Meet the Kids

Alberto's Awesome Graham Cracker ~ Alberto Jr. was 5 years old when he was diagnosed with Ewing's Sarcoma. He went through eleven months of chemotherapy. He endured eight hours of surgery to remove the cancerous tumor along with three ribs, one muscle, and part of his right lung. Alberto got endless amounts of medicine and daily shots to boost his immune system after each round of chemo each month. He also had a feeding tube for ten months because the chemo gave him severe mouth sores and swollen gums. It was too painful for him to eat. He had lost all the weight he could afford to lose; he lost a total of 18 pounds. The feeding tube was the right choice for him. Through all this he's been amazingly strong and positive. He never complained through all the medicines, surgery, shots, losing his hair, endless x-rays, C.T. scans, bonescans, MRIs, through 106 degree fevers, six blood transfusions, changing the broviac every week, and through replacing one feeding tube seven times. He kept strong and I'm very proud of him. Now that the eleven months of chemo are over, he'll tell strangers and family about what he went through and show them his scar where his tumor was. He says he's telling his story. We're very blessed to have him here today to hold, talk, kiss him goodnight, and to watch him play with his three siblings. He's their big brother and they all three adore him. He's now 6 years old and in preschool where he's doing terrific. He has a head full of hair and has gained most of his weight back. God has blessed us with a second chance and we are grateful and blessed to have him here today. He's our survivor. *** today October 20, 2006 I got an email from Alberto's mother. Alberto has relapsed and is back in treatment. Recurring Ewings is extremely hard to treat so the family has made the very difficult decision to try a stem cell transplant. Alberto is already taking chemo and preparing for the transplant. Please pray for his family as this will be a much longer and much more difficult journey that the first time.

Andy's Chocolate Covered Strawberry ~ Andy was born on May 16, 1990. Andy was diagnosed with leukemia on April 19, 1995; one month shy of his fifth birthday. He endured nearly 3 years of chemo, before finishing his protocol, with no signs of cancer. He enjoyed a 'normal' eleven months, before it was discovered that he had relapsed. He again endured nearly 3 years of a chemo protocol. This time, after 13 months of 'normal', he relapsed; just before Thanksgiving 2002. The only option was a bone marrow transplant & the search began for a donor. Andy didn't live to see that donor found. On Jan. 13, 2003 he was welcomed into Heaven; happy, whole and healed. Andy never wanted to be identified by his leukemia; he wanted people to see him for who he was, not the baldness, the puffy face, the port-a-cath in his chest or the IV backpack he carried. He was: a happy, fun loving, tender hearted boy; that just happened to have a problem with his blood. When he played, he played long and hard. Never did the other boys know that after Andy came in from playing basketball, he would have to take Morphine & lay with a heating pad under his knees, because he was in such pain. Never did they know that just the act of running was so very painful, because his stomach and intestines were tender from all the chemo. Never did they know that he would come home from school and take a 2 hour nap, exhausted from the day. He was determined to be 'just one of the guys'. Andy's biggest complaint in life was that he "never had enough time to play." Many nights, even sick, from hours of heavy chemo, he would say "But, I didn't have time to play today!" Those nights, we made time; no matter how late it was. Bed time would wait...out came the Lego's or Nintendo & we took that precious time to play. Andy's biggest loves were: Mom and Dad, his cats, Lego's and food. He had dreams of becoming a chef, and owning his own restaurant. He studied the history and origins of food. One of the first experiences in the kitchen, was making chocolate covered strawberries with Mom. We began making them for ourselves for Valentines Day, and it became a family tradition. When Andy began chemo, we were warned that it could cause some brain damage, and learning disabilities. Not so with Andy! His Dad and I used to joke that IF it had caused damage, "what would he have been like without it?" Andy was an honor student. He liked school and learning. He excelled in history, geography and math. (he wasn't too shabby in science either!) He was quite an American History buff, especially military history. When you're on chemo, you have a great deal of time to watch television; luckily he chose The History Channel, The Discovery Channel or Food Network. (of course) There was a healthy dose of Cartoon Network and Nick at Night mixed in also. He always kept up with his school work, even while out a week at a time, for chemo. He always looked forward to getting back to school, and his friends. Andy had an incredible sense of humor, and loved to belly laugh, and make those around him do the same. One of his greatest joys seemed to be pranking Mom or Dad, with some sort of joke or some booby-trap he had spent hours setting up in his room. "Hey Mom...come here!!!" would ring out, and you KNEW he was up to something! He loved Star Wars, and later, The Lord of The Rings. When other kids were into Pokemon, Andy was into Digimon. He loved all types of music, and to dance. More than once, he was caught boogey'n to the muzak in stores! Andy could be very quiet and reserved at times; other times, he was the life of the party. Once in Andy's 'inner circle', you were there for life. He knew no enemies, and preferred a small circle of very close friends. He had two BEST friends: he and Robby had been neighbors and friends since Andy was 4. They spent hours playing Legos; building cities, trucks, and anything else their minds thought of. They were together nearly all the time; you saw one, you saw the other. His best school friend was Christopher. He is everything Andy wasn't. Chris isn't shy or the least bit reserved. Chris loves to be in the spot light, where Andy loved to just blend in. They were the perfect compliment to each other & often picked up the others slack. Andy was as comfortable with adults as he was with his peers, and could count several adults as his close friends. He had a passion for babies and small children; something he definitely inherited from his Dad. He was always quick to hold a baby, or toss a ball with a toddler. He even took a baby sitting course, at a local hospital, with hopes of getting a few jobs here and there. Although Andy was only present here on earth for 12 years, 7 months and 28 days, his legacy lives on. He was wise beyond his years; understanding the truly important things in life: love, laughter, kindness, love of The Lord, and friendship. He gleaned more out of his short life, than most adults do in decades. He taught life lessons to teachers, doctors, nurses and most of all, his parents. We, his parents, feel such joy in knowing that he is now dancing with babies, in Heaven. He's building Lego's with The Lord! He has all of eternity to play, and he's healthy! Surely he heard "Well done good and faithful servant" when he reached the gates of Heaven. We will forever be humbled to have had you in our lives & eternally proud to call you our son.

Anjuli's Chocolate Surprise~ "Sweet Anjuli was almost 4 when she was diagnosed out of the blue with a deadly brain stem tumor. She bravely fought a battle against cancer that inspired all who knew her. Medical staff continually marveled at the bravery and courage of this darling little dancer. She refused to let cancer dim the brightness of her light. She loved her family and friends, her home and her church. She also liked dancing, making works of art, running and jumping, reading and snuggling. She returned to the Angels in June 2001. She is missed by all who love her."

April's Heavenly Strawberry Delight - In memory of April Janine Hornbuckle 1/3/83- 3/11/00. April was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma in Sept. 1996 at 13 years old. She went through intense chemo and radiation and was in remission for 5 months when she relapsed. She then went throut a stem cell transplant in 1998. She them relapsed again 10 months later. Cancer took our prescious daughter 0n March 11 2000. She always had a positive attitude and lived each day to it's fullest. We hold on to all the good memories and try to remember not just that she died but that she lived and lives on in our Hearts forever. She taught us so much about love and living life to its fullest even though times are tough. We miss you sweetheart. She was an inspiration to all who knew her..

