Obituary of Carter Macza

Carter James Macza (the “Super One”), beloved and cherished son of Murray Macza and Beverley Readman and adored brother of Teagan Macza of Calgary, Alberta, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, August 5, 2004 after a long and courageous battle against cancer at the age of 5 years. Carter was born at Rockyview Hospital in Calgary. When only two years old, after a family reunion trip to Vancouver Island, Carter was diagnosed with Stage IV Neuroblastoma. Carter’s incredible fighting spirit served him well throughout his treatment at Alberta Children’s Hospital and he achieved remission after 12 months. Just 4 months off treatment, Carter relapsed in spring 2003 and once again began a long courageous battle. Carter’s strong will and determination was evident in all things he tried. In the fall 2003, Carter decided he wanted to learn to skate. He sat on the ice during most of the first lesson in protest over being unable to stand up on skates. By April 2004, Carter had almost caught up to Teagan and was easily skating backward and forward. He loved playing driveway hockey with his dad and was determined to play organized hockey this winter. Carter attended Jamie’s Preschool at St. Andrew’s United Church, where by his second year he was the “big man” on campus and Mrs. Mackie’s helper. He was always happy to show the ropes to the younger kids in the group. He had a good trainer in his friend Bailey. Carter enjoyed his five years to the fullest. During his Children’s Wish Trip to Disney World, he had the most fun simply learning to stick his face in the water and later by jumping in the pool. Carter loved playing dress up with his sister Teagan and their friends. He and Teagan loved putting grandpa “in jail”. He enjoyed Sunday afternoon Tae Kwon Do classes led by his friend Brandon and liked to demonstrate his new skills on his mom and dad. After only a few table hockey games, he was routinely beating his dad, mom, his uncle Dean and grandma Readman by scores of 9-3. Carter loved being around his family and especially his cousins Claire, Catherine, Liam, Lauren, his aunts, uncles and grandparents. He loved taking care of those smaller than him. Throughout his life, Carter loved to be held and be able to use his hands to gently stroke the face of his mom and dad. He did this even while asleep. This reassured him and his parents that all was right with the universe. Comforting to the family, Carter died peacefully in the arms of his father, his arms circled around his dad’s neck. Carter is survived by his parents, Murray Macza and Beverley Readman and his sister Teagan, maternal grandmother, Martha Readman, auntie Dianne, uncle Dean (auntie Helena) cousins Catherine and Claire, his paternal grandparents, Bill and Phyllis Macza, auntie Colleen (uncle Mark), cousins Lauren, Liam, his uncle Kevin, numerous great aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Carter was predeceased by his maternal grandfather Doug Readman. Our heartfelt appreciation goes out to all the doctors, nurses, technicians and support staff at the Alberta Children’s Hospital as well as the doctors and staff at the Integrative Medicine Institute and the Canadian Cancer Research Group. We also wish to thank the many spiritual healers Carter worked with whose faith and light brought peace to his soul. Together, we all helped Carter live five wonderful, fun filled years with love and laughter. Carter will be forever missed and cherished in all our hearts. As his sister Teagan said, we had him for five great years! We miss you little bud! Our love for you will last forever. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Park Memorial Chapel (5008 Elbow Drive S.W.) on Monday, August 9, 2004 from 7:00P.M. to 8:30P.M. Funeral Services will be held at St. Andrew’s United Church (924 Heritage Drive S.W.) on Tuesday, August 10, 2004 at 10:30 A.M. with the Rev. Janni Belgum officiating. Graveside Service to follow at Eden Brook Memorial Gardens. To forward condolences go to www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire please send donations to the Kid’s Cancer Care Foundation of Alberta , Suite 205, 609-14 Street NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 2A1 in Memory of Carter James Macza. In living memory of Carter Macza, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W., CALGARY, TELEPHONE: (403) 243-8200.