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Thinking about your courageous Emily and all that she accomplished in this life and how her testimony continues to go forth...

Blessed,

Pamela Matthews
www.caringbridge.org/tx/dinahmatthews
Pamela Matthews
Houston, TX - Monday, April 7, 2014 10:17 AM CDT

Missing you...
Love always,
Aunt Joanne

Joanne Hazelwood
Knoxville , Tn - Friday, April 5, 2013 7:30 AM CDT

Thinking about you today Emily....
Joanne Hazelwood
Knoxville, TN United States - Sunday, January 13, 2013 2:33 PM CST

Thinking of your beautiful Emily and praying for your family today...

Pamela Matthews
www.caringbridge.org/tx/dinahmatthews
Pamela Matthews
Houston, TX - Thursday, April 5, 2012 2:01 PM CDT

This poem touched my heart as I hope it will yours. Please know that I am thinking about you and keeping you close in prayer always.
MJ/marijeighn2010@gmail.com
A letter from Heaven

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say.
But first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.

I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; Here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I am with you every morning, noon and night.

That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through.
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

"It's good to have you back again, you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, They'll be here later on.

I need you here so badly, you are part of my plan.
There is so much that we can do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.

And when you lie in bed at night the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you.... in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years.
Because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.

But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
If I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.

But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is over.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
But together we can do it by taking one day at a time.

It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too;
That as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who is in sorrow and pain;
Then you can say to God at night...."My day was not in vain.

And now I am contented... that my life was worthwhile.
Knowing as I passed along the way I made somebody smile."

So if you meet somebody who is sad and low;
Just lend a hand to pick them up, as on your way you go.

When you're walking down the street and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free.
Remember you're not going.... you're coming here with me.

Author Unknown
MJ <marijeighn2010@gmail.com>
- Thursday, December 15, 2011 6:15 PM CST

An Invitation To All Prayer Warriors

The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings will be
holding a Prayer Vigil on Monday, September 19,
between 8-9 pm EDT for all families on our
Angel Wings Prayers Lists and our Angel families
of children, teens and adults who gained their wings.

We Are Fighting For Our Children One Prayer At A Time....

If you have a specific Prayer Request or someone who
is in need of prayers, please feel free to email us using
the link below this message.

Ms. Polly
Angel Wings Prayer Warriors
Angel Wings Remembers
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/angel_wings
Ogden, UT USA - Saturday, September 17, 2011 3:18 PM CDT

Thinking of you Emily and your sweet smile. Love, Aunt Susan
Susan Stevens <rasta17@bellsouth.net>
Cooper City, FL United States - Friday, August 5, 2011 1:18 PM CDT

Thinking about beautiful Emily today. I'm praying for all of you, too.

Angel Hugs....Ms. Polly
Angel Wings Remembers
Angel Wings Prayer Warriors
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/angel_wings
Heart of North America, USA - Saturday, July 30, 2011 12:13 AM CDT

Good Afternoon I was sent this poem today as a remembrance for my Angel Michael. I thought it was very fitting as Easter approaches. Please know that I am thinking about all of you and keeping you close in prayer always. Hugs and Blessings
MJ/Angel_Wings and AngelWingsRemembers

AND GOD SAID

I said, "God, I hurt."
And God said, "I know."
I said, "God, I cry a lot."
And God said, "That is why I gave you tears."
I said "God, I am so depressed."
And God said, "That is why I gave you Sunshine."
I said, "God, life is so hard."
And God said, "That is why I gave you loved ones."
I said, "God, my loved one died."
And God said, "So did mine."
I said, "God, it is such a loss."
And God said, "I saw mine nailed to a cross."
I said, "God, but your loved one lives."
And God said, "So does yours."
I said, "God, where are they now?"
And God said, "Mine is on My right and yours will be in the Light."
I said, "God, it hurts."
And God said, "I know."

marijeighn2010@gmail.com
MJ/Angel_Wings <marijeighn2010@gmail.com>
Lawrence, MA USA - Friday, April 22, 2011 6:25 PM CDT

It's hard to believe that it has been three years since you were called from this life. I look around sometimes and wonder how and why? But I also know the impact of your life when I see the many ways that your name lives on. We will never let go of the hope that you gave all of us.

Continue to watch over us all and we will keep your hope alive. You are missed each day and you live in our hearts.
Uncle Jim <jimprevitera@verizon.net>
Tampa, Fl USA - Monday, March 21, 2011 10:26 AM CDT

I am also a three time cancer survivor "ALL" treated by Dr. barbosa. feel free to contact me if you would like to compare notes.
michael martin <mm91174@yahoo.com>
dunlap, tn - Saturday, February 12, 2011 6:28 PM CST

Blessing for the New Year
May the new year bring
The warmth of home and hearth to you.
The cheer and goodwill of friends to you,
The hope of a childlike heart to you.
The joy of a thousand angels to you,
The love of the Son and God's peace to you.
Penned by: Anonymous

Prayers from My Heart to Yours in 2011.

Ms. Polly
Angel Wings Prayer Warriors
Angel Wings Remembers

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Angel_Wings
- Saturday, January 1, 2011 5:18 PM CST

just thought of you guys. hope everything is going well :-) Merry Christmas!
Reguli Granger <reguli.granger@gmail.com>
Boston, MA USA - Friday, December 24, 2010 4:35 PM CST

Still thinking and praying for you all often! Happy belated birthday, sweet Emily!!
Lindsey Reeves
Knoxville, TN - Wednesday, October 27, 2010 2:41 PM CDT

The day you were born was a beautiful day! We miss you, Emily. Love, Aunt Susan
Susan Stevens <rasta17@bellsouth.net>
Cooper City, FL United States - Friday, October 15, 2010 1:03 AM CDT

Happy Birthday Emily... Love and miss you more everyday.
Katelin Foley <k-k-k-katelin@hotmail.com>
- Thursday, October 14, 2010 4:06 PM CDT

Hope you're celebrating Emily! Happy Birthday!
We think of you often and remember special times spent with you.
Love, The Foleys
Katy Foley <efoley4@tampabay.rr.com>
Largo, FL USA - Wednesday, October 13, 2010 9:10 PM CDT

I miss you Emily, your Birthday
coming up soon.

Nana <linguaglossa@aol.com>
- Wednesday, September 22, 2010 7:23 AM CDT

Our Flag
Author Unknown

I love to see the starry flag
That floats above my head.
I love to see its waving folds
With stripes of white and red.
“Be brave,” say the red stripes.
“Be pure,” say the white.
“Be true,” say the bright stars.
“And stand for the right.”

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!

Angel Hugs and Blessings,
Ms. Polly @ Angel_WIngs Prayer Warriors

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/angel_wings
- Saturday, July 3, 2010 10:10 PM CDT

An Invitation To All Prayer Warriors

The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings will be
holding a Prayer Vigil on Saturday June 19th.
between 8-9 pm EST for all the families on our
Angel_Wings Prayer Lists and our Angel families of
children,teens and adults who have gained their wings.
If you have someone you would like us to pray for who
is not on our payer lists please don't hesitate to let us
know..

MJ/Angel_Wings/AngelWingsRemembers

Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors

AngelWingsRemembers
MJ/Angel_Wings <marijeighn1@gmail.com>
- Friday, June 18, 2010 9:26 AM CDT

I just wanted to share this link with you so you can see how your Emily continues to touch so many lives:

http://blessedmommyblessedwife.blogspot.com/2010/06/tackling-it-on-tuesday_15.html

God Bless!
Kelly Johnsen-Johnson <kjohnsen16@gmail.com>
Windermere, FL - Tuesday, June 15, 2010 10:47 PM CDT

I know how difficult Mother's day is for those whose child is now in Heaven. This poem has been a comfort to me as I pray it will be for you.

You can shed tears that she is gone,
Or you can smile because she has lived.
You can close your eyes & pray that she'll come back,
Or you can open your eyes & see all that she's left.
Your heart can be empty because you can't see her,
Or you can be full of the love you shared.
You can turn your back on tomorrow & live yesterday,
Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday.
You can remember her only that she is gone,
Or you can cherish her memory & let it live on.
You can cry & close your mind, be empty & turn your back,
Or you can do what she'd want:
Smile, open your eyes, love and go on.
‘Author unknown’

Hugs and Blessings
MJ/Angel_Wings and AngelWingsRemembers

MJ/Angel_Wings and AngelWingsRemembers <marijeighn1@gmail.com>
- Thursday, May 6, 2010 2:22 PM CDT

I just read your entry on Sierra's caringbridge site...I started crying cause it really touched my heart. I remember you and Emily so vividly. What a gorgeous girl I remember thinking. When Emily passed...I read it in Sierra's hospital room and I cried...not knowing soon my little girl would be making her entry into Heaven as well. At the Fashion Funds the Cure...they were honored together and I believe they are also in Heaven together. We were blessed to have such awesome daughters here on earth and one day we will have them forever in Heaven. God bless you and your family.
Mary Lynn Kesler <kesler5_289@msn.com>
Valrico, FL United States - Tuesday, April 27, 2010 5:26 PM CDT

AN INVITATION TO ALL PRAYER WARRIORS
The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings
are holding a Prayer Vigil on Monday,
April 19th, between 8-9 pm EST for
Emily, all the families on our Angel_Wings
Prayer Lists and our Angel families
of children, teens and adults who
have gained their angel wings.
Thank you for joining us!

I am holding all of you close in my
heart and prayers.

Ms. Polly
Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
AngelWingsRemembers
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Angel_Wings
Heart of North America, ND USA - Sunday, April 18, 2010 5:03 PM CDT

You will never know all the people that Emily and her whole family has inspired. It reminds me so much of Ray Boltz's song "Thank You", maybe one day you will know. Until then know that there are things going on in Wisconsin that have been inspired by Emily.

Thank you
Steve <spmiller@fastmail.net>
Green Bay, WI USA - Monday, April 5, 2010 4:31 PM CDT

Remembering you, Emily, today on your Heavenly Birthday.
Your amazing and beautiful legacy lives forever in our hearts. You are truly a Gift from God and I thank Him for you.

May God bless your family today with His divine comfort and reassurances of hope this Easter season.

Angel Hugs,
Ms. Polly @ AngelWingsRemembers
Ms. Polly @ http://groups.yahoo.com.group/Angel_Wings
Heart of North America, ND USA - Monday, April 5, 2010 1:06 PM CDT

Beautiful Angel Emily...you & your loving family are in my thoughts & prayers today! Soar High Sweet Emily...Soar High! God bless ALL of you!
Susie Kausler <swtsue17@aol.com>
Jax., Fl United States - Monday, April 5, 2010 11:51 AM CDT

Remembering your beautiful Emily on her two year anniversary; praying for you...

Pamela Matthews
www.caringbridge.org/tx/dinahmatthews
Pamela Matthews <gmatth1111@att.net>
Houston, TX - Monday, April 5, 2010 10:05 AM CDT

Emily touched so many lives and she continues to inspire all of us to do what we can for others. I treasure all my memories of Emily. I especially remember her wisdom, her strength, her courage and her goodness. While on earth, she was so close to God. She was especially chosen by Him and she did not disappoint Him. Now she is enjoying her reward with Him.

Our prayers now and always are for all those who she loves and who miss her so dearly. Sending my love,
Aunt Tricia in Iowa
Dubuqe , IA USA - Monday, April 5, 2010 9:19 AM CDT

Love, strength and prayers to all, but especially to my dear family and all Emily's friends and supporters. I know Emily is by all of our sides today (and always) helping us get through each day. Miss you! Much love, Aunt Deirdre
Deirdre Lester
Columbia, MO USA - Monday, April 5, 2010 8:04 AM CDT

Good Morning Dear Family I am thinking about all of you today and keeping you in prayer for comfort and strength as you remember precious Emily. You touched many lives here on Earth Emily and you are remembered and loved by all. Hugs and Blessings

MJ/Angel_Wings and AngelWingsRemembers
MJ/Angel_Wings <marijeighn1@gmail.com>
- Monday, April 5, 2010 4:36 AM CDT

Catherine, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers today.
I miss you more everyday Emily. Love you.

Katelin Foley <k_foley@knights.ucf.edu>
- Sunday, April 4, 2010 11:34 PM CDT

John 11:25-26
Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die"
Good Morning and Happy Easter I have always found this poem to be a comfort for me. I pray it will be a blessing for you also. Please know that you are always in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs and Blessings

MJ/Angel_Wings and AngelWings Remembers
God's Lent Child
I'll lend you for a little while a child of mine, God said,
For you to love her while she lives, and mourn for when she's dead.
It may be six or seven years, or forty-two or three;
But will you, till I call her back, take good care of her for me?
She'll bring her charms to gladden you, and should her stay be brief,
You'll have the lovely memories as a solace for your grief.
I cannot promise she will stay, since all from earth return;
But there are lessons taught below I want this child to learn.
I've searched the whole world over, for teachers kind and true;
And from the throngs that crowd life's lane I have chosen you...
Now will you give her all your love? Nor think the labor pain?
Nor hate me should the angels call, to take this child back again?
To which the parents did reply...
Dear Lord, Thy will be done.
For all the joys thy child will bring, the risk of grief we'll run.
We'll shelter her with tenderness,
We'll love her while we may...
for all the love this child will bring,
forever grateful we will stay.
But should the Angels call for her,
much sooner than we've planned,
We'll brave the bitter grief that comes,
and try to understand.
MJ/Angel_Wings <marijeighn1@gmail.com>
- Sunday, April 4, 2010 7:40 AM CDT

MISS MY SWEET EMILY
NANA <LINGUAGLOSSA@AOL.COM>
ST. PETERSBURG, FL - Wednesday, March 24, 2010 6:15 PM CDT

This morning a friend dropped by whose adult son has been challenged by Leukemia. I showed him pictures of you and told him about your bravery and courage. He told me that stories like yours give him and his son HOPE... After all this time Em - you still give us all HOPE... Thinking about you!
Uncle Jimmy <jprevite@hcso.tampa.fl.us>
Tampa, Fl - Tuesday, March 23, 2010 12:00 AM CDT

AN INVITATION TO ALL PRAYER WARRIORS

The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings
are holding a Prayer Vigil on Friday,
March 19th, between 8-9 pm EST for
all the families on our Angel_Wings
Prayer Lists and our Angel families
of children, teens and adults who
have gained their angel wings.

Thank you for joining us!
Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
AngelWingsRemembers

MJ/Angel_Wings and AngelWingsRemembers
MJ/Angel_Wings <marijeighn1@gmail.com>
- Tuesday, March 16, 2010 8:41 PM CDT

Praying for you as you continue to miss your sweet and inspiring Emily.
Sandi Queen (Jeremiah's Mommy) http://www.caringbridge.org/pa/jeremiah <queens07@windstream.net>
- Sunday, March 7, 2010 11:07 PM CST

Missing Emily....
Aunt Joanne
Knoxville, TN United States - Wednesday, March 3, 2010 8:47 PM CST

I'd be proud for Liam to go to school there, and with his dad and grandfather being engineers, that is a great idea. However, that is too far from me!!! How about we visit instead? We could use the warmth!!! Our you could all visit and get some snow! LOL

Been thinking of dear Emily. I can't walk the halls of St Jude without missing her smile and laugh. We talk of her at every event we go to. Letting them know that St Jude does wonderous things, but has so much more to accomplish.
Gina and Liam www.caringbridge.org/visit/liamreinier <ginabarrett@yahoo.com>
Ankeny, IA - Monday, March 1, 2010 10:36 PM CST

A True sweet angel here on earth now in HEAVEN EMILY will never be for gotten the love and faith she showed to every one she will always be in our heart R I P little sweet angel. you are one true sweet angel
George L. Patrick <georgeleep2001@yahoo.com>
Grove City , OH - Monday, February 22, 2010 2:57 PM CST

A True sweet angel here on earth now in HEAVEN EMILY will never be for gotten the love and faith she showed to every one she will always be in our heart R I P little sweet angel
George L. Patrick <georgeleep2001@yahoo.com>
Grove City , OH - Monday, February 22, 2010 2:55 PM CST

AN INVITATION TO ALL PRAYER WARRIORS

The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings
are holding a Prayer Vigil on Friday,
February 19th, between 8-9 pm EST for
all the families on our Angel_Wings
Prayer Lists and our Angel families
of children, teens and adults who
have gained their angel wings.

Thank you for joining us!
Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
AngelWingsRemembers
MJ/Angel Wings and AngelWingsRemembers
MJ/Angel_Wings <marijeighn1@gmail.com>
Lawrence, Ma - Monday, February 15, 2010 11:21 AM CST

Thinking about Emily today. This special child that God decided to share with the rest of us. How blessed we all are to have the gift of being touched by Emily's life of love.
We will always continue the prayers for the Lester family; hoping you find comfort knowing that Emily lives in our heart.
Necia Maloney Wilbur <nawilbur5@yahoo.com>
Seminole, Florida - Thursday, January 21, 2010 10:51 PM CST

Missing Emily!
Joanne Hazelwood <jwilli7641@aol.com>
Knoxville, TN United States - Tuesday, January 19, 2010 10:10 PM CST

Emily: We wanted to pop by to let you know you are not forgotten & wish your family a holiday season full of pleasant memories.

Charlene & BECKY/Ones Who Care
........
- Monday, December 21, 2009 8:53 AM CST

Just a short message to say I am thinking of you this Christmas.

Well done to you and Emily's friends for raising so much this year,

Love

Vikki
www.postpals.co.uk

vikki <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Wednesday, December 16, 2009 5:16 AM CST

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO THE LESTER FAMILY YOU ARE ALL IN OUT PRAYERS GOD BLESS AND MAY HE HOLD YOU ALL VERY CLOSED TO HIM DOING HOLIDAYS GOD BLESS YOU ALL
George Patrick <georgeleep2001@yahoo.com>
Grove City, OH - Sunday, December 6, 2009 5:22 AM CST

Thinking of you all. Would love to see you again!
Gina and Liam www.caringbridge.org/visit/liamreinier <ginabarrett@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, December 1, 2009 8:34 AM CST

We Miss You Little Sweet Angel I Know you are resting God Arms a true sweet angel You Will Always Be In Our Hearts R I P SWEET ANGEL
George Patrick <georgeleep2001@yahoo.com>
Grove City , OH - Friday, November 27, 2009 10:54 AM CST

Please know that I am thinking about you during this holday season. I would like to share this special prayer with you.

Dear Father who art in Heaven...
Please join our family on this Thanksgiving day
And bless each one as we sit down to pray
As we remember those who have joined You above
So dearly missed and deeply loved.

Please provide us strength on this Thanksgiving day
Bless us with memories of those faraway...
Please grant patience to family and friends as we grieve
And help us reach out to others who are bereaved.

We give thanks to You on this Thanksgiving day....
For Your presence in our lives each and everyday.
For Your comfort, guidance, and never ending love...
And for taking care of our loved ones...in Heaven above.

As we light this candle on this Thanksgiving day...
And it glows in memory of those in Heaven today....
May their lights always shine down on us and give us light...
And may we feel their presence along with Yours tonight.

May the peace and tranquility of this Thanksgiving day
Be an everlasting light within each of us along the way...
Lets bow our heads and give our Thanks to God above..
For our blessings, whether on earth or in Heaven above...
Amen
Poem graciously submitted by The Jason Program

MJ/Angel_Wings and AngelWingsRemembers
MJ/Angel_Wings <marijeighn1@gmail.com>
Gardner , Ma - Wednesday, November 25, 2009 10:17 AM CST

God saw you were getting tired, and it wasn't meant to be, so he put his arms around you, and whispered, "come to me." with tearful eyes we watched you pass away. and although we loved you dearly, we could not make you stay. A golden heart stopped beating, hard working hands at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us, that he only takes the best.....
Victoria Previtera <soccerchic101@bellsouth.net>
Cooper City, FL USA - Tuesday, November 17, 2009 9:39 PM CST

AN INVITATION TO ALL PRAYER WARRIORS
The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings
are holding a Prayer Vigil on Thursday,
November 19th, between 8-9 pm EST for
all the families on our Angel_Wings
Prayer Lists and our Angel families
of children, teens and adults who
have gained their angel wings.

Thank you for joining us!

Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors

AngelWingsRemembers

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. 1 Chronicles 16:34

Debbie/Angel_Wings
- Saturday, November 14, 2009 4:57 PM CST

I still miss Emily so. She is always going to be an inspiration and we talk of her often. I sit here weeping after just watching picture after picture on the slideshow as her spirit still shines so brightly through every picture.
Gina and Liam www.caringbridge.org/visit/liamreinier <ginabarrett@yahoo.com>
Ankeny, ia - Tuesday, November 3, 2009 1:26 AM CST

Thoughts are with all of you guys, as always!
Susan Stevens <rasta17@bellsouth.net>
Cooper City, FL United States - Tuesday, October 20, 2009 5:10 PM CDT

em i know i am late but i love you and miss you and was thinking of ya on your b -day
celeste reed
Gonzales, tx usa - Friday, October 16, 2009 6:49 PM CDT

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LITTLE ANGEL EMILY , GOD BLESS THE FAMILY YOU ALL WILL ALWAYS BE IN OUR PRAYERS .
George L Patrick <georgeleep2001@yahoo.com>
Grove City , OH - Thursday, October 15, 2009 6:48 PM CDT

Happy Birthday Emily....
alyssa...www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys (my godchildren) <sabiemc@aol.com>
chapel Hill, NC USA - Thursday, October 15, 2009 4:20 PM CDT

To All Prayer Warriors

The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings are holding a Prayer Vigil on Monday, October 19th between 8-9 pm EST for all of the families on our Angel Wings Prayer Lists and our Angel families of children, teens and adults who have gained their angel wings.

Please Join Us

MJ/Angel_Wings and AngelWingsRemembers

Angel_Wings
MJ/Angel_Wings <marijeighn1@gmail.com>
Gardner, Ma - Wednesday, October 14, 2009 10:41 AM CDT

Happy Birthday Emily...there is a celebration going on in heaven today!

Carol/Angel_Wings
Carol Ann Brothers <carolab7@comcast.net>
Finksburg, Md. USA - Wednesday, October 14, 2009 10:29 AM CDT

Wishing the 4 of us could all be together again.
I love and miss you more everyday.
Happy Birthday Emily

Katelin Foley <k_foley@knights.ucf.edu>
- Wednesday, October 14, 2009 10:22 AM CDT

We are thinking of you guys today. Happy Birthday, Em
The Davis Family <ja-davis@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, October 14, 2009 8:20 AM CDT

Happy Birthday Emily....We love you more than life and miss you every second of every day.
Love always,
Aunt Jo, Uncle Mark and Parker
Joanne Hazelwood <jwilli7641@aol.com>
Knoxville, TN 37919 - Wednesday, October 14, 2009 6:56 AM CDT

Happy Birthday Sweet ^^Emily^^ I know that birthdays must be very special in Heaven. I will be keeping your family and friends in my prayers today as they share this special day with you.
MJ/Angel_Wings <marijeighn1@gmail.com>
Gardner, Ma - Wednesday, October 14, 2009 6:00 AM CDT

Thinking of your family today on this special day, ^Emily's^ birthday. God bless you all.
Tracy/Angel_Wings <maverickmom08@sbcglobal.net>
- Wednesday, October 14, 2009 4:43 AM CDT

Happy 20th birthday to our own Ms Emily, a saint among saints in heaven, and still shining brightly as the role model of a life well lived.
Nanny & Poppy <linguaglossa@aol.com>
- Wednesday, October 14, 2009 3:54 AM CDT

Thank you Emily for being an angel on Lilly's shoulder through her BMT. We think of you everyday and gleen strength from your courage. You are part of our recovery in every way...Thank you for your neverending inspiration... respectfully, coco
coco <kokomoclu@aol.com>
mills river, nc usa - Monday, October 12, 2009 7:01 PM CDT

a true sweet angel she is missed every day but remain in out hearts for ever. GOD BLESS the family u all still in our prayers .
George L. Patrick <georgeleep2001@yahoo.com>
Grove City, OH - Friday, September 18, 2009 6:02 PM CDT

AN INVITATION TO ALL PRAYER WARRIORS

The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings
are holding a Prayer Vigil on Saturday,
September 19th, between 8-9 pm EST for
all the families on our Angel_Wings
Prayer Lists and our Angel families
of children, teens and adults who
have gained their angel wings.

Thank you for joining us!!

Angel_Wings

Debbie/Angel_Wings
- Thursday, September 17, 2009 7:54 AM CDT

Thinking of you all and hoping Catherine knows Emily is right there with her...
Susan Stevens <rasta17@bellsouth.net>
Cooper City, FL United States - Thursday, September 3, 2009 6:14 PM CDT

so amazing the impact you had on my life and i thank you for allowing me to become not only a better person but a better nurse
celeste reed
gonzales, tx usa - Tuesday, September 1, 2009 5:45 PM CDT

Always thinking of you!
Love,
Aunt Susan
Susan Stevens <rasta17@bellsouth.net>
cooper city, FL USA - Monday, August 17, 2009 11:58 AM CDT

I was brought to tears with this latest journal entry...
Emily has indeed accomplished so much through her life and death. I will forever keep her on my mind, but especially as Lilly begins her Bone Marrow Transplant on August 11th. Thank you Tricia for giving me those simple words of faith and encouragement. I will continue to watch the stars at night with Emily on my mind, along with the neverending strength of her family. coco
coco borkowski <kokomoclu@ aol.com>
Asheville, NC USA - Tuesday, July 21, 2009 8:25 PM CDT

Precious Emily you will never be forgotten as your
memory lives on in all our hearts..

AN INVITATION TO ALL PRAYER WARRIORS

The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings invite you to join
our montly prayer vigil on Sunday,July 19th between
the hours of 8 and 9pm EST. for all the children,teen's and
adults on our prayer list and all the families of our Angels who
have earned earned their wings..Prayer is the greatest gift that we can give to each other,Want you please join us as we pray
for those in need?
Trish/Angel_Wings/AngelWingsRemembers <byangeltrish@aol.com>
Pall Mall, TN USA - Tuesday, July 14, 2009 10:57 AM CDT

Still thinking and praying for you guys!
Lindsey Reeves
Chattanooga, TN - Thursday, July 2, 2009 9:59 AM CDT

Never forgotten
Karen <kchapin3@bellsouth.net>
Birmingham, al - Friday, June 26, 2009 9:47 AM CDT

This child of God will never be forgotten -- what she did and how she lived her life will have an ever lasting impact of everyone who had the privledge of knowing Emily. I was honored to have known her and still remain in awe of all that she accomplished in her short time here on Earth.

You are always just a thought and a prayer away.

Love,
Shelley
Shelley Coleman <horaksr@tampabay.rr.com>
- Sunday, June 21, 2009 9:15 PM CDT

AN INVITATION TO ALL PRAYER WARRIORS

The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings
are holding a Prayer Vigil on Friday,
June 19th, between 8-9 pm EST for
all the families on our Angel_Wings
Prayer Lists and our Angel families
of children, teens and adults who
have gained their angel wings.