Arielle's Angel Wings~ Arielle and her identical twin sister Alanna were born October 2, 1991. We felt so blessed in having healthy twins that weighed over 7lbs at birth. Our life was turned upside down April 9, 1997, when Arielle was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Because they are identical twins, Alanna was tested too, and thank God, given a clean bill of health. She remains healthy and is no longer considered at risk for ALL. Arielle remained in remission for 3 years and 3 months. During that time, she was quite healthy and able to participate in Brownies, tennis, gymnastics, and dance. She loved her cats the most, and wanted to open a shelter for homeless kittys when she grew up. Fishing in the Sierra Nevada mountains and arts and crafts were other favorite past-times. We were heartbroken when she relapsed July 17, 2000, at the age of 8. This time, Arielle did not go into remission easily. We were given the option of letting her die. But, she was still strong and loving life- we couldn't give up on her and she wanted to continue the fight. Finally, we found an especially strong combination of chemo drugs which put her back into remission, and eligible for Bone Marrow Transplant. Arielle underwent BMT March 7, 2001. She was discharged the middle of May, and by june 8, 2001, we found that the cancer was back- the transplant had no effect on the leukemia. We lost our precious girl July 11, 2001.

Ashton Elizabeth's Excellent Apple Spice ~ Ashton Elizabeth was diagnosed with ALL on September 15, 2000 and she has been in remission since her little sister's birthday, October 13, 2000! She finished her 2 and 1/2 years of chemo on March 7, 2003. Ashton is a strong little blonde headed brown eyed girl who loves playing with her little sister, Haley. They play dress-up and dolls, like to paint, and love to play outside on their swings and in their playhouse. Ashton loves the beach in Destin, Fla. and the mountains and waterfalls in northwest Georgia and had a blast in Disney World for her "wish trip" in March, 2002 and again with family and friends for Halloween 2003! She dressed up as her favorite Disney character, Princess Aurora, from Sleeping Beauty.

She was almost 3 at diagnosis and her pooh bear went with her everywhere; spinal taps, bone marrow aspirations, x-rays, playroom; everywhere. When she turned 4, pooh was replaced with "Kyle Joseph" her baby doll who was named after a good friends newborn son. He also went through numerous port accesses and spinal taps with her, and is still her "baby" as of today!!

Ashton is a child of great faith and her strength surpasses that of her daddy and me. She believes she is healed and we are going with that. She loves Sunday school and singing the songs she learns there - she also loves school!! She is now in second grade is into reading American history books. She loves decorated shimmery jeans and shirts and My Scene Barbie™. She has a wonderful full of life laugh that keeps us going. I feel so blessed to have her as our daughter!

Her favorite foods are chocolate, of course, and she eats at least 1-2 apples a day! She loves red apples and sliced cheese!

Her daddy and my wish and prayer that she can be a hope and a light to those who are going through this terrible time in their lives of dealing with childhood cancer. Hopefully with constant research and lots of faith and hope, someone will find a cure in our lifetime.

Ashton's Awesome Oatmeal Milk & Honey - Ashton was diagnosed with T-cell Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia at the age of 2.5. The Leukemia was so rampant in his little body that his parents
were told that Ashton most likely would not live to see Thanksgiving, just 5 days away. However, Ashton pulled through those first rough weeks and went on to successfully complete 2+ years of treatment that included high-dose chemotherapy and cranial radiation.

Today, Ashton is a spunky, energetic, bright-eyed, 8-year-old 2nd grader who loves school, friends, gymnastics, Cub Scouts, riding his scooter, basketball, drawing, his Greyhound dog, Sara, and (last but not least), his Mom and Dad. He hopes to be an "inventor or an artist or both" when he grows up.

Ashton and his parents support a number of childhood cancer
organizations by participating in fundraising opportunities and speaking at various engagements throughout the year to raise awareness and money in the hopes of finding a cure for all childhood cancers.

Bobby's Hot Buttered Rum~ Bobby was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in 1987 at the age of 8. The cancer recurred in his central nervous system, after three years of continuous chemotherapy, More aggressive chemotherapy and cranial and spinal radiation yielded only a two-year remission, at the end of which, he relapsed for a second time. Bobby had an allogeneic bone marrow transplant on September 30, 1993 with marrow donated from his then four year old brother Craig, a perfect HLA donor match. Bobby is now 24 years old; strong and healthy, and a student at the University of Maryland. In appreciation for all that he received in the way of support and services during his years of illness, Bobby formed a nonprofit organization with his family, and bicycled across America twice to visit with children currently battling cancer and raise funds for childhood cancer research and family support programs. You can read more about Bobby and One Voice Across America at www.onevoiceusa.org

Bradie Blaire's Warm Vanilla Sugar ~ Bradie Blaire was born December 9, 1992 ten weeks premature. She weighed 3lbs.8ozs.
She stayed in the hospital eight weeks then came home and had a healthy happy first year. The week after her first birthday I noticed a lump on the inside of her right calf about the size of an egg. It was not there the day before when I bathed her so I was immediately alarmed. Randy (her Dad) & I took her to the local emergency room where we were told it was an insect bite or muscle spasm, not to worry. But the next day I called her pediatrician and he had her come right in. The doctor was immediately alarmed when he saw it and admitted her to the hospital then. A biopsy was done on Friday and we were sent home to wait and come back Monday to meet with more doctors. We were told then she had a rare form of muscle cancer called rhabdomyosarcoma. We then met with oncologists and orthopedic surgeons to decide what to do. Because of the aggressiveness of the disease, we opted for amputation at the knee which was done the next day.
Then we took her home from the hospital on Christmas day and waited for the surgery to heal to begin radiation and chemo. After spending the next year in and out of the hospital for treatments, she was declared in remission that November. Oh, how we rejoiced. We spent the next 9 months living normally with frequent checkups. Then in November, it was back in her abdomen. After another brutal surgery, she went back into chemo. After
several more months, she was again declared in remission, only to relapse again a few months later. She took another round of chemo and radiation. Then another remission with another recurrence. We were told in May she might have 6 weeks left to live so we began preparing her and our family for what was to come. Bradie told us at the tender age of four that she didn't want anymore chemo. Other than experimental options that we knew would not
cure her, she had already had every known chemo and radiation treatment available for the type cancer she had so we were able to tell her she didn't have to. We spent the next months doing things she wanted to do and taking her to see and do things we wanted her to experience. We started her on hospice care right away not knowing how long she had. We also planned her funeral with her help. This was the year Princess Diana died and she wanted
lilies just like hers on her casket (she did have them). Bradie felt great into the six weeks and kept going to everyone's amazement. Then that Christmas she started to get weaker. In January she started staying in bed more. But her little brother, Payton was approaching his first birthday in March and she told us she would be there and she was. But the next day she stayed in the bed, by this time on morphine orally, then as days went by on a pump. We had talked to Bradie about Heaven and her friends who had gone
before her and up until the day of March 30, she always told us she was not ready. But that morning after reading her her favorite story we told her that that day was probably getting close to the time she would be going to Heaven and she told us that she was ready. She passed that afternoon about 5 o'clock, 10 months after we were told she probably had about 6 weeks to live. We were given so many precious memories in the short 5 years we had
her here with us. She touched so many lives with her infectious spirit, never asking why she had to endure cancer, but making it bearable for those who love her. She passed on March 30 at the age of 5 years and 3 months.

