To honor the memory of Christopher Grady, 45, Sto-Rox health and physical education teacher who died unexpectedly Oct. 22, a Pittsburgh sports themed day was held at the district he taught at for 16 years.
“Chris and his boys loved [Pittsburgh] sports teams,” said Carrie Palermo, president of the teachers union in Sto-Rox. “[The kids] are going to do a big march with the band and have the gear on.”
Grady, who lived in Upper St. Clair, was well-liked during his tenure at Sto-Rox. Although, many students first thought of him as “stern” or even “mean,” they later learned to love him.
Once students got to know Grady’s story, they understood a bit more about why he sometimes seemed a bit terse, even pre-occupied.
His sons Andrew “Drew” and Trent Grady were both diagnosed with the rare genetic disease Batten. Batten’s disease strikes less than four percent of every 100,000 births and systematically attacks the brain and nervous system, eventually taking away the ability to talk, eat, and will often cause seizures to those diagnosed. Both Drew and Trent eventually succumbed to the disease and died at ages 9 and 10, respectively.
Miqual Sherrell of McKees Rocks, a 2013 Sto-Rox graduate, said she was not a fan of gym class, but enjoyed her time in Mr. Grady’s class. She recalls discussions about his sons and their situation, with one conversation in particular sticking with her.
“He told me about having to have a conversation with Drew, and talking to him [before the disease completely took away his cognitive abilities], and that he could tell that Drew still knew that he was his dad,” said Sherrell. “It was just really heartfelt, it brought tears to my eyes.”
“He was a good guy. He cared about the kids, had a way with them that most of us wish we had,” said Palermo.
“It’s just so sad. Those of us at the school that were friends with Chris outside of work, and there weren’t many because he was quiet and reserved guy, we’re pretty messed up.”
Counselors were provided for any student or staff in need.
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