Thank you for joining us!!

MJ/Angel_Wings and Angel Wings Remembers <marijeighn1@gmail.com>
Gardner, Ma - Tuesday, June 16, 2009 5:51 PM CDT

You guys are always in my thoughts....

Robin <michaelbailee@aol.com>
- Tuesday, June 9, 2009 1:29 PM CDT

our prayers are stiil with you all may God always Hold you Close to him GOD BLESS YOU ALL
George Patrick <Georgeleep2001@yahoo.com>
Grove City , OH - Sunday, May 31, 2009 10:37 AM CDT

AN INVITATION TO ALL PRAYER WARRIORS

The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings
are holding a Prayer Vigil on Tuesday,
May 19th, between 8-9 pm EST for
all the families on our Angel_Wings
Prayer Lists and our Angel families
of children, teens and adults who
have gained their angel wings.

Thank you for joining us!!

Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
AngelWingsRemembers

Debbie/Angel_Wings
- Saturday, May 16, 2009 8:08 AM CDT

Trish,
The last time we saw you was a couple of years ago at a hockey game where Brad had donated his suite for Emily's birthday party. Our hearts go out to the Lester family as we will always remember Emily as a bright, caring and shining star. All of the children fighting this battle and their families remain in our daily prayers.
Michael Kisielewski <michkski63@comcast.net>
Sarasota, FL USA - Thursday, May 14, 2009 6:17 PM CDT

May the good Lord bless you and hold you in his loving arms.
Pam Holmes
floydada, tx usa - Thursday, May 14, 2009 5:40 PM CDT

Emily I pray for you daily. Stay strong and trust those guardian angels surrounding you--they will take care of you.I know from personal experience following my accident how caring they are.
Elaine cade <elainewcade@yahoo.com>
West, MS USA - Wednesday, May 13, 2009 2:09 PM CDT

Thinking of you Tricia on Mother's Day... as we both miss our sweet girls each and every day.
Love,
Carla
carla ceraolo <ccrew@tampabay.rr.com>
palm harbor,, fl 34685 - Sunday, May 10, 2009 9:44 PM CDT

Our prayers are with the family...
Bettye Blaylock <bb9238@aol.com>
Miami, Fl USA - Friday, May 1, 2009 11:31 AM CDT

Often times we think of Emily and your entire family.
Wishing you love and the ability to feel moments of joy as a family.
Love,
Carla, Paul, Ian, Julia and Angel Olivia
carla ceraolo <ccrew@tampabay.rr.com>
palm harbor,, fl 34685 - Thursday, April 16, 2009 1:57 PM CDT

You are forever in our thoughts and prayers. Truly the inspiration for Lilly and me....forever, coco and lilly
coco <kokomoclu@aol.com>
mills river, nc usa - Wednesday, April 15, 2009 7:20 PM CDT

Thinking of you all this month. There are no words.
Robin <michaelbailee@aol.com>
- Tuesday, April 7, 2009 1:38 PM CDT

Telling Emily's story as I often do reminded me to stop by to say Emily and her family continue to be in my prayers. I know this is a difficult time but celebrate in knowing what an inspiration Emily continues to be. How blessed the Lester family is to claim Emily as their own. How generous the Lester family is to share her life with all. May God have special blessings for all of you during this Easter season. Much love is coming your way.
Necia Maloney WIlbur <nawilbur5@yahoo.com>
Seminole, Fl - Tuesday, April 7, 2009 8:26 AM CDT

What a beautiful way to honor Emily. She was such an inspiration to me and I think of her often when I am speaking to students. May her light never go out. She will continue to inspire all those she has left behind until we meet again.
Love,
Shelley
Shelley Coleman <Shelley.Coleman@lls.org>
Tampa, FL - Monday, April 6, 2009 7:49 AM CDT

Emily has left such an impact on so many lives. I was thinking about her today and decided to check in on her site. Now I know why. It's been a year today! I'm sure she is looking down at her family and friends with so much love for all of them because they gave her so much support thru all she went thru. She is one special girl that has touch my life and so many others she came in contact with. We are all so blessed to have known Emily Lester. Tricia and family my prayers go out to all of you on this day her anniversary in Heaven.
Janet <janrob1393@aol.com>
Port Richey, FL USA - Sunday, April 5, 2009 9:14 PM CDT

Thinking and praying for you all today. Hugs from Knoxville!
Lindsey Reeves
Knoxville, TN USA - Sunday, April 5, 2009 6:07 PM CDT

For sure Emily is the standard. Thinking of you all on this day.
Joyce <jd469@st-andrews.ac.uk>
- Sunday, April 5, 2009 3:44 PM CDT

When I think of Emily I smile because I know she is now enjoying her reward for the life she lived so well. She loves God and cares deeply for others and I know God must be so pleased with her. I know that she is not just no longer in pain, not just in peace, but is truly celebrating the joy that you cannot find here on earth. Emily amazes me and I know how proud of her you are. But when I think of you, my heart goes out to you, because I can only imagine how each of you must miss her every day. Please know that we are thinking of you today with compassion and love in an extra special way. You will continue to be in our prayers. With love always,
Aunt Tricia in Iowa
- Sunday, April 5, 2009 1:33 PM CDT

Emilys legacy shines today and will shine forever as a becon of hope and inspiration for so many others in her situation. she made such an impact on her world, touched so many's lives, inspired us all to look at ourselfs and ask what we can do. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers in what i'm sure is a very hard time.
Meghan <simplyamazingmeghan@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, April 5, 2009 1:31 PM CDT

Beautiful Emily,
God looked around his garden,
And found an empty place.
He then looked down upon the earth,
And saw your tired face.
He put his arms around you,
And lifted you to rest;
God's garden must be beautiful-
He always takes the best.
He knew that you were suffering,
He knew you were in pain;
He knew you would never get well on earth again.
He saw the road was getting rough
And hills were hard to climb
So he closed your weary eyelids, and whispered,
"Peace be thine."
It broke our hearts to lose you,
But you didn't go alone,
For a part of us went with you,
The day God called you home.
~Author Unknown~

Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
AngelWingsRemembers

........ @ @ @ .................
.....@ @\@/@ @ .............
..... \@|@|@|@/ .............
........ \\\\|////.................
.......... \\|// ..................
............\\|/...................
...........=&= .................
............./|\ ...........â€¦.....

polly@AngelWingsRemembers
- Sunday, April 5, 2009 10:49 AM CDT

Thinking of you today and every day.
Jack, Debbie, Mitch and Patrick Davis
Largo, FL - Sunday, April 5, 2009 10:12 AM CDT

I hold you and your family in my heart and prayers on this anniversary of Emily's passing. I know that this is a difficult time, but I continue to dwell on all the good she accomplished in her short life.
yvonne smith <yvsrds@aol.com>
seminole, fl - Sunday, April 5, 2009 8:12 AM CDT

Thinking of you today and holding you in my heart on this anniversary...
alyssa...www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys (my godchildren) <sabiemc@aol.com>
Chapel Hill, NC USA - Sunday, April 5, 2009 1:41 AM CDT

I won't be near a computer tomorrow but I wanted you to know I am thinking about your beautiful Emily on her one year "homegoing". My heart is so heavy for you; just know I am praying that God will hold you extra tight...

Pamela Matthews
www.caringbridge.org/tx/dinahmatthews

Pamela Matthews
Houston, - Saturday, April 4, 2009 7:08 PM CDT

I just happened to be on and read that it's been almost a year now... a long, sad, difficult year of firsts I imagine. Thinking about you all and praying for peace.
with love <deirdre40@frontiernet.net>
livonia, NY US - Saturday, April 4, 2009 8:27 AM CDT

It's hard to believe a year ago today getting the call to go to Memphis... and what followed the next 24 hours... I think about her all the time. My heart is heavy...selfish to miss her so much...but knowing she is pain free. Emily left us all with a mission in life...to do good for others no matter what life deals us. That is the way she lived even as sick as she was. I miss her more than words can ever express.
Aunt Joanne
Joanne Hazelwood <jwilli7641@aol.com>
Knoxville, TN - Thursday, April 2, 2009 1:15 PM CDT

Hey Em I can't believe it has almost been a year. We all miss you so much! YOu impacted our family so much and the love that we have for you is immense. I know that you truely would not want us to do anything else other than spread the hope that you had for all patients diagnosed with cancer. So I just wanted to telll you that eve though I took a break frommy oncology floor I went back. I want to thank you for opening my eyes even more to the true patient experience and for allowing me to change my outlook on life for that i will be eternally greatful. I love you!
celeste reed <cebreast69@hotmail.com>
new braunfels, tx usa - Thursday, April 2, 2009 12:34 AM CDT

always thinking of you!
love,
shelby
shelby <americaneagle517@aol.com>
oviedo, FL - Wednesday, April 1, 2009 7:16 PM CDT

Spring’s Surprise
By: Anonymous

Close your eyes
And do not peek
And I'll rub "spring"
Across your cheek.
Soft as velvet
Smooth and sleek
Close your eyes
And do not peek.

Hugs and Prayers,
Polly

Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
AngelWingsRemembers

Polly@AngelWingsRemembers
USA - Saturday, March 21, 2009 2:21 PM CDT

Happy Birthday Kitty.....sorry we're late! Think of you all often and even more at this time. Miss you all!

Love, Eileen and the gang
Eileen Fandrey <efandrey@comcast.net>
Woodstock, GA USA - Saturday, March 21, 2009 5:36 AM CDT

Happy Belated Birthday Catherine! Cale turned 15 on St. Patrick's Day. It's amazing that so many of the cousins in our family have such close birthdays. We are thinking of you always and you are all in our prayers. You are an amazing family, so loved and so loving. We miss you! Love from Iowa. Aunt Tricia
Tricia McDonell
Dubuque, IA USA - Friday, March 20, 2009 3:12 PM CDT

Catherine, hope your birthday was a good one!
The Preschool Pen Pals and Mrs. Pam are praying for you....
- Thursday, March 19, 2009 11:43 PM CDT

Catherine, HAPPY 18th BIRTHDAY!! It's hard to believe one of the little neighbors I watched learn to ride a tricycle is an adult now. How did you grow up so fast (I didn't get that much older). (Okay watch out,I can almost hear your comment to that.) What a wonderful, selfless way to celebrate your birthday, having a Relay Party. Emily is watching and is so proud of you. You are such a caring person and someone I am proud to know. Wishing you the best on your birthday and all year. Good luck at U.F.

Love,

Jane
- Wednesday, March 18, 2009 7:48 PM CDT

so i was just thinking of her lately and how much I miss her you miss her we all miss her. true that our life will never be what it was with her in it. but understand how much more aware we are and the hope that she has/had because she lived with it. aunt trish, uncle steve, matt, kitty and grace i know we are coming up on a difficult date for the family but know how much we all miss her and love her and how very thankful we are that she blessed us by being a part of our family. we all love you and are thinking of you.
celeste
new braunfels , tx usa - Monday, March 16, 2009 10:02 PM CDT

If instead of a gem, or even a flower,

we should cast the gift of a loving
thought into the heart of a friend;

that would be giving as the angels give.

AN INVITATION TO PRAYER WARRIORS

The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings
are holding a Prayer Vigil on Thursday,
March 19th, between 8-9 pm EST for
all the children, teens, adults and families

on our AngelWingsRemembers prayer lists.

Thank you for joining us.

Sincerely,

Julie

Moderator

Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors

AngelWingsRemembers

Julie Price <angel_collector@ymail.com>
USA - Saturday, March 14, 2009 1:59 PM CDT

This is a hard time... just thinking about all that happened this month last year. I think about Emily and miss her everyday... I miss her so much it hurts. I love you Emily.
Aunt Joanne
Joanne Hazelwood <jwilli7641@aol.com>
Knoxville, TN - Thursday, March 12, 2009 9:07 PM CDT

Emily, thinking about you a lot lately.

Aunt Trish, Uncle Steve, Matt, Catherine and Grace
Miss you and love you lots. :)
Victoria Previtera <soccerchic101@bellsouth.net>
Pembroke Pines, FL USA - Thursday, February 26, 2009 5:57 PM CST

Thinking and praying for the you all at this time of year and remembering Emily! Love from Tennessee!
Lindsey Reeves
Knoxville, TN USA - Monday, February 23, 2009 9:14 PM CST

God Cares
By Mickey Rogers(c)

When I think of God's mercy
And I think of his Love.
Such a wonderful God
Looking down from above.

How He watches His children
While He sits on His thrown
Oh how He loves us
And cares for His own.

He cares for the weak.
He cares for the bold.
He cares for the young.
He cares for the old.

No laughter or smile does
He miss when you're glad.
No tear does he miss
When you're feeling so sad.

He knows what to do
And His timing is great.
He's never too busy
and He's never too late.

So, when you think He's not listening
Or you think He's not there,
Just remember He is watching
And He hears every prayer.

Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
AngelWingsRemembers

Polly@AngelWingsRemembers
- Friday, February 20, 2009 7:11 AM CST

^Sweet Emily^^ your legacy of love, inspiration and hope lives on through the hearts, minds and actions of those you met during your journey here on earth. Planting those little seeds of inspiration, they will continue to flourish and nourish throughout the eternities.

I love you. Love. . . .Polly

Polly @ AngelWingsRemembers
- Saturday, February 14, 2009 5:42 PM CST

Feeling more sad lately and remembering this time last year. Miss you guys and hope you are OK. Love, Aunt Susan
Susan Stevens <rasta17@bellsouth.net>
Cooper City, FL USA - Thursday, February 12, 2009 10:39 PM CST

I am a 13-year-old who was in a car accident September 17, 2008. I have a TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) and I am not back in school yet. I can't do simple things like stand on one foot or ride a bike. But reading your story made me feel lucky. Thank you for sharing this for everyone to see. May God Bless you.

Sincerely Tally Hall
Tally <ethantally@yahoo.com>
Dunedin, FL United States - Wednesday, February 11, 2009 9:28 AM CST

Tricia,
I just recently went into Dr. Barbosa's office and heard the news. I send my love to the family. Emily was a great girl, and without her I dont even know if I would have had the strength to fight at times. Her inspiring words were kept me going through all of it. I'm 8 months pregnant now, and am praying every night that I never have to go through what you and your husband, as well as my parents, went through with my child. I am now realizing just a piece of what you went through and send my prayers and positive thoughts to your family. Much love.
Miranda Webb <mirmaid102187@yahoo.com>
Wesley Chapel, FL USA - Saturday, February 7, 2009 12:56 AM CST

Hello Tricia and Steve.
I wanted to stop by and let you know that I still think of Emily and your family frequently. You are never far from my heart. I was just telling a first year fellow all about her the other night. What a strong lady and strong family. Please know that I am still praying for your family.
Dr. Sara
Memphis, TN - Thursday, February 5, 2009 10:19 PM CST

The greatest thing you'll ever learn
is to love and be loved in return.
~ From "Unforgettable with Love"
By Natalie Cole

Love. . . .Polly
Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
AngelWingsRemembers

P.S. Please pray for Jace--he's in the hospital with Chicken Pox (!!) and tummy troubles that needed a biopsy this week. I love the photo of Emily and Jace in Jace's photobook. Many thanks and love. . . .Polly

Polly @ AngelWingsRemembers
- Sunday, February 1, 2009 11:59 AM CST

Thinking of Emily today, and praying for you all.
I am the mom with a little boy with ALL, who sent the bandanas and Jane Austen DVD's during Emily's last days. How my whole family prayed that the Lord would heal Emily! I guess He finally did. She is whole and well in Heaven.
I pray that your hearts are comforted by this thought, even though they are broken by the loss of your sweet Emily.

I'm glad you are working in her honor toward the plans she had for the relay.
She was a strong, beautiful young lady, and her legacy lives on because of who she was, and the work you do to prosper it.

In Christ,

Sandi Queen (Jeremiah's Mommy) http://www.caringbridge.org/pa/jeremiah <queens07@windstream.net>
New Freeport, PA - Friday, January 23, 2009 9:30 PM CST

Angel of Mine
By: Anonymous

I felt an angel near today,
though one I couldn't see.
I felt an angel, oh-so-close,
sent to comfort me.

I felt an angel's gentle kiss,
soft upon my cheek.
And oh, without a single word,
of caring it did speak.

I felt an angel's loving touch,
soft upon my heart.
And with that touch, I felt the pain,
and hurt within depart.

I felt an angel's tepid tears,
fall softly next to mine.
And knew that as those tears did dry,
a new day would be mine.

I felt an angel's silken wings,
enfold me with pure love.
And felt a strength within me grow,
a strength sent from above.

I felt an angel, Oh-so-close,
though one I couldn't see,
I felt an angel near today,
sent to comfort me.

~~ Anonymous ~~

Polly @ AngelWingsRemembers
USA - Friday, January 23, 2009 8:10 PM CST

Just thinking about you guys and Em today!! Love and Prayers from Tennessee!
Lindsey Reeves
Chattanooga, TN USA - Thursday, January 22, 2009 9:03 PM CST

I hope the garage sale for Emily went awesomely yesterday. Prayers.
Joyce <jdadekia@skidmore.edu>
- Sunday, January 18, 2009 11:16 AM CST

Just missing Em a lot today.
Joanne Hazelwood <jwilli7641@aol.com>
Knoxville, T - Thursday, January 15, 2009 1:08 PM CST

Sweet friends--Emily's legacy of love will live forever in our hearts. The little seeds of love she planted in so many hearts will continue to blossom throughout many generations to come.

**An Invitation To All Prayer Warriors**
The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings
are holding a Prayer Vigil on Monday,
January 19th, between 8-9 pm EST for
all the children, teens and adults
on our prayer lists and our
AngelWingsRemembers families.

Thank you for joining us.

Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
AngelWingsRemembers

Polly @ AngelWingsRemembers
- Tuesday, January 13, 2009 9:33 PM CST

Dear Lester Family,
Tonight I came to Emily's pages to remember her inspiration and to reflect. Your family still holds a special place in my heart.
Thinking of you always.
The Intermill Family
Cathy Intermill <lcscinter@starband.net>
Alliance, NE US - Sunday, January 11, 2009 8:02 PM CST

Just checking in. Your family is always in our prayers.
Dan Bordona <danielbordona@yahoo.com>
- Friday, January 9, 2009 2:59 PM CST

As you said, many came to BELIEVE because of Emily. What a wonderful legacy. Praying for "peace that passeth all understanding" for your family.
Jill Young <jyoung185@tampabay.rr.com>
st pete, fl usa - Wednesday, January 7, 2009 9:12 AM CST

You are in my thoughts and prayers. I followed Emily's website and was so inspired by her strength, beauty and creativity. I know you have a huge ache and loneliness. I am praying that each day you have more smiles than tears and that memories of Emily can soon bring peace and not loss. Please know that she touched my life deeply and she will not be forgotten.
Irene Nelson <mtsofttail@hotmail.com>
Colstrip, MT - Sunday, January 4, 2009 9:31 PM CST

We have been thinking of all of you this season, and know you are in our hearts! much Love, Alicia, Bill and Billy
Alicia Gowacki <ABGowacki@aol.com>
St Pete, FL - Sunday, January 4, 2009 8:30 PM CST

WISHING THE LESTER FAMILY A HAPPY HOLIDAYS I KNOW IT WILL NEVER BE THE SAME WITH EMILY I THANK ABOUT HER EVERY DAY WHAT A TRUE SWEET ANGEL SHE WAS.NOW SHE A VERY BEAUTIFUL ANGEL GOD KNEW EMILY NEED HER BEAUTIFUL WINGS I THINK ABOUT THE FAMILY AND PRAY FOR THEM EVER DAY TO GET STRONGER. GOD BLESS AND MAY HE ALWAYUS WATCH OVER THE LESTER FAMILY I LOVE YOU ALL < GEORGE PATRICK >
George Patrick <georgeleep2001@yahoo.com>
Grove City , OH - Saturday, December 27, 2008 5:15 PM CST

I just wanted to let you know that I am thinking of you today and wish you some peace during a very difficult time. Emily is truly missed by everyone whose life she touched.

Love,
Shelley
Shelley Coleman <Shelley.Coleman@lls.org>
Tampa, FL - Thursday, December 25, 2008 7:54 PM CST

MISSING YOU DEARLY. AUNT TRISH, UNCLE STEVE, MATT, KITTY, AND GRACE I MISS YOU LOVE YOU AND CAN NOT BEGIN TO IMAGINE HOW YOU ARE FEELING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON. YOU ALL ARE ALWAYS IN MY THOUGHTS. I LOVE YOU AND MERRY CHRISTMAS.
CELESTE REED
NEW BRAUNFELS, TX USA - Thursday, December 25, 2008 4:34 PM CST

I am wishing Emily's family a Christmas filled with thanksgiving as you celebrate the birth of Jesus. May God's love bless you throughout the coming year.
prayers and love from Mrs. Pam
- Thursday, December 25, 2008 11:37 AM CST

I'm Spending Christmas with Jesus this Year

I see the countless Christmas trees
around the world below
with tiny lights like heaven stars
reflecting on the snow

The sight is so spectacular
Please wipe away that that tear
For I'm spending Christmas
with Jesus Christ this year

I hear the many Christmas songs
That people hold so dear
O', the sounds of music can't compare
with the Christmas choir up here.

For I have no words to tell you
of the joy their voices bring
for it's beyond description
to hear the angels sing.

I know how much you miss me,
I see the pain inside your heart.
but, through our memories so dear..
We're never far apart.

I can't tell you of the splendor
or the peace here in this place
Can you just imagine Christmas
with Our Savior.......face-to-face.

I'll ask him to light your spirit
As I tell him of your Love.
Then I'll pray for 'One another'
As you lift your eyes above.

So please let your heart be joyful
and let your spirit sing
for I'm spending Christmas in heaven
and I'm walking with the king.

~~ Anonymous ~~

Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
AngelWingsRemembers

Polly @ AngelWingsRemembers
- Thursday, December 25, 2008 10:54 AM CST

Merry Christmas...praying for you all and thinking of Emily this Christmas...
alyssa...www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys (my godchildren) <sabiemc@aol.com>
Chapel Hill, NC USA - Wednesday, December 24, 2008 11:59 PM CST

Hi Tricia
Just want to wish you a blessed holiday.

michelle&shannia <vicyfolife@gmail.com>
memphis, TN 38105 - Tuesday, December 23, 2008 7:56 PM CST

Dear Lester Family: We wanted to pop by @ Christmas & let you know you & your precious Emily are not forgotten

Charlene & BECKY /Ones Who Care
....... <gcbbunny@sympatico.ca>
- Monday, December 22, 2008 11:37 AM CST

HI LESTER FAMILY. MY HEART GOES OUT TO YOU ALL THIS HOLIDAYS WE PRAY FOR YOU ALL EVER DAY THAT GOD WILL EAST THE PAIN FROM YOUR LOVING HEARTS . IT A VERY SAD TIME JUST HAVE FAITH GOD WILL SEE YOU THREW THIS . I TRULY MISS EMILY SHE WAS A TRUE ANGEL HERE ON EARTH. NOW A SWEET BEAUTIFUL SWEET ANGEL IN GOD ARMS REST IN PEACE EMILY AND GOD BLESS THE LESTER FAMILY. LOVE YOU GUYS . GEORGE PATRICK
George Patrick <georgeleep2001@yahoo.com>
Grove City , Ohio - Sunday, December 21, 2008 11:29 AM CST

Hello to the Lester family,
Just wanted to let you know that my thoughts and prayers are with each of you during what I am sure is a very difficult time. I think of your family and Emily often.
yvonne smith <yvsrds@aol.com>
seminole, fl - Friday, December 19, 2008 8:07 AM CST

hi Lester family,
i'm thinking and praying for you always.
every day when i pull out of my driveway and see your house i think of Emily and say a little prayer for all of you. i know the pain is far from gone, and comfort is hard to come by, but please know that you are all continually in my prayers, and i am here if you ever need or want anything.
lots of love,
Meghan Cottrell
Meghan Cottrell <simplyamazingmeghan@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, December 16, 2008 7:34 PM CST

hii em,
i miss you and love you && think of you every day.
keep me strongg!
Victoria Previtera <soccerchic101@bellsouth.net>
p-pines, fl usa - Monday, December 15, 2008 9:31 PM CST

I just wanted to drop in and tell you that you all remain in our prayers.
Charlie Byrom
Pike Road, AL USA - Thursday, December 11, 2008 8:05 AM CST

thinking of you all today
prayers and love from Mrs. Pam
St. Louis, MO - Tuesday, December 9, 2008 8:22 AM CST

I think of you often Emily and remember your pretty smile. I know you are looking over all of us because I feel your presence regularly! I love you, Aunt Susan
Susan Stevens <rasta17@bellsouth.net>
Cooper City, FL USA - Sunday, December 7, 2008 8:33 AM CST

Just thinking about Emily and all of you and wanted to check her site and write a little note to you. I think of all of you often.
I can't believe that Catherine is a senior and filling out college applications. It seems like yesterday she was chasing me around the CCC with a frog. She has certainly turned into an amazing woman.
Take care and hope to be in touch soon.

Shelley
Shelley Coleman <Shelley.Coleman@lls.org>
Tampa, FL - Thursday, December 4, 2008 7:34 PM CST

I've been thinking of Emily today . . . I'll explain why.
Yesterday, Becky was heading back to the University of Florida when the too-sudden brakes of a semi, combined with very wet roads, caused her car to spin several times in the middle of a very busy I-75.
She wound up on the side of the road, but other than being extremely shaken up (and some minor damage to her car) without a scratch! Becky kept saying over and over that she didn't know how it was possible, especially the way the traffic had been all around her, and the number of times her car had spun around.
Afterwards, as I was praying and saying thank you to God for watching over Becky, I had this strong feeling that Emily might have been involved in this miracle.
It would be just like that little "Bulldog" former soccer player to act as a "warrior angel"— moving cars and semis out of Becky's way!
I just wanted you to know . . .
Deborah Abrahamson <deborahabe@knology.net>
Seminole, FL 33776 - Monday, December 1, 2008 3:16 PM CST

thinking of you all and praying for you. Catherine, good luck with college applications!! If you end up coming up north for visits or for school, please let me know, I would love to see you :)
Reguli Granger <rgranger@mit.edu>
Cambridge, MA USA - Monday, December 1, 2008 10:50 AM CST

Wanting to stop by to wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving and to let you all know that we think and pray for you all daily. We miss and love you all!!! May God be with you all during this holiday season!

FAITH-HOPE-BELIEVE-LOVE

The Forrester's
www.caringbridge.org/visit/audriforrester
Crystal Forrester <facforrester@gmail.com>
Union City, TN USA - Thursday, November 27, 2008 1:01 AM CST

hey there! thats really cool! still thinking and praying for you all. hope you have a blessed Thanksgiving!
-shelby
shelby <americaneagle517@aol.com>
orlando, fl - Wednesday, November 26, 2008 6:49 PM CST

Dear Tricia, Steve, Catherine, Grace & Matt,

We just wanted to let you all know we continue to pray for each of you and Emily in heaven.