Bram's Buttery Spiced Vanilla~ Bram was diagnosed with T-cell leukemia March 2000.
He was almost 14 at that time. It has been a long
hard road for him but he finished chemotherapy in May
2002. Bram loves animals and has told me he couldn't
have survived everything without his little dog
Bridget. He also likes play-station and listening to
music. His love of cooking has him dreaming of
culinary school.

Brantley's Tiger's Blood- In loving memory of Brantley Reed Fairey (June 29, 1983-April 5, 2000)......Brantley was diagnosed in December of 1998 with a rare type of brain cancer called gliomatosis cerebri after experiencing frequent headaches. He was treated at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, TN, which became a second home to Brantley and his family. He loved his nurses and doctors who tried so hard to find a way to stop the cancer which took his life after 16 months of trying several types of experimental chemos and radiation. Brantley willingly underwent these treatments, knowing it might not help him, but could possible help some child in the future. He was a very handsome young man, full of promise and desired to one day be a fighter pilot in the Air Force. He was so bright that he could have achieved his goal. He loved music and played guitar, drums and trumpet in his band at school. He had a beautiful voice, making All-District Choir every year during his middle school years and the two years of high school, and even performed in the role of King at the annual choir performance of the Renaissance Feast only 4 months before his death. He loved to sing at church and at community events, and served as President of his youth group. He possessed a terrific sense of humor, and loved Mike Myers and Jim Carrey. He could do great imitations, especially of "Austin Powers", and even dressed up as the character for Halloween, winning first place in a costume contest at school and for the city parade. He, of course, had to wear his outfit to St. Jude and show his nurses. He loved acting and had the lead in several productions at school, and served as President of the Drama Club. He had a great love of all sports, but especially football, playing in elementary and middle school, and his freshman year shortly before his diagnosis. The next year, since he was unable to play, he decided he would be the team manager so he would still be able to be on the sidelines, cheering on his teammates. His favorite team (aside from his own Caruthersville MO Tigers) was the San Francisco 49'rs and he collected their memorabilia. Brantley loved his family...his Mom and Dad, his sister Kim and her husband Jon, and his beloved little niece Haley. Since his death, he has a new niece, Gabby, and we know that he watches over both of them. Brantley left his aunts, uncles, cousins, a grandmother, and many friends to mourn for him, but we all know
that he is in Heaven, and that we will see him again one day. He showed us all the true meaning of courage and bravery. Brantley passed away at the age of 16 in the arms of his Mom and Dad, and with his two beloved aunts present at St. Jude Children Hospital in Memphis, TN.

Brian's Bountiful Harvest ~ Brian was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia on December 3, 1999, just days before his 4th birthday. Brian, now 10, is a remarkable child who loves sharks, angels, and playing with his friends. He is a wonderful student and likes telling everyone that he "is in challenge everything even though I had Leukemia and had to get chemo". Brian is a great "little" and "big" brother to his sisters, Alicia, 16, and Carina, 6, and counts his family among his biggest fans. He has made many new "chemo friends" that help him deal with the mental and physical challenges he has had to endure due to his more than 3 year treatment plan. He is a true hero to all who know him and is intent on finding a cure for cancer when he grows up "so no other little kids have to get poked." ***Update**** As of December 2004 Brian is considered a long term survivor!!!

Cait's Chantilly Lace - Caitlin (Cait) was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare form of childhood bone cancer, on June 21, 2004. Cait was a typical 16 year old teenager at the time of her diagnoses. She played defense for her high school soccer team and a member of the debate team. What we thought was a sports injury turned into every parents worst nightmare. Cait was about
to undergo the worst year of her life, yet she was determined to beat cancer. Caitlin's tumor was located in her right distal femur, at the end of the bone where it touches the knee. Chemotherapy started immediately. On September 14, 2004, Caitlin had extensive surgery to remove the cancerous tumor. Her femur was replaced with titanium and she received a new plastic knee. Unfortunately, the surgery left her with nerve damage, causing footdrop. After numerous months of intense physical therapy, Cait is now able to walk without the assistance of a brace. Caitlin finished chemotherapy in February 2005. Caitlin has lead her battle against cancer with strength, dignity and a sense of humor.
Caitlin plans to attend college and become a high school English teacher.
Caitlin's motto: Live Well, Laugh Often and Love Much.

Chad's Cherry Cheesecake ~ Chad was diagnosed with Leukemia in September 2000 when he was only 8 years old. He finished treatment in November 2003 and is now a 6th grade Honor Student! He loves swimming, basketball, video games, and his Boston Terriers, Junior and Bosley! He learned how to make Cherry Cheesecake on his Make A Wish Trip to Hawaii in April of 2001.

Clarissa Baked Cookies for Santa~ Clarissa was diagnosed in January of 1999 at the age of 8 years old with ALL. She was done with her chemotherapy in June of 2001. She is a very active young lady. She enjoys swimming, drawing, crafts, animals, being with her friends, and camping with her family. Clarissa is a very strong young lady. We are very thankful that she did so well. She is truly an angel to us.

Connor's Super Sunflower - On March 10, 2002 Connor was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia. He was 2 years old. When he failed to reach remission by day 14 of treatment he was put on a harder protocol for standard risk kids. Less than 1% of all ALL diagnoses get this protocol for this reason. However it worked. On day 35 he was determined to be in remission. He was hit very hard with chemo and it took its toll on his body. He spent 90% of his first 14 months of treatment in the hospital with infection after infection. Everything from line infections to mumps. Finally he made it to maintenance. Boys have a 3 1/2 year treatment plan whereas girls are 2 1/2 years. Connor is now 5 months away from finishing treatment. 5 months from taking his last daily dose of chemo and being able to say, "I'm FREE!"

Connor's attituded during these last 3 years has been amazing. While the meds make him feel awful one could still always find him pretending to be a superhero, laughing at everything, and enjoying his life just as it is. I don't think that he ever has realized how sick he is, if he ever realized he was sick at all. His strength and zest for life have been a lesson to us and all that have come into contact with him. His smiling face can be seen on posters all over for different organizations, a true testament to how one's attitude can help others.

Corey's Caribbean Getaway ~ Corey will be in our hearts forever. He was a young handsome college student of 19. He loved his family, music, he played several guitars, and loved working with children. He was diagnosed with leukemia on January 2, 2004, and passed away January 20, 2004.

Corey's Cool Blackberry Sage ~ Corey was diagnosed with a pineal nongerminonatous germ cell tumor on May 17, 2004. His life quickly changed from sports and other outdoor adventures of a typical 12 yr old to a life of hospitals and therapy. Corey underwent two brain surgeries: one to relieve pressure and swelling and the second to remove the tumor. He endured six months of Chemotherapy. During Chemo, it was important to continue a normal life so Corey faithfully went to school. He worked hard to maintain a “B” average. There were many days he was not well enough to go to school. However, his school friends and teachers became a valuable source of support. After Chemo, Corey underwent 30 continuous days of radiation to his head and spine. During the many weeks of Hospital stays, MRI’s, and feeling just miserable not once did he complain or ask why he was going thru all this pain and suffering. He had a quiet resolve that his God was in control. His treatment ended December 23, 2004.

