that I am not able to do for my kids the way I want. but after watching this, I feel selfish, because my kids are healthy and here with me. So I ask myself what right do I have to feel the way I feel. If seth was able to find all the happiness he did while here, then it is a lesson for me to not worry over little things but be grateful for what I have. I salute you Mr and Mrs Cook for the unbelievable love you gave to Seth. I pray that God will bless and give you all the happiness you deserve. May the beauty of the lord rest upon you.

Winifred Edosah (Sent Saturday, April 19, 2008 5:15 PM)

I just saw the show on television. Seth is an amazing little boy with big dreams. He was adorable and had the cutest little smile I could ever see. I can only imagine going through life in his body. You never know how great life is until you realize how good you have it. Seth was one person that never took life for granted. When the show was over, I could of never thought that he passed away. It broke my heart. I know he is watching over his family and all the other children that go through life with progeria. I hope one day a cure is found. I wish the parents the best of luck in the future to come. You are all truly blessed.

Best Wishes.

Elizabeth Harvey, Pompano Beach, Fl (Sent Saturday, April 19, 2008 5:45 PM)

I have never met Seth. I wish I could have because he changed my life. He was an amazing individual. Stay strong. God bless.

Sarah (Sent Saturday, April 19, 2008 5:55 PM)

SETH-I hope the Lord blesses you...i just watched the Special on u on MSNBC...u ARE a remarkable human being...I wish u did not have to pass away, but I know, there is a reason for everything the Lord does. Please watch over your parents from heaven, and watch over the rest of us too. I truly believe, in my heart, u are the most special human being to ever grace this planet...your manners, the way u think about others...Please watch over us all.

D. Cohen (Sent Saturday, April 19, 2008 7:35 PM)

Dear Patti, Kyle, & Bullet,
I just watched "The Remarkable Seth Cook", for the second time, with my oldest son, Alec. I had already known about Progeria, and about Seth's passing, but I wanted my son, who is going through a "rough patch" in his life, to be inspired by Seth as I was, when I first saw the program. I wanted my son to see that, even through the most difficult of situations, there is joy to be found in every day. I even paused the show, and rewound it, at the point when Patti says, "Life is about choices". As my own son has stuggled, I have tried to help him see that he needed to "choose" how he was going to handle life's journey. I know that my son was touched and inspired by Seth's courage, patience, and laughter as I was, when I first saw the show, and again today. I truly believe that anyone who sees Seth's story, or reads about him, will be touched by his "majic", and will take that with them throughout their lives. I am glad that my son was able to be touched by Seth, especially at this time in his life, for now he will carry a piece of "Seth's majic" with him during his struggles. Thank you both for giving the world the wonderful gift of Seth! I know, even after his passing, Seth will continue to shower people with his majic and encourage people with his spirit. May you continue to gain strength and courage, through Seth and the Lord, until the day you all are reunitied!
God Bless!  -Heather & Sons
P.S. As an avid fisherman, my son hopes to join Seth & the Lord, in "hookin' a big one, with Swedish Fish, and...not having to throw them back"!  

Heather Jensen, Pleasant Hill, CA (Sent Saturday, April 19, 2008 8:09 PM)

Deepest sympathy and all my prayers.
God Bless you both and your family.

J. Romaka (Sent Saturday, April 19, 2008 9:22 PM)

Dear Patti and Kyle,
My 13 year old daughter and I watched Dateline[rerun]today. I could not watch the end due to a church event but Brittany told me the rest of the story. What a witness Seth has been and will continue to be in his earthly death. Unbelievers could see Jesus in all of you!
When I go to heaven I am going to be so excited to see the Lord, my mom, and others who have passed before me but I think meeting Seth is going to be right up there with Moses and Paul!!!

Connie Lukacs Westerville Ohio (Sent Saturday, April 19, 2008 11:39 PM)

Hi Mr. & Mrs. Cook

I am from Nassau, Bahamas and my husband & I were visiting my mom's house today. As I entered her bedroom, I saw a documentary of your son on MSNBC and it really touched my heart. I felt as if I knew him and it reminded me so much about my child hood (I was diagnosed with Leukemia). So I said in my heart "Dear God please help!" But as I continued watching the show, I learnt at the end that he went to be with Jesus last year. I just wanted to give you my sympathy and let you know that your son was so special, he has touched lives all over the world and his legend will live on. I was so happy to learn about Seth and let you know that he will always be in my heart. Be strong, be encouraged, and know that he's in a better place.

Akisha Smith (Sent Saturday, April 19, 2008 11:52 PM)

Seth was an inspiration because of the choice he made to not let obsticles stand in his way. We should all remember to keep a positive frame of mind. With that, we can overcome and accomplish anything. Thank you Seth for showing us how to make the most of what God gives us. In my book you are a real winner!

Randolph Reeves, Memphis, TN (Sent Sunday, April 20, 2008 7:08 PM)



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