Emily and your entire family will always have a very special place in our hearts.

May Jesus continue to bless you all richly.
We wish you special blessings of love, peace, and joy this Thanksgiving!

The Wiener Family <frankathome1@yahoo.com>
Petaluma, CA - Monday, November 24, 2008 5:41 PM CST

The cool fall days of the past week reminded me of you... I drifted back to the damp, chilly days of spring in Memphis as you showed us all so much courage and grit. Keep watch over your family M, and know that we miss you...
Uncle Jim <jimprevitera@verizon.net>
Valrico, Fl USA - Sunday, November 23, 2008 10:18 AM CST

Hey,

Don't know why--but I was thinking so much about you guys and Emily that I decided to take a peek at the website. Aileen found some pictures the other day of Trish and Emily at the Seminole Middle School NJHS induction ceremony. I will have her get them onto the computer somehow and send them on. Prayers and thoughts for you all always.
Teri Ulm <mtulm@tampabay.rr.com>
- Wednesday, November 19, 2008 1:36 PM CST

A person from Emily's bone marrow drives donated bone marrow today!!!! Thank you Emily for your hard work, you have made a such a huge, wonderful impact on this world. I Think about you and your family every day, I love you and miss you!!

Vicky Smith <vsmith@ufl.edu>
Gainesville, FL USA - Wednesday, November 19, 2008 1:13 PM CST

I've been thinking about you guys and wanted to let you know that we continue to pray for you guys. We miss y'all and love y'all. Miss the chats that we had in the nutrition room. Thank you so much for stopping in and checking on Audri. It touches my heart when I see you sign her page. We "Thank God" for bringing you into our lives. You are all such a sweet loving family and we think of you guys daily. May God Bless You All!!!

FAITH-HOPE-BELIEVE-LOVE
The Forrester's

www.caringbridge.org/visit/audriforrester
Crystal Forrester <facforrester@gmail.com>
Union City, TN USA - Friday, November 14, 2008 11:36 PM CST

Still thinking about you guys constantly!! Love from Tennessee!!
Lindsey Reeves
Knoxville, TN - Thursday, November 13, 2008 10:29 PM CST

May our earnest prayers and supplications
bring comfort and reassurance.

**AN INVITATION TO ALL PRAYER WARRIORS**

The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings
are holding a Prayer Vigil on Wednesday,
November 19th, between 8-9 pm EST for
all the children, teens and adults on our
prayer lists and our AngelWingsRemembers
families.

Thank you for joining us.
Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors

polly at angel wings remembers
- Wednesday, November 12, 2008 2:48 PM CST

i know you were with us last weekend aunt mimi and i saw the butterfly you sent. it's amazing how whenever we have fmaily functions we always see a monarch. i miss you so much. you would be proud of me i actullay made a toast that i was not a total smart ass through. i love and miss and know that you are always with us.
celeste reed
new braunfels, tx - Saturday, November 8, 2008 9:06 PM CST

just thinking of you all . my prayers goes out to the family. keep up the good work Catherine.. I just lost a good friend yesterday her name was Heather Pick she died yesterday nov 7, 2008 she went to heaven at 1;34 yesterday she had breast cancer she in heaven now with sweet angel EMILY GOD BLESS
george patrick <georgeleep2001@yahoo.com>
grove city, ohio - Saturday, November 8, 2008 11:04 AM CST

Hey Guys, I was thinking about you and Emily a lot today, well I guess it was actually yesterday... It's been so crazy up here lately that I haven't really been able to keep up with you. My little sister is probably bugging the family enough for the both of us though!! I really hope to see you guys over Thanksgiving! Its been seven months, its still soo hard... I love you all and if you need anything please don't be hesitant to call!!
Vicky Smith <vsmith@ufl.edu>
Gainesville, FL - Wednesday, November 5, 2008 11:49 PM CST

holding you close in my heart today
polly from angel wings remembers
- Monday, November 3, 2008 1:36 PM CST

Just wanted to stop by and say hello and that we miss seeing and talking to y'all. We pray for you all daily and wanted to tell you all "Thanks" for lifting our Audri up in prayer. We are so glad to hear that you all had a great turn out at Chic fil A. That is wonderful. Emily would be very proud of what all you have done. We miss her as I know that you all do very much. Remember the good times. Again, thanks for praying for Audri and as always, we pray for y'all daily.

FAITH-HOPE-BELIEVE-LOVE

The Forrester's Andy, Crystal, and Audri Forrester
www.caringbridge.org/visit/audriforrester
Crystal Forrester <facforrester@gmail.com>
Union City, TN USA - Friday, October 31, 2008 11:58 PM CDT

HI GUYS! MISS YOU AND THINK OF YOU ALWAYS!! LOVE, AUNT SUSAN
Susan Stevens <Rasta17@bellsouth.net>
Cooper City, FL 33024 - Wednesday, October 29, 2008 1:48 PM CDT

Thank you for the update. I hold you all in my prayers everyday.
alyssa...www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys (my godchildren) <sabiemc@aol.com>
Chapel Hill, NC Usa - Tuesday, October 28, 2008 11:51 AM CDT

Yesterday I completed a century ride in Cocoa Beach (100 mile cycling)with Team in Training in memory of Emily. I carried her picture with me and once again she inspired and encouraged me to press on and to finish the race. Best part of all was the whole Florida team raised over $64,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society! I was pleased to be the top fundraiser for the Suncoast Chapter and the third highest fundraiser for the state. I pray Emily's memory was honored and that we find a cure soon!
Donna Sicilian <dsicilian@verizon.net>
Largo, FL USA - Monday, October 27, 2008 9:17 PM CDT

Yesterday I completed a century ride in Cocoa Beach (100 mile cycling)with Team in Training in memory of Emily. I carried her picture with me and once again she inspired and encouraged me to press on and to finish the race. Best part of all was the whole Florida team raised over $64,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society! I was pleased to be the top fundraiser for the Suncoast Chapter and the third highest fundraiser for the state. I pray Emily's memory was honored and that we find a cure soon!
Donna Sicilian
Largo, FL USA - Monday, October 27, 2008 9:16 PM CDT

So glad to hear that the fund raiser at Chic fil a was a success. My two youngest boys had a blast having their faces painted.....They didn't want to take a shower that night because this would wash off the artwork!!!! They had to, due to school policy...We are looking forward to the next fundraiser, so will keep checking in on Emily's site. Patricia and Steve, you have so much to be proud of with your daughter Catherine. It is so obvious how much love she has for Emily and Emily's cause. Cahterine has a huge heart. We keep you all in our prayers and hope that the sun is shining just a little brighter everyday.
Necia Maloney WIlbur <nawilbur5@yahoo.com>
Seminole, - Monday, October 27, 2008 10:29 AM CDT

HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY LITTLE ANGEL EMILY. WE REALLY MISS YOU . A BEAUTIFUL SWEET ANGEL IN HEAVEN . GOD BLESS YOUR LOVING FAMILY >>> LOVE GEORGE PATRICK
George Patrick <georgeleep2001@yahoo.com>
Grove City, OH - Wednesday, October 22, 2008 4:38 PM CDT

praying for Emily's classmate who will be donating his bone marrow.
what a beautiful tribute for Emily.
mrs pam
- Saturday, October 18, 2008 11:11 AM CDT

hey emily! happy belated birthday! i bet you had a great party up there! you are missed! continuing to pray for you all.
much love from across the state,
shelby
shelby <americaneagle517@aol.com>
oviedo, fl - Wednesday, October 15, 2008 9:43 PM CDT

EMILY!
I was so persistent in doing something at my school for your birthday, but apparently some other girl wanted to do a fundraiser for St. Joude in a different way....
i guess both essays we submitted were about the same thing, so we colaborated anddd....
my principal, this other girl, and myself have organized "St. Jude Mondays." Its still being approved but Every monday were allowed to wear jeans and we have to donate a dollar.
:)
it's really nothing but at least its something..
sorry i didn't comment on your birthday, but i was thinking about you ALL day.
I ate a few cupcakes and ate some fast food considering thats what you would of probably done.
HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY BABES<333333
i miss you so much,
x0x0x0
Torrriii :)
Victoria Previtera <soccerchic101@bellsouth.net>
P. Pines, FL USA - Wednesday, October 15, 2008 8:20 PM CDT

Happy Birthday Emily!

I'll bet you are eating Angel Food Cake in Heaven today!
Fly High Sweet Girl....your legacy lives on through ALL of the lives you touched!!
Susie Kausler <swtsue17@aol.com>
Jax, Fl - Wednesday, October 15, 2008 12:48 AM CDT

happy birthday emily!! party like a rock star in heaven!!
love always
celeste
new braunfels, tx - Tuesday, October 14, 2008 8:17 PM CDT

HAPPY BIRTHDAY EMILY
SHANNIA & MICHELLE <VINCYFOLIFE@gmail.com>
MEMPHIS, TN U S A - Tuesday, October 14, 2008 7:27 PM CDT

HAPPY BIRTHDAY in heaven to you beautiful Emily!! Your life has forever changed mine. It is so wonderful to see your family continue to change lives in honor of you!!! Keep up the great work!!!
Love and prayers,
Amy
Amy <agresham@sbcglobal.net>
tx - Tuesday, October 14, 2008 3:28 PM CDT

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, EM! WE ALL MISS YOU. YOU WOULD BE SO PROUD OF ALL THE PEOPLE WHO ARE WORKING TO HELP OTHERS IN NEED FOR YOUR CAUSE...
Tricia, Steve, Catherine, and Gracie,
I am thinking of you guys today and knowing your hearts are broken. I know remembering Emily puts a smile on your face, too. I was just sorting through an album and saw sweet Emily when she was 8! Such innocence.
We still love her and always will. She was so sweet and we all remember!
I love You, Aunt Susan
Susan Stevens <rasta17@bellsouth.net>
Cooper City, FL USA - Tuesday, October 14, 2008 3:25 PM CDT

We are thinking of you guys today and will see you at Chick-Fil-A tonight.
The Davis Family
Largo, FL - Tuesday, October 14, 2008 2:28 PM CDT

Happy Birthday Emily. Thinking of you all today...
alyssa...www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys (my godchildren) <sabiemc@aol.com>
- Tuesday, October 14, 2008 10:28 AM CDT

Happy birthday, Emily!!!
Reguli Granger <rgranger@mit.edu>
Cambridge, MA USA - Tuesday, October 14, 2008 9:57 AM CDT

Happy Birthday Em! I have a feeling you are celebrating in heaven with a beautiful pair of UGG boots on.... with lots of fur : ) I miss you and love you with all my heart and soul. Happy Birthday
Love,
Aunt Jo
Joanne Hazelwood <jwilli7641@aol.com>
Knoxville, TN - Tuesday, October 14, 2008 8:21 AM CDT

Happy Birthday Emily! We know you are celebrating!
We think of you often and remember very special times.
Love,
The Foleys
Katy Foley <efoley4@tampapbay.rr.com>
- Tuesday, October 14, 2008 6:22 AM CDT

Isn't it amazing that Emily's work is continuing to save lives! This is exactly what she would want. Can't wait to see you tomorrow at Chic-fil-a. Although I know there will always be a void and a sad heart for all that loved Emily, I am praying that the pain is not as dark. Remember all the happy times, as I know there were many. Thinking of all of Emily's family often.
Necia Maloney Wilbur <nawilbur5@yahoo.com>
- Monday, October 13, 2008 10:41 AM CDT

**AN INVITATION TO ALL PRAYER WARRIORS**

The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings
are holding a Prayer Vigil on Sunday,
October 19th, between 8-9 pm EST for
all the children, teens and
adults on our prayer lists and our
AngelWingsRemembers
families.

Thank you for joining us.

AngelWingsRemembers

Polly @ Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
- Sunday, October 12, 2008 1:13 PM CDT

Hello my loving family. Just wanted to say hi and let you know I am thinking of you all right now, as well as many times throughout every day. I love and miss you and I hope you are all doing "okay". My prayers are always with you.

Love
Deirdre
Deirdre Lester <lesterd@missouri.edu>
Columbia, MO USA - Friday, October 10, 2008 3:54 PM CDT

I am praying for you all during these hard times. We all miss Emily so much, but I know that her love and passion are still living among all those who knew her.

Love, Reguli
Reguli Granger <rgranger@mit.edu>
Cambridge, MA USA - Tuesday, October 7, 2008 10:53 AM CDT

EMILY YOU ARE IN MY HEART FOR EVER LOOK. I UP TO HEAVEN AND SEE THE BRIGHTIES STAR . I KNOW THAT YOU LOOKING DOWN ON US . OUR PRAYERS WILL ALWAYS BE WITH YOUR LOVEING FAMILY MAY GOD ALWAYS HOLD THEM CLOSED TO HIM FOR EVER . GOD BLESS YOU ALL .< LOVE YOU ALL GEORGE PATRICK >
George Patrick <georgeleep2001@yahoo.com>
Grove City , Ohio - Monday, October 6, 2008 6:31 PM CDT

missing emily everyday, it still is so surreal. i know she will be there in spirit at the end of the month. even though every celebration is bitter sweet. i know that she is up there with us wanting us to all be together. i love you em.
celeste reed
new braunfels , tx usa - Saturday, October 4, 2008 3:13 PM CDT

I miss you Emily and can see your face daily. I love you, Aunt Susan
Susan Stevens <rasta17@bellsouth.net>
Cooper City, fl usa - Saturday, October 4, 2008 11:37 AM CDT

I am stopping in to let you know I’m thinking about you tonight. May you know you are surrounded by prayers and good words of so many who love you and care about you.

Have a glorious, peace-filled Light the Night this week-end. I know Emily will be watching. ;o)

Precious Emily, your wonderful legacy of love lives forever in our hearts. I love you, girlfriend.

Polly @ Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors
- Friday, October 3, 2008 9:56 PM CDT

I ate at Chili's today for lunch and am headed back for dinner. Seeing all the posters of St. Jude around was bitter sweet. As soon as I walked in the Train song "When i look to the sky" started playing. I just felt like she was there telling me she was with me. I colored the "pepper" card with her name in rainbow colors and of course added DUKE in blue with a butterfly. We can never repay St. Jude for all they did for Emily. It is an amazing facility. Emily, I miss you every day... I miss you today!
Everyone please go to Chili's tonight!
Aunt Jo
Joanne Hazelwood <jwilli7641@aol.com>
Knoxville, TN - Monday, September 29, 2008 3:27 PM CDT

Emily would be proud of the scholarship. She sure is smiling right now !

www.caringbridge.org/visit/kellymuldoon
Lynne Muldoon <lajmuldoon@aol.com>
Tampa, FL USA - Wednesday, September 24, 2008 8:32 PM CDT

Just wanted to let you all know that Emily is always in my thoughts and heart. As I go around campus and go through my daily routine, there's always some sort of reminder of Emily. I don't think a single day has gone by where I haven't thought of her. Still praying for you all too. Hope you are doing well.

Love always, Reguli
Reguli Granger <rgranger@mit.edu>
Cambridge, MA USA - Tuesday, September 23, 2008 1:45 PM CDT

Again I want to share that thoughts of Emily and her family are with me always. I came across Emily's bandana and held it close as I do with my thoughts of her. She continues to be a true inspiration to so many. Knowing that she is an angel with God and she feels no more pain is comforting.
Necia Maloney Wilbur <nawilbur5@yahoo.com>
Seminole, - Monday, September 22, 2008 11:05 PM CDT

We miss you and we will miss Emily forever.....

Hugs and prayers...

Ann and Jace
www.caringbridge.org/visit/jacetrahan
Ann Trahan <cajunlaughs@yahoo.com>
Duson, La usa - Saturday, September 20, 2008 9:00 PM CDT

I used to be best buds with Catherine all the way back at Ridgecrest Elementary- - haven't seen or talked to her a while, but I will NEVER forget the Lester Family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
love youuuuu.
Shaelina Holmes <shaelinaholmes@yahoo.com>
Saint Petersburg, FL - Friday, September 19, 2008 9:15 PM CDT

Just wanting you to know that Emily and all of you are still in my thoughts..as I see her smiling face on the wall in my office...she cannot be forgotten. She forever etched her determination in this world...and may it continue to touch lives for years to come...

Also...just wanted to share some words of encouragement…

“If we could, by some wonderful force from heaven, be allowed to slip from this earth in our present state and into the glory of heaven, we would not find one shred of evidence that reveals panic. You would never once hear “oops” from the lips of God, or “I wonder what we’re going to do about that down there?” Nor would we ever observe anxiety across the face of the living God. We would be stunned with amazement at how calm things are around his throne.

From this side of glory we see the tapestry of life from underneath. It is full of knots and twisted threads and frayed ends that lack meaning and beauty. But from God’s perspective, looking at the top of the fabric, it is all under control.”
From Encouragement for life by Charles Swindoll…

May you see that glory of God in your life today….
Angel Hugs & Continued Prayers…
Char
www.ProjectAngelHugs.com
Ministering to our youth touched by cancer and their families…
NEW! on Facebook ~ Char Jensema

Char
- Friday, September 19, 2008 1:58 PM CDT

I worked as camp counselor in Key West for the summer. On Monday nights I would give a devotional to the high schoolers I was in charge of. I asked them what it is that wakes them up in the morning, what is it that makes them want to make a difference. I shared Emily's story with them and all the awesome things she and Catherine are still doing. To think that I've been given the opportunity to share a love with this world as strong as that of the Lesters is what gets me out of bed every morning, it's what keeps me going. God bless.
Eric Mennel <Redsox1302@aol.com>
Tallahassee, Fl USA - Friday, September 19, 2008 0:33 AM CDT

Still thinking and praying for you all constantly!!
Lindsey Reeves
Chattanooga, TN - Monday, September 15, 2008 5:17 PM CDT

**INVITATION TO ALL PRAYER WARRIORS**

The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings
are holding a Prayer Vigil on Friday,
September 19th, between 8-9 pm EST for
all the children, teens and adults on our
prayer lists and our AngelWingsRemembers
families.

Thank you for joining us.
Polly@AngelWingsRemembers
- Monday, September 15, 2008 10:04 AM CDT

hey Lester family, my thoughts and prayers are still constantly with you guys, and i check the site often. I would really like to help with the upcoming fundraiser, and hand out fliers around Gibbs, PLEASE let me know what i can do to help out our team! I want to be a part of continuing Emilys legacy, and i want to continue fighting for this cause that Emily helped me care so much about.
love,
Meghan Cottrell
Meghan Cottrell <simplyamazingmeghan@yahoo.com>
Largo , FL U,S.A - Sunday, September 14, 2008 1:51 PM CDT

Thoughts of Emily and her family are always close to my heart.We will see you on the 14th for the fundraiser.
Necia Maloney Wilbur <nawilbur5@yahoo.com>
Seminole, - Saturday, September 13, 2008 9:34 PM CDT

I have been checking this site almost daily and am glad to hear about the upcoming fund raiser. I will definitely be stopping by the restaurant on October 14. Know that I think and pray for you and your family as you continue to heal.
yvonne smith <yvsrds@aol.com>
seminole, fl - Saturday, September 13, 2008 1:06 PM CDT

Always thinking of all of you. Love,Monica Michael,Meghan and Mikey
schoeller <m4schoe@aol.com>
Naples , fla us - Thursday, September 11, 2008 10:31 AM CDT

love you and miss you em. hope your flying high above me i could really use you right now.
celeste
new braunfels, tx usa - Wednesday, September 10, 2008 9:51 PM CDT

Thinking of you today and wanting you to know I'm holdidng all of you close in my heart, my thoughts and my prayers.

Polly @ AngelWingsRemembers
USA - Wednesday, September 10, 2008 9:58 AM CDT

still praying for and remembering your family and your sweet girl...

Hannah (www.caringbridge.org/visit/hannah317) <hkaptur@markkaptur.com>
- Sunday, September 7, 2008 1:55 PM CDT

Dear Lester Family , we will always keep you all in our prayers . you all will be in my heart for ever .sweet little Emily was a true sweet angel here on earth I will never for get her. now she a beautiful sweet angel in heaven looking down on us .I pray that God will always hold you all closed to him . I will always pray for you all LOVE YOU ALL GOD BLESS . >>>George Patrick <<<
George Patrick <Georgeleep2001@yahoo.com>
Grove City , OH - Saturday, August 23, 2008 6:18 AM CDT

Just wanted to stop by and let you all know that you all and Emily have been in my heart and prayers...
alyssa...www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys (my godchildren) <sabiemc@aol.com>
- Thursday, August 21, 2008 6:20 PM CDT

Dear Lester Family- Just thinking of you all everyday and lifting you all up in prayer daily. We miss seeing you guys and know that we love you all. Thank you for the friendship at St.Jude. We knew that you all had already been down that road and we were comforted from talking to you all. We sure do miss you all.

p.s. Thank you so much for continuing to pray for our dear Audri. I thank God daily for placing you all in our lives.

love -Crystal, Andy, and Audri Forrester
www.caringbridge.org/visit/audriforrester
crystal forrester <facforrester@gmail.com>
union city, tn usa - Wednesday, August 20, 2008 11:39 PM CDT

I was just thinking about y'all and thought I'd drop by and let you know that you each remain in our prayers. I still wish that there was some other outcome reflected on these pages. You will continue to remain in our prayers.

Charlie, Kim, Kaiden and Jameson
Charlie Byrom <charles.byrom@faulkner.edu>
Pike Road, AL USA - Monday, August 18, 2008 3:19 PM CDT

You seem like a very brave young woman whom has been thru so much so young! I found your info/pic on the bayToBay runners site and was just curious. I pray for you to be well and you have so much in front of you! Keep your chin up as well as your faith that you will beat this... yet again!
God Bless you and your family, Ed.
Ed Bucsku <edex03@yahoo.com>
Lakeland, Fl USA - Saturday, August 16, 2008 5:16 PM CDT

ATTENTION PRAYER WARRIORS:

The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings
will be having a Prayer Vigil on Tuesday,
August 19th between 8-9 P.M. EST for
all of the children and adults on our
prayer lists and our Angel Families.
Please join us in prayer for these
families.

Marianne/Angel_Wings <mjackson@wwhgd.com>
Roswell, GA USA - Wednesday, August 13, 2008 1:19 PM CDT

Just wanted you to know I am still here praying for you all. May God comfort and strengthen you. Dena
Dena Olsen <olsen7945@wi.rr.com>
Oak Creek, Wi USA - Tuesday, August 12, 2008 7:05 PM CDT

Hey,
Just thought about Emily alot these last couple of days. I must need her strength for something. Prayers and thoughts for you guys often.
Teri <mtulm@tampabay.rr.com>
- Tuesday, August 12, 2008 6:07 AM CDT

Just thinking of you all tonight.
Love to you from Memphis,
Terri Wood, RN
Intensive Care Unit
St. Jude
Terri Wood <terri.wood@stjude.org>
- Monday, August 11, 2008 1:14 AM CDT

thinking of her today remembering the good times!!
celeste
new braunfels , tx usa - Sunday, August 10, 2008 10:00 PM CDT

Always thinking and praying for you. We love you guys!
Jeff Evans <jeffreykevans@aol.com>
Largo, Fl - Saturday, August 2, 2008 8:59 AM CDT

We miss you Emily, and will never ever forget you!
Lindsey
- Friday, August 1, 2008 9:58 PM CDT

GOD BLESS EVERY ONE SIGN THE GUESTBOOK MAY GOD ALWAY BE WITH YOU FOR YOUR LOVEING SURPORT FOR THE LESTER FAMILY GOD BLESS EACH AND EVER ONE AND A SPECIAL THANKS TO ( CARINGBRIDGE ) GOD BLESS YOU ALL ( GEORGE PATRICK )
George Patrick <georgeleep2001@yahoo.com>
Grove City , Ohio - Friday, August 1, 2008 8:27 PM CDT

Wish The LESTER Family the Best, pray that God will aways carry you all under his loveing wings Hope you all are doing better I know it will Never Be the same Emily was a very special angel here on earth she really touched many people. Emily was very loved and be missed. but in out heart Emily will always be there her memorys and love will live forever in out hearts fly high little angel Emily fly high.GOD BLESS THE LESTER FAMILY ( love you all ) George Patrick
Geoege Patrick <georgeleep2001@yahoo.com>
Grove City , Ohio - Friday, August 1, 2008 8:18 PM CDT

I think about this sweet family so often.
with love, <Deirdre40@frontiernet.net>
- Wednesday, July 30, 2008 10:52 AM CDT

Just to let you know that prayers are still coming your way. I think of Emily so often. She is a special angel and to think how many lives she touched is incredible.
Necia Maloney WIlbur <nawilbur5@yahoo.com>
Seminole, fl - Tuesday, July 29, 2008 10:38 PM CDT

always in the back of my mind!!! I love you and miss you em.
celeste
new braunfels, tx usa - Sunday, July 27, 2008 10:06 PM CDT

I miss you, and are thinking of you always :)
Victoria P <soccerchic101@bellsouth.net>
Pembroke Pines, Fl USA - Monday, July 21, 2008 10:13 AM CDT

Always in our thoughts We miss Emily Love Monica Michael Meghan and Mikey
schoeller <M4schoe@aol.com>
naples, FL US - Sunday, July 20, 2008 4:53 PM CDT

I was just thinking of you all. I pray that God will comfort each of you and lift you up.

Charlie, Kim, Kaiden and Jameson
Charlie Byrom <charles.byrom@faulkner.edu>
Pike Road, AL USA - Thursday, July 17, 2008 7:59 PM CDT

I sure miss Em!
Joanne <jwilli7641@aol.com>
Knoxville, TN - Monday, July 14, 2008 1:15 PM CDT

Prayer Warriors

You are invited to join our Prayer Vigil Saturday July 19th. between the hours of 8-9pm EST for all the families on our prayer list at Angel_Wings and AngelWingsRemembers.If you have someone you would like us to pray for please feel free to email us at Angel_Wings.

Angel w/Angel_Wings
Angel Venters <angel2948@aol.com>
Greenville, NC USA - Sunday, July 13, 2008 5:47 PM CDT

Thinking of you all...
alyssa...www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys (my godchildren) <sabiemc@aol.com>
- Sunday, July 6, 2008 4:32 PM CDT

THINKING OF YOU ALL!!! WE MISS Y'ALL!!! LOVE- ANDY, CRYSTAL, AND AUDRI FORRESTER

www.caringbridge.org/visit/audriforrester
crystal forrester <facforrester@gmail.com>
union city, tn usa - Friday, July 4, 2008 11:33 AM CDT

Just wanted you all to know that we still miss Emily and all of you too. We think of you often!
Gina and Liam
Ankeny, IA 50021 - Monday, June 30, 2008 11:35 PM CDT

just wanting you to know how much i miss you!
celeste
new braunfels, tx usa - Monday, June 30, 2008 1:03 AM CDT

hello i read your journal enrty it brought tears to my eyes you will always have that longing to see beautiful emily and wonder what she would be doing i know, its been 9 months since i lost my angel baby to cancer and some how it seems like he just passed i to find my self wondering what he would be doing i miss his beautiful smile and miss his voice his laughter i understand your pain. if you ever need anyone to talk to i am here for you i pray for beautiful emily every night and pray emily and my angel baby are together in heaven.sending lots of hugs your way.
angel babys mom, rebecca perez.
www.caringbridge.org/visit/angelperez
rebecca perez <babygirlx3perez@yahoo.com>
moorhead, mn usa - Thursday, June 26, 2008 8:13 AM CDT

Thinking of all of you! Love Monica Michael Meghan and Mikey
schoeller <M4schoe@aol.com>
naples, FL US - Thursday, June 19, 2008 7:27 PM CDT

**An Invitation to All Prayer Warriors**

The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings
are holding a Prayer Vigil on Thursday,
June 19th, between 8-9 pm EST for
all the children, teens and adults on our
prayer lists and our AngelWingsRemembers
families.

