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Dearest Karen,
I am a local mom who wanted to know about your daughter, as my daughter is collecting pennies for patients in her memory. I am sending you love and prayers from us to you. Please know that Clare's memory and spirit has inspired a whole new generation of BES students.
With sincere love and hugs,
michelle
Bethesda, md - Thursday, January 30, 2014 11:47 AM CST
Karen,
How sad that it was a year ago that I was signing this page, with Olivia.
I hope you all are well, healthy and very happy.
Happy Holidays. God Bless you all,
Kandis and Olivia (always)
Kandis Jones <kandiskjones@hotmail.com>
- Sunday, December 4, 2011 8:23 PM CST
Karen,
Thank you for the positive words and happy thoughts. I appreciate that you keep checking in on us.
I hope you are all well. Looking forward to some happy times in the upcoming holiday season.
God Bless,
Kandis and Olivia
kandis <kandiskjones@hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, November 16, 2010 9:00 PM CST
I read Clare's remembrance notice today Day by Day. Although we've never met, we are traveling on the path of loss too--you're a bit further down the road than are we. Just wanted to say we are thinking of you today and will be keeping you and your precious Clare in our prayers.
Wishing you peace on the journey,
Dawn and Roger
www.caringbridge.org/visit/dankenneavy
www.danshouseofhope.org
The Kenneavys <danshouseofhope@gmail.com>
Appleton, WI USA - Wednesday, September 29, 2010 9:03 AM CDT
Wanted to drop a note to let you know that I am thinking of Clare and your family. I am sure all is well, but I know this time of year is hard.
Elizabeth
Washington, DC USA - Wednesday, September 8, 2010 2:59 PM CDT
Karen,
Thank you for the many prayers and messages that you send to us. Some days are definitely harder than others, but we keep moving forward for all the good ones don't we? I hope you have some lovely holidays with Phoebe and Benno, and Clare who is always with you.
God Bless you,
Kandis and Olivia
kandis jones <kandiskjones@hotmail.com>
- Monday, December 14, 2009 10:53 PM CST
We meant to visit your guestbook last week and leave a note for you. We just wanted you to know that we were thinking of you and remembering your family in our prayers.We send you lots of love, Sara
Sara Murphy <sflynnmurphy@aol.com>
Washington, DC USA - Wednesday, October 7, 2009 8:32 AM CDT
Thinking of your family today.
Christina
Christina Avery
- Tuesday, September 29, 2009 3:33 PM CDT
Hi Clare!
I'm praying that your family will find comfort looking forward to the time when you can all be together where there is no pain, fear, or sadness.
I know you and Mamie are good friends. You were born the same year and went to Heaven the same year. Tell her and Jesus that I love them.
www.caringbridge.org/al/mamieadams
Mamie's Daddy
Huntsville, AL USA - Monday, September 28, 2009 8:20 PM CDT
High School? How can that be? Amazing.
Still think of Clare and you, even though we've never met. What a powerful child she was.
Beth
- Sunday, August 16, 2009 7:59 AM CDT
Karen: I have been thinking about you all alot lately, and had intended to stop in and say hello, then we found out we had a problem. Thank you for your concern and support as we gear up for another round...
I'm glad that you are doing well, and Phoebe is excited about her school year. I am so happy for you.
kandis jones <kandiskjones@hotmail.com>
tx - Saturday, August 8, 2009 11:35 PM CDT
Happy Birthday, Clare. You are always in our hearts.
The Allens,
Lynda, Chris, Lucie and Sophie
Lynda Allen <callen@cavtel.net>
Baltimore, MD USA - Thursday, July 23, 2009 9:32 AM CDT
An email today from a college friend, asking us to support her in the "Relay for Life" -- which she is now walking in memory of Clare -- has prompted a torrent of "Clare" thoughts. So, too, the cherry blossoms and the prospect of the "Swim-a-thon" to come. We miss seeing you more often (Pyle affords far less connection than Bannockburn) and hope to rectify that this summer. Notwithstanding, you are always in our thoughts and heart.
Sana F. Shtasel <shtasel@speakeasy.net>
Cabin John, MD USA - Thursday, April 2, 2009 10:19 AM CDT
Thinking of you all. The Melkonians
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Wednesday, March 11, 2009 3:02 PM CDT
Benno, Karen, Phoebe,
As I sit in my office at church at 8:15 at night writing report cards my thoughts suddenly turned to Claire and to all of you. Your energy, support, and love you share with the world, and the sunshine Claire brought to all those who knew her, brings great happiness to all of us.
Much love and thanks that you are in my world.
Marjorie xo+
Marjorie Gerbracht-Stagnaro <gerbrachtm@stpatsdc.org>
Washington, DC USA - Friday, March 6, 2009 7:21 PM CST
Wow what a surprise to see you post in Wesley's site. Thanks so much! Even without ever meeting Clare, I feel like I can still see and feel her smile from your words and pictures. Has it really been three years? I hope that you have found some peace in this time that has passed. Yes we are Penn staters now and LOVE the school. It is like getting instant family. Although Wes gets a little homesick at times, he seems to really be embracing the place. I certainly can empathize with your feelings of melancholy. It is all like having been on a different planet isn't it? Thank you again for checking on and connecting with us. God Bless and keep you all well.
http://www.caringbridge.org/md/cowtipper52
Diane Miller
North East, MD - Thursday, January 29, 2009 6:26 PM CST
I wanted to wish you a happy and peaceful new year. Thank you for being there for us. Love, Alison (Adrienne's mom)
Alison Humphries
Henderson, NV USA - Friday, January 2, 2009 10:30 PM CST
I have been thinking about you all so much. I met a couple people at Candlelighter's who lost their children to cancer. I just wanted to send you all a hug. Darlene
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Thursday, December 11, 2008 6:32 AM CST
Thank you so much for keeping your caringbridge page up.
I am a grandmother of grandson who was diagnosed August 4, 2004 with ALL. He is one of the blessed ones. We still have him. I am so sorry for your loss.
Donna Lohr <lohrd@mchsi.com>
Pensacola, FL USA - Saturday, November 15, 2008 3:39 PM CST
Hi, Karen. Thanks for checking in on Kyle recently. I was just thinking of you and wanted to check in. Wishing you all warmth and love and happiness even with the sadness always of missing Clare.
Beth, Kyle's mom (www.caringbridge.org/in/kylefacts) <bdehoff@iquest.net>
Indianapolis, IN USA - Wednesday, November 12, 2008 2:22 PM CST
I'm so happy to see you posting and coming to visit us too. It's amazing how this has brought us altogether, knowing people we would never otherwise have had the privilege to meet. Big hugs to all of you, Alison (Adrienne's mom)
Alison Humphries
Henderson, NV USA - Wednesday, October 29, 2008 0:29 AM CDT
Karen, Benno & Phoebe - We enjoyed seeing you this past Summer, and look forward to seeing you again soon. We admire your strength and courage; thank you for being so open...
Scott, Heidi, Riley, Lennon & Daisy <scott.lewis@gartner.com>
Richmond, UK - Tuesday, October 21, 2008 8:09 AM CDT
Thinking of you all! I hope Phoebe is having a good school year!
Many Hugs!
Nancy Vinson, Matthew's Mom All-kids
Nancy Vinson <nancyvinson@verizon.net>
- Saturday, October 11, 2008 9:35 PM CDT
We always think of you and Clare particularly at this time of year. We send you lots of love. Sara
Sara Flynn Murphy
Washington, DC USA - Thursday, October 9, 2008 1:39 PM CDT
Always think about you at the end of Sept. Glad you had a decent getaway. Know the "backpack of grief" is heavier sometimes than others. Hope yours is lighter more days than not. Think about all of you a ton, always with a prayer and a smile! Much love, K
Kristin Stinnett <stinnett7@sbcglobal.net>
Wildwood, MO Usa - Wednesday, October 8, 2008 4:21 PM CDT
Good to hear from you all. I followed Clare's site regualrly and still check in often. Prayers are said and Clare is remembered. In April of this year it was 40 years since we lost my brother to ALL. While my mom's life is so full and filled with joy, her heart still hurts. I hope this gives you hope that you will live joyfully and permission and strength to know that pain is natural and expected. What greater pain than losing achild???
You are prayed for.
Mindi <melindac40@comcast.net>
- Tuesday, October 7, 2008 7:22 PM CDT
THinking about your family this fall. Hoping you're doing well.
Cindy and Jim Z
Damacus, - Friday, October 3, 2008 6:27 PM CDT
I have been thinking about Clare, and wondering how you all are this week. Now that our Magic Treehouse books have passed from Fergus to his sister, I think of Clare reading them when I see Norah buried in one.
