“THE ANGEL IN OUR LIVES”

A Tribute to Dr. Steven Kopits
by Joni Lantier

Dane Lantier and Dr. Kopits

Written By: Joni Lantier, Mother of Dane with Morquio Type A

How can I begin to describe a person who is so dear to my family? There is so much to say, and I am honored to share with you my feelings on such an extraordinary man, Dr. Steven Kopits. Dr. Kopits was the most honorable, special, loving, and compassionate man and doctor my family has ever met.

I know each and every one of you has been in the position of hearing the words, "We think your child has Morquio Syndrome. We are not sure. It is a very rare disease, and we are not sure where to refer you." As your child’s parents, you are thrown into a whirlwind and you run on high feeling that you are going around in circles. The information you are given is so vague. You are also given conflicting information from different doctors. You do not feel secure with the doctors you have seen and you don’t know where to turn next. Then, God steps in and leads you to Dr. Steven Kopits. You know deep in your heart that it is only by God’s will and say so that you are sitting in Dr. Kopits’ office. The funny thing is that you do not know how fortunate you are until you meet this generous, caring doctor. You finally feel a sense of security. He is full of hope and love for your child and your family. I have had the privilege of being able to get to know Dr. Kopits and I thank God every day for bringing him into my family’s lives. He has touched us so deeply. Every hug of comfort, every word of hope has meant so much to us.

Dr. Kopits was always there for my family and I. I am sure many other families love you too and we thank you so very much for giving us the love, hope, and care our children found in you. For always making decisions for our children with only our children in mind. You have touched so many lives, and you will always be the most special doctor to us in the world. You will always have a place in our hearts. You made a huge difference in our lives and you were an exceptional person.

It is so hard not to be able to continue to see you, but somehow we will continue to fight for our children. That is something you have taught us and taught us very well. Because of you, we know what is right for our children and what is wrong for our children.

You will never be forgotten, and we will always be grateful to you for the sacrifices you have made for our children and us. We know what you have given up in your life and each and everything you sacrificed was appreciated. Nothing you have done was in vain.

You deserve only peace and tranquility. We pray to God and Jesus Christ that you will have peace, tranquility, and joy. You were always there for us. Always remember how special you are to us and as a very wise man has told me over and over, each time my son had to face another surgery or another brace, "There is always hope." We love you Dr. Kopits.