This is a letter of apology to the Bromfield class of 2012. I apologize for the last-minute cancellation of the senior class sleepover at our property.
I also wish to apologize publicly to my son Tucker, who did a superlative job of taking every foreseeable precaution, including speaking with Police Chief Denmark, neighbors, school officials, parents, classmates, etc. Tucker invested a lot of energy, time, and social capital to try and make this work safely.
The decision to allow the party, as well as the last-minute reversal, were solely mine. The decision to allow the party was my trying to be a friend to my son and his classmates, the decision to cancel was my attempt at being a responsible parent and citizen.
Ultimately I could not live with the risk of a lifetime of regret, hurt, loss for someone, somewhere. Believe me, I’ve had some personal experience with such risks, they can change life in an one split second, leaving a lifetime of anguish. I’m not saying anything bad would have happened, but I could not ultimately justify the risk, for anyone.
Furthermore, I would like to state how supportive and positive the Bromfield staff and Harvard Police Department were about this controversial event. All were cautiously supportive; at no time was I unreasonably pressured by them. They voiced appropriate caution and concern, but did ultimately demonstrate guarded optimism.
I wish the best to the Class of 2012; I cannot believe the time has come to move on so soon. I am genuinely proud of my son and the quality friends and classmates that he has around him. While I have created some disappointment, I have sidestepped an opportunity to mar this great time in your lives.
Wishing you all happiness and longevity,
Allan Edwards
Stow Road