An AWR Thought for June:

“. . .In this, the season of steady rebirth,
we awaken to the power so abundant, so holy,
that returns each year through earth and sky.

We will find our hearts again, and our good spirits.
We will love, and believe, and give and wonder,
and feel again the eternal powers. . . .”

Excerpts from: O Spirit of Life and Renewal
Penned by: Jane Rzepka ©
Source: www.gratefulness.org

Polly and AngelWingsRemembers
- Tuesday, June 17, 2008 4:46 PM CDT

hey there! ive been thinking about you all lately and hope everything is going well. continuing to keep you guys in my prayers!
God Bless,
shelby
shelby <americaneagle517@aol.com>
oviedo, fl - Tuesday, June 17, 2008 1:59 PM CDT

Thinking of you guys and hope you are ok. Love, Aunt Susan
Susan Stevens <Rasta17@bellsouth.net>
Cooper City, FL USA - Monday, June 16, 2008 12:46 AM CDT

Hey!
I hope you all are able to get this before this weekend! I'm excited to see all of you all but I want you to know that if anyone understands, we understand how hard family events are without our angels by our sides. When I last saw you all, your family was whole. Now, I know how it seems as if part of it has been ripped out along with your hearts. These are wounds that never heal, and I know this weekend will be one more event where you will feel empty and as if there is something missing. Emotions in such situations are raw and difficult to handle. Please just know that we understand.
Your family has touched my heart and I hope that I am able to offer at least a sliver of encouragement that this is something that you surprising do, indeed survive.
I had a Chemistry teacher in high school who became a mentor to me before we lost Jessie and then was able to help me even more later because she had also lost a sibling. Recently we were talking at my college gradation party and she said that through my pain I will be able to help so many people. I only hope that I can. It definitely doesn't make things magically all better, but it helps me channel my pain in a positive direction.
This is where I am now - I am always anxious and willing to hear where you all are on this journey of mourning.
love love love
Ashley

Ashley Hazelwood <hazelwood.ashley@gmail.com>
- Sunday, June 15, 2008 9:46 PM CDT

Just want you all to know that we think and pray for you all daily. Thank you so much for the prayers that you send up for Audri. We found out today that she has parainfluenza( type of flu that goes around in the summer). She has gone 14 hours so far fever free and I pray that she continues to be fever free. You are such a sweet loving family and we miss seeing you all. Y'all truly inspired me and my family. I talk about Emily alot and pray for y'all. Just know that if you need anything, please let us know. So glad that God blessed us with y'all. God is truly an amazing God. Mr. Lester- We will be saying an extra prayer for you this weekend and know that we are thinking of you too. We love and miss y'all!!!!

love- Crystal, Andy, and Audri Forrester

www.caringbridge.org/visit/audriforrester
Crystal Forrester <facforrester@gmail.com>
union city, tn usa - Thursday, June 12, 2008 10:45 PM CDT

for as long as i can remember my summers have consisted of spending countless hours out in the neighborhood, most of the time at your house, hanging out with Emily and Catherine. i have so many fond memories of watching movies, playing cranium, cards, and gamecube, making bracelets, and the occasional political conversation lol. i had so much fun. this summer won't be the same without Emily. and for you guys i'm sure the feeing is a million times stronger. your still in my prayers, and i'm still ALWAYS here if your family ever needs or wants ANYTHING, even if its just company to spend a hot summer day with. :)

love always,
Meghan Cottrell
Meghan Cottrell <simplyamazingmeghan@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, June 10, 2008 2:44 PM CDT

We are always thinking of you. Love Monica Michael Meghan and Mikey
schoeller <M4schoe@aol.com>
naples, FL US - Monday, June 9, 2008 6:56 PM CDT

Trish and Steve,

Just wanted to say hello and let you know that I am thinking about you guys. The bandana you left me sits on a desk in my room and is a constant reminder of Emily and your family. Sending you sweet thoughts and prayers from Memphis.

Sara Federico
Memphis, TN - Friday, June 6, 2008 5:43 PM CDT

We're thinking of you.

Charlie, Kim, Kaiden and Jameson
Charlie Byrom <charles.byrom@faulkner.edu>
Pike Road, AL USA - Friday, June 6, 2008 3:03 PM CDT

I recently began work at a christian camp and, needless to say, the days are quite exhausting. I began to think about my reasons for being here and I looked at Emily's quote for more guidance. She, Catherine, and the entire Lester family are the angels living on in my heart, reminding me why I need to make a difference.
Eric Mennel <redsox1302@aol.com>
Largo, FL United States - Thursday, June 5, 2008 9:25 PM CDT

Thinking of you guys.
Love, Aunt Susan
susan stevens <rasta17@bellsouth.net>
cooper city, fl usa - Thursday, June 5, 2008 11:39 AM CDT

it's so hard to believe the reality of the situation. 2 months i can't even describe it, maybe more of a numb feeling thinking that she is still in memphis and i'll see her in knoxvilee in 2 weeks. I miss her so incredilby much. aunt tricia and uncle steve i can not even begin to imagine the ache you feel from losing a child, one that you know will never go away. matt i know that some days are better than others but always remember that emily always loved you and supported you no matter what, you are a great brother not just in her eyes but also kitty's. and catherine i can't even begin to asimulate to what you are going through, just know that we all were able to see how deep of a bond you guys had and have. and i know how proud of you she is. and grace i know that YOU know deep down inside! our famly will not be the same with out her but her passion for life and for change will live on through all of us. i love you guys. AND EMILY I MISS YOU.
CELESTE REED <CEBREAST69@HOTMAIL.COM>
NEW BRAUNFELS, TX USA - Wednesday, June 4, 2008 10:45 PM CDT

Hi,

I don't know if you remember me. I met you and Emily a few times. First at the Pepito photo shoot last year. I was with my daughter Sierra (little girl with Downs who had ALL), of course at the fashion show last year. I also saw you and Emily at the Flashes of Hope last fall before Emily's relaspe. My daughter Sierra had relapsed in March, developed a fungas in her lungs and passed away on May 3rd. During all that time, I read Emily's site and prayed for her healing. Sierra like Emily received her healing in Heaven. My husband, kids and I are dealing the best we can but it is so hard. I am praying for all of you to. One day we will be reunited with our girls.

God bless you,

Mary Lynn Kesler
www.caringbridge.org/visit/sierrakesler
mary lynn kesler <kesler5_289@msn.com>
Valrico, fl United States - Wednesday, June 4, 2008 9:08 PM CDT

Thinking of all of you!!!love, Monica Michael Meg and Mikey
schoeller <m4schoe@aol.com>
naples, fla us - Wednesday, June 4, 2008 3:31 PM CDT

Still here.......still praying.......cant believe it has been 2 months.......must seem so short and yet so long. Hope you are all well.....I am keeping you all in prayer. God Bless......Dena
Dena Olsen <olsen7945@wi.rr.com>
- Wednesday, June 4, 2008 1:42 PM CDT

Thinking about Emily...
Lyndsay
Canada - Monday, June 2, 2008 2:35 PM CDT

Just wanted to stop by and let you guys know that you all remain in our hearts and prayers. We miss seeing you guys!!! So glad that God placed you in our lives. Just know that we think of you daily. May God comfort you and give you peace.

May God Bless You!!-
love- Crystal, Andy, and Audri Anna Forrester
www.caringbridge.org/visit/audriforrester
Crystal Forrester <facforrester@gmail.com>
Union City, TN USA - Sunday, June 1, 2008 11:32 PM CDT

I miss you guys and hope you are trying to heal. Your heart will never be the same. One day life will come back to you, and then you can take it one day at a time. For now I'm sure it is one moment at a time...Just know, I am always thinking of you guys and hope this helps.
Love, Aunt Susan.
Susan Stevens <Rasta17@bellsouth.net>
Cooper City, FL usa - Friday, May 30, 2008 10:58 AM CDT

Just stopping by to let you know you are all on my mind...
alyssa...www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys (my godchildren) <sabiemc@aol.com>
- Thursday, May 29, 2008 1:41 PM CDT

I came across the Chemo Crew Craft & Design card that was with the bracelet that you guys gave to Alyssa back in December, so I decide to come to your website to see how all was going. I am so sorry to hear of Emily's passing. She was an amazing young lady. Our hearts go out to you and we will pray for your family at this difficult time in your lives.

Wendy Babineaux <jeraly@cox.net>
Lafayette, LA United States - Monday, May 26, 2008 7:42 AM CDT

THINKING OF YOU ALL TODAY AND ALWAYS WE LOVE YOU MONICA MICHAEL MEGHAN AND MIKEY
schoeller <m4schoe@aol.com>
naples, fl us - Saturday, May 24, 2008 6:10 PM CDT

Thinking of Emily today and all of you. Just wish I could take the pain away.
Take care,
Shelley
Shelley Coleman <colemans@lls.org>
Tampa, FL - Saturday, May 24, 2008 11:35 AM CDT

Emily was so much a part of my thoughts today that I thought that I would stop in to say I am thinking of your family and all that Emily symbolized to me....The epitome of strength and perseverance...she has given me strength to face each day.
coco <kokomoclu@aol.com>
borkowski, fl USA - Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:56 PM CDT

I am just so sorry that you have to bear such pain and loss. I can't tell you how many times that I have started to post, but just do not have the words... All I can say is that I am sorry and she is missed. God bless you and surround you...
Stacy <sstangle@floridadefense.com>
Palm Harbor, FL USA - Tuesday, May 20, 2008 6:57 PM CDT

Dearest Lester Family,

I just wanted to drop by and tell you that we're still praying for you. I so wish that when I visit this site it would tell me there had been some different outcome. Emily is an inspiration. I say "is" because she surely lives today with Our Father. Not a day goes by that her name does not cross my mind. You were indeed blessed to have such a daughter and sister. May God watch over and comfort you as you continue on without her here among us.

Charlie, Kim, Kaiden and Jameson
Charlie Byrom <charles.byrom@faulkner.edu>
Pike Road, AL USA - Tuesday, May 20, 2008 12:12 AM CDT

Your silence speaks volumes. God Bless all of you.
Diana Wolz <Diana.Wolz@qwest.com>
Highlands Ranch , CO - Monday, May 19, 2008 9:20 AM CDT

An Invitation to all Prayer Warriors:

The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings
are holding a Prayer Vigil on Monday,
May 19th, between 8-9 pm EST for
all the children, teens and adults on our
prayer lists and our Angel Wings Remembers
families.

Polly from AngelWingsRemembers
- Saturday, May 17, 2008 10:40 AM CDT
Polly <polly1511@gmail.com>
- Saturday, May 17, 2008 10:20 PM CDT

"SWEET MEMORIES"

In quiet times I often sit
And find my mind adrift
To another place, another time
And oh! My spirits lift!

I see your happy, smiling face,
And that twinkle in your eye.
I hear you sing your favorite song
And I laugh ... and then I cry.

Inside my heart Sweet Memories
Stay with me each day
I cherish, and I cling to them
For I miss you in every way.

Each thing I see ...
Each thing I do, brings you close to me
For everything upon this earth
Brings Sweet Memories of you.

I imagine our reunion
Some day at heaven's gate
It fills my heart with happiness ...
But for now, I'll have to wait.

Until my life upon this earth
And my work here is complete
Sweet Memories will keep me
Until at last again we meet.

~ Charlotte Anselmo ~

Angel hugs and prayers,

Angel w/Angel_Wings
Angel Venters <angel2948@aol.com>
Greenville, NC USA - Saturday, May 17, 2008 6:55 PM CDT

I am the real Parker Williams and I like this guest book.
Parker Williams <parker_williams@bigstring.com>
Las Vegas, NV USofA - Saturday, May 17, 2008 2:17 PM CDT

Catherine,
Mark, Parker and I love you more than life! We miss Emily every seccond of the day. Especially closer to June 21st. We love you with all our hearts and souls. We miss her too!
Joanne Williams <jwilli7641@aol.com>
Knoxville, TN - Friday, May 16, 2008 11:09 PM CDT

Thinking of your family. Know Emily is watching over all of you right now !

www.caringbridge.org/visit/kellymuldoon

Lynne Muldoon <lajmuldoon@aol.com>
Tampa, FL USA - Wednesday, May 14, 2008 10:16 PM CDT

Thinking of you...Love,Monica
schoeller <m4schoe@aol.com>
naples, FL us - Tuesday, May 13, 2008 5:34 PM CDT

Thinking of you guys...sad for your feeling of emptiness. I miss her too... Love, Aunt Susan
Susan Stevens <rasta17@bellsouth.net>
Cooper City, FL USA - Monday, May 12, 2008 3:01 PM CDT

We don't know each other, but we are part of the St. Jude family. I have four children, and my 16 year old was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma back in Dec. 2005 As painful as it is to read the pain and emptiness you are feeling, I have to let you know, living in the cancer world never goes away, and although I have not lost our Jessica, it still aches, just knowing that evil beast called cancer can return at any time. God bless you and your family. I am so sorry for your loss, and won't pretend to know what you feel, I just pray that you and your family do get that happiness back one day. Your daughter was a beautiful person, and she looked like she would light up your life. Please take care.

Just a friend that cares,
Pam Laborde
Pam <dpjcjjf@yahoo.com>
- Monday, May 12, 2008 9:52 AM CDT

Trisha, hoping that the pain you had today with the loss of Emily was over shadowed by the wonderful memories of having such a special daughter. I know your other very special children rallied around you with much love on this Mothers Day. How wonderful for you to have such great kids.
Necia Maloney WIlbur <nawilbur5@yahoo.com>
Seminole , - Sunday, May 11, 2008 10:40 PM CDT

Thinking of you today, on this difficult day.. Many hugs and prayers for you...
God Bless You!!!!
Bea <bumblebee1955@hotmail.com>
Pa - Sunday, May 11, 2008 7:09 PM CDT

God bless the grieving mother...
In January as the snow flakes fall...
And as a new year dawns...
For her memories will comfort her...
Through winter, spring, summer, and fall.
God bless the grieving mother...
In February during the month of love...
She sends her hugs..on the wings of a dove...
And her kisses are blown to the moon above.
God bless the grieving mother...
In March and on St Patricks Day...
A beautiful rainbow...a symbol of hope...
Which colors her world..in a magical way.
God bless the grieving mother...
On Easter In April as she stops to pray...
Thanking God for the gift of everlasting life...
Knowing she will be reunited someday.
God bless the grieving mother...
On Mothers Day and thru the month of May...
Whose memories are like threads of gold...
For they will never tarnish....or go away.
God bless the Grieving mother...
In June as her tears fall like the rain...
Please comfort her...and give her strength
and peaceful days to help ease the pain.
God bless the grieving mother...
In July as the fireworks light up the sky afar...
Just like her memories light up her heart...
And she wishes upon an evening star.
God bless the grieving mother...
In August...as the sun shines through...
Who's life moves on...thru ups and downs..
Whose heart is so tender and true.
God bless the grieving mother...
In September as the leaves turn and fall...
Her childs life forever etched in her heart..
Her childs name entered on the memorial wall.
God bless the grieving mother...
In October...with the harvest colors all around....
Please guide her on her journey of grief...
and keep her safe and sound.
God bless the grieving mother...
In November...a time to give thanks and pray...
Who is so thankful for each precious memory..
But wishes with all her heart...just for one more day
God bless the grieving mother...
In December as Christmas nears...
Please bless her with the gift of peace...
And many great friends to help dry her tears.
God bless the grieving mother...
Each day throughout the year...
As seasons come and go...
And time unfolds...
Day by day...
Month by month...
Year by year...
and especially today...on this Mother's day.
alyssa...www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys (my godchildren) <sabiemc@aol.com>
- Sunday, May 11, 2008 3:07 PM CDT

Thinking of you today and holding you
extra close in our prayers..
Trish/AngelWingsRemembers <Boyerangeltrish@aol.com>
Kingston, TN USA - Sunday, May 11, 2008 8:40 AM CDT

Your family continues to be in our many thoughts and prayers!
Sincerely,
The Intermill Family
Cathy Intermill <lcscinter@starband.net>
Alliance, NE US - Saturday, May 10, 2008 11:10 PM CDT

Thinking of all of you now...of course prayers are coming your way. There is no hurt more painful than losing the ones you love but you can only have this hurt because you loved Emily so much. How lucky for all of you to have shared your love and life with someone so special.
Necia Maloney Wilbur <nawilbur5@yahoo.com>
Seminole, FL - Saturday, May 10, 2008 10:54 PM CDT

I'm so, so sorry. Just know that I am praying for you all...

Pamela Matthews
www.caringbridge.org/tx/dinahmatthews
Pamela Matthews
Houston, - Saturday, May 10, 2008 10:35 AM CDT

You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Prayer Bears
Irene <mtsofttail@hotmail.com>
Colstrip, MT - Friday, May 9, 2008 7:52 PM CDT

THINKING OF HER EVERYDAY AND MISSING HER.
CELESTE
NEW BRAUNFELS , TX USA - Friday, May 9, 2008 6:47 PM CDT

Trish,
I know this will be a difficult weekend for you and wanted you to know I'm thinking about you.

with love, <Deirdre40@frontiernet.net>
- Friday, May 9, 2008 9:27 AM CDT

I wanted to check in on you all and let you know that we are still praying for each of you. Reading your posting is heart wrenching both in the sorrow expressed, but also in the recollection of the intense love shared. Please know that you each remain ever in our prayers and we lift you up daily. May God comfort you, in the way only He can, as time goes by

Charlie, Kim, Kaiden and Jameson
Charlie Byrom <charles.byrom@faulkner.edu>
Pike Road, AL USA - Thursday, May 8, 2008 3:35 PM CDT

Catherine, that special and wonderful bond that you had with Emily will never be broken. She will always be in your heart. I know she wouldn't want you to be hurting but you really never stop missing someone that you loved so deeply. Take care of yourself, She would be so proud of you.
Nancy Cooper <ketchme222@aol.com>
Annapolis, MD USA - Thursday, May 8, 2008 12:30 AM CDT

Thinking of all of you....especially Emily...

www.caringbridge.org/visit/jacetrahan
Ann and Jace <cajunlaughs@yahoo.com>
Duson, La. USA - Thursday, May 8, 2008 10:26 AM CDT

Catherine, how lucky you and Emily have been to have shared such a love of two sisters. Cherish all those moments and memories.They will always be with you, and you are a more wonderful person because of Emily and she because of you. Keep doing Emily's work and you will keep her with you always. Hope, love, and faith are what I send to you and your family...Emily will never be forgotton.
Necia Maloney Wilbur <nawilbur5@yahoo.com>
Seminole, Fl - Wednesday, May 7, 2008 8:49 PM CDT

Catherine,
I've been thinking about you all a lot lately and Jo told me to read your entry here on caringbridge and I just wanted to let you know that everything you feel is so normal to be feeling - I still sometimes feel like it's been a day or a really long time since Jessie's accident. The toe stub was a really adequate description - I had never thought of it like that before.
I know that there is absolutely nothing anyone can do or say to help you, but I always took comfort in the fact that I had people to support me. Please know I am always hear if you need anything - if you need to talk about Emily memories or just need someone to cry to.
I remember at about this time after Jessie's accident was when I started to get angry. I wrote to her all the time because I had to talk to her - I can't really do that now because it's too painful that I can't talk to her. About a couple months after her accident though was when a lot of stuff in my room started getting broken because I'd throw it. I was so mad that the closest person to me in life was taken from me. I was so pissed off and I didn't understand why God would want me to feel so much pain. I threw tv remotes, chairs, pillows, anything I could get my hands on.
My favorite place on earth was on this cushion thing Jessie had at the end of her bed with all these pillows on it. I loved laying there and laughing as hard as I've ever laughed in life, just listening to her talk. She was the funniest person. I remember wishing more than anything that I could lay on that cushion and have her make me laugh just one more time.
This weekend me, and dad and Jo and Parker and one of Parker's friends and some of mine went to the KY Derby. Now you know, Jessie loved horses more than anything and one of the best parts of the weekend was reminiscing and telling Jessie stories. It's so weird because I want to imagine what she'd be doing now and what she'd do with certain situations but I can't because I really don't know - and that's really hard. I talked to some of Jessie's friends about it and they gave me the really good advice that you can't imagine what they'd do now - you can't dwell on it - you have to just keep remembering all the things they did do.
I've also talked lately to one of my friends who lost her brother and she's been a comfort - sometimes you just need to hear from someone who knows you know? They have the best advice because no one else understands. Anyway, this friend is getting married and her brother passed away about 8 years ago and she's really struggling with him not being at her wedding. I think that it just goes to show that this is a really long battle that we have to fight. I know we'll be 80 and still miss our sisters.
Here for you always,
Ashley
Ashley Hazelwood <ashley.hazelwood@furman.edu>
- Wednesday, May 7, 2008 2:34 PM CDT

Catherine, you have really expressed it so beautifully! Emily was an amazing girl, but you are the most amazing sister anyone could wish for!
Tracy Grant <davendos@iafrica.com>
Durban, Kwazulu Natal South Africa - Wednesday, May 7, 2008 12:42 AM CDT

Catherine, Parker and I felt so down Monday. I kept thinking about that night in the hospital. It played over and over in my head. I miss her beautiful smile and how she would put her hand over her mouth and just have that look.... I know you miss her. I miss her too. Parker misses her. There is an empty feeling. We love you so much with all our heart and soul.
Love, Aunt Jo
Joanne Williams <jwilli7641@aol.com>
Knoxville, TN - Wednesday, May 7, 2008 11:49 AM CDT

I dont know if you remember who i am but i am tony browns mom and i was reading through katia solomons site and i seen about emily. I am so sorry i know what you are going through all to well. i lost tony on feb.25th of this year and it is hard i miss him like crazy too. you just have to talk to her she is there with you. she may make her rounds to family memembers then come home and stay home with you but she is there with you. as tony is here with me and his family too. today would have been his 10th birthday so i am not to cheery today but i know hes here.
i am so sorry that emily got sick again i thought she was doing so good. the last i seen her was at the vinoy in 2006 and she looked pretty good.
hang in there things will get better it just takes alot of time. and remember you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. just talk to emily and she will give you a sign she is there with you some how.
angel brown <abrown1023@tampabay.rr.com>
port richey, fl USA - Wednesday, May 7, 2008 11:43 AM CDT

Dearest Catherine...

Talk to her...talk till you cant think of anything else to say. She can and will hear you! Shes with you..always and forever. Nothing can ever take that away.

Oh..I know its not the same...nor is it the way you wish it was. But she is with you...right next to you. Always.

I know you think its easy for me to say. I am just a strange from cyber space and I have no idea how it feels. Oh trust me sweety...I do know how it feels and I wish I didnt..and I wish you didnt either. To want to touch them once again...just for a second. To wake up and see their smiling face. To want to hear the sound of their voice. Oh what I would give to be able to hear that.."Be Quiet!" just one more time. Id take a knock down drag out fight..if only it meant he was here. Yes Catherine..I understand..really!

Talk to her...she is listening. I truely belive it with all my heart.

My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Brenda Vosejpka <brendav@localnet.com>
Northfield, MN USA - Wednesday, May 7, 2008 10:47 AM CDT

Hi Catherine,
I am very proud of you. Please take care of your self and your family.
Love you
Dipti,Himanshu,Selavi and Shivani Patel
Dipti Patel <Diphim@aol.com>
Tampa, Fl Hillsborough - Wednesday, May 7, 2008 9:58 AM CDT

Catherine,

Keep writing. You have expressed it all so well. One month, and the world continues on, as if nothing at all has changed, yet everything has. Two months, three months, a year. Time will continue on. But all who knew Emily will never leave her behind.

Continue to cherish all those memories and keep them fresh. It may be painful now, but later you will appreciate and enjoy them.

Catherine, I know you were so proud of Emily, so glad to be her sister. Remember, she felt likewise towards you. And she is proud of you and is still glad to be your sister. She is still with you, just in a different way.

Some people say it gets easier. I never felt that was the right word. It implies that we who are left behind have it harder than the one who is gone. I don't think it gets "easier." It just changes as time goes on.

So, keep writing, keep expressing yourself. In the days ahead, you'll find more comfort in your own words, filled with your own memories, than anything else.

We all love you, and know if you are low on strength, there are all of us out here who can help you during those times.

Keep writing, and keep taking care of yourself.

Angel <zangel@verizon.net>
- Tuesday, May 6, 2008 5:14 PM CDT

I miss her laugh and those "Emily" quirky comments.
and texting her.
I love you catherine=)
Victoria <soccerchic101@bellsouth.net>
Hollywood, FL USA - Tuesday, May 6, 2008 2:38 PM CDT

Catherine,
I am thinking about you every day. Emily was so lucky to have you as a sister and friend. You have handled Emily's passing with such grace and dignity. You have my complete admiration. Don't forget I'm here for you.

Shelby Begany <sbegany@gmail.com>
St. Petersburg, FL - Tuesday, May 6, 2008 1:42 PM CDT

Catherine - I can't imagine the loss you're obviously feeling so many times each day. What can I do but pray for your comfort and continued strength?... wish I could do more.
Lyndsay <lettersforlyndsay@hotmail.com>
Canada - Tuesday, May 6, 2008 11:46 AM CDT

Bless you. You are in my prayers.
Karen
Mckinney,TX, - Tuesday, May 6, 2008 10:39 AM CDT

You all are never far from my thoughts and prayers. My heart aches for you Catherine, although I know it is no consolation. Your loss is so indescribable, but know there are still thousands praying for you and your family and Emily will NEVER be forgotten.
Lindsey Reeves <lreeves3@utk.edu>
Chattanooga, TN - Tuesday, May 6, 2008 9:35 AM CDT

Sweet baby girl and sister, there are no words, I pray for peace for you and your family. I can't imagine the pain.

with love, <deirdre40@frontiernet.net>
- Tuesday, May 6, 2008 7:05 AM CDT

I cannot imagine the pain that you must feel and endure. I think of your family daily and pray for you all.
Debby Roberts <djfrro@aol.com>
Oh - Tuesday, May 6, 2008 6:34 AM CDT

Take each day as they come. I know some days will be difficult. Let the tears flow because they can be healing. Praying that you are blessed with angels on earth, someone who is there to hold and comfort you when you need it. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
Prayer Bears
Irene <mtsofttail@hotmail.com>
Colstrip, MT - Monday, May 5, 2008 11:32 PM CDT

My Heart Aches For All Of You,I have thought of Emily all day today.I wish your family did not have to go through all this pain.We love you Monica Michael Mikey and Meghan
schoeller <m4schoe@aol.com>
naples, fl us - Monday, May 5, 2008 7:28 PM CDT

Catherine,
I am truly sorry for your loss. It must be very hard to be in every environment that you and Emily shared. I can't even imagine what you are going through right now. I hope you are surrounded by supportive friends, and of course, I know you are surrounded by supportive family.
Jessica <NYJess01@aol.com>
E. Northport, NY - Monday, May 5, 2008 7:02 PM CDT

Thinking of you.
Krista
Pocono Mtns., PA - Monday, May 5, 2008 6:43 PM CDT

Still praying for you Catherine and your entire family. I have a picture of Emily on my desktop at work. The one where she is throwing the snow in the air. She looks so happy and alive and everytime I look at it I pray for you and your family.