Hugs from rainy, leaf-strewn Vermont.
Lauren
www.caringbridge.org/vt/fergus
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
East Montpelier, VT - Thursday, October 2, 2008 8:28 AM CDT
Remembering our beautiful Clare at this time and always, and thinking of her wonderful family which still inspires us all. You are forever in the hearts of your BNS family.
Wendie Guterl <wendieguterl@gmail.com>
Bethesda, MD USA - Tuesday, September 30, 2008 8:09 AM CDT
Just a note to let you know that today -- and so many other days -- we remember Clare's stories, smile and spirit...and they remain strong in our hearts.
Lisa Agogliati, Tim Reagan, and especially Tessa
Lisa Agogliati <LAgogliati@aol.com>
- Monday, September 29, 2008 9:21 PM CDT
Thinking of you, and especially of Clare, today and always.
Lynda Allen <cc_allen@verizon.net>
Baltimore, MD USA - Monday, September 29, 2008 12:10 AM CDT
I thought of your family often this weekend. Hoping it passed with happy memories of your sweet girl.
Take care,
Christina
Christina Avery
Rockville, MD - Monday, September 29, 2008 5:28 AM CDT
Just checking in...can't believe it's September again already, and then I think how very much you must miss Clare.
Thinking of you...
Lisa , mom to Brian and Kevin <ltignor@comcast.net>
Montclair, VA - Thursday, September 4, 2008 9:50 PM CDT
Karen, you're always so sweet to sign Melanie's guestbook. I just want you to know that I think of Clare often, and her sweet little face. It's hard sometimes to leave those messages on the ALL-Kids list about how well we're doing, when I know it's just not fair - kids like Clare should be doing well too. But, we know that "fair" flies out the window when cancer hits.
I'm glad your family is doing well, and that Phoebe is enjoying her summer.
Take care, and know that you're still thought of often.
Kathi
(Melanie's Mom, ALL-Kids list)
Kathi <kohlershop@charter.net>
Cadillac, MI - Saturday, July 26, 2008 2:31 PM CDT
Happy Birthday Clare. Love to Karen and Benno (and Phoebe at camp.)
Kathleen
Cabin John, MD - Wednesday, July 23, 2008 5:21 PM CDT
Clare loved birthdays! She loved the advance planning, the celebration itself, and talking about what happened later. She also shared so readily and easily that one of her greatest pleasures was to share her birth date with her dad - her birthday was his "half birthday." So, much to her joy, they each got two birthdays a year: a "full" and a "half." Her laughter, as she explained that coincidence to everyone, showed how much she enjoyed it!
nancy and Kurt Schmidt <nancy.c.schmidt@gmail.com>
Boulder, CO U.S.A. - Wednesday, July 23, 2008 12:08 AM CDT
Thinking of you all and Clare on her special day. We heard this song at the Transplant Games and I know I thought of Clare and wanted to share it:
Lisa Lynne Mathis wrote and sang this:
The Greatest Embrace
This road's been long
Now I must go
If I could I would stay
But what is true
In your heart you must know
I'll see you again someday
I'll see you again someday
I held on
As long as I was meant to
I held on longer still
I'm safe in this place
Where I'll be forever
And I will wait for you
Yes, I'll be waiting for you
When you come for the greatest embrace
That you will ever receive
You will see there had always been space
For the joy that you need to just keep on living
I'll be waiting
And one day I'll be in your arns again
Can you believe that I am there with you
As you move through your day
I know you're sad
But if you do love me
You'll give all you have to each day
And love with abandon
And pray
When you come for the greatest embrace
That you will ever receive
You will see there had always been space
For the joy that you need to just keep on living
I'll be waiting
And some day I'll be in your arms again
We may never know why
But then logic and reason
Never applied to our love anyway
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Wednesday, July 23, 2008 11:05 AM CDT
Happy birthday Clare.
I guess you know Mamie turned ten last month. Maybe you got some ideas for your party from hers. I expect that every birthday party in Heaven is more spectacular than the one before, because there is no limit to the good things that can happen there.
www.caringbridge.org/al/mamieadams
Mamie's Daddy <george.f.adams@us.army.mil>
Huntsville, AL USA - Tuesday, July 22, 2008 10:54 PM CDT
It's been 3 months since the birth of my son (couldn't donate while pregnant etc) and as of this morning I can say my 19th donation of platelets in honor Clare is complete. God bless
leah <dej729@yahoo.com>
chicago, il - Tuesday, July 22, 2008 10:26 PM CDT
Hi! I was thinking about you all as Clare's bday approaches. Thinking about what you guys have been through and continue to live with daily, puts my daily annoyances in perspective. Keep hanging in there! Tons of love to all of you! Kris
Kristin Stinnett <stinnett7@sbcglobal.net>
Wildwood , MO usa - Friday, July 18, 2008 8:18 PM CDT
Congratulations to all those who participated today in the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society swim-a-thon in honor of Clare. With 104 laps in one hour, Phoebe - you go girl!! And Benno - how can you talk and swim at the same time?
You are all winners!
Nancy and Kurt Schmidt <nancy.c.schmidt@gmail.com>
Boulder, CO U.S.A. - Friday, July 4, 2008 12:10 AM CDT
Karen,
I thought of you a lot this week, wondering if I was missing the chance to see you at Reach the Day. Sounds like from Christina's entry, I did! It would have been lovely to see you both, and others. Rob was on Mt Rainier though, and in the end the psychological and financial tolls of his trip made it better for me to stay home creating a "vacation" for the rest of us. Next year though!
Thanks for the update. It's great to read that Phoebe is doing well, and to hear bits about you and Benno, and be reminded of Clare's birthday.
Hugs to all of you,
Lauren
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
east montpelier, VT - Sunday, June 29, 2008 7:07 AM CDT
It was so good to see you yesterday at Reach the Day. Your commitment is inspiring. Thanks so much for being there.
Christina
Christina Avery
Rockville, MD - Wednesday, June 25, 2008 12:44 AM CDT
Dear Karen, Benno and Peobe,
Hi there. As always, it's nice to check in and see the new posts. Glad to hear things are going well and to hear how you all are coping! I think of Clare, and you all so often.
Please know you are never far from my heart!
Andrea Schultz
Andrea <a_schultz23@yahoo.com>
Escondido, ca - Monday, June 23, 2008 0:30 AM CDT
Just stopping by to say hello-we would love for you to take a road trip up our way sometime! Hugs to everyone-happy trip to Maine if we don't get to see you soon.
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Damascus, MD - Tuesday, June 17, 2008 3:03 PM CDT
Hugs to all of you.
Karen Stern (all-kids) <kstern@connections-etc.net>
Big Lake, MN - Wednesday, May 28, 2008 5:02 PM CDT
On to Assateague for Mothers' Day! One of Clare's favorite places.
Clare's Godmother, Kathleen <q7_hockey@yahoo.com>
Cabin John, md - Monday, May 5, 2008 10:19 AM CDT
Thank you for sharing your story (through the ALL list- serve). We will pray for your family.......
The Glenn Family
carepages.com: spiritofemily
Lisa Glenn <glenn2709@verizon.net>
fallston, md USA - Thursday, April 17, 2008 10:19 PM CDT
Dear Karen, Benno and Phoebe,
The cherry trees here at school are just beginning to bloom. They always make me think of the beautiful picture of the Schmidt girls on your homepage.
With much love and blessings,
The Allens
Lynda, Chris, Lucie and Sophie
Lynda Allen <cc_allen@verizon.net>
Baltimore, MD USA - Monday, April 7, 2008 1:22 PM CDT
Hi Benno, Karen, Pheobe, this is Denise from Childrens. How are you? I apologize for not checking on y'all sooner. You sound good in your postings, and mandolin lessons Benno Wow, good for you. Pheobe a preteen either she is getting too old or we are? Children's is well it's Childrens, busy, busy. I am doing ECMO full time now. Its good, involves alot of research and data collection, yuk, but the goal is good as I'm sure you know. The more we learn the better we get at what we do. I also wanted to share with you my latest news, I have a new grandson, he was born March 13th, Gabriel Adam. He is very healthy and beautiful. When I thought of the meaning of his name, Gods angel it brought my thoughts to Clare, angel. I do still think of her often and I believe the choice I made to commit myself to ECMO was influenced in large part by her. My commitment to improving the outcome of kids requiring ECMO is my promise to you and to Clare. My prayers are with you. I admire the strength you have as a family. Have fun with Pheobe in her preteen challenges, haha I remember the days. Love, Denise Thomas
denise thomas <weezys4@yahoo.com>
alexandria, va - Monday, March 31, 2008 3:59 PM CDT
Haven't posted in a long time but you are always in our thoughts. Taylor speaks of Clare and wonders how you are doing. I explain that it's difficult and always will be. She understands, we understand, we just wanted to say hello and send you XXOO (a kiss and hug) your way!!!
