Matthew Gallagher dreamed of becoming an astronaut and became fascinated with the solar system and the constellations in the night sky. Matthew’s family, who live in Florida, are hoping to honor his memory by having his ashes sent into space after he died unexpectedly as his parents slept on May 18. His cremated remains are set to travel on Destiny Flight to the moon, which is expected to launch in 2023, the New York Post reported. It is hoped that his ashes will be buried on the surface so that his loved ones can remember him every time they see the moon. Matthew was described as a “kind-hearted soul” who “deeply touched countless others during his short life on earth” in a GoFundMe page started by his family to pay for a memorial space mission. The page was set up by his parents, Scott and Cory Gallagher, who hailed his “cheerful and playful approach to life”. “Knowing Matthew was one of God’s great blessings and she couldn’t help but love him,” said his father, a U.S. Marine. “Matthew was happiest wearing his superhero costumes, playing video games with his sister and friends, working on projects with his dad and hugging his mom. “Matthew loved anime, space, biking, hockey, baseball, Spider-Man and playing outside. “Matthew was a bright young lad. “His biggest dream was to become an astronaut and travel in space.” Image: Matthew dreamed of becoming an astronaut The family hopes to be present at the launch of Matthew’s space mission and has so far raised nearly $12,000 of the $14,000 goal. Matthew’s parents later added some photos of their son to the fundraising page, posting: “We just wanted to share the sweet face you will help send to the moon.” The 11-year-old, who was born on a Marine Corps base in California, leaves behind a sister, Savannah, along with many relatives and friends. “He will be sadly missed by all who knew him,” added Mr Gallagher.