We may not know where our grief will take us, but we know the our loving Father in heaven will be there with us.

Praying for continued comfort
Gwen Cruzan
Gwen Cruzan <thecruzans@satx.rr.com>
San Antonio, TX USA - Monday, May 5, 2008 6:33 PM CDT

Thinking of you all.....
alyssa...www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys (my godchildren) <sabiemc@aol.com>
- Monday, May 5, 2008 6:08 PM CDT

I can't believe it has been a month already, too. I think of you often and pray for peace and joy in the midst of the sorrow.

Juli Dalene
Waterford, CT - Monday, May 5, 2008 5:08 PM CDT

http://seroquel.weebly.com seroquel information
effects of seroquel <effects of seroquel>
Kiev, Kiev Ukraine - Monday, May 5, 2008 7:23 AM CDT

Had to let all of you know that you still are in my thoughts and prayers...wondering how all of you are doing. May the Lord be surrounding you with His precious peace and giving you what you need for the moment...I found this road seeming at a dead end more than once. I pray like I found at those moments the prayers of others lifted me beyond that moment to the next...and the next...and carried me along.
Prayers & Angel Hugs...
Char
www.ProjectAngelHugs.com
Ministering to our youth touched by cancer & their families..
Char <angelhugz2u@verizon.net>
- Sunday, May 4, 2008 4:37 PM CDT

thinking about you all. still praying!
shelby <americaneagle517@aol.com>
oviedo, fl - Sunday, May 4, 2008 12:10 AM CDT

Thinking of You All The Time We Love you Monica Michael Meghan and Mikey
schoeller <m4schoe@aol.com>
Naples , fla us - Thursday, May 1, 2008 8:44 AM CDT

Holding you all in my heart...
alyssa...www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys (my godchildren) <sabiemc@aol.com>
- Wednesday, April 30, 2008 9:15 PM CDT

Dear Trish and Steve,
I would like to thank you for letting us get to know you and your family while my daughter fought along side yours.Please know that we will forever hold Emily close to our hearts and continue to pray for her.And many thanks to you Trish for giving me such insight and courage when I needed it most, you are trully an inspiration to all of us and a wonderful mother. God Bless you all terri poole
theresa poole <t.poole@knology.net>
st.petersburg, fla usa - Wednesday, April 30, 2008 10:54 AM CDT

Your family is still in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you!
BJ Porche <bjporche1@hotmail.com>
Magnolia, TX USA - Tuesday, April 29, 2008 4:49 PM CDT

My computer has been down and I just got back on to check on Caringbridge families. I am so very sorry to read about Emily's death. I have been following her journey for the past 2 years and keeping her in my prayers. I was always so impressed by her strength and beauty. Your family taught the readers about strength, faith and hope. Thank you for sharing your daughter's story. She will never be forgotten. I will continue to do all I can to support other families like yours and to help drs. find a cure. I always have been a supporter of St. Judes. May the love of God, family and friends support you during this difficult time.
Prayer Bears
Irene <mtsofttail@hotmail.com>
Colstrip, MT - Monday, April 28, 2008 10:08 PM CDT

Still praying.

Charlie, Kim, Kaiden and Jameson
Charlie Byrom <charles.byrom@faulkner.edu>
Pike Road, AL USA - Monday, April 28, 2008 8:39 AM CDT

IT'S HARD TO BELEIVE THAT IT HAS ONLY BEEN A COUPLE OF WEEKS SINCE SHE'S BEEN GONE, BUT I JUST WANTED HER TO KOW HOW MUCH SHE HAS GIVEN ME A NEW PERSPECTIVE WHEN TAKING CARE OF MY PATIENTS. AND HOW MUCH I LOVE HER AND MISS HER. I THINK OF HER EVERY DAY, AND EZPECIALLY WHEN I LOOK DOWN AT MY HOPE PIN ON MY WORK BADGE. I LOVED HER AND WILL MISS HER, AND WILL ALWAYS KEEP HER GOAL FOR A CURE A LIVE.

CELESTE
NEW BRAUNFELS , TX USA - Sunday, April 27, 2008 4:55 PM CDT

I just read the beautiful eulogies
and newspaper article about Emily.
As tears flow, I am praying for your
family and Emily's friends.
prayers and love from mrs pam
st Louis, mO - Saturday, April 26, 2008 10:19 AM CDT

What a beautiful tribute to Emily!

Pamela Matthews
Pamela Matthews
Houston, TX - Saturday, April 26, 2008 9:11 AM CDT

I just wanted to drop by and tell you that we are still praying for you. May God continue to watch over and comfort each of you.

Charlie, Kim, Kaiden and Jameson
Charlie Byrom <charles.byrom@faulkner.edu>
Pike Road, AL USA - Friday, April 25, 2008 12:54 AM CDT

Just want you to know that we are continuing to pray for you all. Emily would have been so proud of you all last weekend. She really touched our hearts even though we never got to meet her personally other than passing in and out of the isolation rooms when we where across from y'all. Trish, you and Steve touched our hearts as well. Praying for your family!!

love- Crystal, Andy, and Audri Forrester

www.caringbridge.org/visit/audriforrester
crystal forrester <facforrester@gmail.com>
union city, tn usa - Thursday, April 24, 2008 9:41 PM CDT

hello lester family you continue to be in my prayers so dose your beautiful angel emily.sending you lots of hugs and prayers.
quilts of love angel" angel rebecca"
www.caringbridge.org/visit/angelperez
www.quiltsoflove.com
rebecca perez <babygirlx3perez@yahoo.com>
moorhead, mn usa - Wednesday, April 23, 2008 10:30 PM CDT

Dear LEster family,
I will keep you all in my prayers. Emily was a beautiful girl who had to grow up way to fast but opened her heart even faster. You have so much to be proud of, not only in Emily but the other kids too. They have all made the biggest sacrifices of their lives. May god shine upon your family with many blessings!
Laura <toothcleaner1@aol.com>
Pinellas PArk, - Wednesday, April 23, 2008 7:09 PM CDT

Dearest Lester Family,

I just wanted you to know that we are still praying for each of you. I am glad to read of the Chemo Crew success. I know Emily would be proud. May God, our Father, continue to lift you up and watch over you.

Charlie, Kim, Kaiden and Jameson
Charlie Byrom <charles.byrom@faulkner.edu>
Pike Road, AL USA - Wednesday, April 23, 2008 9:45 AM CDT

Just read that amazing article. Imagine---an article in Iowa about Seminole's Emily. I find it truly amazing and inspiring.

Thinking about you all every day.
Teri <mtulm@tampabay.rr.com>
- Wednesday, April 23, 2008 6:43 AM CDT

First of all, congratulations to the Chemo Crew! That is amazing, and Catherine, you know how proud Emily must be! Secondly, how few of us could express the impact Emily and all the children that we have known, or followed through their sites, that have fought this battle, have had on us than the article Kathy wrote. Thank you from all of us who have the tears, but not the words...
Stacy <sstangle@floridadefense.com>
Palm Harbor, FL USA - Tuesday, April 22, 2008 5:09 PM CDT

To Emily's family and friends
We are thinking of you often and we continue to pray for you during this difficult time. Emily will never be forgotten, she will live on in her words and deeds, but most importantly in the lasting footprint she left on all of our hearts.
Nancy Cooper - Team in Training <ketchme222@aol.com>
Annapolis, MD USA - Tuesday, April 22, 2008 2:25 PM CDT

We remember the first day that we visited Emily in the hospital, she and Haley were in 6th grade. Through Ridgecrest friends, we knew that Emily was well and attending IB. Haley went to CAT. Haley recalled that she and Juliet Johnson bought a pillow to Emily to decorate her room. Haley was called the weekend that Emily "went in God" as my son calls it. Haley and I sat in silence and grief. We want to help the Chemo Crew to raise money so that Emily's work will go on. What can we do? Please call me at 251-6049. (Karen McHugh) and 251-6565 (Haley McHugh)
Karen and Haley McHugh <TheMcHugh5@aol.com>
St. Pete, FL - Tuesday, April 22, 2008 9:20 AM CDT

WE ALWAYS GOING TO BE WITH YOU.
MRS. AND DOCTOR LABRADOR <KTLABRADOR@HOTMAIL.COM>
SAINT PETERSBURG, FL USA - Tuesday, April 22, 2008 8:05 AM CDT

I still pray for you all daily.
Thank you for sharing that wonderful article with those of us not fortunate enough to read it in our local newspaper. It was a blessing.
Sandi Queen (Jeremiah's Mommy) caringbridge.org/pa/jeremiah <queens07@windstream.net>
- Monday, April 21, 2008 10:29 PM CDT

Wow, Emily's team sure did raise a lot of money! That is just so awesome and I am sure she is beaming down with such pride from heaven. Praying for you all each and everyday.... And as always...keeping Emily in my heart....
alyssa...www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys (my godchildren) <sabiemc@aol.com>
- Monday, April 21, 2008 9:49 PM CDT

Emily you touched more people then you ever knew. You will never be forgotten we will all make sure of that. You touched each of us differently and yet the same. Your family misses you your friends miss you and we each of us must make sure that YOUR work continue.

Finding a cure for cancer is a must

Danny Thomas is so proud

I love you and miss you

Love

Karen
Karen Viteritti <kviteritti@yahoo.com>
Florham Park , NJ USA - Monday, April 21, 2008 6:20 PM CDT

Youu Emily will not be forgotten. She was an amazing person, and now she is an amazing angel. I cannot imagine your pain as you miss her so badly, I can only pray that you can imagine how at peace and full of joy that she must be now. It is always those left behind that suffer so; so I pray for your peace also.
Stacy <sstangle@floridadefense.com>
Palm Harbor, FL USA - Sunday, April 20, 2008 12:19 AM CDT

Good evening,

I am stopping by to let you know I'm holding you close in my heart and thoughts tonight during our Angel_Wings Prayer Warriors prayer vigil. May you know you are surrounded by so many who love you and care about you.

Emily's legacy lives on forever in the hearts and minds of all those she came in contact with either in person or through this website. We love you Emily!

Jeremiah 29:11

Polly from AngelWingsRemembers
- Saturday, April 19, 2008 10:08 PM CDT

Just wanted you to know that we are still praying for you as I know it gets harder as the days go by without Emily. Just keep her in your hearts, as we have, and she will always be with us.
Necia Maloney Wilbur <nawilbur5@yahoo.com>
Seminole , Fl - Saturday, April 19, 2008 1:11 AM CDT

An Invitation to all Prayer Warriors:

The Prayer Warriors at Angel_Wings
are holding a Prayer Vigil this Saturday,
April 19th, between 8-9 pm EST for Emily
and all the children, teens and adults on our
prayer lists and our Angel Wings Remembers
families.

Please join us in prayer this Saturday night.

Angel_Wings

The Spirit of April
By: Mary E Linton ©

I am the Spirit of April.
Did you not hear me come?
Violets nod in the meadow;
See, I have brought you some.
I opened your gate so gently,
Fearing to make you start;
I bring you a note of gladness
Out of the song in my heart.

Polly from Angel WIngs Remembers
- Friday, April 18, 2008 9:30 PM CDT

We are thinking of you always.Good Luck tonight on Relay for Life! Love, Monica Michael Mikey and Meghan
schoeller <m4schoe@aol.com>
Naples , fl us - Friday, April 18, 2008 7:03 PM CDT

PLEASE COME OUT AND JOIN FAMILY AND FRIENDS TONIGHT AT OSCEOLA HIGH SCHOOL STARTING AT 6:00PM FOR OUR "RELAY FOR LIFE" EVENT. WALK A LAP OR TWO AND JOIN THE "CHEMO CREW" AS WE HONOR EMILY TONIGHT. THE "CHEMO CREW" WILL BE SET UP NEAR THE 50 YARD LINE OPPOSITE THE STAGE. THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO HAS SUPPORTED EMILY'S TEAM THIS YEAR.

Jeffrey Evans <jeffreykevans@aol.com>
Largo, Florida - Friday, April 18, 2008 12:19 AM CDT

God Bless you all, including the hospital staff.
Another beautiful special angel is in Heaven !
Rose <roselane.gomes@ibama.gov.br>
- Friday, April 18, 2008 9:45 AM CDT

Trish and Steve-
We are here back at St. Jude and it just doesn't feel right not having you all here. We miss y'all and love y'all. You are in our thoughts daily. While here at St. Jude, I have Emily's caringbridge as a link on Audri's page and I went to it and read both of the beautiful eulogies for her. She was so blessed to have such wonderful loving parents as you two and family. I went to the Relay for Life site and donated In Memory of Emily and In Honor of Audri. We were across from y'all in the isolation rooms when Miss Emily first came in in January. Audri was just diagnosed 1-16-08. We talked often in the nutrition room and kept up with each others children. We are praying for y'all as you head into tomorrow for the Relay for Life and we lift you up in prayer daily. Just remember that Emily will be there with you and will be proud of y'all. She has a special place in my heart even though we did not know her in person very long but she and you as a family have touched our lives forever. We love y'all and if you need anything- just let us know.

Praying for you- Crystal, Andy, and Audri Forrester
www.caringbridge.org/visit/audriforrester
Crystal Forrester <facforrester@gmail.com>
Union City, TN USA - Thursday, April 17, 2008 11:31 PM CDT

Both eulogies were absolutely beautiful - what a wonderful tribute to Emily. Your family is in my prayers every day, I can't begin to imagine how much you all must be missing her.

You will all be in my thoughts tomorrow during Relay; I've donated a luminary to my local Relay next month in Emily's memory.
Lauren <dramauknow@yahoo.com>
Mooresville, NC USA - Thursday, April 17, 2008 6:35 PM CDT

We are praying for you.

Charlie, Kim, Kaiden and Jameson
Charlie Byrom
Pike Road, AL USA - Thursday, April 17, 2008 2:10 PM CDT

I forgot to add the link to Chuck's site:

www.active.com/donate/tntnca04/tntncaCPorter

Lisa Jenkinson <lisajenkinson@yahoo.com>
Lorton, VA USA - Thursday, April 17, 2008 6:42 AM CDT

Dear Lester Family,

I have followed Emily's story for several years and am deeply saddened by her passing. As a long term leukemia survivor myself I feel called to reach out to others touched by leukemia and have done so through hundreds of caringbridge sites. Emily especially touched my heart because, like my situation, she was struggling through her high school years. I corresponded with Emily several times in the past several years to offer encouragement, hope, and support. I was so excited when she won the Discover Scholarship because I am actually an employee of Discover. I have shared her story with so many and wanted to share the link of a dear friend/neighbor who is participating in the Century Ride in California this summer for LLS who mentions Emily in his update. I have encouraged so many friends to donate on behalf of Emily and as you can see in Chuck's writing, Emily continues to inspire others for the cause. I will continue to pray for your family as you grieve the loss of Emily.

Lisa Jenkinson <lisajenkinson@yahoo.com>
Lorton, VA USA - Thursday, April 17, 2008 6:36 AM CDT

I stopped by the Relay page and saw that you reached your goal of $15,000!! I am so glad you all were able to honor Emily by raising so much!! Congratulations! I will be thinking of you all on Friday. You're in my prayers...
Love, Erin Doyle <boltsfan19@gmail.com>
Gainesville, FL - Wednesday, April 16, 2008 3:57 PM CDT

Good morning and hope this message finds your family healing in God's love and hope. I just spoke with your Uncle Jim with whom I have had the pleasure of working with for the past few years. He's amazing and I know now after reading the eulogy that he comes from a wonderful, loving family. I expressed to Jim the fact that you will never know how many people Emily touched and how many people are still praying for your family. We will continue to pray and to hope and we know that Emily's legacy of hope will continue for those who still struggle with their disease. As I related before, my husband, Karl and I are Partners in Hope with St. Jude and have been for a few years, but until Emily, I never really understood the importance of that gift. Karl & I will also be walking this Friday night, April 18th at our Relay for Life in Temple Terrace and we will be lighting a Luminaria for Emily. May God comfort you with peace, strength and courage and may He continue to give you Hope as you move forward in faith. Thank you Jim and Lester Family for sharing Emily with all of us. God Bless you all. Linda Unfried P.S. Catherine, what a gift you are to Emily. I know the love of a sister never ends. My sister, Josie, was killed by an impaired driver 24 years ago. Not a day goes by that I don't think of her. My healing comes from helping other families faced with the same tragedy we had to live through. I know that you will continue Emily's work and all her endeavors to help find a cure for this horrible disease and I will continue to pray for your strength in doing so. Always know that Emily will be with you in spirit in all that you do. God bless you.
Linda Unfried <klunfried@verizon.net>
Temple Terrace, FL USA - Wednesday, April 16, 2008 11:09 AM CDT

I gave money to the relay through another young lady, Molly Edwards. I thought about doing it in honor of Emily but didn't and now I wish I had. I have also been on the bone marrow registry for a few years now. Wish I could do more. I pray for peace.
with love, <Deirdre40@frontiernet.net>
- Wednesday, April 16, 2008 7:48 AM CDT

trisha, steve, matt, catherine and gracie, i was so proud to be a part of EMILY'S ceremony....i love you guys and will always love EMILY, she was a role model for all of us!!!! thank you...love, aunt susan
susan stevens <rasta17@bellsouth.net>
cooper city, fl USA - Tuesday, April 15, 2008 9:29 PM CDT

Praying for you all.... I just donated to the Relay in memory of my godson Tommy and your beautiful daughter Emily..... I know that the walk will have many mixed emotions for you all. I just know that Emily will be right beside you walking in spirit....You are all in my heart
alyssa...www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys (my godchildren) <sabiemc@aol.com>
- Tuesday, April 15, 2008 11:31 AM CDT

Dearest Lester Family,

I just wanted to drop by and let you know we're still praying for you.

Charlie, Kim, Kaiden and Jameson
Charlie Byrom <charles.byrom@faulkner.edu>
Pike Road, AL USA - Tuesday, April 15, 2008 8:56 AM CDT

The "Chemo Crew" was hard at work Sunday at the Bardmoor Publix, raising $1006.00. Thank you for all of your hard work. We have less than 4 days to our "Relay for Life" event. Let's keep up the great work. "Relay for Life" is at Osceola High School April 18th starting around 6:00pm. Come join us. Go "CHEMO CREW"
Jeff Evans <jeffreykevans@aol.com>
Largo, fla usa - Tuesday, April 15, 2008 3:55 AM CDT

To the Lester Family,
I was unable to attend the celebration of Emily's life on Saturday so I was very overwhelmed,but thankful to read the posting of Jim and Catherine's eulogies for Emily. I know that she is so proud of both of you. You did an exceptional job -no grammatical errors I could find as her fifth grade language arts teacher. But, who cares as each of you shared your love and admiration of a truly beautiful young lady. Catherine, I know that I said Friday night that you had big shoes to fill, but if anybody can do it, you can. You will have Emily to guide,encourage,support, and LOVE you as you continue her fight to conquer this horrible disease. As I go about my daily routine, I continuously think of her and how she fought to survive. She gives me strength and courage to overcome whatever life deals me.

yvonne smith <yvsrds@aol.com>
seminole, fl - Monday, April 14, 2008 10:33 PM CDT

My heart is breaking for you but not for Emily- for she is free- free of the pain, free to run and to finally be a kid, free to be that whisper in the wind, that soft butterfly on your knee, that un-expected song on the radio-rest in peace sweet Em
The Illinois Lester's (Mike, Sherri & Morgan Elisabeth) <a_bear4u@yahoo.com>
IL USA - Monday, April 14, 2008 9:07 PM CDT

Beautiful,Beautiful I Just read the eulogies. They were so full of love and compassion. Emily will be missed. I will continue to pray for all of you.
sherry cox <sherrycox1425@comcast.net>
knoxville, tn - Monday, April 14, 2008 8:23 PM CDT

I have read, reread, and reread this book. I absolutely love to read, witness, and pour over the love you feel here for Emily. Jim-thank you for putting yours and Catherine's words here for all to read. It was so inspiring to hear you both speak at the Celebration of Emily's life. Thank you for sharing so openly all of your deepest feelings. God Bless all of you and may he keep Emily close.
Teri <mtulm@tampabay.rr.com>
- Monday, April 14, 2008 8:04 PM CDT

Amazing.... that's all I can think of to say... amazing.

with love and condolences... <deirdre40@frontiernet.net>
- Monday, April 14, 2008 6:02 PM CDT

A life well lived is the true testament of a great person. It is evident in both Eulogies what an incredible person Emily was and all that knew her walked away all the better for knowing her. I know that no words can ease the loss but your Emily truly left her mark on the earth in her short time here. I promise to call my sister tonight (Ovarian Cancer Survivor) and tell her how proud I am and how much I love her in honor of Emily and Catherine.
Lisa <lisahlisah973@yahoo.com>
- Monday, April 14, 2008 4:26 PM CDT

We are deeply sorry and saddened to hear about your loss of Emily. She was such an incredibly intelligent, strong young lady who has touched many lives. You now have a special guardian angel watching over you. May her strength live forever. God bless your family.
The Weaver family
Largo, FL USA - Monday, April 14, 2008 4:25 PM CDT

I saw this and thought of Emily:
God saw you getting tired, And a cure was not to be. So he put his arms around you, And whispered “Come to me”. With tearful eyes we watched you, And saw you pass away. Although we loved you dearly, We could not make you stay. A golden heart stopped beating, Hard working hands to rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best.
Katie Korth
- Monday, April 14, 2008 4:05 PM CDT

If there were no test there would not be a testimony. Your family is giving a wonderful testimony to all of us. You do not know me, but your Emily and the words of your family have touched my heart. I will pray for all of you.
Donna Burkdoll
IN - Monday, April 14, 2008 10:51 AM CDT

To Uncle Jim and the entire Lester Family,

Uncle Jim, in the final weeks of Emily's life your wrote that you hoped she would be pleased with your words, grammar, etc. I can only say not only would she be pleased,
but how proud she would be of the most beautiful, eloquent eulogy I have ever heard or read. Well done doesn't even begin to describe your hearfelt words for your beloved niece.

Catherine, yours too, was most touching and deeply moving.

May God bless all of you who are mourning the loss of Emily.

Please accept my deepest sympathy.

Sincerely,
Mary
Mary Sweaney <mes@chapman-sander.com>
Manchester, MO - Monday, April 14, 2008 10:38 AM CDT

Your words for emily are simple beautiful. May GOD be with you all.
Lisa Fuller <simple@grm.net>
Trenton, MO usa - Monday, April 14, 2008 9:51 AM CDT

Dear Trish, Steve and kids,
You have been in our prayers for so long. Logan and I will never forget the inspiration your family and Emily was to us while we were dealing with Logan's leukemia at All Children's. My heart aches for you and know you will be lifted up in prayer by us and countless others.
Tracy & Logan
Tracy/Logan Hatfield <tnthatfield@juno.com>
Seminole, FL Pinellas - Sunday, April 13, 2008 10:55 PM CDT

hello i just want to start off by saying that was a very beautiful eulogy i was crying the whole time i was reading it.i to know the pain of losing a child to cancer.are children will forever be in are hearts along with all the wonderful memories they gave to us.keeping you all in my prayers.
quilts of love angel"angel rebecca"
www.quiltsoflove.com
www.caringbridge.org/visit/angelperez
rebecca perez <babygirlx3perez@yahoo.com>
moorhead, mn usa - Sunday, April 13, 2008 10:32 PM CDT

While I am now weeping, I am also filled with such a feeling of pride. Proud that we were able to actually KNOW Emily! Proud that my son was able to witness how strong she was and how dedicated she was, and to think that was normal. Hopefully he will grow to follow in her footsteps as a passionate leader for improving lives. We miss her dearly, and feel a true loss in our hearts. But I will hold on to that blessing that we received by having gotten to know Emily and her family. And Trish, I really do want to come down and see you guys some time... but you have to give me some time, as you know, traveling with 4 kids isn't an easy task!
Gina and Liam www.caringbridge.org/visit/liamreinier <ginabarrett@yahoo.com>
Ankeny, - Sunday, April 13, 2008 9:59 PM CDT

That was a beautiful eulogy. It shows how much Emily is loved. May she rest in peace. I am so sorry for her loss. Emily was beautiful, smart and her courage was amazing. I actually have an Emily myself, and her middle name is Catherine. God bless all of you.
Chris <emmesmom428@verizon.net>
NY - Sunday, April 13, 2008 8:38 PM CDT

Thank you Uncle Jim for sharing....absolutely beautiful just as Emily was. Thank you to the Lester family for allowing us to "know" Emily. She was a true inspiration. More than you will ever know. Always HOPE!
Terry Snyder <r.snyder20@verizon.net>
Lakeland, FL - Sunday, April 13, 2008 8:17 PM CDT

Thank you Uncle Jim Thank you the Lester Family and Rest in Peace Emily Elizabeth

Hope
Karen Viteritti <kviteritti@yahoo.com>
Florham Park , NJ 07932 - Sunday, April 13, 2008 6:55 PM CDT

Beautiful.....thank you so much for sharing. Praying for all of you each and everyday....
alyssa...godmother to Ciara, Hunter and ^Tommy^ <sabiemc@aol.com>
- Sunday, April 13, 2008 6:29 PM CDT

What a beautiful eulogy! Praying for your family.
BJ Porche <bjporche1@hotmail.com>
Magnolia, TX USA - Sunday, April 13, 2008 6:28 PM CDT

You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Karen
Mckinney,TX, - Sunday, April 13, 2008 4:02 PM CDT

The "Chemo Crew" will be at the Bardmoor Publx today, Sun. April 13th corner of Starkey Road and Bryan Dairy,in Largo/Seminole continuing Emily's fight. Stop by and see us.
The "Relay for Life" event is this Fri. starting at 6:00p.m. at Osceola High School in Seminole/Largo area. Please join the "Chemo Crew" as we honor our Emily(Capt.).
Jeff Evans <jeffreykevans@aol.com>
Largo, fla usa - Sunday, April 13, 2008 6:29 AM CDT

http://geo.ya.com/kotimare/ preved
scuko <scuko>
Kiev, Kiev Ukraine - Sunday, April 13, 2008 3:56 AM CDT

What a beautiful service last night and today to celebrate Emily's life. It was obvious how loved Emily and her family are. Trisha and steve, how proud you must be of everything Emily has accomplished in so few years. It just amazes me to see how many people Emily touched including myself. I also want to tell you what an inspiration Catherine is. She also has so many fine qualities that show the love of a sister and daughter. Emily was blessed by a special family including all the extended family. Continue to hold one another close as you did while going through this tough time and you all will become stronger in the fight that Emily began. God bless all of you and know that we will always remember Emily with Faith, HOPE, and Love. Take care..
Necia Maloney Wilbur <nawilbur5@yahoo.com>
Seminole, Florida - Saturday, April 12, 2008 9:41 PM CDT

On my mind.... prying for peace.
with love <deirdre40@frontiernet.net>
- Saturday, April 12, 2008 9:17 PM CDT

You have remained in my thoughts today as you celebrated Emily's life. What an awesome young lady she was. She will not be forgotten, her legacy lives on. Praying for peace as you begin the next phase of this journey.
Beth L <beanieb@neo.rr.com>
Mansfield, OH USA - Saturday, April 12, 2008 8:10 PM CDT

Keeping your family in my heart today...and forever.
alyssa...www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys (my godchildren) <sabiemc@aol.com>
- Saturday, April 12, 2008 5:31 PM CDT

May God watch over and comfort you. You will remain in our prayers.