The Brams Family
kim brams <kimbrams@aol.com>
behesda, MD USA - Tuesday, March 18, 2008 9:18 PM CDT
Hi, Karen. I just updated Kyle's site, and suddenly I thought of Clare. I still think of her and of you all from time to time. Must be something God led, because I came here to see that you updated this page recently. Wishing you a blessed Easter.
Beth (www.caringbridge.org/in/kylefacts) <bdehoff@iquest.net>
Indianapolis, IN USA - Thursday, March 13, 2008 5:09 PM CDT
Thinking of you all. The Melkonians It is almost cherry blossom time....
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Tuesday, March 11, 2008 2:56 PM CDT
I'm happy to see you posting again. Thank you for mentioning Adrienne and working to get rid of these awful diseases.
Hugs, Alison
Alison Humphries (mom to Adrienne) <alison95070@yahoo.com>
Henderson, NV - Tuesday, February 26, 2008 1:59 PM CST
Karen:
I am always so happy to hear from you--a friend that I have never met-- Thank you for continuing to check in on Olivia.
I am so happy that you actively try to make a difference whereas so many people just talk the talk...
I hope you, Phoebe and Benno had a nice holiday and will enjoy a good 2008!
kandis jones <kandiskjones@hotmail.com>
tx - Sunday, January 27, 2008 11:35 AM CST
Dear Benno, Karen and Phoebe -
It is so good to still be able to connect with your family and talk about Clare - even though we're a few thousand miles away. Thank you for keeping this online community active and giving updates on how you are doing. Our extended time in London means we won't be able to give blood in the US anymore but we can still recruit donors! So, I'm running the london marathon as part of the Anthony Nolan Trust team - the trust recruits, screens and matches blood marrow donors in Europe and around the world. I'm trying to raise 1,500 GBP (about $3000) to fund their work and I'm running in honor of Clare and PJ Lyle (son of an old high school friend.) So I just wanted to put the fundraising page address here for any in the community who want to do a little something to help more children find matched bone marrow donors. www.justgiving.com/hbl. We would sure love to have you come visit us this year! Hope you'll consider it.
All our love, Heidi Lewis
Heidi, Scott and kids <heidibrownlewis@gmail.com>
London, England - Friday, January 18, 2008 11:26 AM CST
I just wanted to say that I am so sorry. I also want to say thank you for sharing your testimony and your daughter with me! You are amazing! Love and blessings, Debbe
www.caringbridge.org/visit/hannahw
Debbe Kirchner <Cyannah@aol.com>
Portsmouth, RI USA - Saturday, January 5, 2008 8:22 PM CST
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
We are always thinking of you!
Andrea, Troy, Jack and Sam
Andrea Schultz <ams031804@Yahoo.com>
- Monday, December 24, 2007 1:47 PM CST
Karen, Benno and Phoebe,
Wishing you all a special and fun-filled holiday season--with rituals both new and old, and lots of memories of Clare.
As always, you are in my thoughts.
Lauren
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
East Montpelier, VT - Friday, December 21, 2007 9:44 AM CST
Karen and Benno,
I went back to Childrens Hospital this week with Shane. The new Hem/Onc department is huge....such a shame it has to be.
Just wanted to know, I still think of you all and Clare often.
Take care,
Kim
Kim Chazin <kchazin@hotmail.com>
- Thursday, December 13, 2007 4:53 PM CST
Hi -we are thinking of you all on this day of thanks. We are thankful to your family and the work you are doing to help with the political side of this mess. We have counted you among our many blessings and know Clare is smiling on you all today. Love The Melkonians
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Thursday, November 22, 2007 2:13 PM CST
Karen,
Thanks for that update and for being there for all of us. If only the politicians saw what we saw, knew what we knew, especially the experience of families like yours. Then the perfect world scenario could become more real, and the research WOULD get funded.
Thinking of you guys and Clare today.
Lauren
www.caringbridge.org/vt/fergus
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
East Montpelier, VT - Friday, November 16, 2007 5:15 PM CST
It was a crisp day here in Northern California and for some reason I thought of Clare. I don't really know what reminded me of her, but here I am. I haven't signed in for a while, but I still think of your beautiful daughter.
Sounds like you all are doing well. Sending many warm wishes to your family.
Tiffany - mom to Jackson and Faith <jetoneil@yahoo.com>
Rohnert Park, CA - Monday, November 12, 2007 9:05 PM CST
Happy Baptismal Anniversary, Clare. I'll be singing a song of the saints of God and thinking of you!
Lynda Allen <cc_allen@verizon.net>
Baltimore, MD USA - Thursday, November 1, 2007 1:33 PM CDT
Like so many others, I'm always drawn back. Thinking of you guys and so glad to hear that you had a nice family weekend. I don't have anything eloquent - I'm just so happy to observe that the Community of Clare is still vibrant all around us.
Lise Beske <elizabethbeske@hotmail.com>
Bethesda, MD - Monday, October 29, 2007 4:52 PM CDT
I am glad you had a nice weekend camping at the beach. We need to get together soon. Hugs to you and the family-Love Darlene
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Sunday, October 14, 2007 2:29 PM CDT
Like the other posters I am drawn back to the site at this time of year. Thinking of you.
Ross Mills
Deer Isle, ME USA - Sunday, October 7, 2007 2:11 PM CDT
So glad to see you posting. Wishing you all the best.
Alison Humphries (mom to Adrienne) <alison95070@yahoo.com>
Henderson, nv - Tuesday, October 2, 2007 4:48 PM CDT
Thinking of you all and remembering Claire.
Robin Brunet <robinb@start.ca>
Bradford, Ontario Canada - Monday, October 1, 2007 12:06 AM CDT
We think of you often, but especially this weekend.
Christina & Ethan
Christina Avery
Rockville, MD - Sunday, September 30, 2007 11:44 AM CDT
It's the end of September and Clare is with me in my thoughts and my heart.
Sending you lots of love and light.
Parastoo <pnasr@yahoo.com>
- Saturday, September 29, 2007 9:35 PM CDT
Dearest Clare,
You are with us everywhere:
In light and shadow, fire and air;
In every tiny grain of sand;
And in the night sky, vast and grand;
On morning wings, in oceans deep;
When we're awake, and when we sleep.
(With apologies to Reeve Lindbergh)
You are in our hearts forever.
Nana and Grandpa
Kurt and Nancy Schmidt <nancy.c.schmidt@gmail.com>
Boulder, CO United States - Friday, September 28, 2007 8:20 PM CDT
Two years later, we rose to say the Mourner's Kaddish (prayer) for our Clare during these Days of Awe. We always will.
Thinking of the profound hope we still had this day 2005 and the profound impact this life had on us all. We send our abiding love to all of you.
Sana F. Shtasel <shtasel@speakeasy.net>
Cabin John, MD USA - Friday, September 28, 2007 5:22 PM CDT
This morning when I looked out my window, it was still overcast from last night's rain. And now that it is afternoon, the sky has cleared, and it is the most brilliant shade of blue with puffy cotton candy clouds floating by. So I'm checking in today, because as I sit in my office and listen to the cheerful chatter of little girls getting ready for recess, and I look out at that beautiful autumn sky, I'm having a "Clare Moment." Here at school, girls in helpful, cooperative, well-behaved classes can earn "Angel Wings" at the end of each month. The faculty votes for the homeroom who best exemplifies "Angel Wings" comportment. Sounds like a homeroom that would have included Clare, doesn't it? In Clare's honor, we will read the new Magic Tree House book at home this weekend, and I will donate a copy of it to the school's library in Clare's name. Two years seem like five minutes, and the tears keep coming.
Please pray for Samantha, a girl in my Lucie's class, who may be undergoing a bone marrow transplant to cure sickle-cell anemia as a result of a stroke she suffered this summer.
Lynda Allen <cc_allen@verizon.net>
Baltimore, MD USA - Friday, September 28, 2007 12:30 AM CDT
Checking in as I often do -- remembering this time, 2 years ago. Your names still in Our Lady's hands, and a post-it above my desk that says simply "Clare" -- this stranger from Cape Cod wishes you all peace and healing.