In January 2005, Corey was able to pick up his life as a normal teen. He played Junior Varsity Basketball and then made the school baseball team. His physical strength came back slowly as he embraced the second chance he had been given at life. July 3, 2004 Corey’s Brain tumor symptoms came back. Remission was over. The doctor’s could not suggest another course of treatment but Corey continued to fight in other ways. He had more than just a love for life. Everything he did and everyone he spoke with he wanted to reflect the peace and faithfulness of God, his Lord and Savior.

Throughout his illness, Corey’s faith in his God was unshakeable. In the darkest of treatments Corey clung onto his favorite Bible verse Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things thru Christ who strengthens me.” Corey’s battle with cancer was not easy but he was not alone. He had faith God would help him in every step and comfort him every day. He believed that someday he would enter the presence of God and there he would stay for all eternity. At 14 years of age, that day was October 7, 2005.

Corey was a watchful and loving brother. He was a valiant and precious son. He was a faithful and honest friend. “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live even though he dies.” John 11:25. Until we are all reunited in the presence of God, you will forever be in our hearts.

Danny's Kyoto Garden ~

Danny Paul Klancher
(5/27/87 - 3/15/02)
"Laughed Often, Loved Much"
He loved Japan, like the Japanese plum blossoms, he was undaunted by the winter air.

Danny Paul was diagnosed with high-risk acute lymphocytic leukemia in November 1997 at age 10. Two years later, while still on maintenance chemo, Danny relapsed and was immediately started on a more intense chemo/radiation protocol. Danny and his family celebrated the end of treatment in June 2001, the same month Danny graduated from junior high school. Unfortunately, the cancer returned in January 2002. On March 15th, Danny Paul Klancher, two months shy of 15, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family.

For 4 1/2 years, he fought leukemia with courage, determination and remarkable resilience. Dan never saw himself as a victim and refused to be identified by this horrible disease. At the end of his life, his primary concern was for the sadness his passing would bring to his family. He told his family that he did not fear death and with a simple, but pure, faith, he decided, "God must want me."

Danny was born and raised in Bakersfield, CA and was a freshman in high school when he died. Before getting ill, he loved baseball, soccer and football. After being diagnosed, Dan's attention turned to other interests, including music, computer games and attending computer "LAN" parties with his brother. But, without question, his primary interest became all things Japanese, including many forms of Japanese anime and the college-level study of the Japanese language. This interest culminated in a thrilling two-week vacation to Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Himeji, and Hiroshima, Japan, in the summer of 2001, which he declared to be the highlight of his life. Danny's desire was to one day work for the U. S. State Department and to be a diplomat posted in Japan. There's no doubt that he would have done so if he had been given the opportunity. Ever the willing traveler, he also enjoyed his family "road trips" to Canada, Washington, Oregon, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, Nevada, North Carolina and Texas.

Dan lived his life with joy, high energy and humor. He was an intelligent, articulate and mature young man, who genuinely blessed the lives of all who knew him well. The marker on his grave reads, "Laughed Often; Loved Much." Simply saying that he is missed is saying far too little about his place in our world. Read more about Danny and see some wonderful pictures at: http://www.DannyKlancher.com

Darian Lee's Sugar Cookie - Our daughter, Darian Lee, was born on July 16, 1997. She loved watching Blue’s Clues and having books read to her. She was a normal, healthy and very active child until January 1999 when I found a lump on her neck. I took her to the doctor and he stated that it was a lymph node infection and started treating it with an antibiotic. After a few days, I took her back and he referred us to an ENT who said the same thing. After a week, and because she was in a lot of pain and the lump was getting bigger, I insisted on them doing a fine needle aspiration. They found out that she had cancer and sent us to Riley’s Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana. When we reached Riley, they did their basic testing and gave us the diagnosis that she had neuroblastoma. The Riley doctors put her on an aggressive chemo protocol. However, by April, they realized that it wasn’t working. She was in a lot of pain because the tumor was wrapping around her nerves in her shoulder. They decided to do radiation and change her chemo. They did radiation for a few days and put her on an experimental chemo protocol. In August, they started the preparation for her to have a stem cell transplant. She also had surgery at that time to remove what they could of the tumor. We then returned the first part of September to have the stem cells taken again since the cells had cancer cells in them the first time. Two (2) weeks later, we returned to have the remainder of the tumor removed only to find that the tumor had returned. It had tripled in size and metastasized to her liver and lungs. The doctors told us that they would not be able to cure the cancer since it came back so fast after they removed it. Darian was with us one more week. She passed away at home on September 17, 1999. Darian was a blessing to us and we miss her tremendously.

Drew's DrewBerry ~ Andrew William (“Drew”) was born in October of 1998 and joined his big brother Joey. He was a happy, healthy baby who grew into an adorable and mischievous toddler. Just after his second birthday, I began to notice that he was having unexplainable symptoms such as excessive sleeping; not wanting to eat and holding his head as if he was in pain. In the month that followed, I brought him to his pediatrician five times and had Drew examined by three different doctors. Each thought he had a virus, but they finally sent us for blood work, but that did not get any results as he did not have Leukemia.

Finally, Drew’s pediatrician acknowledged that he was unsure what was wrong with Drew and told me to take him to Children’s Hospital in Boston, and not leave until we had an answer. It turned out to be quite a long day. At Children’s, they did x-rays which turned up nothing (they thought maybe he broke his jaw); finally they did a CT-Scan which revealed the mass in his brain (and several in his spine). It turned out that he had a tumor called ependymoma. We were admitted to the ICU and I was told that if his vital signs decreased at all that they would have to rush him to the emergency room. It was unbelievable to me that I went from searching for answers to wondering if he would survive the night.

Over Thanksgiving weekend of 2000, he had surgery to remove part of the tumor (they could not surgically remove all of the tumor since it would have caused severe brain damage if not death). He was too young for radiation, which left us with chemotherapy as our only option.

Drew endured multiple surgeries including a feeding tube and tracheotomy and several rounds of chemotherapy. Sadly, Drew passed away in July of 2001. He is still thought of all the time and desperately missed. He will forever be my hero and I will forever be in awe of all Drew endured and what a wonderful little boy he was.

Dylan's Delicious Mulled Cider~ Dylan was diagnosed with stage IV alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma in September 1998 when he was only 18 months old. He was found to be in remission several times, but each time relapsed shortly thereafter. After enduring 38 months of chemo, radiation, and 19 surgeries, Dylan passed away on November 14, 2001 at the age of 4. Many say he lost his battle, but the fact is, he lost absolutely nothing and gained everything. In our eyes he has won the victorious battle and has gotten what each of us hope to someday have and that is...to be with God for all eternity. He was the light of our lives and was considered very special to may people. The lives that he touched was remarkable and many of us could only hope to do what he has done. He had an amazing love for firefighters and considered them all to be heroes. His dreams were to someday become a firefighter himself and I'm sure that's what he is doing right now...Heaven has a new fire chief. Dylan had many accomplishments during his short time here; Honorary Fire Chief of the Boonville and Evansville, Indiana Fire Departments and was made and Honorary Member of the International Fire Chiefs Association. Just as every firefighter was Dylan's hero, Dylan was our HERO and will be forever missed and loved by all of us!