Charlie, Kim, Kaiden and Jameson
Charlie Byrom <charles.byrom@faulkner.edu>
Pike Road, AL USA - Saturday, April 12, 2008 2:49 PM CDT

Rest in peace sweet girl. Still praying for the Lester family. I know today will be a beautiful celebration of Emily's incredibly inspiring life.
Lindsey Reeves <lreeves55@comcast.net>
Chattanooga, TN - Saturday, April 12, 2008 9:02 AM CDT

I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers go up for your family for strength and peace.

God Bless,
Christy A./Angel_Wings
- Saturday, April 12, 2008 2:44 AM CDT

Praying for strength and comfort for your family.
Lisa
Lynnwood, WA - Friday, April 11, 2008 8:45 PM CDT

I am so very deeply sorry for your loss. There is nothing more difficult than losing a loved one. We were all better for having known Emily. Her courageous battle is truly an inspiration to me and to others.

This quote is on a memorial plaque for my grandfather and I really like it, so I thought I would share it:

If tears could build a stairway,
And memories a lane,
I'd walk right up to Heaven
And bring you home again.
~Author Unknown

She will be greatly missed.

Devon Holder
Seminole, FL US - Friday, April 11, 2008 8:45 PM CDT

Love and strength to you and your family.
K...Mom to 4 yr old girl battling ALL.
- Friday, April 11, 2008 8:43 PM CDT

Dear Lester Family:
Just wanted to let you all know that we are thinking and praying for you all during this weekend as you celebrate Emily's life. May God give you peace and comfort during this difficult time. We love and miss you all.
Love- Crystal, Andy, and Audri Forrester
www.caringbridge.org/visit/audriforrester

crystal forrester <facforrester@gmail.com>
union city, tn usa - Friday, April 11, 2008 8:24 PM CDT

Hi Trish, Steve, Catherine, Grace and Matt
Just wanted you all to know that I'm thinking of you. Wishing I could be there this weekend. Just know that I'm there in spirit.
Lisa Welker <lisawelker@yahoo.com>
Milpitas, CA 95035 - Friday, April 11, 2008 6:56 PM CDT

My DEEPEST SYMPATHY GOES OUT TO THE WONDERFULL ( LESTER FAMILY ) MY PRAYERS ARE YOU EMILY WAS VERY WELL LOVED AND WILL BE FOR EVER . THE IS A VERY SAD NIGHT AND TOMARROW FOR ALL WHO KNOWED EMILY WE HAVE SHED MANY TEARS AND OUR HEART ARE VERY SADEN OVER EMILY IF THERE ANY THING I CAN SAY OR DO PLEASE LET ME KNOW .EMILY BRIGHT LIGHT WILL SHINE IN OUR HEARTS FOR EVER OUR PRAYS AND HEART ARE WITH YOU ALL .PLEASE GOD HOLD THE LESTER FAMILY UNDER YOUR BEAUTIFUL WINGS DOING THIS SAD TIME AND WATCH OVER THEM , GOD BLESS YOU . STEVE , TRISH , CATHERINE, GRACE AND MATT GOD BLESS YOU ALL ( LOVE YOU GUYS )
GEORGE PATRICK <Georgeleep2001@yahho.com >
GROVE CITY , OHIO USA - Friday, April 11, 2008 5:53 PM CDT

Lester family...I want you to know I will be praying for you all tomorrow during Emily's service. I am sure it will be a beautiful service for a beautiful young lady. God bless you!!
BJ Porche <bjporche1@Hotmail.com>
Magnolia, TX USA - Friday, April 11, 2008 5:15 PM CDT

Dear Emily...All that time you were sitting in my class you thought I was the teacher and you the student...but the truth be told...in all the MOST important things in life...Love....Hope...Faith....and True Courage....it was surely you that was the teacher and I the student...thank you with all my heart. To have shared your life was truly an honor.
Dear Lester Family....Please know that Emily was special to me and my class. You are in my prayers.
Mary Kindinger <kindingerm@pcsb.org>
St. Petersburg, FL - Friday, April 11, 2008 3:30 PM CDT

just want your family to know ; we are saying a prayer for you and our thoughts are with you each moment ... SORRY again for your sorrow ... GOD BE WITH YOU ALL .... HUGS ...THE SMITH FAMILY ....
MEL
- Friday, April 11, 2008 2:53 PM CDT

praying for you all this weekend. may God bless you all!
shelby <americaneagle517@aol.com>
oviedo, fl - Friday, April 11, 2008 2:44 PM CDT

I am thinking of you all today on what I am sure is just such a hard day. I wish I could be there for you, but know that I am there for you in spirit.
Gina and Liam www.caringbridge.org/visit/liamreinier <ginabarrett@yahoo.com>
Ankeny, IA - Friday, April 11, 2008 12:51 AM CDT

My deepest sympathy to you and your family... Love, Hugs and Prayers. Deneen
www.caringbridge.org/page/tiffanie
Deneen Gethouas <dgethouas@comcast.net>
Enola, PA 17025 - Friday, April 11, 2008 10:11 AM CDT

My thoughts and prayers are with all of you!! This came as a huge shock to me, as I'm sure it was to you.
God bless you and comfort you in your time of need!
Katie Bellman <katiebellman@yahoo.com>
Ohio - Friday, April 11, 2008 10:07 AM CDT

Lester Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May God give you strength to get through this weekend and the coming days.
Anita Hadley (Angel Olivia's Aunt) <aahadley@aol.com>
Marietta, GA usa - Friday, April 11, 2008 10:02 AM CDT

Sending hug's...Your family is in our many thoughts and prayers.

Cathy Intermill <lcscinter@starband.net>
Alliance, NE US - Friday, April 11, 2008 9:54 AM CDT

Praying for you all today. I will be thinking of you this evening and tomorrow.

Amy Jurgen <Kitmineau@aol.com>
saco, Me - Friday, April 11, 2008 8:00 AM CDT

Praying for your family today. Emily seemed like an amazing young lady from all that I read. I cannot remember how I came across your website, other than I have a couple of friends with children at St. Jude and Caringbridge sites. So sorry for your loss. Praying for God's peace and strength to be with you on this difficult day.
Faith Gay
Faith <robg3@comcast.net>
- Friday, April 11, 2008 6:26 AM CDT

Just wanted to share with you some of the comments I've heard this week. Beautiful, Remarkable, Intelligent, What a Wonderful Family, Inspiration, Accomplished, "I Love that Lester family","She accomplished all those things in 18 years, how remarkable." "Jeff, Do you know how many children will change their lives for knowing Emily," "What a brave younger sister, donating her bone marrow, I would be terrified." "Did you see the sign on Ulmerton Road." "That young lady is famous." "Thank you for sharing Emily's story yesterday, my first period class was so taken in and never behaved any better." "Let me know if you need anymore to reach her goal." "Some of the children from Shorecrest Prep are calling about Emily." Hey, there are emails from Italy and South Africa." "Do you have anymore of Emily's bracelets, my friends all want one." "That Jim guy needs to write a book, he's wonderful." 'Our small group has been praying for Emily for over five years."
Jeffrey Evans <jeffreykevans@aol.com>
Largo, Fl USa - Friday, April 11, 2008 6:19 AM CDT

This prayer was in my Moravian daily text this morning, and it made me think of all of you, especially with Emily's wake this evening.
Faithful and compassionate Shepherd, be with us. We need you to take us by your strong hands and lead us through each hour. Bring us safely to our rest at the end of the day. Amen.
Lauren <dramauknow@yahoo.com>
Mooresville, NC USA - Friday, April 11, 2008 6:15 AM CDT

Continueing to pray for you three!
David Daniel <rhondavid@yahoo.com>
- Friday, April 11, 2008 6:12 AM CDT

The "CHEMO CREW" will be raising funds and awareness at the Bardmoor Publix this Sunday April 13th corner of Starkey Road and Bryan Dairy honoring our Emily(Capt.) Please come out and join us as we celebrate reaching Emily's goals for her "Relay for Life" team. Go "CHEMO CREW". EMILY'S TEAM
Jeffrey Evans <jeffreykevans@aol.com>
Largo, Fl USA - Friday, April 11, 2008 5:06 AM CDT

I hope that in time these words of love about Emily and her wonderful family will give you comfort. Emily's story has inspired so many to come closer to God and cherish all those that we love. I will always carry Emily in my heart and remember her as such a brave young lady. She was special, but I know that you have known that forever.
Necia Maloney Wilbur <nawilbur5@yahoo.com>
Seminole, FLorida - Friday, April 11, 2008 0:15 AM CDT

Dear Tricia, What an exemplary life your young Emily led - in her valiant battle for her own life as well as the lives of so many other cancer patients. May we all learn from her! I also want you to know how much I admire YOUR unyielding faith and that of your whole family. You are truly blessed to have such an amazing support system. Keeping you all in my every thought and prayer. Leslie
Leslie Daniels <ddaniel1@tampabay.rr.com>
Largo, FL USA - Thursday, April 10, 2008 6:53 PM CDT

Thinking of your precious family as you enter this weekend. May you somehow find comfort and peace.

Much love to you,
Terri Wood
ICU RN
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Terri Wood <terri.wood@stjude.org>
- Thursday, April 10, 2008 6:32 PM CDT

To Trisha, Steve, Catherine,Gracie & Matt,
My heart is so heavy as I try to write this. I remember in the 6th grade Emily read me a poem she had written about the possibility of dying. She asked me if I thought she was going to die, and what I thought that was like. I was struck by her courage in asking questions that most of us shy away from.
Emily was such a bright spot in my teaching day that year: she was funny, clever, insightful, intelligent - and always had her homework done! I looked forward to every hour I spent with her. When she relapsed in the 10th grade, I met with her teachers from St. Pete High to coordinate her course of studies. I was amazed at how deeply she had affected each of them - although I shouldn't have been: that's the way Emily affected everybody. How could anyone do anything but love her!
She's off to new adventures, I'm sure, but I also know she will be watching over all of us.
Pamela Morse, Hospital/Homebound Teacher <morsep@pcsb.org>
St. Petersburg, FL USA - Thursday, April 10, 2008 6:12 PM CDT

I am yet another person who was profoundly touched by Emily's story, and even though I never had the wonderful opportunity to meet Emily, I felt I knew of her by talking to several of her classmates from St. Pete High's IB program. I have been praying for Emily for quite some time now and I was so sorry to hear of her passing. She will remain an inspiration to me and my children who will take up the fight in her honor. Please know that there are so many of us out there that are keeping your family in our prayers.
Leslie Trevathan <leslietrevathan@yahoo.com>
St Petersburg, FL USA - Thursday, April 10, 2008 3:18 PM CDT

I hope through time, you can rejoice in the life that Emily lead and the lives she touched and will continue to touch. Please accept my sincerest condolences and I will keep you in my prayers. God bless...
Jeremy Smith <hakishiroom@yahoo.com>
Moore, SC USA - Thursday, April 10, 2008 12:44 AM CDT

I've heard it said
That people come into our lives for a reason
Bringing something we must learn
And we are led
To those who help us most to grow
If we let them
And we help them in return
Well, I don't know if I believe that's true
But I know I'm who I am today
Because I knew you...

Like a comet pulled from orbit
As it passes a sun
Like a stream that meets a boulder
Halfway through the wood
Who can say if I've been changed for the better?
But because I knew you
I have been changed for good

(Elphaba):
It well may be
That we will never meet again
In this lifetime
So let me say before we part
So much of me
Is made of what I learned from you
You'll be with me
Like a handprint on my heart
And now whatever way our stories end
I know you have re-written mine
By being my friend...

Like a ship blown from its mooring
By a wind off the sea
Like a seed dropped by a skybird
In a distant wood
Who can say if I've been changed for the better?
But because I knew you

(Glinda):
Because I knew you

(Both):
I have been changed for good

from Wicked The Story of the Witches of Oz.
The song is called For Good.
The world has been changed "For the Better and For Good", because Emily was in it. Thank you for sharing her amazing life with us.

Melanie
, - Thursday, April 10, 2008 9:58 AM CDT

I'm so, so sorry - my heart continues to break for you and with you.

Praying for the Lester family this morning -

Pamela Matthews
www.caringbridge.org/tx/dinahmatthews
Pamela Matthews <gmatth1111@att.net>
Houston, Tx - Thursday, April 10, 2008 8:43 AM CDT

I just wanted to let you know that we are praying for you.

Charlie, Kim, Kaiden and Jameson
Charlie Byrom <charles.byrom@faulkner.edu>
Pike Road, AL USA - Thursday, April 10, 2008 8:07 AM CDT

Dear Emily,

I have been following your story for long time as a silent follower until now. My heart, thought are prayers are with you and your family. I am a long term osteosarcoma survivor. I underwent much suffering as a pediatric cancer patient and now as a survivor. Now that you are in Heaven, I feel you close to me and to my needs. Help me and interceed from Jesus and Hail Mary from other cancer patients and survivors that need your help. Help me in feeling better. God bless your family abundantly.

In Christ's everlasting love, sincerely yours
Giulia
Giulia <giulia.ottaviani@tele2.it>
Milan, Italy - Thursday, April 10, 2008 7:35 AM CDT

Trisha, Steve, Catherine & Gracie,
There are so many wonderful people showing their love for Emily. The "Chemo Crew" is taking on a life of it's own. Friends, co workers and school children from all over are participating in her honor. I am overwhelmed by the love and support this community is showing. You have to be so proud. We love you guys and know that our hearts are with you every minute. Emily's Team.

Jeffrey Evans <jeffreykevans@aol.com>
Largo, Fl - Thursday, April 10, 2008 4:30 AM CDT

Dear Family,

You have all been on my mind and in my heart. I just wanted you to know I'm thinking about you, and praying too. I hope to see you soon to give you hugs. Until then, I send you my love. God bless you and give you peace.

Love,
Mary Jeanne
Mary Jeanne <m.jeanne@verizon.net>
St. Petersburg, FL - Wednesday, April 9, 2008 11:14 PM CDT

What a beautiful angel heaven has gained. Duke has nothing on where she is now. She accomplished so much here on earth. Just think what she'll contribute above. Thank you Lester family for sharing such a precious and inspiring young lady. I never had the priveledge of meeting Emily, but feel I've known her for quite sometime. How blessed you are to have known and loved her, as she in turn was blessed with having such a caring and loving family.
Terry Houston <tdhouston1@comcast.net>
- Wednesday, April 9, 2008 9:54 PM CDT

MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH ALL OF YOU AT THIS TIME,I SO WISH EMILY AND AMANDA WOULD OF GOTTEN A CHANCE TO MEET.REST KNOWING THAT EMILY IS IN GODS HANDS...BLESS ALL OF YOU..TAMMY AND AMANDA JONES
TAMMY JONES <TAMMYLYNN03@HOTMAIL.COM>
JONESBORO, AR US - Wednesday, April 9, 2008 9:17 PM CDT

No words can describe how sorry we were to learn about Emily's recent struggle and passing. May your faith help your family make it through this time. God be with you all. Emily, peace be with you after a hard fought battle.
The Bone Family (Gloria, Jim, Tara and Lauren)
Gloria Bone <ptgloria@earthlink.net>
Indian Rocks Beach, FL - Wednesday, April 9, 2008 8:01 PM CDT

When I am gone, release me let me go. I have so many things to see and do. you mustn,t tie yourself to me with tears,Be happy that we had so many years.I gave you my love. you can only guess How much you gave me in happiness. I thank you for the love you each have shown,But now it,s time I traveled on alone,So grieve for a while for me if grieve you must, Then let your grief be comforted by trust.It,s only for a while that we must part. So bless the memories within your heart. I won,t be far away, for life goes on ,So if you need me , call and I will come.Though you can,t see or touch me,I`ll be near,And if you listen with your heart,you`ll hear All of my love around you solf and clear.And then when you must come this way alone , I`ll greet you with a smile and "Welcome Home" WE love you and praying for the LESTER FAMILY
George Patrick <Georgeleep2001@yahoo.com>
Grove City , Ohio usa - Wednesday, April 9, 2008 6:51 PM CDT

thinking of Emily and her wonderfully dedicated family, sending prayers of comfort & peace
Cyndi/Angel_Wings
Cyndi <ms_independant0424@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, April 9, 2008 6:10 PM CDT

All, Look to God for comfort during this time. Remember the good times as there were many. Emily was an inspiration to many. God bless you all.
Elaine Dalton <laney17@aol.com>
Knoxville, Tn USA - Wednesday, April 9, 2008 5:19 PM CDT

Fly Free Emily and be sure and show Baby Ethan Powell (16 mos old) around, he also gained his wings this past weekend! FLY FREE SWEET AND COURAGEOUS ANGELS....FLY FREE
Dawn Pickens <dpickens_42@yahoo.com>
Beaumont, Tx - Wednesday, April 9, 2008 4:24 PM CDT

I am so terribly sorry for your loss.
Dina
Mill Spring, NC - Wednesday, April 9, 2008 1:01 PM CDT

Dear Emily, May God hold you in his hands and help you to continue the good and caring work you began here on earth. Now you are one of God's Angels. We will miss your beautiful face. Love
Joan Scocozza <jscocozza@tampabay.rr.com>
Largo, FL USA - Wednesday, April 9, 2008 12:51 AM CDT

Hi Trish,

My friend Elisha shared your story about Emily with me.

She may have told you, but we lost our 12 year old one year ago. Our Kelly also wanted to become a pediatic oncologist, and she would have. She had the determination, strength and the desire.

Her last round of treatment was up at Duke. We have unforgettable memories of UNC and Duke, especially their chapel. I know you will somehow stay strong this week. You are in our prayers.

www.caringbridge.org/visit/kellymuldoon

Lynne Muldoon <lajmuldoon@aol.com>
Tampa, FL USA - Wednesday, April 9, 2008 9:49 AM CDT

I came to Emily's website through Bailee Dunnigan's website. I do not know Emily or her family, except for what they have shared with us on the website. All I can tell you is that you have done a wonderful job portraying the courageous battle that Emily waged, not to mention what a special young lady she is outside of her medical struggles. Thank you for also sharing the relationship that Emily had with her other family members. You all seem like such a close knit family and are such amazing people.

When I read about Emily's passing, I cried real tears over the girl that I never met but felt as though I knew. I am so sorry for your loss, but hope that you know that Emily has inspired so many people.
Jessica <NYJess01@aol.com>
E. Northport, NY - Wednesday, April 9, 2008 9:21 AM CDT

Trish and the Lester Family,
We grieve your loss and celebrate Emily's life. She is with Jesus now and we must always be inspired by her spirit. Jennifer and Andrew Rogers
Jennifer Rogers
Seminole, FL 33776 - Wednesday, April 9, 2008 6:31 AM CDT

I am just a stranger who has followed Emily's story for years. Please know that my prayers are with you as you celebrate Emily's astounding life and mourn her passing into the Kingdom of Heaven. Below is a quote that someone sent to me when someone very close to me died, and I feel that it is very adequate at a time like this.
“The agony is great and yet I will stand it.
Had I not loved so very much, I would not hurt so much.
But goodness knows, I would not want
To diminish the precious love by one fraction.
I will hurt and I will be grateful for it.
For it bears witness to the depth of our meanings
And for that I will be eternally grateful.”

May God be with you.
K.K.
Chicago, - Wednesday, April 9, 2008 0:50 AM CDT

I am just a stranger who has followed Emily's story for years. Please know that all of you are in my prayers as you celebrate Emily's astounding life and mourn her death. Below is a quote that someone sent to me when someone very close to me passed away- I feel that it is so adequate at a time like this:
“The agony is great and yet I will stand it.
Had I not loved so very much, I would not hurt so much.
But goodness knows, I would not want
To diminish the precious love by one fraction.
I will hurt and I will be grateful for it.
For it bears witness to the depth of our meanings
And for that I will be eternally grateful.”
May God be with you.

KK
Chicago, IL - Wednesday, April 9, 2008 0:47 AM CDT

Dear Lester family,
I cannot think of the appropriate words to describe how incredibly sorry we are for your loss. We will never forget Emily's contributions to the fight against cancer. She made us so proud, and we will continue the fight in her honor.

Celebrate! Remember! FIGHT BACK!!!

These words have new meaning now...

Until there's a cure,
Amanda Gillespie,
on behalf of the American Cancer Society Pinells Unit
Amanda Gillespie <amanda.gillespie@cancer.org>
Pinellas Park, FL USA - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 10:16 PM CDT

Trish and all the Lesters and Previteras-I pray for you all and know that words have no respite for the sorrow that fills your heart. What a testimony of faith, hope and love that has unfolded as a result of how many lives Emily and you all touched. I know it has been years since our paths have physically crossed Trish and decades since we shared grogs at the Brown Derby but your strength and resolve are amazing as you went through this journey. Thank you for sharing your story and for making so many of us become better people as a result of this experience. I am sorry I will not be able to be there physically for the service but will be there in spirit and will continue to pray.
Francie Robison Spurlock <3spurs@bellsouth.net>
Charlotte, NC - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 9:37 PM CDT

Dear Lester Family,

I'm so very sorry for your profound loss. Emily was a
treasure. Although she was not cured, she is surely healed now. Her spirit will continue to live in each of you and she will make her presence known to you through varied signs. Your family's strong, abiding faith is a beacon for everyone. It's that very faith that will lift you up as you try to move forward without Emily. I pray that the Lord continues to bless you with faith and hope.
With deepest sympathy,
Laura Langton

Laura Langton <lblangton@comast.net>
- Tuesday, April 8, 2008 9:15 PM CDT

Dear Lester Family,
I have thought of you daily as I see your car at the Center. I have kept you all in my thoughts and prayers and will continue to. I have such great memories of you all. Some of my favorite memories of Emily are the Survivor teen group when I first got to know her, skiing in Wisconsin & dreading having to call you about her broken arm, seeing her photos from her 17th birthday at the Lightning game, and her beauty inside and out. I wil truly miss her. I feel so blessed to have known her.
Sharin Nelson <snelson@childrenscancercenter.org>
Tampa, FL USA - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 8:52 PM CDT

Dear Steve, Trish, Catherine, Grace, and Matt-
I pray to God to comfort you somehow, soon. I know only too well He is the only one who can abate our tears.
With all my love,

Julia Ceraolo <lasersailingirlie@tampabay.rr.com>
Palm Harbor, - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 8:09 PM CDT

Emily-
It's hit me but it hasn't. I can not stop thinking about your laugh! I will never forget when we were little; my Mom, You, Catherine and me were inseperable! My Mom singing at the top of her lungs and we were like "Oh, you sing so good, you sound just like Macy Grey (on the Pure Disco CD)!" Or when we stayed up ALL night at Aunt Mary's house and got in trouble for looking through Stephanie's Stuff, and trying on her bathing suits. (Sorry Stephanie, lol we look up to you!) I know when I moved to Ft. Lauderdale we didn't see each other as much, and I will never forget when you couldn't come to my Communion because you didnt eat your chicken! Always a picky eaterr! I remember going to the wide world of sports to watch you play soccer. I played soccer just so I could be like you and Catheine. After you got sick, I remember going to see you, but talking with Catherine we were just as clueless as everyone else was. We were so new to this "cancer" thing. I saw you once and a while after that, but we never grew apart! I remember just hanging out at your house, or at Christmas time when I spent the WHOLE day at the hospital with you...That night you were SURPRISINGLY able to come home! That was the best. And when my mom and I came to visit you when you were in ICU at St. Jude's(2006). You went from ICU to the Target House in less than 3 days! I have so many memories with you; they keep racing through my head. You were so strong, my hero. I don't know what our family is going to do this weekend. We will all pull together to be strong for you. Another thing that basically SUCKS is how many families have signed your guestbook with a website who have lost someone loved. When is this going to end! I miss you Emily, I am speechless. When I find the right words to say, I will sign later.
Victoria Previtera (cousin) <soccerchic101@bellsouth.net>
Pembroke Pines, FL USA - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 6:34 PM CDT

Steve, Trish, Matt, Kitty & Grace - I'm so sorry for you your loss, but Emily is no longer suffering. Her life was over to soon. From what I have read and experienced, Emily had accomplished much and provided a postitve influence in the lives of many people. She will be missed.
I'll pray that your family's pain will pass quickly, I think that is what Emily would of wanted for all of you!
My condolences - Drake
Drake
San Antonio, TX - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 5:19 PM CDT

wish i could attend the services i bet they will be amazing! continuing my daily prayers for you all. love from the east coast(of fl) :)
shelby <americaneagle517@aol.com>
oviedo, FL - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 3:28 PM CDT

I have never been to Emily's Caring Bridge site before today though I have heard her story over the years from my friend, Jenny Hines. Last Thursday, April 3, 2008, Jenny asked me to pray for Emily and updated me on her strength, courage, and acceptance to Duke! I was saddened to see the news of her passing today...God Be With You in your time of loss.

Julie Broadwater <creative_jules@hotmail.com>
Preston, MN USA - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 2:36 PM CDT

Continuing to pray for you all.
Sandi Queen (Jeremiah's Mommy) caringbridge.org/pa/jeremiah <queens07@windstream.net>
- Tuesday, April 8, 2008 1:46 PM CDT

Dear Lester Family: My Pray now is for the Good Lord to give you the strength,you all need to go forward. Dear Emily will never be forgotten, she is now free of pain, and has joined all the Angels in Heavnen..God Bless You all..Nonna Rosalie
Rosalie Borselli <RBorselli @aol.com>
Jacksonville, Fl USA - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 1:03 PM CDT

So sorry to hear about Emily. You are truly a very special family and our thoughts and prayers are with you. Thank you for sharing Emily with us through CaringBridge. We have all learned from this experience and Emily has touched so many lives.