Christine Rathbun <christinerathbun@hotmail.com>
Forestdale, MA - Friday, September 28, 2007 12:12 AM CDT
When Angus and I go walking we talk about the fact that two years ago this week we were still quite certain that our girl's lungs would get to work. That dark day two years ago was so terrible. Lots of foggy tears since then and lots of "what ifs" don't seem to help but keep popping into my head anyway. The hope of cancer research is all that is left in the Pandora's Box of my mind.
Kathleen Black <Q7_hockey@yahoo.com>
Cabin John, MD - Thursday, September 27, 2007 1:48 PM CDT
When do I think of Clare? When I hear a corny/bad joke ("What did the number zero say to the number eight?" "Nice belt!"). When I see a butterfly take flight. When school starts, summer leaves, and fall comes slowly creeping in.
Why do I think of Clare? Because she was special. Because she was a child of God whose time on Earth was too terribly short, but was purposeful, meaningful, and will be remembered for a long time to come.
What do I think of Clare? That she was 1 Corinthians 13:13 personified.
My thoughts and prayers are with you as you traverse this tender time. God Bless.
Emily (McWhorter) Williams
Herrin, IL USA - Tuesday, September 25, 2007 10:58 PM CDT
Karen-September always brings to mind Clare.We are sending lots of positive thoughts and prayers your way-remembering Clare and hoping that camping will help you heal a little more this year. Love The Melkonians
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Monday, September 24, 2007 2:14 PM CDT
Without consciously remembering the date - each year I find myself drawn back to Clare's page around the date of her passing to remember and honor her journey.
She has touched my life - I am sad with you.
Sue (Katie's mom/ALL list)
Ottawa, Canada - Monday, September 24, 2007 1:50 PM CDT
Karen, Benno, and Phoebe
Just tripped over my link to your Web site on my way to another and decided to check in with no thought to another anniversary being imminent. I remain oh, so sorry about it all and that it continues to be so difficult. The You Tube video is most wrenching but I am pleased to see that Minnesota's Norm Coleman is in the forefront. I'll get a letter off to the others in memory of Clare.
I'm going to St. Louis to stay with Kris's girls while she and Mark take a well-deserved jaunt to the Bahamas next week. I know she thinks of you often. Love, Pat
Patricia Winget
Red Wing, MN - Monday, September 24, 2007 12:15 AM CDT
Hi Karen,
been thinking how long it has been since i've seen or talked to you...it's hard to think that it's been almost 2 years since Clare left us....
We were at Acadia and Quebec this summer as well
I chuckled at your comment about Phoebe's letter writing...wonder where she gets her skills from :).
We think of you often and hope for peace.
Cindy and Jim Z
Damascus, MD - Wednesday, September 19, 2007 3:45 PM CDT
Karen, Benno, and Phoebe,
I am by myself, in a Santa Fe hotel room, thinking about you all and Clare. Wondering how much harder this time of year is for you (maybe every time of year has a reason that it is hard?), and remembering what was happening two years ago. I hope Phoebe is enjoying school, and that camp and summer road trips were fun and full of laughter.
As always, wishing you love and peace and healing,
Lauren
www.caringbridge.org/vt/fergus
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
East Montpelier, VT - Friday, September 14, 2007 7:10 AM CDT
Hi there-does Phoebe start school today? Sam, started High School, Chris, Middle School and Missy, second grade. I am thinking of you all especially Clare today. Love Darlene
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg,, MD - Monday, August 27, 2007 12:06 AM CDT
Hi Karen,
You and Clare popped into my head tonight, so I thought I would stop by to say hi to you! I can't believe you are coming up on a year since your darling became an angel. I hope you are doing ok!
Take good care and know that someone is thinking of you!
Nancy, Matthew's Mom
Nancy Vinson <Nancyvinson@verizon.net>
- Saturday, August 18, 2007 8:37 PM CDT
Hi my darling Schmidt family. I know it has been awhile, but one could never forget your wonderful family. I have been thinking about you alot recently and thought I would drop you a line. How is everyone? Glad to hear that Pheobe is enjoying her camping adventure. Are you guys doing the Light The Night Walk this year? We've never done that. We we're going to try to establish a team this year but my very close Uncle, the man who raised me, will be going in for heart surgery September 11th. My focus latly has been on making sure he is handling things okay. If you are walking please let me know when and where. Possible we could simply join your team. Bruce is doing well. He is entering the 4th grade this year and is getting close to his 2yr anniversary.
We all miss you guys and send our love.
Take care of one another...
The Lunt Family
P.s. Please feel free to email us anytime !!!
Karey ( Bruceys' Mom) <kareyllunt@comcast.net>
Jessup, Md U.S.A. - Friday, August 17, 2007 12:44 AM CDT
I'm glad to see you're still updating and having some new adventures. Hugs to the whole family, Alison (Adrienne's mom)
Alison Humphries (mom to Adrienne) <alison95070@yahoo.com>
Henderson, NV USA - Monday, August 13, 2007 10:02 AM CDT
I am just thinking about you today. I understand about moving from distraction to distraction. I pray you can find some joy in each day. Enjoy the rest of the summer!
Juli Dalene <ldalene@sbcglobal.net>
Waterford, CT - Tuesday, August 7, 2007 8:01 PM CDT
Karen, I'm so glad Phoebe is loving camp, and that you had a wonderful time on your own adventure. I have started to leave a message here many times since we met in DC, and each time I stopped before finishing. I find it difficult to say how glad I was to finally meet you, how often I still think of Clare and your family. Fergus is enjoying this feeling of life OT, and we are busy planning our extravaganza. I am working hard at appreciating today for what it is, knowing I have no real say about tomorrow.
Thank you for continuing to update these pages, for giving us a glimpse of your lives as you move from distraction to distraction.
Hugs from Vermont,
Lauren
www.caringbridge.org/vt/fergus
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
East Montpelier, VT - Friday, August 3, 2007 3:14 PM CDT
Wow! Phoebe that's a lot of laps! Hope camp is wonderful, and Quebec as well.
Thinking of you.
Beth Lennox <ejlennox@cox.net>
Newport News, VA - Monday, July 30, 2007 6:23 AM CDT
CONGRATULATIONS Phoebe-you are amazing! We thought of Clare on her birthday as we do so often. Have a great time in Maine-eat a slice of blueberry pie for me with the lobter roll!!Love Darlene
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Friday, July 27, 2007 8:49 PM CDT
Just checking in to connect with lots of very special people. Thinking of you yesterday and Clare on her birthday. Way to go, Phoebe, on swimming...enjoy camp and come home to tell us all about it! And don't forget...on occasion...take off your shoes! Much love to all...
Betty McWhorter <esmpat@aol.com>
Washington , DC USA - Tuesday, July 24, 2007 8:29 PM CDT
Happy Birthday precious Clare.
We miss you.
Shtasel-Kretz Family <shtasel@speakeasy.net.>
Cabin John, MD USA - Monday, July 23, 2007 10:11 PM CDT
Happy Birthday, Clare! I know Mamie is having a wonderful time helping you celebrate.
You must have been very proud of Phoebe at the swim-a-thon.
www.caringbridge.org/al/mamieadams
Mamie's Daddy <george.f.adams@us.army.mil>
Huntsville, AL USA - Monday, July 23, 2007 8:39 PM CDT
Remembering our beloved Clare on her birthday and the great joy she brought to her family and all those who knew and loved her. Unending precious memories.
Nancy and Kurt Schmidt <nancy.c.schmidt@gmail.com>
Boulder, CO United States - Monday, July 23, 2007 6:28 PM CDT
If only I could wish our girl Happy Birthday today.
Peace.
Kathleen Black <Q7_hockey@yahoo.com>
Cabin John, MD - Monday, July 23, 2007 12:01 AM CDT
In honor of Clare and so many other beautiful children, I am sponsoring a Dept. of Defense bone marrow drive in a couple of weeks. It has been my lifelong dream to do this, I hope it will be successful. God Bless You!
Go Phoebe! Wow, 130 laps!!!!
I know you don't know me, but my family attended Leah's church a few years ago and have been following her story.
Corrie van Kampen <corrie@thevankampens.com>
Rocky River, OH USA - Sunday, July 22, 2007 2:54 AM CDT
Always thinking of you! Can't believe it's been two years. Seems like it was yesterday.
Andrea Schultz <ams031804@yahoo.com>
Escondido, CA - Friday, July 20, 2007 2:25 PM CDT
I just wanted to let you know that I am thinking of Clare, and your family, during these difficult days. All of you will remain in my heart.
And, congratulations on the Swim-A-Thon! How truly inspiring!
