Benjamin Derek Hendricks was born June 3rd, 1988. He was born 19 minutes before his twin brother, Mathew Ryan. Benjamin was always smiling, a very happy little boy. We noticed early on that Benjamin was not developing like his brother, such as rolling over, sitting up, crawling and walking. At 2 years old he was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. He was a sweet but determined little boy. He worked very hard to achieve goals that a lot of us take for granted. At 3 years old Benjamin had surgery which involved heel cord and hamstring release. The next day he was up walking in full leg cast in a walker for the first time ever. From that point on he excelled.

He worked hard at therapy and school as he grew into a young man, brightening a lot of lives along the way. His smile and energy would light up a room whenever and wherever he walked in. With the help of amazing caregivers he achieved his independence he worked so hard for at 18 years old when he moved into his own apartment and finally graduating high school at age 20. Benjamin surrounded himself with great friends, caregivers, family and just a lot of love. But mostly he held fast to his faith in the Lord.

In February of 2014 tragically Benjamin’s twin brother, Mathew died unexpectedly. Benjamin still held on to his faith but was just not the same enthusiastic young man after that. And then unfortunately Benjamin lost his great grandmother in August of 2016 and 3 weeks later lost his grandmother who he was very close to. His health began to deteriorate after that. He was diagnosed with CODP and suffered from chronic pneumonia.

He died in his in his sleep January 8, 2018. He has joined his little brother, Branden Richard and his twin brother, Mathew Ryan. The 3 brothers are together again and now Benjamin has no restraints or limitations. He is absolutely perfect and where he is supposed to be.

Benjamin is survived by his mother, Cynthia Hendricks and many other relatives and loved ones.