In 2008 Saint John musician Steve Zaat wrote a song to console the hearts of two parents who had lost their young son to cancer. Written for Thomas, “That’s Me” visualizes a world seen through his eyes as he describes his release from this world and his enduring love for those who miss him. The song then inspired a beautiful book illustrated with jewel-toned oil paintings created by Sackville artist Sue Rose.

The cd of the song and the book that have been produced are dedicated to Thomas, the illustrations are dedicated by the artist to Thomas’ siblings, Grace, Eva, and William.





More about Thomas…

On August 18, 1996 my husband and I became parents. Thomas Eric Woods came into this world after a long and tiring labour…three days that are forever etched in my heart. How was I to know that his difficult entrance into this world would be just a foreshadowing of his 7 and a half years of earthly life?

A perfectly healthy baby, Thomas was - in our eyes - love personified. He amazed us with his brightness and his ability, from his first moments, to totally captivate an audience.

At the age of one year, Thomas was diagnosed with a form of soft tissue cancer called rhabdomyosarcoma. Our world was turned upside down. Our little family was swept into a world of chemotherapy, radiation, unfavourable statistics and uncertainty. Faith and family were our only hope.

Thomas’ positive attitude carried us through every parents’ worst nightmare. Despite all the negative experiences, Thomas possessed a love for life and an imagination that could carry him through the bad times. He loved to tell stories, listen to stories, play pretend and laugh. He inspired all who met him.

On Feb. 28, 2004 after six and a half years of fighting, Thomas left our earthly home and made his way to his eternal home. Thomas was confident that heaven was his next big adventure and assured us that when we were missing him , he would “just come and visit… maybe as an eagle with a light all around.” His younger siblings, Grace, Eva and William now carry Thomas with them in their hearts and are always watching for signs that their big brother angel is watching over them.

- J.D. & Angela Woods