Cousin Terry
Terry Crotty <tcrotty@udel.edu>
Wilmington, DE - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 12:57 AM CDT

Precious family of Emily,
We are so sorry for your loss. We pray that when you think of Emily you will feel as though you can almost touch the Glory of Eternity. May the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.(Philippians 4:7)

Emily's legacy will continue on.

Love in Christ,
Nancy and Alan Blount

Nancy Blount
Baton Rouge, LA - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 12:42 AM CDT

From a complete stranger, but a sister to you all in Christ....What a waste to lose such a beautiful, vibrant, intelligent, and valuable young lady. Heaven must have needed her more. GOD bless you in your sorrow. (I, too, have lost a child, my precious son Matt.)
Sandy Hogan <Sandra.Hogan@state.tn.us>
Greeneville, Tn US - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 12:02 AM CDT

Dearest Lester family,
even though i never got to meet Emily, her story inspired me everyday. Am very sorry for your lost, but may you take comfort in the good times and memories, and that she is no longer in pain.
Heaven has another Angel shining above.

Rest in peace, Emily. <3
Jolin
Singapore, - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 11:52 AM CDT

Dear Emily's family-

We have only learned of EMily's battle recently and have been following her journey ever since. I have read many back updates and learned of the incredible amount of strength, courage and faith that not only Emily, but your entire family has displayed over many years.

We follow baby Ethan Powell at St.Judes, who also journeyed to Heaven on Saturday. Our own daughter passed away at the age of 9 to leukemia as well. Were not sure when this madness will end and they will figure out what is causing so many childen to get cancer these days...it is just not right.

We are so sorry for your loss. May God hold you in His arms at this most difficult time.

In Him-
Alison Haddock
Mom to Angel Alexandria

www.caringbridge.org/page/alexandriasangels

www.alexandriasangels.com

alison haddock <alisonhaddock@charter.net>
O' Fallon/ St Louis, MO - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 11:52 AM CDT

I am so sorry for the loss of your daughter.I don't know you but i work with Taylor Poole's mother,she told me about this website.I want to offer my prayers and to let you know if you trust in GOD he will take the pain away, and let you think of ALL the wonderful memories that you and your family have.I pray strength and courage for all of you.
God Bless,
Polly Fulford
polly fulford <blessedchild54@yahoo.com>
st.petersburg, fl usa - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 11:47 AM CDT

To the Lester family
I just wanted to let you know how much I'm still thinking of you everyday and to let you know so many teachers at my school randomly read Emily's story and send their love and prayers to all of you. It's just still amazing to me how much of an impact Emily has had on so many different people. all of my love
KK Muller <kkstarmuller@yahoo.com>
st pete, fl usa - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 11:44 AM CDT

Just thinking about you today Em...We love you and miss you!
Lindsey Reeves <lreeves55@gmail.com>
Chattanooga, TN - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 11:10 AM CDT

DEAR LESTER FAMILY,
WE WILL KEEP EMILY IN OUR MEMORY AS WE CONDUCT THE ST.JUDE MATH-A-THON THIS WEEK AT NORTHWEST ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN ST. PETERSBURG. THE STAFF WAS SO INSPIRED BY HER STORY. GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU DURING THIS TIME. JEFF SCHMIDT, CO-COORDINATOR
JEFFREY SCHMIDT <SCHMIDTJ@PCSB.ORG>
ST. PETERSBURG, FL USA - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 8:58 AM CDT

Dear Mr. And Mrs. Lester, Catherine, Gracie, and Matt:

I was so saddened to learn of Emily's death. I was her Language Arts teacher when she was a sixth grader on Hospital Homebound. I brought her Homebound books to your home and remember the petite, solemn girl who sat, ready to get to work. I was so struck by her intelligence, inner strength, and love of her family, all of which came through in her writing and class discussions. Emily is someone I will never forget.

I walk with all of you in my heart.
Maryellen Mariani
Maryellen Mariani
Saint Petersburg, FL USA - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 7:47 AM CDT

Dear Lester Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all, as they have been since I first heard of Emily's passing at the Iron Girl Race early Saturday morning. Your darling daughter gave the world such a beautiful gift! Because of her I became a bone marrow donor. My hope is that someday I will receive a phone call telling me I am a match for "someone who is dearly loved by many". What an honor and a privledge it will be to help out a "brother or sister" of mine. If they choose to thank me, I will tell them that they owe the thanks to Emily Elizabeth Lester! An angel that I know, who sent me to them! God Bless you all.

Debi Havens <debihavens@hotmail.com>
St Pete Beach, FL - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 7:45 AM CDT

Dear Lester Family. My husband Karl and I want to extend our condolences to you, your family and friends for your loss. I work with Jim and have come to know Emily through him. We have prayed and will continue to pray for your family. Emily's courage and willingness to fight for all those years will give hope to others who are faced with life's struggles. We are walking for our church in the Relay for Life on April 18th and we will be lighting a luminary in memory of Emily. May God grant you strength and courage during this most difficult time. In Christian Love, Linda & Karl Unfried
Linda Unfried <klunfried@verizon.net>
Temple Terrace, FL USA - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 7:11 AM CDT

To Trisha, Steve, Catherine,Gracie & Matt,
We just want you to know our arms are wrapped around you each and every moment. Rachel is going to do a tribute to Emily at school today on the morning news. Emily has touched so many lives, especially so many young lives. Our hearts have been strengthen in so many ways by your families courage and hope. We Love all of you and hold on to you. Jeff
Jeff Evans <jeffreykevans@aol.com>
Largo, Fl - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 6:05 AM CDT

Dear Lester Family...My name is Steff and Im with the Quilts of Love Angels..Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I have been following Em's story for quite some time.I was so saddened to hear of her passing..Altough I didn't have the chance to meet her..She held a very speical place in my heart.May God wrap his around you all at this difficul time and give you the strength you need to get through. She was an amazing young lady..who will forever will hold a place in my heart.
I made this yesterday for Emily...For she was truely and Angel. Rest in peace sweet lady.

Angel Steff ~Quilts of Love~ <steff1@frontiernet.net>
Northfork, wv - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 5:24 AM CDT

Dear Lester Family,

I heard an amazing story, and want to share it with you:

A young women, not much older than Emily, was interviewed on tv. She had come very, very close to dying and said that in what she was certain were the final moments of her life, she felt completely at peace because she knew that during her life, she had been loved. With tears in her eyes, she stated adamantly that this had been the only thought in her mind and that in those moments, it was the ONLY thing that had mattered to her.

I know that these words offer you very little right now, because your hearts are shattered. I pray that someday, you will feel comforted by the knowlege that your beautiful Emily flew to Heaven with the infinite love of her family, friends, and community. In her final moments, that love expanded to fill her body and soul--leaving no room for fear, sadness, anger, or disappointment...only peace and comfort. That love is the only gift we can take with us when we leave this world, and allows us to live on in the hearts of those we leave behind. What a blessing you gave her, and what a blessing she gave all of you!

You will be in my thoughts and prayers for a long time.
anonymous
- Monday, April 7, 2008 11:36 PM CDT

Trish,Steve, Kitty, Grace and Matt,
Our love, our tears, and our hearts go out to you. Emily's life as well as her death has taught us so much. We need to treasure each other and every day. She will always be our MVP!!! Love, Don,Jan, Sarah, Aaron and Grandma too
DDoll <twobucfannies@aol.com>
largo, fl - Monday, April 7, 2008 10:54 PM CDT

I just felt like I had to write in to say hello again. I am thinking of you all so often and I wish I could do something to help you through this, but I know I can't. I am sad I can't make it to the funeral, but we will be thinking of you all.
Gina and Liam www.caringbridge.org/visit/liamreinier <ginabarrett@yahoo.com>
Ankeny, IA - Monday, April 7, 2008 10:11 PM CDT

Em- I know I was not able to be with you when you left, but I want you to know how much I love and will miss you. I was there when Aunt Tricia had you in her belly and my dad took the first set of side profiles of you growing in her belly, and when she brought you home. You where so cute smelt like baby lotion and long and skinny. As you grew up I got to spend the summers with you and help take you to events like swim practice and soccer. oh yeah and don't forget those water spout hair do's along with that satin blue blanket we could never lose. And although I moved to Texas at the end of 98 we always had a special little conection. Seeing you this past thanksgiving at Aunt Jo's and us having fun as a family was what I miss the most. Your quick witted remarks and you and Kitty fighting one minute and then tag teaming Poppy or your MOM the next. Oh yeah and we can never forget the IZZER cracks or you and I attempting to "change Nana's hair". I think I remember making you a mixed drink too my first offical "bad influence" moment. And I will never forget going to Memphis to see just a couple of weeks ago and you telling me that your "mom didn't tell me you where coming", then kissing your head several times and telling you I Love you so much. I just want to tell you what a wonderful young woman that you became and how proud of you I am. Thank you for picking our family to come to and blessing us with the honor to know you. You WHERE, ARE, and will ALWAYS be a Phenominal Woman. I Love you miss you and will never forget you EMILY ELIZABETH LESTER you are our angel.
Celeste E. Reed (cousin)
new braunfels, tx usa - Monday, April 7, 2008 9:07 PM CDT

Everywhere I go
Every smile I see
I know you are there
Smiling back at me
Dancing in moonlight
I know you are free
Cuz I can see your star
Shining down on me

Rest in Peace, Emily <3
Pooja Desai <poojad125@gmail.com>
- Monday, April 7, 2008 9:01 PM CDT

My heart is so very heavy. I was told the news today. My prayers are with the whole family. Tricia, I am praying for you Honey. The first thing I thought of was you. I really don't know what to say. I will pray for you daily that God will give you strengh and comfort. I know you have a great support system. What a wonderful blessing that is. Please tell your parents that I am praying for them too! Thank them for my t-shirt. I will treasure it.
sherry cox <sherrycox1425@comcast.com>
knoxville, tn - Monday, April 7, 2008 8:53 PM CDT

You all are in my thoughts and prayers. When I met Emily a few years back she left a lasting impression on me. Having battled this horrific disease myself, I appreciate her fight, her passion for raising the awareness of this disease and her positive attitude. It takes a special person to do all that she has done in such a short period of time. She has touched so many lives and I know that there are many more to come. God bless you.
Peter Rapciewicz <rapciewicz@hotmail.com>
New York, NY - Monday, April 7, 2008 8:20 PM CDT

You are all in my prayers.
Dawn M Schafer <Schafer@suddenlink.net>
- Monday, April 7, 2008 8:12 PM CDT

Emily...a true inspiration to all of us. She will live forever in our hearts.

Love Theresa/Angel_Wings
Theresa Krier <ckrier4@yahoo.com>
Levittown, PA USA - Monday, April 7, 2008 7:34 PM CDT

Dearest Lester Family,

We have been out of the state since midweek last week and away from all computers, but a dear friend called early Saturday to let us know God had called Emily home. Our hearts ache deeply for you, you all continue to be in our thoughts and prayers, that is something that will not stop. In the Rockies, it feels a little closer to heaven and our prayers were for peace and comfort for your family, grandparents, aunts, and uncles included. You are a model of everything good and right in this world. Emily and all of you have made a difference in more people's lives in these last 7 years than most of us will affect in an entire life time. Your rewards are built up in heaven, you are walking through this short life the right way. My family and I are here for anything we can possibly help you with in any way- anything, anytime, anywhere.
The Vasquez Family

Rita M. Vasquez <ritamv@tampabay.rr.com>
Seminole, FL USA - Monday, April 7, 2008 6:08 PM CDT

Dear Steve,Tricia,and family,
This is Emily's roommate,Tayler Poole,who had Ewings Sarcoma of the jaw back in 2005.I recently heard about your daughter and her passing on April 5th.My mother and I were devastated when we heard the terrible news about Emily.We know how hard and long she fought to live her life and we will miss her very much.It's difficult to believe how she relapsed at all after all that fighting she has done.We will keep her in our hearts,minds,and prayers forever!

Our deepest Sympathy and warm regards,
~The Poole Family~
Tayler Poole <italiabella91@yahoo.com>
Saint Petersburg, FL United States - Monday, April 7, 2008 5:20 PM CDT

As I search for the right words to comfort all of you, I am at a loss. My heart, soul and prayers are with you. As a mother of two, I can't come close to understanding the deep pain you have all been in and pray that you will cherish every moment that Em lived...and I know you will. All our love-
Gretchen, Olyvia and Sofia Gander <goosek@mac.com>
Tampa, FL United States - Monday, April 7, 2008 5:09 PM CDT

Dear ^i^ Emily's family
my heart breaks for you all in the loss of your Emily
may she fly high in heaven happy healthy and pain free sending angel kisses down to all of you
with Love ^i^ Jacob's Mum

17th June 1991-16th June 2005
Sometimes the angels fly
close enough to you that you
can hear the flutter of their wings...

Jacob's Mum ^i^Jacob playing soccer with angel wings
Australia - Monday, April 7, 2008 5:03 PM CDT

Lester family,

Praying for you today...

Pamela Matthews
www.caringbridge.org/tx/dinahmatthews
Pamela Matthews
Houston, TX - Monday, April 7, 2008 5:02 PM CDT

I never knew Emily, but I was told she is a very bright girl. My teacher has told the poem she wrote. It was very touching. My prayers tonight will be for you, the Lester family, friends, relatives, and everyone who knew her. My parish and school have been praying for her and your family within the past two to three months.
Now, she is with our Father in Heaven.
Danielle <gmddd28@yahoo.com>
USA - Monday, April 7, 2008 4:25 PM CDT

Emily & family,

I have been at a loss for words for the last few days. Such a huge loss for your family, friends and everone who loves you.

I was kept informed of your condition through my contacts at St Jude. I wish with all my heart I will be able to attend your celebration services in Fl.

I'm praying for your family & everyone who loves you and will miss you greatly

Your work will continue
Karen Nitzsche <kviteritti@yahoo.com>
Florham Park , NJ USA - Monday, April 7, 2008 3:43 PM CDT

Dearest Lester family,

I am so sorry to hear that Emily lost her battle with cancer, We are all saddened by her lost
Regina Blanz/ Executive Director/LLS <Regina.Blanz@lls.org>
Tampa, FL Hillsboro - Monday, April 7, 2008 2:52 PM CDT

Just a reminder of my prayers!
Lisa Anderson <lisa.anderson@stjude.org>
Memphis, TN USA - Monday, April 7, 2008 2:33 PM CDT

Dear Lester family,
I am so very sorry to hear this news. I was there in FLA soon after the news of Emily's cancer was learned. If you don't recall I am the one that delivered Emily the computer and help set it up in her room. My faith tells me that she is in heaven and finally rid of the illness. My prayers go out to you all with the many challenging days ahead.
All the best to all,

Lee
Lee Shero <dod.lee@att.net>
McKinney, TX USA - Monday, April 7, 2008 2:18 PM CDT

Dear Lester Family~
We grieve with you over the loss of your dear Emily. I felt like I have come to know her by reading the journal entries.
I feel like by reading the journal it has allowed me to see a bit more of Jesus in this world. I needed to see that people really do live for HIM> I really believe that Emily is now with him. and He will surround ya'll with his peace that passes understanding.
Jodi
Naples, FL USA - Monday, April 7, 2008 2:16 PM CDT

Dear Trisha, Steve, Matt, Catherine and Grace,
Our family was deeply saddened to hear of Emily's passing. We have followed her long, hard journey; keeping her always in our prayers. You must be very proud of her, she was so courageous and determined. There are people who live out their entire lives who don't accomplish half of what she did in her short life. We will be keeping all of you and Emily in our thoughts and prayers.
love,
The Korth family
Susan Korth <sdk367@gmail.com>
St Pete Beach, Fl - Monday, April 7, 2008 2:04 PM CDT

My Prayers are with you.
Sydny Douglas
Medford, MA USA - Monday, April 7, 2008 1:18 PM CDT

You are in my thoughts and prayers. God speed Emily.
Colleen Grams <mom2charlieandhalo@yahoo.com>
Ramsey, MN - Monday, April 7, 2008 1:05 PM CDT

Fly High Sweet Angel , right into the arms of God !

Love, Donna
Dmaxwell@beaconfederal.com <dmaxwell@beaconfederal.com>
East Syracuse, NY USA - Monday, April 7, 2008 12:41 AM CDT

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you;plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future

Please know Im praying for you and your entire family during your grieving.
Ms Jennifer (a friend of the Forresters)

Jennifer Pierce <bojenn@aol.com>
South FUlton , tn - Monday, April 7, 2008 12:39 AM CDT

she went home to our father and now she is free,but what an amazing family you are.may you find the peace that she has found.she was love has a great family good freinds and now she is with GOD.
Bsay Santos <bsantos@travelrs.com>
Tampa, fl USA - Monday, April 7, 2008 12:27 AM CDT

From our family to your family, you will remain in our prayers as you face the challenges ahead. Emily is that star that we will NEVER forget and NEVER stop fighting for.
Tim, Dina, Timmy & Tara Berg <ttdfoods@aol.com>
Lakewood Ranch, FL USA - Monday, April 7, 2008 12:16 AM CDT

What a beautiful angel she'll make!
We learned about Emily thru my nephew Billy G. Our thoughts & prayers are with you.
Ana Casacuberta
cranford, nj usa - Monday, April 7, 2008 12:16 AM CDT

Lester Family,
I just heard about Emily passing. I am so sorry for your loss. Eventhough I never got to meet your family, Emily touched my heart. Rest in Peace Emily. My prayers and thoughts are with you.

Love,
Michelle-
Michelle Zammat <whisperpur@gmail.com>
Belcamp, MD USA - Monday, April 7, 2008 11:47 AM CDT

Dear Trish, Steve, Matt, Catherine and Grace,
You may not remember us, but we remember you. We met because the girls were playing soccer together and I ran into Trish at All Children's right after Christmas 2005 when Emily had her first relapse and my neice was fighting for her life in the intensive care unit. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers and that your hearts will be healed as Emily now is whole, perfect and complete. We wish you the peace that surpasses all understanding. What a legacy Emily has left! Clearly she has touched more people and accomplished more things than most do in a lifetime. May you be comforted by the gift that Emily has been to everyone she touched. Much love and compassion to you all.
Kelly, Kyle and Kelsey Cruise <kellyacruise@tampabay.rr.com>
Seminole , FL USA - Monday, April 7, 2008 11:32 AM CDT

thinking about you alot today. miss you. cant wait to see you all saturday. i love you
parker williams <pwilli1493@yahoo.com>
knoxville, tn - Monday, April 7, 2008 11:25 AM CDT

Those of us in Community Affairs at Discover Financial Services are truly saddened to hear about the loss of Emily. We are proud to have met her last year as she was an exceptional winner of our Tribute Scholarship Program. May you be able to take comfort knowing that she touched the lives of so many.
The Community Affairs Team at Discover Financial Services <communityaffairs@discover.com>
- Monday, April 7, 2008 11:03 AM CDT

I am very sorry for the loss of your daughter. She was a true warrior who touched so many people all over the country.
Heaven has another beautiful Angel shining above.
Karen
Texas, - Monday, April 7, 2008 10:48 AM CDT

Dear Lester family,
Please know that I am praying for you all constantly throughout each hour of every day. There is not a waking moment that you all are not in my heart. I pray that the Lord will comfort you and that everything that Emily stood for and fought for will continue to move forward. She is a hero and will live on in all the people she touched. Thank you for sharing Emily with us on her website even in the final hours of her beautiful life. May God lead you, guide you, comfort you, and give you His strength at this time.
His Peace and Blessings be with you.

Mary-Beth Lownsbury <Lownsburyma@pcsb.org>
Seminole, FL - Monday, April 7, 2008 10:38 AM CDT

I am SO very sorry..... Many hugs and prayers to you. May God wrap His loving arms around you and give you peace.
Bea <bumblebee1955@hotmail.com>
Pa - Monday, April 7, 2008 10:27 AM CDT

May God comfort all of you and give you peace during this time.

Crystal - QOL Angel <crystal_stockwell@classicnet.net>
USA - Monday, April 7, 2008 10:13 AM CDT

"They say that time in Heaven is compared to the 'blink of an eye' for us on this earth. Sometimes it helps me to think of my child running ahead of me through a beautiful field of wildflowers and butterflies; so happy and completely caught up in what she is doing, that by the time she turns around to see if I'm behind her...I will be"
~Anonymous

I am thinking of your family and pray you find comfort during this difficult time.

Shannon <shannonlduncan@hotmail.com>
Huntersville, NC - Monday, April 7, 2008 10:12 AM CDT

For Virginia, Emily's Aunt, and her entire family: Our sincerest condolences at the passing of Emily. I could not ever imagine losing my child, Sarah, as you have lost Emily. Emily was God's steward on earth and an angel in heaven and for that we can give thanks and peace. Emily was a true centurion; more brave than most men and women who fight against injustices everyday. Her courageous calm in the face of battle is an example to all. Her family should espeically be revered for their exemplary display of bravery and strength. Emily's character was nurtured by her family; much praises to them for fostering Emily's courage to inspire others. I love Virigina as the sister I never had and I am deeply saddened by her sadness. "Nana Pat" and "Papo Jim"-you are also in our prayers. When I told Sarah about Emily's passing, she mentioned she had "just prayed for her," and asked "why did she die if we prayed?" Amazingly enough, that is a question sometimes asked by adults. It is up to us to encourage prayer whatever the outcome because in prayer we may always find peace. Our loving blessings to you and your family.
Analisa Trevino <actrevino2@yahoo.com>
San Antonio, Tx USA - Monday, April 7, 2008 10:05 AM CDT

My family and I are deeply saddened by Emilys passing, what a brave young lady she has been. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family.
Robyn Davidson <rrocky37@aol.com>
Seminole, Fl pinellas - Monday, April 7, 2008 10:00 AM CDT

May God bless you at this time. I pray His arms envelope each of you and fill you with His comfort. Emily's short life is a beautiful legacy. Her spirit will live on to continue to help others and touch lives.
Traci Messer <messert@pcsb.org>
St. Petersburg, FL USA - Monday, April 7, 2008 9:35 AM CDT

Uncle Stephen, Tricia, Catherine, Grace, and Matthew,

Emily has touched so many lives, including mine. She is now at peace in the love and light of God. Emily's love continues to be with you and bring hope to others who need healing. You are always in my prayers and in my heart. I love you. And if there is something I could do to help in any way, I would love to be of service to you.

Love, Mary Jeanne

Mary Jeanne <m.jeanne@verizon.net>
St. Petersburg, FL - Monday, April 7, 2008 8:14 AM CDT

Dear Lester Family, I am so very sorry to read that Emily did not survive her illness. She is victorious though and completely healed in heaven. I am in awe at her beauty and strength, and the legacy she left behind. You are all in my prayers.
LeeAnne <llind77@yahoo.com>
Hastings, NE - Monday, April 7, 2008 8:12 AM CDT

I am very sorry to read of Emily's passing. She was very brave and a true fighter. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Robin Brunet <robinb@start.ca>
Bradford, Ontario Canada - Monday, April 7, 2008 8:12 AM CDT

Dear Tricia, Steve, Matt, Catherine and Grace,

Emily's transcendent strength will continually enlighten hundreds of people to live a more harmonious life, and to appreciate and do something positive for someone else, every single day that they are given to enjoy here on earth.

Love Always,
Carla, Paul, Ian, Julia and Angel Olivia
carla ceraolo <ccrew@tampabay.rr.com>
palm harbor,, fl usa - Monday, April 7, 2008 7:58 AM CDT

Continuing to pray for Emily's family....I keep thinking of the pain you are having with the loss of this sweet child. I am thankful that Emily has no more cancer or pain. She is in heaven, where she is free.
Necia Maloney Wilbur <nawilbur5@yahoo.com>
Seminole, Florida - Monday, April 7, 2008 7:19 AM CDT

There are no words. I am so deeply sorry. Please know that Emily was an inspiration to us strangers. I came across her site years ago through another blog. She seemed so brave and absolutely beautiful inside and out. I'm praying and thinking of you now.
Jodi <jomicheleb2@yahoo.com>
Grand Blanc, MI US - Monday, April 7, 2008 7:16 AM CDT

I know that no words can help you at this time, but I hope that knowing how inspiring Emily has been adds some comfort. I hope that you can find peace in this difficult time.
Karin, mom to Christine (pre-B ALL dx 12/01, gratefully OT 04/04) <karin.mika@law.csuohio.edu>
Berea, OH USA - Monday, April 7, 2008 6:09 AM CDT

I am Elliott's Grandmother. I am so sorry for your loss. Words do not come easy as to what to say. I believe that your daughter's life was in God's hands from the very beginning and he needed another angel to watch over all of the other sick children. God Bless
Toots Lobe <justoots20@cfl.rr.com>
Ocala, Fl. USA - Monday, April 7, 2008 3:19 AM CDT

The story of Emily isn't over. She had touched so many people all over that her mark in this world goes on. One thing I know she did already...she brought so many people back to prayer.People all over the world were praying for her.Some people who had been away from prayer and those who may have never really prayed, all found themselves praying.An amazing thing Emily did... she brought people to God.
Right now, you are still in the darkness of sorrow and loss but remember "joy comes in the morning". You will remember Emily with smiles, laughter and joy . As for Emily, she is already experiencing the ultimate joy of being in the loving arms of Jesus.
You all will be in my continued prayers during this difficult time.
+diane
Diane Gale <dianegale@tampabay.rr.com>
Palm Harbor, FL - Monday, April 7, 2008 1:43 AM CDT

Dear Trisha and Family, My deepest sympathy goes out to you in the loss of your beautiful and courageous daughter Emily. I was touched that she remembered my little angel, Lauren, on her website and I know Lauren has reached out her tiny hand to welcome Emily into heaven and she is now an angel too. May the Lord give you strength in this time of sorrow. (Lauren's Grammy)
Margie Readey
Largo, FL USA - Monday, April 7, 2008 0:16 AM CDT

I know right now
At your time of grief
It’s hard to understand
So I pray that you
Will find some comfort
Under God’s loving hand.

© By M.S.Lowndes

May you feel God's comfort during this time. Keeping you all in my prayers.

melinda/Angel_Wings <mcgantt@bellsouth.net>
MS - Sunday, April 6, 2008 11:00 PM CDT

I am a blogger on google and came across Emily's page tonight through another blog. I am sorry for your loss. I used to live in Memphis, TN and still donate to St.Jude. Your family is in my prayers.
Lisa <lkpbuzz@aol.com>
Louisville, KY United States - Sunday, April 6, 2008 10:52 PM CDT

To Trish, Steve, and family...

