During Chadwick Boseman’s time on earth, he lived a life of purpose via films, speeches and philanthropic efforts. Unfortunately, the acclaimed actor passed away one week ago (Aug. 28) after a four year battle with colon cancer, which was concealed from many of his fans, friends and colleagues. Since his death, many have shared stories, tributes and footage that capture the essence of who Boseman was as a person.
Most recently, Black Panther producer Nate Moore shared his final text from Boseman regarding their work for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. According to Moore, the two were attempting to gift a young boy some toys and a voice note from Boseman’s Marvel character, T’Challa. Quarantining and social distancing rules enforced amid the Coronavirus pandemic presented obstacles, but as the producer told PEOPLE, they pulled it off mainly because “he [Boseman] cared so intently, and in hindsight, so personally.”
In the text, Boseman explained why it was important for him and Moore to show up for the little boy.
“It broke me, man. But we need to do that for them,” he wrote. “People deserve abundant life, special moments. They’ve been through hell battling disease. If we were able to ease their suffering and bring joy for a moment, and hopefully moments as he goes through the bags, then we made a difference in his life.”
Moore explained that he believed the actor’s illness was not the reason for his generosity, sharing that was genuinely who Boseman was.
“I think that’s just who he was as a man,” he said. “A leader and a caregiver first, who accomplished both of those things as a performer and as a regular person.”
Boseman’s final words to actor Josh Gad also serve as a representation of his kindheartedness. In the text, he sent Gad some encouraging words on dealing with the changes caused by the COVID-19 and encouraged him to “take advantage of every moment.”
Check out the Boseman’s text to Gad below.