Eric's Home for the Holidays (aka Eric's Home Sweet Home) ~ Eric was a normal 7year old little boy...we thought. We had no idea that a rare childhood cancer - rhabdomyosarcoma – was taking over his body. He had a normal day at school and had gone home to spend the night with his friend Lakin when the symptoms started to surface. Eric was diagnosed with stage IV embryonal rhabdomyoscarcoma on Nov 6, 2001. He endured his initial treatment of chemo and radiation for 9 months. He was such trooper and took each treatment as it came with no arguments or fights. He just knew he had to do them and it was part of his life. When he went for scans 3 weeks off treatment – the rhabdo was back with multiple lesions in his lungs. We decided to go on his dream trip to Disney before resuming treatments in October, 2002. Eric again bounced into the clinic for his treatments and took each day as it came. As he became weaker and weaker he never complained, he just lived with what limitations he had – we were so proud of him. He was and is our little man. Eric lost the battle to rhabdo on April 10, 2003, but he won the battle of life. He is now without pain and suffering. Eric touched many lives with his strength and sense of humor through out his entire 17 months of treatment. We loved him when we were together and love him when we are apart, always and forever, always in our hearts. We love you “Amazing Eric” Eric Rainey: September 11, 1994 -- April 10, 2003

Erin's Hot Baked Apple Pie~ Erin is the daughter of Annie who is the creator and founder of this business formerly known as Annie's Flowers and Gifts. She was 26 months old when diagnosed with Acute Lypmphocytic Leukemia. She is a wonderful, energetic child. She loves playing Barbies, watching Dora the Explorer. and being outside. She loves to garden with her dad. Erin completed treatment in May 2002 May, 2002 and enjoyed almost a full year in remission. Sadly Erin relapsed in March 2003 and had to undergo an intense regimen of chemotherapy once again.

Jacob's Jazzy Apple Cinn (written by Candace, Jacob's mother) ~ Jacob was born April 30, 1998 after 18 hours of labor. He was so tiny.... only 6lbs... my smallest baby of 4 kids. He had a slight temperature but nothing that held him longer in the hospital. His temperature was low but still he came home on time. The doctors also saw that he really didn't eat well so they had a nurse come to our home once a week to weigh him and see how he was eating. As weeks went buy he hardly ever cried, in fact my son Stephen, who was 5 at the time, called Jacob the non crying baby. He told his kindergarten teacher all about him not crying much and they said they couldn't wait to meet this non crying baby. At 2 months Jacob was still not eating a lot but the dr.'s said he was healthy. He learned to smile (boy did he smile) and do everything normal as months went by, He was such a happy little fella. Then in 2002, at just 3 years old, Jacob started feeling tired and stopped playing. He was crying all the time with high fevers and for 7 weeks I kept taking him to his ped doc that said he was fine. He said if it continues bring him back so we did, weekly. On the 7th week of taking him in I told the doctor that he had the fevers all the time. His resonse was " if he continues to have fevers he would be in a ER not here" even though he had one every time I was in the office of at least 102! Even the nurse told me he looked pale. I left the office very angry and scared at that point. I had told my husband many nights before that day that maybe I should take him to an ER. I said he just cries and whines all day and runs the fevers. My husband said that I should wait because I had been taking him to the dr. regularly. So I did wait and then the dr. made that comment. It was 3 days before Easter and we had made plans for a wonderful day at my best friends but Easter day I called her and said he had another high fever of 103 and maybe we shouldn't come by. I didn't know if anyone else could get what he had but she insisted on us coming because Jacob's fever always went down with a bath and motrin. When we arrived at my friends home she (a nurse also) took one look at Jacob and said "oh my God how long has he been this pale"? I started to feel scared and told her all about what has been going on. While the other kids were searching for eggs Jacob was lying in my arms crying and moaning. Kim (our friend) asked if she could take his temp. She did and it had climbed to 104.7! Kim realized Jacob was in danger. She took us to an urgent care center close by where they did blood work. Within 30 mins we were on our way by ambulance to UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN hospital to find out that Jacob had (ALL) Acute Lymphblastic Leukemia. now as a mom I just could not believe what I was hearing so I begged for them to redo the tests. I wanted them to be wrong but of course they were correct. That's when we started the Journey with my son. It would be 3 years and 4 months of intense chemo. While in the hospital we were told how Jacobs heart was beating hard enough for 5 people and his liver was shutting down. His unusual strength kept him alive and we knew we would bring him home someday. We would accept all the disabilities that could accrue as long as he was with us. Today he is in remission and off all treatments as of June 2005. He is doing well and growing big! He does have disabilities with learning and gross motor skills but he is getting a lot of help and becoming a very happy boy again. He just joined his very first sport at 7 and is now wrestling with his brothers in a wrestling club at school and loves it a lot. He has days where it's hard to keep up and do everything but he try's with all his little mite and he is happy doing it. The best part of all is that he is ALIVE TODAY and with us. He sees his oncology doctor every 6 weeks for blood counts and weight ins and so far its all good. Visit Jacob's website at: www.caringbridge.org/mi/jacob

Jake's Berries Jubilee ~(this scent temporarily discontinued) Jake was diagnosed with high risk t-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia on Nov. 14 2000. He went into remission quickly, but relapsed in his bone marrow on Sept. 20, 2001, his 3rd month of maintenance. We had a wonderful summer, he felt good, his hair grew back, he started playing freshman football before he relapsed. Jake started getting stronger chemo to get ready for a Bone Marrow Transplant. Since we could not find a 6/6 donor, we were going to do an experimental haploidentical transplant using his dad who was 3/6. Nov. 14 2001, one year after diagnosis, we were at City of Hope in CA, talking with the Dr.s. Christmas came and we were all together and had such a wonderful time. Then right after Christmas Jake relapsed again, they gave him stronger chemo, but the leukemia was also strong and did not go away this time.
We took Jake home and God let us have him for one more month before he was carried to heaven by the angels waiting in our room on Feb. 9 2002 at 7:20am. He took his last breath in his Dad's and my arms. He was 15 years old and fought a courageous 15 month battle with leukemia.
Jake was born on Dec. 17 1986 and presented to us in a Christmas stocking. We thank God for allowing us to have Jake, even if it was for a short time. Jake was very loving and always cuddly, would sit on my lap, even though he was 5 foot 10 inches and over 200 lbs. He had a great sense of humor, was always playing jokes and LAUGHING. He enjoyed riding his GoPed, motorcycle, playing with his Playstation 2 and hanging out with his friends. He loved to DANCE. Jake was a wonderful Son, Brother and Uncle. He is and always will be our Hero.
Until we meet again,
Safe in the arms of Jesus.