With shared hearts,
Beth Anne
Our Kyle
2-10-88 to 12-7-92
http://rememberingkyle.memory-of.com
Beth Anne Rekowski <momsfourboys@yahoo.com>
Merrill, WI U.S.A. - Thursday, July 19, 2007 0:47 AM CDT
Big hugs to you all
Heather, mom to Brianna dx ALL , www.caringbridge.com/ny/mylittlesunshine, daughter to Pete, dx CLL. SCT 8/3/06 www.caringbridge.org/visit/petek
Syracuse, NY USA - Wednesday, July 18, 2007 7:17 PM CDT
God bless you guys! Praying for peace!
Someone who cares
USA - Tuesday, July 17, 2007 10:34 PM CDT
Just found your site from another. Your daughter is beautiful and her spirit lives on in all of you. We will pray for your strength and comfort as you learn to live without her here, some day to see her again.
The Matlock Family
Lemont, IL USA - Friday, July 13, 2007 1:59 PM CDT
What a wonderful idea to have a swim-a-thon! Please post how many laps Phoebe swam...I am guessing it was A LOT!
Thinking of you in CA...and still donating blood :)
XXOO, Cali Ali's Mom
Marey ALL-KIDS <kteachermom@hotmail.com>
- Thursday, July 12, 2007 9:55 PM CDT
WE think of you all the time. Hope you are doing good. California is still sort of foreign to us but we are adjusting.
All our love,
ANdrea, Troy, Jack and Sam
Andrea <ams031804@yahoo,.com>
- Sunday, July 8, 2007 11:35 PM CDT
70 swimmers today, and 1 in absentia.
Every lap came with love.
(Karen and Benno can tell you about amazing Phoebe!)
Shtasel-Kretz Family <shtasel@speakeasy.net>
Cabin John, MD USA - Wednesday, July 4, 2007 11:18 PM CDT
Karen,
It was so nice to finally meet in person last week. I hope our voices were heard! Take care,
Lisa, mom to Brian & Kevin <ltignor@comcast.net>
Montclair, VA - Monday, July 2, 2007 1:51 PM CDT
Just stopping by to say that we're thinking of you all and to thank you for all your hard work in continuing the fight against childhood cancer.
Lots of love,
Katie (mom to Hayley, Hunter, and Taylor) <dugan2b@yahoo.com>
Franklin, MA - Monday, July 2, 2007 1:10 PM CDT
It's so nice to see your update and thank you for visiting us so regularly. I wish I could make a trip to Washington for one of these advocacy events. We'll be rooting for Phoebe in the swim-a-thon.
Alison Humphries (mom to Adrienne) <alison95070@yahoo.com>
Henderson, NV - Monday, July 2, 2007 10:09 AM CDT
We were at the beach this past week so we couldn't participate in the Hill functions. I hope it was successful -we are thinking about you all and good luck Phoebe in the swim-a-thon-you ROCK!!!Love The Melkonians
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Sunday, July 1, 2007 7:14 PM CDT
Swimming again. The seasons turn. She's still there. And will be always.
Sana Shtasel and family <shtasel@speakeasy.net>
Cabin John, MD 20818 - Wednesday, June 20, 2007 10:32 PM CDT
Karen,
So glad that summer brings you back to us again. We think about you all the time, and are delighted to see what a beautiful young lady Phoebe has become. We are very glad to see your update and we always, always include your family in our prayers.
Lise Beske <elizabethbeske@hotmail.com>
Bethesda, Md USA - Tuesday, June 19, 2007 8:26 PM CDT
Our family thinks of Clare all the time, especially now, with swim team starting up again. How lucky we are to have had Clare's beautiful smile and warm eyes grace us for as long as they did. Fourth of July at Palisades will always be celebrated as Clare's Day in our family!
The Holts
Bethesda, md - Wednesday, June 13, 2007 9:53 AM CDT
Hi Karen and Benno and Phoebe. I stop on Clare's page often, just to see the picture on the front, but I don't tell you that as much. So here I am, saying hello. I've been thinking about Clare quite a bit these days. Karen, I look forward to meeting you in a few weeks, though I'm growing a little more apprehensive about the trip. I'll probably email you as the day grows closer.
Wishing you love and smiles and strength,
Lauren
www.caringbridge.org/vt/fergus
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
East Montpelier, VT USA - Wednesday, June 13, 2007 0:11 AM CDT
Karen: I'm so proud that you are doing something to assist the funding process. It's so easy to say that you will do something, it's much harder to actually DO something. I am guilty of that.
Thank you for continuing to check in on Olivia. My fear never goes away, it just dims a bit.
Always sending your family peace and love.
Kandis <kandiskjones@hotmail.com>
mckinney, tx - Tuesday, June 12, 2007 7:27 PM CDT
Just wanted to check in and see how you're doing. Hope you find the spring and summer relaxing and enjoyable.
Alison Humphries (mom to Adrienne) <alison95070@yahoo.com>
Henderson, NV USA - Thursday, June 7, 2007 12:38 AM CDT
I'm at a new school this year. Everytime a toothless first or second grader checks out a Magic Tree House book, I see Clare and smile. Just thinking of you with love.
Anita Hardy <abhardy2022@aol.com>
Rockville, MD - Tuesday, June 5, 2007 5:46 PM CDT
5 donations of platelets in honor of clare this memorial weekend in manhattan ny. God bless
Leah
NY, NY - Monday, May 28, 2007 2:00 AM CDT
I loved the Mrs. Schmidt goes to Washington story. Thank you so much for writing about that. Karen, you are so brave! Best wishes for a peaceful, relaxing summer.
Lots of love, Sara
Sara Flynn Murphy <sflynnmurphy@aol.com>
DC, DC - Tuesday, May 15, 2007 10:38 AM CDT
Visiting Assateague this weekend brought Clare close. Having this continuing connection to our girl remains important for me. Painful but healing, fun but bittersweet times.
Kathleen Black
Cabin John, MD - Monday, May 14, 2007 5:14 PM CDT
Happy Mothers Day, Karen. I was thinking of you today and Kyle and I said a prayer tonight. hugs,
Beth, Kyle's mom (www.caringbridge.org/in/kylefacts) <bdehoff@iquest.net>
Indianapolis, IN USA - Sunday, May 13, 2007 11:19 PM CDT
Happy Mother's Day,Karen. Thinking of you and the family. Love Darlene
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Sunday, May 13, 2007 8:53 AM CDT
Hello friends. Just thought I'd stop this time and say hello, instead of passing through quickly. I think of Clare so often, and I'm sure this is yet another hard time of year. I hope we meet up in June, even if I have a cranky boy in tow.
Lauren
www.caringbridge.org/vt/fergus
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
East Montpelier, VT - Friday, May 11, 2007 4:32 PM CDT
OPPORTUNITY TO SAVE LIVES
The National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) recently announced that people may join the Registry online FOR FREE between the dates of May 7 - 21, 2007 by going to www.marrow.org.
Joining the Registry is extremely simple as only a swab sample is required to type your bone marrow. When you sign up online, you will be sent a swab kit to perform on yourself. You then send it back to the NMDP via mail in a pre-paid envelope. If you are a match to anyone needing a marrow transplant to survive, you will then be contacted and can determine at that time whether or not you are prepared to proceed with the transplant.
Normally there is a fee for joining this registry, so if this is something you've been considering now is the perfect time! Visit www.marrow.org for more information.
Andrea Schultz <ams031804@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, May 9, 2007 10:03 PM CDT
Dear Karen,
I just read your March posting and went to the CureSearch website to send an e-letter to Elijah Cummings asking him to support the legislation. Earlier today, the husband of Lucie's tutor went down to Hopkins to donate platelets. It's apparently something he's done for quite a while. Small world.
Have fun at Assateague. Lucie and I will be thinking of all of you. Sophie can't wait to see you! p.s. I'm not sure whether to ask you to look out for Sophie or Chris!
Lynda Allen <callen@toad.net>
Baltimore, MD USA - Tuesday, May 8, 2007 8:48 PM CDT
I imagine that after two years, the days preceding Claire's relapse must seem like a faraway dream; a dream of health, wellness and wholeness becoming elusively out of reach. Today I hold you in the light of those days of Claire's physical presence on earth; that the pain of more recent memories be supplanted, if only momentarily, by the joy of Claire's life and your own innocence of pain.
Erica Hoelscher, mom to Zenus, age 3, pre-B ALL dx 2/14/05 <ebh2@lehigh.edu>
- Monday, May 7, 2007 12:08 AM CDT
Karen,
I finally checked this website after a long time....still think of Clare often and wonder how you are so strong.
