|
|
|||
|
|
Kokikai Aikido of Rochester | ||
|
|
|||
Steve Ridley
Steve was a member of the Rochester Kokikai Dojo for ten years. He was a wonderful student, a loyal member, and a friend to everyone. His kindness, patience,
and ceaseless positive mind helped create a welcoming feeling in our dojo for all.
In September 2003, Steve suffered a massive stroke which left him in a state known as a
locked-in syndrome -
fully aware, but unable to move his body except for very limited control of his facial muscles. His only method of communication
was through blinking. Though he was confined to a hospital bed, for twenty-three months Steve continued to be an important part
of our Aikido community. He brought us all closer together as we came to appreciate how fragile life is and how important our friends
and family are to us.
During his illness, Steve gave all of us many opportunities to experience the gift of giving back. The person
who would do anything for anyone now needed help with everything. Shortly after he fell ill, it was clear that his house needed to be
sold in order to help with his medical bills. Steve's co-workers and fellow Aikido students spent the next month finishing many of the
remodeling projects in Steve's house in order to prepare it for sale. Still other Aikido friends gave back to Steve by visiting him,
reading to him, writing him letters, decorating his room and organizing parties to celebrate events like his birthday and his
promotion to 3rd degree black belt.
Steve passed away in August 2005. Our dojo continues to celebrate Steve's life by remembering how he lived. We remember how he showed up
early every Saturday morning to open the Dojo for the children's class, how he practiced diligently even when his joints protested, and
how he was a mainstay at Dojo renovation projects.
Aikido was a central component to Steve's life. So much so that his Mother, Rosalie, asked that in lieu of flowers at his memorial service,
a scholarship be established in his name. The Steve Ridley Memorial Scholarship was established in October of 2005. It is administered by
the Rochester Dojo with the aim of assisting Rochester students attend our annual camps. Please help us maintain the scholarship by
participating in our silent auction or by making a
donation.