UT Student Has Passed Away

We at Austinist were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Josh Talbot, the 21-year-old RTF major at UT for whom a large-scale platelet drive had been scheduled tomorrow.

The following is a letter posted on Thanksgiving Day to Josh's CaringBridge page by a loved one:

It is with a deeply hurting and grieving heart that I must share with you that Josh Talbot was called to go to his heavenly home early this morning. Josh was unable to maintain an adequate blood pressure and he had no reserve left after nearly 82 days of ICU care. He died peacefully in his sleep with his parents by his side about 12:20 am.

Josh fought his battle against the diseases of this world better than anyone I have ever known. I hope his parents can be comforted some with the knowledge that everything possible was done for Josh - there was nothing else they could have done. We thank all the doctors, nurses, therapists, donors and other people who have been a part of helping Josh fight his battle so valiantly. We all had prayed and hoped for a different outcome. Our God, our commander-in-chief, has always been in control and already knows the outcome of all our struggles. The victory was already secured for Josh's soul; it was and is safe and untouchable because of his faith in Jesus Christ. Jesus on the day of his death told the sinner who believed that 'today you will be with me in paradise.' I don't know if they eat a Thanksgiving dinner in heaven, but I believe Josh is feasting there with Jesus today.

There is a time for everything...a time to be born and a time to die...a time to mourn and a time to celebrate... It is the time to mourn but also the time to begin to celebrate Josh's life. It has been such a privilege to have known Josh and to serve the family who has loved him so deeply.

There's a guestbook available to sign for those wishing to honor the memory of this bright young man. Our condolences go out to his family and loved ones.

We are assuming that tomorrow's platelet drive has been canceled, but we'll let you know if hear otherwise.