In Memory of Patrick Snider

Seventeen-year-old Patrick Snider, whose battle against cancer drew support from across and beyond Rowan County, died this afternoon in a Lumberton hospital.

Snider, 17, was a rising senior at North Rowan High School and the son of David and Jennifer Snider. As a pitcher for for North’s baseball team, Patrick was anticipating a strong season this year. But then in December he started not to feel well. In January he found out he had the same cancer as Lance Armstrong.

My son got to know Patrick through all of the fundraisers that all of the Rowan County High Schools participated in for his benefit and through the Rowan Legion team. Patrick was a "great kid" and everyone liked him alot. When my son came in this afternoon and told us about his passing, he was very upset. Although I never met Patrick, I know that my son thought so much of him and admired his strength and courage. And he was a very good baseball player for North Rowan. I do know that the outpouring of support was very apparent in Rowan County for Patrick and his family. At the Rowan-South Rowan Legion game earlier this summer, the 50-50 pot was totally for the benefit of Patrick and his family. If I remember correctly it came out to about $10,000.00. It brought tears to the eyes of everyone in the very packed crowd at Newman Park as well as for Patrick and his parents. Very emotional and puts alot of things in perspective. My aren't we all blessed when we have healthy children!! Thanks be to God!

Please visit www.salisburypost.com for stories about Patrick Snider and the strength and courage of this remarkable young man who will be surely missed. Please remember Patrick's parents, family and friends with your thoughts and prayers. God's blessings and peace to them during this very sad time.