Hunter’s Stories

A Story of Hunter from Abagail Breslin

Many of you know me as Little Miss Sunshine – a great role I was privileged to play in my early acting career. Since then, I’ve played a lot of roles but there are none I’m prouder of than my role as a member of the Founder’s Committee for the Hunter Watson Fund.

Hunter Watson was my friend and anyone who called Hunter a friend is a very lucky person indeed. He touched people’s hearts in such a genuine and caring way. At his memorial service, they played videos that Hunter’s dad recorded every year on his birthday. In one video, his dad asked him, “Who are your best friends.” Hunter replied, “I don’t want to name them because I don’t want to leave any one out.” That was the Hunter I knew . . . always working to make everyone in the room feel welcome and appreciated.

Hunter was also one of the most multi-talented human beings I know. I used to tease him, “You’re so annoying. You’re good at everything.” At one point, he and I decided we were going to make a rap music mix tape. Neither one of us knew how to rap. But Hunter set his mind to it and, sure enough, he was good at that too.

I still think of Hunter regularly. When I’m at a music festival and think, “Hunter would love this band.” And each year when I review the applications from young people applying for grants from the Hunter Watson Fund. I read every application attentively and ask myself… “What would Hunter like about this person?” and “Do I see some of Hunter in this person’s dreams?”

It’s the time of year when I can most feel Hunter’s presence. What makes this organization so amazing is that it really is carrying on who Hunter was and keeping his spirit alive. Hunter understood that he was privileged to be able to pursue his passion for music, sports and entrepreneurship. He believed every person should have the same opportunity to pursue their dreams. And now, through the Hunter Watson Fund grants, he is making that possible for dozens of young people.

I spoke to Hunter just a couple days before he died. Hunter had noticed my Facebook posts were not as perky as usual, so he called to check on me. He listened as I told him how much dating sucked. I’ll never forget the last thing he said to me. “Well, Abs, all guys have issues but just try to choose the nicest one.

You’ll be fine because you’re a good person and good people find good people.” I guess good people really do find good people and I’m deeply grateful that I found Hunter Watson in my life. Let’s all continue to keep his spirit alive by generously supporting the Hunter Watson Fund.

- Abagail Breslin