In the summer of 2014, an almost impossible journey was set before a family in Bologna. A journey that was certainly one of life or death. A journey that presented more obstacles than clear paths. This journey would become one that would involve more than just a family. It captured the attention of an entire city and region in Italy. It would include people from the most unlikely of places and their compassion to do something beyond themselves. In the reaching beyond themselves, something beautiful happened that looking back now, became the true journey. And the miracle that happened along the way continues still today.
The journey began as a way to treat a disease that was raging in the body of 22 year old Tommi Tori.
Tommi seemed to be your typical Italian young man who loved soccer, cycling and making homemade pasta. However, Tommi was not your typical young man. He had the gift of making friends and touching the hearts of those he met deeply. Those who knew him from his story felt as if they truly knew him and were moved by his courage, perseverance, patience and love.
What started out as an impossible task of raising $600,000 USD in a two week period suddenly became more. It became about connecting. Connecting with those around us who then gave. People gave expecting nothing in return. People shared, and people cared. It was a tapestry of small things that created a beautiful work of art. And it became about human kindness, community and love for one another.
Did the treatment work? Only for a time. Did he suffer? He suffered! Do the parents grieve? They grieve. Do his family and friends miss him? They miss him.
But we, the Amici di Tommi (Friends of Thomas) continue this journey for Tommi. To remember, to inspire, and to encourage. Here we tell the story of the past, present and future. Thank you for sharing the journey with us.
The journey began as a way to treat a disease that was raging in the body of 22 year old Tommi Tori.
Tommi seemed to be your typical Italian young man who loved soccer, cycling and making homemade pasta. However, Tommi was not your typical young man. He had the gift of making friends and touching the hearts of those he met deeply. Those who knew him from his story felt as if they truly knew him and were moved by his courage, perseverance, patience and love.
What started out as an impossible task of raising $600,000 USD in a two week period suddenly became more. It became about connecting. Connecting with those around us who then gave. People gave expecting nothing in return. People shared, and people cared. It was a tapestry of small things that created a beautiful work of art. And it became about human kindness, community and love for one another.
Did the treatment work? Only for a time. Did he suffer? He suffered! Do the parents grieve? They grieve. Do his family and friends miss him? They miss him.
But we, the Amici di Tommi (Friends of Thomas) continue this journey for Tommi. To remember, to inspire, and to encourage. Here we tell the story of the past, present and future. Thank you for sharing the journey with us.