Love, Lucy Shapiro
Lucy Shapiro
- Monday, May 7, 2007 3:34 AM CDT
Karen - I just wanted to drop you a note to say hello. Now that I know the origami birds in the clinic are from you, I will always remember your sweet Clare each time we are there. I hope they don't ever take them down, it's a nice memorial to your daughter. - Christina http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/meganavery1
Christina Avery <eandchris@comcast.net>
Rockville, MD - Wednesday, May 2, 2007 2:48 PM CDT
Hi Karen!
Just stopping by to say *hello*! You and Clare popped into my head today, so I thought I'd mosey over to see what is happening our East!
Hugs!
Nancy, Matthew's Mom
Nancy Vinson <nvinson@comcast.net>
- Friday, April 27, 2007 8:32 PM CDT
I just wanted you to know that I think of Clare often even though I never had the honor of really meeting her. She will forever be etched in my mind and I'm so glad! I'm want to thank you for sharing your story on Capitol Hill. I have a daughter who is about to finish her treatment for ALL and I pray that she will never have to endure what your Clare did. I hope to make it to the Curesearch cancer days in June. There really isn't any activism here in Jacksonville. I would like to start some though. It's tough trying to figure out how to get the best bang for your buck so to speak. If you ever want to rally some troops in any way for pediatric cancer research, please contact me. I hope that your family can continue to make some good come of your enormous tragedy and heartache. I'm sure Clare would be proud!
Robin Birchfield <w.birchfield@comcast.net www.caringbridge.org/fl/audreykate>
Jacksonville, FL United States - Tuesday, April 17, 2007 6:35 PM CDT
We are still here, too. Thinking of you while you put one foot in front of the other. With great fondness and affection, JVF
Jaime Fishman
- Saturday, April 14, 2007 8:42 PM CDT
We are thinking of your family today especially. Lots of love to you all.
Katie (mom to Hayley, Hunter, and Taylor) <dugan2b@yahoo.com>
Franklin, MA - Sunday, April 8, 2007 9:34 PM CDT
Mrs. Schmidt goes to Washington. I love that. It's wonderful that you're able to make a difference, and you do. I'm a First Connection volunteer and sometimes it's hard but I want to give back where I can. I'll send you Adrienne's report on blood donation when she finishes it.
Alison Humphries (mom to Adrienne) <alison95070@yahoo.com>
Henderson, NV - Tuesday, March 27, 2007 2:05 PM CDT
Missed you at the Bannockburn Science Fair last night...as we always miss you at BES events since Phoebe went to Pyle! With the unexpectedly warm evening, the kids were out on the playground, racing in the semi-darkness. As usual, I was on the look-out for Clare and Phoebe, and you two, hoping this time you-all will emerge from behind the rocks. You are always with us.
Sana Shtasel + family <shtasel@speakeasy.net>
Cabin John, MD USA - Tuesday, March 27, 2007 1:34 PM CDT
You go! Thanks to you and Phoebe for advocating for our kids. Clare must be mighty proud of her mom and sis. Just thinking of you tonight and checking in.
Beth (www.caringbridge.org/in/kylefacts) <bdehoff@iquest.net>
Indianapolis, IN USA - Sunday, March 25, 2007 10:33 PM CDT
Hi Karen, thinking of you all. It was good reading about how you and Phoebe have been advocating for the cause. Even though we are far away, any progress in research, wherever it is conducted, will be beneficial to the future families who may have to walk through the rough road that we have done and are still continuing to do so. Thank you too for all your messages of support and prayers.
With much love and thoughts,
Ann <annlatimer@optusnet.com.au>
Sydney, NSW Australia - Saturday, March 24, 2007 4:29 AM CDT
I am so wicked proud of you both! I can't even imagine how difficult that must have been for both of you. Thank you for continuing the fight for all the kids-I know Clare is so proud of you all. Love The Melkonians
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Wednesday, March 21, 2007 4:00 PM CDT
Mrs. Schmidt goes to Washington...what a great story, and a good lesson in govt for Phoebe. THanks for going Karen, it could not have been a "lovely" day on the Hill, but like you said, tell your story and others can benefit. We all benefit from you and Clare sharing. Missing you guys!
Cindy Z and family
Damascus, MD - Tuesday, March 20, 2007 8:13 PM CDT
Dear Karen, Benno and Phoebe,
You are so brave Karen - Good for you to be on Capital Hill! I have been thinking of you so often. I still can't write a page in this book with our a tear or two. Know that you are in my heart as well as Benno and Phoebe and especially dear, sweet, Claire.
With Hugs and love,
Melanie
Melanie Moll <mfrostmoll@earthlink.net>
Greenville, NC - Tuesday, March 20, 2007 7:29 PM CDT
Karen,
Many thanks to you and Phoebe for having the courage to be there Thursday. Again, I can't imagine how hard it must have been to keep repeating details about losing Clare. I can be a little cynical about the process too, but if more money is to come, it will be stories like yours and Clare's that help it along.
I can't offer anything about the pain it causes you to tell Clare's story, but I can say that--if you're willing--it's OK for others to feel some of that pain. We are all walking billboards of something, and Clare's story is full of so much more than "just" grief. When you post on ALL-Kids, I am very aware that your family suffered the greatest loss of all, a loss I fear and think about every day. But I also remember the wonderful love and joy your family shared together, and the way you shared Clare's journey with all of us. I guess I just want you to know how much I appreciate it when you chime in on ALL-Kids, and how quickly I smile when I see a post from you in Fergus' guestbook.
So, thanks, for visiting us, for sharing your wisdom, however painfully earned, and for continuing to speak out for the rest of the childhood cancer world.
Lauren
www.caringbridge.org/vt/fergus
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
East Montpelier, VT USA - Tuesday, March 20, 2007 4:33 PM CDT
Dear Karen, Benno, and Phoebe,
So close, yet so far. Us, Clare. Sometimes the melancholy hits, and my eyes fill with tears. Like the day I was walking to Level and thought of Clare. If I find her in my mind ever so now and again, she must be with you 1,000,000 x more. Not that it's bad. It just siezes me unexpectedly, and I pause. Maybe because of the contacts floating dangerously at the surface of my eye, ready to fling themselves to the ground if given a chance. I always like to see where I am going. Clare was pretty clear on that too. I smile when I rewind the tape in my mind and hear her say, as she'd run back to your yard, "Well, I better go home now and check on my dad." She was never very far from you. And she still isn't.
Love to you on a cold March day filled with sleet,
Lisa
Lisa <lisabobjoseph@aol.com>
Cabin John, MD USA - Friday, March 16, 2007 6:41 PM CDT
We hope life is treating you well. The blossoms should be in bloom now in your area. They're so beautiful. We hope the spring brings you good things.
Alison Humphries (mom to Adrienne) <alison95070@yahoo.com>
Henderson, NV - Friday, March 16, 2007 4:49 PM CDT
Just wanted you to know that I was thinking of you.
www.caringbridge.org/mn/alexisstern
Karen Stern all-kids <jandkstern@connections-etc.net>
big Lake, MN - Monday, March 12, 2007 8:57 AM CDT
We made Beth jealous with our breakfast out-let's get together soon. Darlene
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Monday, March 5, 2007 2:16 PM CST
Happy 1st day of March....ok,I'm reaching here LOL
Thinking of you all!
Nancy, Matthew's Mom
Nancy Vinson <nvinson@Comcast.net>
- Thursday, March 1, 2007 1:50 PM CST
Hey folks! I haven't checked in for a while and how timely it was that I did now. Students at my sons HS are doing a blood drive and I just read Benno's wonderful treatise on donating platelets. I remember that feeling of immense gratefulness when Wes desperately needed platelets and up from the pharmacy came that little bag of gold. I would like to share your journal with some of the students who are organizing the drive as well as with our middle school which is kicking off a Pennies For Patients campaign to benefit Md Leukemia Lymphoma Society. How generous of you to still promote the cure. I hope that spring finds you all well and still healing. God Bless.
The Millers:Bob, Diane, Wesley,Matt and Ben
North East, MD - Thursday, March 1, 2007 10:17 AM CST
Just wanted to let you know that we continue to think of your family. I still check in on you, I just need to get better about signing in to let you know.
Hope everyone is doing good.
Tiffany - mom toJackson and Faith (ALL-Kids) <jetoneil@yahoo.com>
Rohnert Park, CA - Wednesday, February 14, 2007 12:30 AM CST
Thanks for checking on us. We're muddling through and it seems like you are too. We all wish for the day when childhood cancer (and all cancer for that matter) is a thing of the past, but we're happy to have met such wonderful people. All the best.
