Lucy O’Brien

@luceobrien.bsky.social

Kiwi in Kalifornia

sharing Patrick Dane's sister's post Instagram with her permission. if anyone would like to share memories and tributes (so many have said such kind things on here) please let me know in a DM and I can share Katie's email.

On December 27th, our family’s world changed forever. My brother Patrick, my dad John, and my step-mom Valerie were involved in a devastating car accident, and Patrick passed from this world far too soon.

My dad and Valerie have miraculously survived. They remain in critical condition in ICU, but they are making the small steps forward each day.

Patrick was a beautiful soul. He was gentle, curious, passionate, and deeply kind. Every person I have spoken to has spoken about his kindness. It was something everyone felt in his presence. I am endlessly proud of the person he became and of the quiet way he supported and cared for others.

Over this past week, I keep finding myself returning to memories of him as a child, full of laughter, humour, and light. I was so lucky to spend Christmas Day with him, with my dad and Valerie, and I will treasure those moments forever. Patrick was the happiest I had seen him in a long time, and I truly believe that matters. I will carry that with me always.

I have had the honour of speaking with some of Patrick’s closest friends and hearing beautiful stories about his gaming, his loyalty, and the support he gave to so many people. One friend described him as a “guardian of light,” and that feels deeply true. It is something I will hold close to my heart forever.

Patrick, you are so loved and so deeply missed. There will always be a space in our family shaped exactly like you. Thank you for the love you gave us and the light you brought into our lives.

The love, prayers, and kindness we have received have carried us through the darkest days, and we are so grateful. Please continue to hold my dad and Valerie in your thoughts and prayers as they continue to fight so hard. I truly believe Patrick is with them, guiding and protecting them.

Rest in power, my beautiful brother. We love you always
On December 27th, our family’s world changed forever. My brother Patrick, my dad John, and my step-mom Valerie were involved in a devastating car accident, and Patrick passed from this world far too soon.

My dad and Valerie have miraculously survived. They remain in critical condition in ICU, but they are making the small steps forward each day.

Patrick was a beautiful soul. He was gentle, curious, passionate, and deeply kind. Every person I have spoken to has spoken about his kindness. It was something everyone felt in his presence. I am endlessly proud of the person he became and of the quiet way he supported and cared for others.

Over this past week, I keep finding myself returning to memories of him as a child, full of laughter, humour, and light. I was so lucky to spend Christmas Day with him, with my dad and Valerie, and I will treasure those moments forever. Patrick was the happiest I had seen him in a long time, and I truly believe that matters. I will carry that with me always.

I have had the honour of speaking with some of Patrick’s closest friends and hearing beautiful stories about his gaming, his loyalty, and the support he gave to so many people. One friend described him as a “guardian of light,” and that feels deeply true. It is something I will hold close to my heart forever.

Patrick, you are so loved and so deeply missed. There will always be a space in our family shaped exactly like you. Thank you for the love you gave us and the light you brought into our lives.

The love, prayers, and kindness we have received have carried us through the darkest days, and we are so grateful. Please continue to hold my dad and Valerie in your thoughts and prayers as they continue to fight so hard. I truly believe Patrick is with them, guiding and protecting them.

Rest in power, my beautiful brother. We love you always

My most hated commenter is the one who says ‘never heard of this person’ ‘who is this person’ ‘never heard of this person before today’. Ok sorry you are not the central character of life

I used to mock parents who would post their toddler’s inspirational quotes on twitter, but now I have one, they truly do oscillate between unintentional profoundness and drinking their own pissy bath water