James' Jammin' Grape~ Robert James was born June 5th, 1986...a healthy beautiful baby and such a loving child always happy and full of energy! James was the oldest of our three grandchildren. In the short 14 1/2 years of his life he brought so much joy and love in to our lives. Like his father, he never met a stranger. James was so full of life and loved living it. When he was diagnosed with T-Cell high risk Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia 12/15/98 (a day before his Dad's birthday) he was determined not to let this disease win. James was 12 1/2 and he and his brother and sister were spending the weekend before Christmas with us (the usual) that was our time to do decorating, baking cookies, putting lights up outside at Grandma's house. I noticed he was extra quiet that weekend and looking thin...I chalked it up to "Wow, he is growing up, he is becoming Grandma's little man now, six months from becoming a teen!" When his Dad and Mom came on Sunday to pick the kids up, they were not home hardly anytime when my phone rang. It was my son, upset, telling me James showed him a lump around his collar bone. My Daughter-in-Law and I took him to the ER that night and were told that it was just a cyst. James went to his family doctor the next morning and late that evening the office called, his blood work showed blasts (cancerous cells) so he was admitted to Children's Hospital for a bone marrow test. Not in a million years would we have ever thought the doctor would set us down and tell us the news, "James has Leukemia." He endured the next two years of pain and suffering from so very many spinals, bone marrow biopsies, fluid build up in his hips, and trips to the ER every time he got a fever, stays in the PICU, etc. Four months after diagnosis he had his heart operated on for Wolf Parkinson White. He had to have a Port-a-Cath and then later a Broviac. (Both are catheters inserted in to the vein so that there is 'easy' access to draw blood or administer medication). He had to give up sports, swimming, and there were many days he couldn't ride his bike, have his buddies over, go to school, out to stores, etc; because of low blood counts. It robbed him of his childhood and then finally took his life on 12/19/00.

He fought two hard years with such force and determination. He is now and always will be someone I look up to because all through this, a few hours before he passed, he was praying to God, not once asking for anything for himself but asking God to help all of the sick kids in the hospital and for family and friends' health and care. I listen to hat prayer and would have thought that he was going to ask God to take his pain away but he only asked for others. James was the kid in the neighborhood if you needed you lawn mowed, your car worked on, or just general things to be done he was there to give a helping hand. He walked three miles last year for The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society only three short months before becoming an angel.

He will always be our "Hero and Warrior of Life."

Jarrett's Jazzy Peppermint ~ At age 4, Jarrett was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia. He celebrated 5 years in remission in Jan. 2004. He is an honor student who enjoys athletics, has a wide array of pets and is a big "Lord of the Rings" fan. His journey with childhood leukemia inspired his parents to begin a children's environmental health ministry, Micah's Mission, named in his honor. Visit their website at http://www.arches.uga.edu/~babuice/MICAH/index.htm

Jason Just Loves Applesauce ~ Jason had a very friendly personality. He loved life and enjoyed being with people. Jason was considered Globally Developmentally Delayed, but don't let this fool you. Once people got to know him they realized just how smart Jason truly was. Jason had many struggles and triumphs in his life. At the age of 27 months he had his first of many Grand Mal Seizures. Most of the seizures would put him in the hospital overnight. He had to struggle with language, social skills, and motor problems; to name just a few. Jason had his Bar Mitzvah at the age of 14. He did most of the service in Hebrew and English...many said he couldn't do it - but he did it! He loved video and computer games. Jason was a great baker; if you wanted pancakes in the morning, cookies for a bake sale, or even Challah for Shabbat, he was always there willing to help! He loved to take pictures either at camp, on vacations, or just messing around at home. Jason was a member of Special Olympics. He participated in Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball, and many other sports. Jason participated in state as well as regional Special Olympics games. He wanted to try gymnastics but this adventure was never to be. He was also an active member of his school dance team, The Hi Tops. In June of 1999, the Dance team went to North Carolina for the World Special Olympics Games. Even though Jason was not feeling well during the trip, he never missed a performance. He somehow managed to get on that stage no matter how awful he was feeling!

Jason was diagnosed on February 28, 2000 with ALL. Jason did go in remission a month later on March 28, 2000. But on September 19, 2000 we were told Jason was no longer in remission. It was then that Jason's struggle truly began. Jason spent most of the next 4 months in the hospital trying very hard to beat this monster that was taking over. It was during this time that Jason got his wish granted through Make A Wish. A trip to Disney World in Florida. Somehow Jason made this the best trip ever for all of us! Even when in pain and things were looking low, Jason never never wanted to give up. Giving up was just not his style.

On December 26, 2000, at 2:20 am Jason lost his battle.

CaringBridge - jasonconnect

Jesse's Strawberry Jam~ Jesse was diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia in June of 2000 and is off treatment since September 2002. She is a beautiful 15 year old teenager who loves music, sports, crafts, outdoor activities and being with friends and family. She is a strong person with a heart of gold . She has been honored hero for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society for the past 4 years and has worked with them to help raise money to find a cure so life can be better for all the children.

