By Hannah McNamara
Gary Chapman, father of the late Michael Chapman, gave a touching speech recently at the Victoria Park State School Year 6 Graduation, on December 5.
As students, teachers and parents gathered in the hall for the presentation, Mr Chapman shared a powerful message – one that left an imprint on the hearts of many – to simply, be kind.
Mr Chapmans son, Michael, was described as a “highly regarded friend” who was always cheerful, resilient and kind. In the late 1980s, Michael had been fighting cancer, and after a lengthy battle, he was given the all clear around the age of nine.
At the age of twelve, just a few short years later, the young boy was diagnosed with cancer again. Despite countless treatments, he sadly lost his battle shortly after in 1988.
Michael’s remarkable positivity and passion for life, even during his most difficult moments, left an enduring imprint on the hearts of those who knew him.
He left such an impact, that his legacy now lives on through the Michael Chapman Award, a cherished tradition introduced by his Year 7 classmates in the year of his passing. This award, represented by a shield, is presented annually to a student chosen by their peers for exemplifying the qualities of courage, dignity, and pride - three words that perfectly captured Michael’s character. Now in its 36th year, the school has continued to honour his memory through this meaningful award, which is annually presented by his father, Gary Chapman.
In his moving speech, Mr Chapman reflected on a poignant experience from earlier that day. While at a local supermarket, he found himself thinking about Michael’s old friends. He suddenly noticed a woman with long, curly hair that reminded him of one of Michael’s closest childhood friends. Gathering his courage, he asked the woman’s name, and to his surprise, it was indeed his son’s former friend, now an adult with a family of her own. Mr Chapman described their encounter as “unbelievable” and shared that they had a lovely chat.
Mr Chapman shared memorable stories of his beloved son, along with some most recent comments made by former friends, which said, “He’s always been one of the most beautiful boys I've ever had the pleasure of knowing.
Another read: “Michael was my best friend and always will be… I always thought he was so grown up for his age.. I still think about him a lot.”
Amidst the poignant reflections, the school proudly announced the 2024 Michael Chapman Award recipient: Miss Neveah Collins, who exemplifies the courage, dignity, and pride that Michael embodied.
Michael’s father Gary Chapman with recipient of the 2024 Michael Chapman award Miss Neveah Collins. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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