Andrew R.C. Clarkson

Andrew died of an overdose at The Lighthouse, in Saskatoon on April 4^th. He was 35 years old.  He couldn’t find his way out of addiction to be able to stay with us here on earth.

Andrew was very loved. He was born in Regina SK to proud parents Gilbert Clarkson and Susan Scharf (Clarkson). He was eagerly welcomed into both families and his big sister Destiny (Froom nee Clarkson) loved him very much, too.

On September 12, 1989, at seven months of age, Andrew was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. At that time, he was the youngest Canadian ever diagnosed. Diabetes for an infant is complicated.

Andrew was raised in a “warm, safe, cozy home”, in Saskatoon, along with his little sister Laura Clarkson. Their bond was especially close, because Laura (5) also developed diabetes and her big brother Andrew (7) became her “diabetes instructor”.

Andrew attended Brownell School and Marion Graham Collegiate, in Saskatoon. He was funny, smart, articulate and generous. He was gifted in math and the sciences. He was tremendously creative.

He loved magic tricks, music, video games, drawing and reading, and his “armpit” Dino. He was a proud volunteer for many charitable causes and along with his mom and Laura, was one of the three founding families for CDA’s Family Camp, where “seasoned” diabetes families would spend the September long weekend with newly diagnosed diabetes families, at Camp Easter Seal, sharing coping techniques not found in medical textbooks.

Andrew had many, many guardian angels throughout his life, both living and those who pre- deceased him. His family are grateful to each of you who helped him in any way. Thank you for your kindness to our Andrew.

Please consider a donation in his memory to:

 Sask Abilities – Camp Easter Seal; 1 Easter Seal Way; Manitou Beach SK S0K 4T1,

OR

The Saskatoon Public Library – Frances Morrison Central Library; 311 23^rd St. E.; Saskatoon SK S7K 0J6

These are two community places that Andrew loved and where he felt welcomed, and safe.

Rest easy, Sonshine. “Be safe.” “Stay strong.”