J-dubs' "Joshua" Crisp Blossom Breeze ~ Joshua was born March 23, 1983. First child. First boy. He was so beautiful. He was a very good baby. Slept through the night at only 2 weeks old. He grew up too fast like most kids. He was always good in school, good around other people and just plain good. When he was old enough to get into Little League, he did. In April of 1995, I noticed he had very swollen gums. He was tired a lot, grumpy and he didn't want to play baseball any more. (That was because they wanted him to slide into home plate and it hurt him to do that). I took him to the dentist and she treated him with folic acid and mouthwash. She finally sent him to the periodontal specialist because nothing was working. The periodontal specialist took pictures of Joshua's mouth and told me that he couldn't do anything until Joshua had a complete physical. So on the way home, we stopped at the pediatricians office. They gave me a hard time about making the appointment on the grounds of swollen gums so I got a little mad. I told the nurse to make the appointment as soon as possible or I would sit in the doctors office until they did the physical that day. He had his physical a week later. The doctor said to get blood work done right away that day. He said not to wait until after the weekend. Well, I almost did. But something inside me made me take him for the blood work. See, the pediatrician called the pediatric periodontal specialist at Boston Children's Hospital and asked him what could make gums swell and he told him that it could be Leukemia. About 9:30 that night the pediatrician called and told me to take Joshua to Boston Children's Hospital right away. He said that some of the blood work came back and it looked like Joshua might have Leukemia. By the time we got to the hospital (about midnight), the rest of the blood work was back and it was confirmed that Joshua had Leukemia. They placed him in a room and took more blood. They asked a lot of questions about bruising and such. Every time someone new walked into the room, they asked the same questions. At first they said to expect to be there for a number of hours. Then they said it could be a number of days. Then they finally came in and said they didn't know when we'd be out of there. We got into his hospital room about an hour before they did a bone marrow biopsy and gum biopsy so he didn't have much sleep that night. It was June 10, 1995 when the doctors told us Joshua had Acute Myelogenous Leukemia. At first they said it was AML M-4 but later on they said it was AML M-1. For some reason they couldn't get him into the OR for a central line the first week he was in the hospital. He got upset about being stuck day after day for his chemo and even tried to refuse the stick. I had to play the "tough love" act in order to get him to let them put in a "pic-line". He got through the first week ok. The chemo seemed to work for the most part. They finally got the central line in after he was done with the induction therapy. They had done another biopsy after his induction but still had blasts. He didn't have too many side effects from the chemo but he was neutrapenic for a few weeks. They did his consolidation therapy once he was no longer neutrapenic. It was the highest dose Ara-C ever given to a kid. He ended up with a very bad rash all over his body. They did a biopsy and never did find out what caused it (it wasn't because of the Ara-C). The Ara-C also caused him to have problems with his eyes. His eyes became completely red and he couldn't handle any kind of light. Luckily it didn't last too long. Finally after 6 weeks and 2 days, Joshua was released from the hospital. Just before he was discharged, they did a bone marrow biopsy and gum biopsy again. He still had blasts in both. So, they did a third round of chemo to see if they could get rid of the blasts. Another week in Boston for chemo but this time it was outpatient and we stayed at the Ronald McDonald House. When Joshua went into the hospital for his Bone Marrow Transplant, he still had blasts in his marrow. The doctors had hoped that the full body irradiation would take care of it. On September 29, 1995 we brought Caitlin (almost 6) into the hospital so she could be his bone marrow donor. They harvested her marrow in the morning and infused it in Joshua that afternoon. Joshua had to have "washed" blood products so it took a little longer to prepare the marrow for him. He had few problems during his transplant. He had very little graft vs host disease and not many fevers. It was so hard to not be able to stay with him at the hospital. He got out of the hospital in November and we lived at the Ronald McDonald House. Just before Thanksgiving, Joshua got the chicken pox. So, back into the hospital for that. He was a little depressed, but he was only in for about a week. Finally, on December 1st, we were finally able to come home from Boston. Things were pretty good. He had a couple of slight fevers but nothing to bring him to the hospital for. Then, in March he had a small fever and a small infection in his toe (infected ingrown toenail) so the visiting nurse made us go into the hospital. Since he was there already, they decided to do another bone marrow biopsy, gum biopsy and spinal). They were doing the gum biopsy because his gums looked swollen again. The periodontal specialist (Dr. Ferraro) said the gums could be swollen because of his cyclosporin .The doctors came in and told me the bone marrow biopsy was clean. They said things were looking good. Then, that night they came back and said the gum biopsy was positive for leukemia. Evidently his gums were a reservoir for the Leukemia. We were devastated. This couldn't be happening. About 1 am that night, Dr. Ferara came to me and apologized---he felt bad that he was wrong about Joshua's gums. Well, we left the hospital. The doctors got in touch with Make-A-Wish on a Monday, we were on a plane that Friday. He had irradiation to his gums every day for a couple of weeks to see if it would help get rid of the Leukemia. The swelling went down and his gums looked normal but the doctors were sure he still had the Leukemia. We tried to give Joshua as much of a normal life as we could. For all of the 7th grade he was tutored. Then, he was able to go to school for all of the 8th grade. His check ups in Boston were fine. All that time the doctors assured us that he had Leukemia in his system but not his blood or marrow. At that time they suggested a DLI from Caitlin. We had her go through all the blood work and testing needed for that and when it was time to do it, blasts showed up in Joshua's blood work. That was October 1997. I had just found out I was pregnant with my son Zachary and I was devastated about the blasts. Back on chemo to slow down the Leukemia. He took hydroxyurea to stabilize his Leukemia for a while. His gums were swollen again and he had chloromas on his face. He was taken off the hydroxyurea on Feb 25, 1998. A week later they placed him on 6MP. On March 11, he was taken off the 6MP and they started a new individualized treatment plan with methotrexate and PEG-asparaginase. It worked pretty well. His counts started looking good. The gum swelling went down and the chloromas got smaller. So, they tried a second treatment on March 25. He had the PEG-asparaginase shot right after his platelet infusion and immediately broke out in hives. He was so pale. He was sent home after being given more benadryl. By the time we got home, he broke out in hives again. I took him to a local ER and they gave him Atarax. The hives went away. But, by the time we got back home from there, he broke out in hives again. I brought him to Children's and they admitted him over night. He was given benadryl, atarax and hydrocortisone around the clock. So, on May 6, 1998, they gave him his first dose of Erwinia asparaginase. He was allergic to that also. Finally, chemo that seemed to work great and he couldn't take it. So, they tried 2-CDA to slow down the progression of the Leukemia. We watched as the blasts continue and his counts got worse. It seemed like all of a sudden, he was getting worse. In June, he started having back pain. They took X-rays of his lungs and there was a "fog" over one. They watched him closely. He seemed to be hanging in there pretty well. He was getting tired though. We got a hospital bed for him to sleep in about two weeks later. Then, on August 5th, he had an appointment. I watched him as he walked down our three steps to the car and I started crying. He looked like a little old man having trouble on the steps. When we got to the Jimmy Fund Clinic, the doctor took one look at him and knew it wouldn't be much longer. Joshua was irritable and didn't want anyone to bother him. The AML specialist even came in to see him. They ordered morphine for him to ease his pain. When they offered to have us taken home by ambulance, I knew it was worse than I thought. He wanted to go home in our car though. When we got home, the doctor kept in touch. She called our visiting nurse association to let them know we'd need 24 hour assistance. Family and friends were called. It appeared that Joshua had fallen into a coma on August 6. I sat on his bed and told him how much I love him and how I couldn't stand seeing him in so much pain. I told him not to fight for me. I told him that no matter how much it hurt to lose him, it was hurting me more to see him suffer so. That night he woke up. He sat up and even ate some popsicles. He kicked everyone out of the room and asked me who said all those things to him. I told him I did. He said he loves me and he had to fight for me. I told him not to--I told him to fight for HIMSELF. Then, on August 7, he got a fever. We gave him Tylenol but it didn't work. His fever was up to 105. At 9:39pm, he took his last breath with his friends and family all around him.

Justin's Gentle Spring Rain ~ Justin was only seven in 1995 when he was diagnosed with a high grade brain tumor. He had many operations through the next six 1/2 years each making life just a bit harder for him. He was a happy child who loved to tell jokes- most of which didn't make sense somehow where still funny. He loved to dye his hair- when he had it- to match the seasons. Red was for Christmas, green St. Patrick's day and Blue just because.
He fought his tumor for over six years. It seemed he might be winning the battle when he was diagnosed with a secondary cancer-Aml. He died from an infection four days after September 11. His sister was to be a perfect bone marrow match for a transplant that never happened. Although he is gone his smile and laugh linger on for ever.

Kaleigh's Country Kitchen~Kaleigh was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia on June 29, 1999, at the age of 3 1/2. She underwent 26 mos of chemo, and TIT's. Today Kaleigh is a healthy and very active 10 yr old, who has been in remission since Aug, 24, 2001. She loves riding horses and playing softball and is a black belt in TaeKwondo. Kaleigh is a smart, funny, loving girl and we feel so blessed for her good health.