Alison (mom to Adrienne) <alison95070@yahoo.com>
Henderson, NV - Saturday, February 10, 2007 8:56 PM CST
Dear Karen,
Thank you for writing your words of encouragement in Cameron's guestbook. It means a lot to hear from other moms who have been where I am. It truly is hard work...and I wonder why I feel so tired all the time. God Bless you.
Juli Dalene
Waterford, CT - Friday, February 9, 2007 1:52 PM CST
Karen,
Well, it's another sad day in my world. Whenever we lose a child in our lives it is so hard. I have lost 2 friends in 2 weeks and it just hurts. I immediately thought of you and your pain. I am so sorry for your pain.
I just wanted you to know I'm thinking of you and that I care...
Many Hugs!
Nancy, Matthew's Mom
Nancy Vinson <nvinson@comcast.net>
- Thursday, February 8, 2007 7:41 PM CST
Just stopping by to say "hello" and to let you know that I've sent a link to Benno's Jan. 1 posting to the blood drive coordinator here at Roland Park Country School.
p.s. I miss Uncle Mark's poetry!
Lynda Allen <allenl@rpcs.org>
Baltimore, MD USA - Wednesday, February 7, 2007 11:04 AM CST
Karen:
I visit Clare's site often but rarely find the right things to say in a note. I saw your note on ALL-KIDS and figured I owed you a response. As usual, you are very insightful and articulate. The list benefits from your participation and I hope you continue to be involved.
God Bless
Noelle, Claire & George <cgntal@optonline.net>
Morris Township, NJ USA - Monday, February 5, 2007 10:17 AM CST
This is my first visit to Clare's page. I noticed that the cherry blossom picture is dated on Mamie's last full day in this life. She was also born in 1998.
Imagine what fun they and Baby D and all the others are having now, playing together where they never fall and get hurt, never have to come in because it is too hot or too cold, and everyone is always welcome in the game. No needles or yucky medicine for kids, no appointment schedules or worries about platelets for mommies and daddies.
www.caringbridge.org/al/mamieadams
Mamie's Daddy <george.f.adams@us.army.mil>
Huntsville, AL USA - Thursday, February 1, 2007 10:23 PM CST
Karen, Benno, and Phoebe,
I was thrilled today when I discovered your site once again. I followed your journey for several months, and several months after your beautiful Clare passed away I lost track of you. I found you again today on Baby D's site. How wonderful that you were able to attend his services. I think of you often and wonder how you are. God is so good and He must be walking with you every step of the way as you continue on with life's journey. Stay strong and keep the faith and know that Clare is sitting with our Lord and Savior. She must be so proud of you all for all the ways you honor and remember her. God Bless you all.
~Maria (Robert's mom)
Maria Lisac........caringbridge.org/or/robert <musicmaddness@comcast.net>
Happy Valley, OR USA - Thursday, February 1, 2007 10:12 PM CST
Hugs to you Karen. I am sure Melissa really appreciated you going. Love Darlene
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Monday, January 29, 2007 11:42 AM CST
Karen, Benno and Phoebe,
Wow, you made it to Baby D's funeral....how I wish I could have been there and also for Clare's funeral. You wrote that Melissa drew all of us in through her updates so that we felt a bond with Baby D, well you all did the same for us with Clare. Not a day goes by that I don't still think of you. My children will grow up knowing of you and of Clare....they will know that she made every hour of every day more special and more important to us. They will grow knowing the importance of helping others and praying for others. Of being thankful for blessings and having faith that hardships will pass. You, Melissa and so many others have stood as a pillar of parenthood....setting the bar for all of us to look up to and to reach and to never stop trying to exceed. I can't imagine losing one of my children, I just can't. I still hold you all in my heart for your loss and hold you in awe for how much love you still give to others and for your continued fight against this horrible disease. Sending hugs and prayers your way always....
Andrea, Troy, Jack and Sam <ams031804@yahoo.com>
Escondidio, CA - Sunday, January 28, 2007 1:00 PM CST
When you give blood
you give another birthday
another anniversary
another day at the beach
another night under the stars
another talk with a friend
another laugh
another hug
another chance :)
This poem is in the Blood Center of the Pacific where I donate blood every 56 days in honor of Ali. Every time I read it, it reminds me why I donate.
Love from CA,
Cali Ali's Mom
Marey <kteachermom@hotmail.com>
- Thursday, January 25, 2007 9:31 PM CST
Donating platelets in honor of Clare in Manhattan, NY. God bless.
Julie <sweetmeat729@hotmail.com>
- Saturday, January 13, 2007 2:13 AM CST
Thanks for checking in with us. This is a lovely post and a wonderful plea. Your strength amazes and inspires me.
Alison and Adrienne <alison95070@yahoo.com>
Henderson, NV USA - Wednesday, January 10, 2007 1:42 PM CST
Benno,
what a great post, a great resolution for the New Year. I have my appt. set up for next week, if I get deferred I'll join Karen and you in Feb.
Time, it is a great ally, sometimes it makes things harder I imagine. Hugs to all of you.
Cindy, Jim, Brandon and Kendall Z <cindy_Zammit@yahoo.com www.caringbridge.org/md/brandon214>
Damascus, MD - Wednesday, January 10, 2007 11:35 AM CST
God-we love you guys...Faith was at the hospital for a platelet transfusion just yesterday and this an 11 year old fighting a brain tumor-no one knows when they will need blood. Keep up the fight-I know Clare is so proud of all of you. Love The Melkonians
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Friday, January 5, 2007 6:40 PM CST
I'll be calling today to give blood. It used to be a habit, which I've now long since fallen out of. Thank you for sharing your story of a very special person who needed it and reminding us that there are many more who still do.
Sarah
Wauwatosa, WI - Friday, January 5, 2007 11:01 AM CST
Karen, Benno and Phoebe -
We're thinking of you, and of how much you must miss Clare. Our best wishes for the New Year.
Tobi & Bruce
CT - Wednesday, January 3, 2007 7:56 PM CST
Just wanted to stop by and wish you a blessed new year. I was just talking with a friend about Clare and Cameron. Hugs to you all.
Beth, Kyle's mom (www.caringbridge.org/in/kylefacts) <bdehoff@iquest.net>
Indianapolis, IN USA - Tuesday, January 2, 2007 8:50 PM CST
We just wanted to stop by and say we are thinking of you all. Let's set up a gathering for Jan. Love The Melkonians
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Monday, January 1, 2007 9:30 AM CST
Thinking of all of you during the holidays. If you ever wanted to put new photos of clare and phoebe and yourselves in the photo album I'm sure many would love to see them. My daughter is currently undergoing treatment for ALL. One day at a time is about what we can do
Ellen Hatzer
- Thursday, December 28, 2006 3:24 AM CST
Merry Christmas! You and Clare are often in my thoughts...
Christmas Hugs!
Nancy, Matthew's Mom
Nancy Vinson <nvinson@comcast.net>
- Monday, December 25, 2006 8:04 PM CST
Karen, Benno, and Phoebe,
You all, and Clare, are in my thoughts and my heart today. I think of you all the time, but more so on these special holidays. May you be warmed by memories of Christmas's with Clare even as you make new memories together.
Merry Christmas,
Lauren
www.caringbridge.org/vt/fergus
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
East Montpelier, VT USA - Monday, December 25, 2006 6:41 PM CST
Karen, Benno and Phoebe,
I wish you all a Merry Chirstmas. I pray for you, especially on such bittersweet days. May you have the comfort, love and undersatnding of those that surround you.
Love,
Michele
www.caringbridge.org/ny/brendan
Michele Miranda <missym004@yahoo.com>
Wantagh, NY USA - Sunday, December 24, 2006 8:38 PM CST
Thinking of you all today and wishing you a Merry Christmas!
Always,
Troy, Andrea, Jack and Sam
Andrea <ams031804@yahoo.com>
Escondido, CA - Sunday, December 24, 2006 4:26 PM CST
Karen, you and Benno have such a gift of eloquence in your writing. Thank you for choosing your words so carefully so that we, who mourn with you, can understand a tiny bit of the sorrow. I pray that when you share like this, it helps the healing.
Thinking of all of you.
Beth Lennox <ejlennox@cox.net>
Newpwort News, va - Thursday, December 21, 2006 7:27 AM CST
Karen & Benno,
I was reading a book of poems last night, and I found one that reminded me of Clare. The author is Virginia Hamilton Adair, and the book is called "Ants on the Melon."
Shirley,
You look over my shoulder as I write.