Please check out Jace's caringbridge when you can. Jace and I left a gift for Emily there.

www.caringbridge.org/visit/jacetrahan
Ann and Jace <cajunlaughs@yahoo.com>
Duson, La. USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 10:42 PM CDT

If there was any way to take your pain away, I would do it. My family and I have been touched through the years by your daughter's faith, hope and courage. She is truly a blessing straight from God. We will continue to pray for all your family.
Margaaret Nipper <anipper@aol.com>
Tampa, FL USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 9:55 PM CDT

Dear Trisha, Steve, Matt, Catherine, and Grace,
We feel so honored that we had the privilege to meet sweet Emily. She is truly an angel called back home to God. Emily has inspired so many people all around the world and she will always be remembered and loved. What a gift Emily is. We are very sorry for your loss and you are all in our prayers. May God bless you now and always.
With heartfelt sympathy, Regina and Gary
Regina and Gary Hodge <rhodge4782@aol.com>
Palm Harbor, Fl USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 9:51 PM CDT

Hello Lester Family

Sending lots of love hugs and prayers to
your family at this most difficult time

Many Blessings

Chris
Quilts Of Love Angels
Chris <tuesdays_child@earthlink.net>
Los Angeles, CA USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 9:35 PM CDT

Keeping your family in my prayers...
BJ Porche <bjporche1@hotmail.com>
Magnolia, TX USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 9:23 PM CDT

what an amazing young lady! how absolutely courageous she was....i am so very sorry to hear of your loss....we are thinking of you all.
dianna
Eatonville, wa usa - Sunday, April 6, 2008 9:18 PM CDT

Dearest Tricia, Steve, Matt, Catherine, and Grace,

It will be the little things that you remember,
the quiet moments, the smiles, the laughter...
And although it may be hard right now,
it will be the memories of these little things
that help to push away the pain
and bring back the smiles again.
--Author Unknown

With Loving Memories,

John, Karen, and Ally Maricone
Seminole, FL US - Sunday, April 6, 2008 9:16 PM CDT

I am so sorry for your loss! Emily is truly a courageous angel!

You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Laurie <h82luz5@aim.com>
St. Cloud, MN U.S. - Sunday, April 6, 2008 9:14 PM CDT

Emily, you taught us all so much. You are still the inspiration for so many of us, and you will continue to be forever. I love you so much, and I'll miss you. Fly free, sweet Emily, let angels lead you in!

Love always, Reguli
Reguli Granger <sail186589@aol.com>
St. Petersburg, FL USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 9:09 PM CDT

I hope you are all home safe and sound. I hope that Matt is hanging in there too.I send my condolences
tricia <triciabxny@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, April 6, 2008 9:06 PM CDT

It's such a difficult time to try to put into words how sorry we are for your loss. All of us at Quilts of Love will remember Emily forever in our hearts ~ for her zest for life, her courage and her FAITH. The hard part is for those left behind but we know that she's at the right hand of God right now and healed in Heaven and that she waits for all of you and will meet you at the gates of Heaven in the blink of eye. We will keep the FAITH and pray for all of the family and friends who are trying to cope. We will continue to support the fight for the CURE. We send our love and hugs,
Jean Ilderton
Quilts of Love

Jean at Quilts of Love <jean@quiltsoflove.com>
Tucson, AZ - Sunday, April 6, 2008 8:57 PM CDT

I am so sorry for your loss... Emily has touched everyone who read her journal - and will continue to be a force in my life.

With love and an abiding faith,
Sherrill
Sherrill Jones <Sherrill@probaglady.com>
Broomfield, CO 80021 - Sunday, April 6, 2008 8:54 PM CDT

I'm so sorry for your loss. But the courage and strength that Emily had is truely an inspiration!
Heidi
Hatfield, pa - Sunday, April 6, 2008 8:52 PM CDT

I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY
Debbie Anderson <debbiea1958@yahoo.com>
Fort Edward, N.Y. UNITED STATES - Sunday, April 6, 2008 8:36 PM CDT

I never had the opportunity to meet Emily in person, but like so many people, I was touched by her life. The way Emily lived out her life reminds me that each day is precious, the power of giving, and the value of faith. God truly used Emily in her 18 short years on this earth, and while we grieve her passing, we rejoice in the life that she lived and the eternal life she crossed into.
Michael Maharrey <puckstopshere3@msn.com>
St. Petersburg, FL USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 8:31 PM CDT

Dear Steve , Trish , Catherine, Grace we still praying for you Sweet Loveing EMILY just went home for her golden Wings . in out hreart Emily will live for Ever Emily was a ture sweet Angel her on earth touched many heart now she is watching over the family and friends WE WILL ALWAYS WILL BE ( THE EMILY TEAM ) GOD BLESS EVER ONE
George Patrick <Georgeleep2001@yahoo.com>
Grove City , Ohio usa - Sunday, April 6, 2008 8:30 PM CDT

You're in our thoughts and prayers.
The Steber family
Pocono Mtns., PA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 8:00 PM CDT

We are very sorry. You are in our thoughts.

Love from the Granger family
Regula Granger <rgranger2003@aol.com>
St. Petersburg, FL USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 7:38 PM CDT

"When someone is in your heart they're never truly gone."

We were so sorry to hear about your loss. Emily and your family has touched so many hearts. We will continue to pray for all of you.
Mike, Penny, Tristan and Riley Petrone <pjpetrone@bellsouth.net>
Cooper City, FL - Sunday, April 6, 2008 7:29 PM CDT

My heart goes out to you and your family. I will be praying for you all.
Rita and Bridget Shore <rtbshore@yahoo.com www.caringbridge.org/visit/bridgetshore>
Mount Clemens, Michigan - Sunday, April 6, 2008 7:16 PM CDT

I am so sorry for your loss. My prayer is that because of the courage of someone like Emily, a cure may finally be found. May God hold each of you in the palm of His hand.
Susan Terry-Wilhelm
Houston, TX USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 7:13 PM CDT

Dear Lester Family
We send our deepest condolences for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers will continue for Emily and your family. Emily will always remain such an inspiration to us and others.
The Blasse Family <pblasse@tampabay.rr.com>
Clearwater, FL USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 7:10 PM CDT

I am so sorry. I have kept up with Emily on her page for many years and truly felt like I knew her. She was such a giving, loving young lady and will be missed. Her spirit will live on in all of those who knew her or knew of her. I will be keeping you all in my prayers.
Jill
Tallahassee, FL - Sunday, April 6, 2008 6:53 PM CDT

Praying for your family, and so, so sorry for your loss.
Dee Dee Rauscher
Milton , nc USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 6:00 PM CDT

I am so sorry for your loss.
Shannon & Ethan (www.caringbridge.org/tx/ethantf) <jseford@centurytel.net>
Corinth, TX USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 5:53 PM CDT

sending you lots of hugs and prayers.i will stand by you on this long road you are about to go on.emily will continue to be in my prayers. i pray that when emily passed my son was there to take her hand and greet her in heaven.i am so sorry for your loss.
quilts of love angel"angel rebecca"
www.quiltsoflove.com
www.caringbridge.org/visit/angelperez
rebecca perez <babygirlx3perez@yahoo.com>
moorhead, mn usa - Sunday, April 6, 2008 5:51 PM CDT

I am so very sorry for your loss. I am in awe at the strength and determination of your beautiful daughter and sister as well as your family. I pray that you all find peace in the days ahead.

Maureen
www.caringbridge.org/visit/owenwaller
Maureen Frost <Moefrost@aol.com>
Youngstown, OH - Sunday, April 6, 2008 5:42 PM CDT

I learned about you from fl/jacob and his prayer page. Please know that your family is in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry for your loss.

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. - Matthew 5:4
Love, Kyle Gundel <gundykl128@hotmail.com>
New Milford, CT USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 4:58 PM CDT

I wish I had more adequate words than "I'm so sorry for your loss" but please know your family is in my family's prayers.
The Slaney Family <jenslaney@mac.com>
Billerica, MA USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 4:23 PM CDT

I am a friend of Dierdre's and am truly sorry for your loss. Dierdre kept me informed on Emily's condition and I as well as so many others have kept you all in our hearts and our prayers. May God be with you during this difficult time and bless you with comfort and strength.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
Michele Beal <mbeal@rccllc.com>
Ashland, MO USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 4:07 PM CDT

I am truly sorry for your loss. May you find peace and comfort. Emily touched so many lives, she is pain free now.
Aurea, mom to Ale and Dani www.caringbridge.org/mexico/dani <aurea.zepeda@gmail.com>
Mexico, D.F. Mexico - Sunday, April 6, 2008 3:47 PM CDT

We are prayong for your family during this time. Love and Blessings, Debbe
www.caringbridge.org/visit/hannahw
Debbe Kirchner <Cyannah@aol.com>
Portsmouth, RI USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 3:41 PM CDT

I am sorry seems so inadequate but true. I lost my mother to Leukemia and have been praying that she help Emily in heaven.
Lisa
- Sunday, April 6, 2008 3:41 PM CDT

Praying for you all....
alyssa...www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys (my godchildren) <sabiemc@aol.com>
- Sunday, April 6, 2008 3:37 PM CDT

We learned about Emily and your family through the ALL-KIDS list, which our family just joined when our two-year-old Jonathan was diagnosed with ALL this past January. We are praying for you all and will include Emily among the saints in heaven we remember in our prayers.
Pam Pilch <pamelapilch@comcast.net>
Richmond, VA USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 3:34 PM CDT

I am so sorry. Although I didn't know Emily, I feel like I did. This just goes to show you how many lives she touched, even people she never met. Emily was a very strong, courageous young lady and I shared her story with my 12 year old daughter. Her faith and courage is so inspiring and helps to reaffirm my faith in a loving God. Thank you for sharing so much of her with all of us. God Bless and comfort all of you during this time.
Reva Kinnally <kinnallymr@msn.com>
Schenectady, NY USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 3:32 PM CDT

Dear Lester Family,
At a time when words are hard to find...may you all find comfort in knowing she is an angel in heaven surrounded by God's eternal love! Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Mark & Patty Ceraolo - Angel Olivia's aunt and uncle <mceraolo@tampabay.rr.com>
Palm Harbor, FL - Sunday, April 6, 2008 3:29 PM CDT

Praying for your family in your time of loss. Emily was truly an inspiration and will be greatly missed.
www.caringbridge.org/visit/jacquelinerose

Cyndi/Angel_Wings <ms_independant0424@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, April 6, 2008 3:24 PM CDT

What strength you guys have showed throught Emily's fight and now passing. I made it a habit to check in every couple of days and I checked in on Friday and then again just now. It brought instant tears to my eyes and my family wanted to know why I was crying. I had such hope for Emily and prayed that they would find a donor, then I prayed she would be well enough to make it long enough to find a donor. I also prayed that God would work miracles so that people would see that God had his hand in this situation and in her life. I am just a mere stranger but Emily touched my heart and I prayed that my bone marrow would be a match. Thank you for sharing your child, Emily with all of us and teaching us life lessons along your journey. Please keep up with the site/blog so that we may now how you guys are doing. That is exactly how I found Emily from Payton Wright's blog www.paytonwright.org. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time and for the first time in a long time she is not sick, she is not in pain and she is in Heaven being a vibrant, young 18 year old.
Tara <rockiesgirl85@aol.com>
Bradenton, Fl USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 3:18 PM CDT

Emily was a very special person. Her memory will remain in our hearts forever. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Brenda <wduffy6633@aol.com>
Boca Raton, FL - Sunday, April 6, 2008 3:15 PM CDT

Words cannot express our deep sorrow for your loss, but know that Emily's journey continues. We mediate upon the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and we know that Emily continues on with no pain, no sorrow, but in complete health and joy. She continues on in the hearts and lives of everyone who was blessed to be touched by her light. Our prayers are with you all.

The following is an excerpt from a song by David Teem's CD "...in the Mourning"

"It was love that purchased this grief and I would ask this of love, to tend to the wound, to lead me to the quiet of its shelters. That my heart would find its comfort. That I would not fear the silence or the empty place at our tables. That it is acceptable and right, that its OK to feel what I feel, to the unknown or unproven limits of my grief, known to the mind of love alone. That anger would have no foothold, no place of sanctuary within the sacred confines of this now broken heart. That I may see life again. That life ultimately can be fulfilling, that love is a shield, a fortress. And if I be a stranger to love, that in the first light of this present mourning, it would be awakened in me."

Prayerfully
Russell and Gwen Cruzan
Psalam 6:9
"The Lord has heard my supplication; the Lord will receive my prayer."
Russell and Gwen Cruzan <thecruzans@satx.rr.com>
San Antonio, TX US - Sunday, April 6, 2008 3:15 PM CDT

We never stopped praying and we won't stop now. I was just thinking about y'all and wanted to let you know.

Charlie, Kim, Kaiden and Jameson
Charlie Byrom <charles.byrom@faulkner.edu>
Pike Road, AL USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 2:46 PM CDT

I followed Emily's story for years. I am really saddened to hear that she has passed away. Every time I was going through a rough time in life I thought about her courageous story. Although, I didn't know her this website made me feel like I did. Emily and her family will always be heroes in my heart. Thousands have been inspired by Emily's story and thousands will keep being inspired. My prayers are with all of Emily's family and friends.

I also wanted to let you know that I am participating in the Relay for Life that is taking place in Puerto Rico. I will make sure that my team knows about Emily's story and we will be walking for her.
Gabriella <gabsgabs230@yahoo.com >
San Juan , Puerto Rico - Sunday, April 6, 2008 2:40 PM CDT

So sorry about Emily.
She's been in all our thoughts.
I wrote a poem years ago that reminded me of her . . .
"I never knew—when last I saw you,
that never would we meet again,
For if I had, I'd have thought
to gaze upon you once more and then,
to tell you, dear,
what an amazing example you've been to me—
and then I'd keep you in my heart,
forever a fond memory."
Emily will remain in our hearts forever,
Deb, Joe, Tim, Mike, & Becky Abrahamson
Jen, Eddie, & Delaney Roque

Deborah Abrahamson <deborahabe@knology.net>
Seminole, FL 33776 - Sunday, April 6, 2008 2:15 PM CDT

I was so sad to hear about Emily's passing. What an amazing girl - she is a model of strength, courage, persistence and grace, and an inspiration to us all. I also lost my father to AML in July 2005, and stumbled upon Emily's site around then. I continued to follow her journey and watch her defy the odds. I will be praying for you all!
Chris Gemici <chris@gemici.com>
Mountain Lakes, NJ USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 2:06 PM CDT

I am so sorry to hear about Emily's passing...but am glad she will no longer be in pain. I know there are no words to make you all feel better at this time...Emily has been such a blessing in 1000's of people's lives...sending much love and many prayers your way.
Christy
Christy <tryin2behappy@gmail.com, www.caringbridge.org/visit/chloenewman>
- Sunday, April 6, 2008 1:31 PM CDT

I have been following Emily's fight for years now. I have been a silent follower until now. My thought are prayers are with the entire Lester family. My god bless you all in your time of need.
Jennifer <mycass412@aol.com>
Philadelphia, pa - Sunday, April 6, 2008 1:25 PM CDT

Gone from My Sight

I am standing upon the seashore.
A ship at my side spreads her white sails
to the morning breeze and starts for the blue ocean.
She is an object of beauty and strength.
I stand and watch her until at length
she hangs like a speck of white cloud
just where the sea and sky come to mingle with each other.

Then someone at my side says, “There, she is gone!”

“Gone where?”

Gone from my sight.
That is all.

She is just as large in mast and hull and spar
as she was when she left my side,
and she is just as able to bear her load of living freight
to her destined port.

Her diminished size is in me, not her.
And just at the moment when someone at my side says,
“There, she is gone!”
there are other eyes watching her coming,
and other voices ready to take up the glad shout,

“Here she comes!”

Henry Van Dyke

Sandra Moore <MrsMoore2000@aol.com>
St. Pete, FL USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 1:17 PM CDT

Praying for comfort and peace.
Amy Jurgen <Kitmineau@aol.com>
saco, Me - Sunday, April 6, 2008 12:35 AM CDT

Dearest Steve, Trisha, Matthew, and girls. Our hearts grieve with you. But our souls rejoice that Emily is with God now. I think back to the time I first met the children, so young, running off to soccer practice. As I got to know them a little more it was wonderful to be referred to as Uncle Tony. I remember when I got the call from you that Emily was ill and I visited with you at All Childrens and we prayed together. That time with you touched my heart that day and still has an impact on my life today. Emily had a way of making a lasting impact on many people.
Laurie and I shall continue to lift you in prayer to our caring God.
2Tim.4:7 "I have fought the good fight, I have finished my race, I have kept the faith".
That was Emily to the letter. We love you.
Tony Walton <twalton1@tampabay.rr.com>
Dunedin, Fl - Sunday, April 6, 2008 12:28 AM CDT

I can't begin to express my sympathies for your loss! I have followed Emily for years now and never believed that I would ever have to post my condolences for such a beautiful child! My thoughts and prayers are with you!
Cine's Place
Ottawa, On Canada - Sunday, April 6, 2008 12:08 AM CDT

found this poem and verse.thought i would share it with you all. continuing to lift you up in prayer.

HER JOURNEY'S JUST BEGUN
by Ellen Brenneman
Don't think of her as gone away -
her journey's just begun,
life holds so many facets -
this earth is only one.

Just think of her as resting
from the sorrows and the tears
in a place of warmth and comfort
where there are no days and years.

Think how she must be wishing
that we could know today
how nothing but our sadness
can really pass away.

And think of her as living
In the hearts of those she touched
For nothing loved is ever lost -
And she was loved so much.

matthew 25:21
His master said to him, 'Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master's joy.'

shelby <americaneagle517@aol.com>
oviedo, fl - Sunday, April 6, 2008 12:02 AM CDT

We are so saddened by the news of Emily's passing. Angel has been keeping us informed and we have been praying for God's healing. Faithful as always, God has indeed answered our prayer Maybe not in the way we had all hoped.... We are so grateful your faith is strong. We know that it will the strength of Christ that will see you through. (Phillipian 4:13, I can do all things through Christ Jesus who gives me strength) through the power of the Holy Spirit.

We will continue to lift you and your family in prayer.
Eileen & Jim Bedinghaus <eileen8@tampabay.rr.com>
St. Petersburg, Fl - Sunday, April 6, 2008 11:56 AM CDT

Trish,
I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm not sure if you remember me. But we sat across from one another and chatted in the lobby while Emily was having a test one day. My son is also 18 yrs has a solid tumor cancer we're in D-clinic. My heart aches for you. I will be praying for you in the coming days, months, & longer. I wish Bryce could have meet Emily. She sounded like such a outgoing, determined young lady. There are times he needs that at St. Jude. Reading her story of all her struggles, mountains & valleys has made him more determined to push on with his battle this next year with this awful disease. At the worse time in your life, that I pray everyday (God please spare my child) I just have to tell you, Emily who we have never meet, has made a difference in my child's life already. May God be with you and your entire family during these next days and months. We will be remembering you in our prayers.
Kim & Bryce Moran
www.caringbridge.org/visit/brycemoran

Kim Moran <dkmoran@bellsouth.net>
Union City, TN USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 11:50 AM CDT

On behalf of the St.Paul Columbiettes of St. Petersburg Fl, I would like to extend our deepest sympathies. We have been praying for Emily night and day, and our prayers will continue for her family. May your entire family feel the love and warmth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ during this difficult time.
Kathryn Thomas <scrape1020@hotmail.com>
St. Petersburg, Florida USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 11:48 AM CDT

Emily has touched so many lives in her all to short time! My thoughts and prayers are with you all!! Emily will surely be missed!!
Pam, Bob, Jacob, Noah and Jared
Wayside, NJ USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 11:35 AM CDT

My heart is so saddened by the loss of sweet Emily. Hugs of comfort to the Lester family, close friends, and the millions who like me know Emily only through her website. I prayed so hard that I would one day get to meet her...I will only now it will be in Heaven. May God's love bring you comfort today and always. For your Angel Emily has touched my heart and life forever. When life seems overwhelming, I now stop and remember what is really important...prayer, hope, and love. Emily shared these with everyone and we are eternally grateful.

He Only takes The Best

God saw she was getting tired
and the cure was not to be
So He put His arms around her
and whispered "Come with Me!"

With tear-filled eyes we watched her
suffer and fade away
Although we loved her deeply,
we could not make her stay.

A golden heart stopped beating,
hard working hands put to rest.
God broke our hearts to prove to us,
He only takes the best.

Rest now Emily for what better place to be than resting comfortably at peace in God's arms. Thank you for being our angel in Heaven watching over us.

Bonnie Keller <boomyers@tampabay.rr.com>
St. Petersburg, FL USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 11:34 AM CDT

Your beautiful sweet warrior will always be remembered... Her life touched many and she has left an impact on this world. Your loss is unspeakable I am sure, but know that all of you gave Emily the best life and love possible. She knew that, and it helped keep her going, she always knew that her family and friends were there... and you were... every step of the way...I know that she is as proud of you as you are of her. God bless you all...
Stacy <sstangle@floridadefense.com>
Palm Harbor, FL USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 10:37 AM CDT

The world is a better place because of Emily. Her strength and courage, as well as the strength and courage of your entire family during these trying times, are truly inspirational. My prayers are with you. Godspeed, Emily.
Michelle <chellespins@yahoo.com>
Tampa, FL USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 10:34 AM CDT

Emily was such an inspiration to all of us. Her spirit and courage will continue to inspire us and help us fight for a cure for cancer. Trish, Steve, Catherine and Grace - our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. You have shown remarkable strength - We will never forget Emily. Take care, and God Bless you. In deepest sympathy
Nancy Cooper - The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Team in Training <ketchme222@aol.com>
Annapolis, MD USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 10:30 AM CDT

We are deeply saddened by the loss of Emily. She has touched the lives of many people with her determination and courage. We continue to pray for your family during this most difficult time.
Dan B.
Dan Bordona <danielbordona@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, April 6, 2008 10:21 AM CDT

I've only known Emily through this registry over the last few weeks. I learned of her battle through a link (katia's) and my nephew Angel Ryon. He too fought a long battle and earned his angle wings, Feb. 25, 2007. I've been awed and touched by Emily's courage and beauty. She, like all cancer kids, have a maturity and compassion for others far surpassing their tender years. My heart goes out to the Lester family, for your loss is great. I hope you can find some comfort in reading all these amazing journal entries, paying tribute to a remarkable young woman. God Bless you, Cynthia Burkett
cynthia d. burkett <fourfootniner@yahoo.com>
lockport , ny usa - Sunday, April 6, 2008 10:20 AM CDT

Dance with the angels, Emily.

Dear Lesters,
I would like to share with you Edgar Guest's poem that my mother gave me when we lost our daughter.

"I'll lend you for a little time a child of mine," He said.
“For you to love - while she lives
And mourn for when she's dead.
It may be six or seven years
Or twenty-two or three,
But will you, till I call her back,
Take care of her for Me?
She'll bring her smiles to gladden you,
And should this stay be brief
You'll have her lovely memories
As solace for your grief.
I cannot promise she will stay,
Since all from earth return,
But there are lessons taught down there
I want this child to learn.
I've looked this world over
In search for teachers true,
And from the throngs that crowd
Life's lanes, I have selected you.
Now will you give her all your love,
Nor count the labor vain,
Nor hate Me when I come to call
To take her back again?"
I fancied that I heard then say,
"Dear Lord, Thy will be done,
For all the joy Thy child shall bring,
The risk of grief we'll run.
We'll shelter her with tenderness,
We'll love her while we may,
And for the happiness we've known
Forever grateful stay.
But should the angels call for her
Much sooner than we've planned,
We'll brave the bitter grief that comes
And try to understand."

My prayers are with you all.
Billy's friend, Peggy Swycaffer

Peggy Swycaffer <swycamel@mindspring.com>
- Sunday, April 6, 2008 10:11 AM CDT

This is Emilys Aunt Joanne....
PLEASE READ THE ARTICLE THAT APPEARS IN TODAYS ST.PETE TIMES ABOUT EMILY THIS MORNING.

http://www.tampabay.com/news/obituaries/article444808.ece

Thanks,
Joanne
Joanne Williams <jwilli7641@aol.com>
Knoxville, TN - Sunday, April 6, 2008 9:36 AM CDT

My thoughts and prayers for Emily and her family!
Kristen <kris10bo@hotmail.com>
Bradenton``1, FL USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 9:36 AM CDT

I am so, so sorry. I admired Em greatly.

Peace and love to you all.
Terri and Jeff <danielts@misouri.edu>
Praire Home, MO USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 9:27 AM CDT

I just wanted to pass on my deepest sympathies for your family and Emily's friends. My heart breaks for you all even though I have never met you. I have learned about your family through Kim & Bryce Moran and Crystal & Audri Forrester, as they have kept us updated on Miss Emily throughout their whole ordeal. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time and in the coming days and weeks. May God bless each of you with peace and comfort during your time of sorrow. May you know in your heart and mind that one day, thru God, you will see Miss Emily again. And what rejoicing there will be for you all. God Bless You All.
Rhonda R.
Union City, TN USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 8:53 AM CDT

Our deepest sympaty at the loss of sweet Emily. She fought a courageous battle. May you take comfort in the memories of the good times and from all who care and are sending you messages as well as your knowledge that she is no longer suffering and is now in heaven.
The Kelley family
Sunset, Utah USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 8:11 AM CDT

Dear Lester Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. The world is a much brighter place because of Emily. She has touched the lives of everyone who met her as well as the ones who only knew of her through her website. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Love,
Paula and Robert
Paula Devitz <PLD914@aol.com>
Palm Harbor, FL USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 7:34 AM CDT

Even though I never met you, Emily, I was inspired by you every day... and so many others were too. The world will miss you, but I know you're in a better place. All my love.
Gabriella <gmiyares@email.unc.edu>
- Sunday, April 6, 2008 1:02 AM CDT

Emily always had the best sense of humor. She touched so many people with her one life. God loves her very much, and my prayers and love are with her and her family. <3
Katie Mahowski and Jaimie Borislow <pilotk37@yahoo.com>
Seminole, FL USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 0:51 AM CDT

Praying for Emily's entire family. Fly free Emily!
Carla Fankuchen <uofamadre@aol.com>
Chandler, AZ - Sunday, April 6, 2008 0:50 AM CDT

Echoing the sentiments of many here - I never had the chance to meet Emily but my thoughts and prayers are very much with you and I am so sorry for your loss. Emily must have been a truly amazing person to have been surrounded by such loving family.
Eliza
San Francisco, CA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 0:47 AM CDT

I am so sorry for your loss. Though I never had the honor to meet Emily I know that she was an amazing young woman surrounded by an amazing family and amazing friends!
God Bless.

"Be still and know that I am"
Colleen Wille <irishwille@comcast.net>
Lockport, IL USA - Sunday, April 6, 2008 0:27 AM CDT

What a beautiful, hopeful, tribute to a courageous young woman. Emily's earthly battle is over, praise God! Maybe she can help a new soul stuggling for life. Peyton Barranco came into this world on Wed, 2 months early, and she is fighting for her life. She is VERY critical and is bleeding from the brain. She is the first child/grandchild of a wonderful, faithful Catholic family whose hope and trust in God guided them through the trying times of her grandfather's bout with breast cancer only 4 years ago.
K. Plate <theplates@knology.net>
- Sunday, April 6, 2008 0:21 AM CDT

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