Karen's Unforgettable Lemon Pound Cake - (written by her mother Linda) Our daughter Karen was born in 1988 and diagnosed with neurofibromatosis (NF1) at the age of 3. This is a neurological disorder that caused her to have tumors along both optic nerves. She went through 19 chemotherapy treatments between the age of 3 and 4 ½. and never lost a strand of hair! She would come home from treatment, eat hot dogs and macaroni and cheese, run to the bathroom to get sick, and then come back and start eating again. She was NOT going to let chemotherapy interfere with her meals. She received her treatment at a wonderful place called Tomorrow’s Children Institute in NJ.

Although she experienced learning disabilities, Karen loved to sing, dance and play sports. She played soccer, basketball and baseball with other "handicapable" kids and adults. She loved Winnie the Pooh and most Disney movies.

Karen died unexpectedly at the age of 10 from complications from the tumors in her brain called optic gliomas. Karen faced many hardships in her short 10 years, but faced them all with courage, strength and humor.

It is wonderful that Karen has a candle with a lemon pound cake scent. She loved to eat, but was allergic to chocolate, so this is just the right dessert for her. If you would like to know more about Karen and see why she is such a special person, please feel free to visit her web page at http://www.geocities.com/mistie5649/karen.html. If you click on "More Karen" at the bottom of the page, you will see some wonderful pictures of her. There are other links there also where you can read about other inspirational people who have neurofibromatosis (NF1).

Katie's Whimsical Watermelon Dreams ~ Katie was a happy, full of life child. She had a wonderful sense of humor and a wise beyond her years spirit. She loved the outdoors, playing in the dirt, climbing trees, finding bugs, telling jokes, doing crafts. She had just turned 6 when we found out she had cancer. Bone cancer, osteosarcoma, in her left femur. She was diagnosed in april of 98. She battled her disease with grace and strength that I have never seen before. She cared more about my feelings than her own. She had her leg amputated in aug of 98 and she went on like nothing had happened. She continued to fight the disease, it spread to her lungs and she went through lung surgery and many more different drugs, nothing worked. She died at home surrounded by her family, pastors. She took her flight through Heavens Gates on July 23, 1999.
Katie is my Hero, my Inspiration.
Her web page is below.

Michelle
{Angel Katies mom 2/15/91 to 7/23/99}

Kevin's Magical Smile (written by Kevin's Aunt Julie) - In February 2004, my nephew Kevin Willis was diagnosed with stage 4 Ewing's Sarcoma. Kevin was a normal 10-year old boy when he was diagnosed who had many friends and liked baseball, video games, and anything to do with World War II history. Kevin's favorite video series was the "Band of Brothers".

Kevin first began experiencing pain in his left leg in September 2003. Our family just assumed he hurt himself playing with his buddies on the playground one day at school or when he fell on the ice. Kevin had an X-ray done on his back and it showed nothing, yet the pain continued to worsen. When Kevin had an MRI done in February 2004, his battle began. At the time of Kevin's diagnosis, the cancer was in his left pelvic bone, sternum, skull, and was moving down his legs so his outcome was grim from the "get go" per the doctor's.

Kevin endured chemotherapy and radiation and all of the side affects that come with those things. Through it all, he was our beautiful, smiling Kevin and played practical jokes on the nurses and doctors at Akron Children's Hospital all of the time.

Kevin worsened when the doctors stopped his chemotherapy to radiate the primary tumor on his pelvic bone in December 2004. Once the chemotherapy was stopped to do the radiation, the cancer spread quickly. Kevin developed several large tumors on his spine that took away the use of his legs. After Kevin has lost the use of his legs, he became very withdrawn and mainly only spoke to his Mommy, Daddy and Emily. We as a family understood that Kevin had to deal with this in his own way and with those closest to him.

The doctor's had given Kevin only a few weeks to months to live, and there were no words to express the grieving that our family was doing for Kevin, Lisa, Greg, and Emily. Emily is Kevin's 4-year old sister. There was no way for us to understand Kevin's thoughts and fears and those of Lisa, Greg, and Emily. Kevin earned his angel wings April 21, 2005.

All we can do is continue to battle all of these Children's Sarcoma cancers together. Although we will never watch Kevin attend a school dance, dance at his wedding, watch him have his own beautiful babies, or be a professional athlete as he had hoped, he will always be our greatest soldier and hero! When Kevin reached Heaven, he had his own Band of Brothers waiting for him with open arms. Some of his Band of Brothers are his Grandpa Cookson who was a World War II veteran, his Great Uncle Bob who was shot down in Kobe Japan in World War II, his Grandpa Willis who he never knew, but I know was waiting, and all of those brave soldiers who have left us way too soon many years ago.

All of us will miss you forever Kevin, but I can hear you talking to me that you are alright. I hear your laughter everyday and I know that you are healthy, happy and most of all, smiling!!!!

Kimberly's Sweet Angel Kisses ~ Kimberly was always a very sweet natured person who always thought of others over her own needs. She loved her family and always enjoyed when we we all got together for family events. Kimberly enjoyed being around her friends, and she had many. Kimmy had this plan that she wanted to go into a future helping others and she was a good listener. She chose a career in Physical Therapy and was working toward that goal. Kimberly was in her senior year of high school when by a freak accident a knot appeared on her neck between her collar bone and neck. It was a day that we were soon never to forget. It was on Labor Day of 2000. We took her to the doctor on the next day and after checking different sources soon discovered that she was diagnosed with a rare form of Hodgkin's Lymphoma. She received several rounds of chemotherapy and they discovered by catscan that the treatment was not touching this disease. Kim was then recommended to a Doctor that specialized in Hodgkin's Lymphoma, and we were sent to Barnes Jewish Hospital in Saint Louis, Missouri. Kimbery was then started on a different kind of
chemotherapy but once again the catscan showed very little response to the treatment. After seeing other specialist it was determined that Kimberly's best option was to under go a Stem Cell Transplant using her own cell's. Kimberly was very determined to win and she had an abundant amount of faith, as did her father, sister and myself. Kimberly went to school and continued to work all through her treatments until she went to the hospital for this
Transplant. It was very hard on her both physical and emotionally but she was determined to see it through. Two weeks after Kimberly was released from the hospital after a 31 day stay she went on her Senior trip with her classmates. This was to the amazement of many who seen what the hospital effects had on her. Kimberly had to go through 29 radiation treatments after
she retuned from her senior trip. But Kim was determined not to be beaten or lose out on anymore than she had to. What courage and strength my baby had. Kimberly was in remission for almost a year when during a check up the disease had returned, only this time in the lungs. Chemo was started right away and she was in remission for about three months when the Hodgkin's came back more agressively then ever. We begin a new treatment right away but
the shrinkage was not significant enough to help. It was then determined that Kimberly's best chance to survive this awful night mare was to go through another Transplant, only this time with a doner. This was not an easy task because she only had one sibling and she was not a match. The search covered the national registry and after a search of five million people, yes 5 million, a perfect match was found in Europe. We were so happy, Kim's illness was getting worse and we just knew that our miracle had arrived. Kimberly arrived at the hospital on December 3, 2003 and we were
told on December 4, 2003 that the condition her lungs were in was in very bad shape. They gave us a 15% chance of survival and recovery of this disease if she went through with the transplant that was scheduled for the 14th of December. If we chose not to do the transplant she would have a couple of weeks if we took her home. We chose the15 % chance of life. Kimberly went through the transpl