You laugh like a seven-year-old. You tell me,
"An elegy is strictly for the birds,"
and add, staying just out of sight,
"You'll never catch me in your net of words."
I see your cheeks, rosy as a child's,
your eyes alert with fun, showing us ways
to reinvent our lives, the past undone,
with letting go, trying a new face,
dancing (didn't David do it before the ark?)
You could make light of darkness or deep shade,
turn dullness to delight, watching the world parade,
or gathering friends for picnics in the park.
What happy havoc you will make in heaven!
-- Those harping angels at first sight
will know your name, act out hosannas,
choose crazy costumes from old trunks,
join in a "halo, who-has-the-halo" game
among celestial martyrs, saints, and monks.
Nothing Up There will ever be the same.
But stay close by, Shirley, and keep us tuned
to holy everydays; make us define
this numb Thanksgiving, 1989,
not as a bitter irony past reason
but as a season when, with clearer seeing,
we celebrate your life, the gift of Being,
sharing your shining force that will not die,
the joy you gave, the laughter, and the caring:
encircling love that never waves goodbye.
We're thinking of you.
Lise & Gavin Beske
Lise Beske <elizabethbeske@hotmail.com>
Bethesda, MD - Wednesday, December 20, 2006 1:54 PM CST
Karen, I was just thinking of you all in this joyous and yet most difficult season. It was so kind of you to stop and wish Kyle a happy birthday. I think of Clare often and say a prayer for you. Hugs.
Beth, Kyle's mom (www.caringbridge.org/in/kylefacts) <bdehoff@iquest.net>
Indianapolis, IN USA - Tuesday, December 19, 2006 9:45 PM CST
Karen: I have been thinking about your family alot in the last month, I hope you are enjoying the holiday to some degree with Phoebe and Benno.
Thank you for continuing to check on Olivia (and me!), I am honored and comforted everytime I hear from you. Hugs and happiness to your family.
Kandis and Olivia
kandis jones <kandiskjones@hotmail.com>
mckinney, tx usa - Monday, December 18, 2006 9:30 AM CST
Thinking of you often and always. Wishing you a warm holiday season in the love of friends and family. Of course we will warm in all our joyous memories of Clare and your family's time with us.
With all the best to you, your BNS family
Wendie Guterl <wendieguterl@gmail.com>
Bethesda, MD USA - Thursday, December 14, 2006 7:24 AM CST
We just want you to know that we think of you often.
Alison and Adrienne <alison95070@yahoo.com>
Henderson, NV - Tuesday, December 12, 2006 12:14 AM CST
I thought of you today Karen. I hope you are having a good day. My thoughts of you led to Clare...what an angel.
Much love,
Nancy, Matthew's Mom
Nancy Vinson <nvinson@comcast.net>
- Tuesday, December 12, 2006 10:40 AM CST
Hey-I am glad we spoke-happy belated birthday. Hugs to you and Benno and Phoebe. Love The Melkonians
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Monday, December 11, 2006 2:38 PM CST
Just now getting to the computer but wanted you to know that I was thinking of Clare a lot yesterday on St. Nicholas Day. It makes it easier to smile through the tears when I think of Clare in the company of the Patron Saint of children!
Lynda Allen <callen@toad.net>
Baltimore, MD USA - Thursday, December 7, 2006 10:31 AM CST
Hey, Karen! Happy Birthday!! Hope you had some good coffee and other birthday treats! Pat and I were thinking about you today. We shared a birthday breakfast with David Winget yesterday in Denver. So glad we went--they needed us. One thing we've learned this fall in our "Grief for Dummies" is how much it means just to have your family and friends show up and "be there". Know you know what that means, too. Would have loved to throw this heavy "backpack of grief" off a mountain in CO, but am afraid it wouldn't roll down the mtn, but find it's way back to my shoulders, b/c that's the way it works. Am thinking of you guys and how heavy the backpack still is for you somedays. Talk to you soon. LOVE, Kris
kristin stinnett <stinnett7@sbcglobal.net>
independence, mo USA - Monday, December 4, 2006 10:13 PM CST
Thought I'd let you know that I stopped by and think of you often. So many times I pop in but don't write - I know you understand and that's what lots of people do - but I also know it's nice to know who cares enough to stop by...
Hugs,
Lisa, mom to Brian & Kevin <ltignor@comcast.net>
Montclair, VA - Monday, December 4, 2006 12:55 AM CST
I'm so glad that you stopped by Wesley's site to drop a note. We switched computers and I lost all of my familiar paths on the internet. You folks are there again now. Your update is so honest and heartfelt and I can only imagine the emotions you all have felt as you have lived through so many firsts without Clare by your side. Thank you again for stopping in. I suppose I really need to get an update on Wesley's site eh? Merry Christmas!
The Millers Bob, Diane, Wesley, Matt and Ben
North East, MD - Sunday, December 3, 2006 7:03 PM CST
Dear Karen, Benno and Phoebe,
Thank you again for sharing your feelings and sharing your experiences. I can't help but cry reading your post. I am so sorry for you and for ALL of the parents of ALL of the children in ALL of the world whose children pass before them, due to illness, accident or otherwise. I can't imagine the loss, I can't imagine the journey to trying to heal. I wish I could help, comfort you somehow. My heart is with you always and you are in my prayers. I hope that in some way, knowing that not just me, but thousands more feel the same way, helps in bringing even the tiniest comfort to you and your family.
All our love,
Andrea, Troy, Jack and Sam
Andrea Schultz <ams031804@yahoo.com>
Escondido, CA USA - Friday, December 1, 2006 12:21 AM CST
We have been thinking about you all a lot-counting you all among our many blessings. Hope we can get together on the 30th with Beth and Cindy-let me know if it works for you. Love Darlene
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Sunday, November 26, 2006 2:55 PM CST
Thinking about you all, today, tomorrow, and always. Hope you are having a special Thanksgiving filled with love, and each other, and memories of Clare.
Lauren
www.caringbridge.org/vt/fergus
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
East Montpelier, VT USA - Wednesday, November 22, 2006 9:59 PM CST
I was just thinking of Clare and all of you tonight. Her spirit is still so strong. Just know you're all loved, thought of and prayed about.
Beth, Kyle's mom (www.caringbridge.org/in/kylefacts) <bdehoff@iquest.net>
Indianapolis, IN USA - Monday, October 30, 2006 10:40 PM CST
I don't know what it was today -- maybe the sun streaming through the windows but I felt Clare's presence while we were working out this morning in the Center. It was as if she was sitting in the back of the room reading her book and coloring. When she was physically sitting there with us while we worked out, we would face the back of the room and I would make faces at her -- she would act like she didn't see me but sometimes, she would get this little smile on her face like she was saying, "Yes Judy I see you and yes, you are being silly!" That's what I felt today. And it made me feel good. I hope your happy memories and thoughts are there, keeping you going. I am so glad you are coming to class and I hope that it is making your heart stronger.
Judy <judy@brookes.com>
CJ, MD - Monday, October 30, 2006 1:09 PM CST
Hey-we are thinking of you all today. Love The Melkonians
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Sunday, October 29, 2006 9:14 AM CST
We're thinking of you all.
Tobi & Bruce
CT - Sunday, October 29, 2006 7:30 AM CST
We're going to Light The Night again tonight. It is my fourth year and I will keep going every year as long as I remember Clare. I don't think anyone could ever forget her- certainly not me or Honor- so I guess you'll see me there creeping around that muddy track with my walker in 80 years! All love to all of you and big sloppy kisses and hugs. I know I will feel Clare with us tonight. Sara
Sara Murphy <sflynnmurphy@aol.com>
Washington, DC - Saturday, October 21, 2006 8:35 AM CDT
I too remember checking Clare's page every night and cannot believe it's been a year. I know from experience you will never forget. It's been 10 years since losing my husband to cancer and I still see his face in the faces of my girls, it breaks my heart how much he's missed and how strong he would have been through our Megan's illness. Just keep the faith that they are with us always. God bless, Sue G.
http://www.caringbridge.org/va/megan <suegut@earthlink.net>
Hampton, NJ - Monday, October 16, 2006 9:08 AM CDT
Karen, Claire is in my mind and heart. She is an inspiration to more people that possibly can be imagined. I can't lie for it is hard to deal with the reality of her passing. She is a beautiful child and I know she is at peace looking over us. Your family is also an inspiration, dealing with the unimaginable with courage and perservernce that the rest can only admire without really knowing whats its like. I say prayers often for your family and thank you for sharing with us one of the most amazing child....... God Bless..
Mike and Andy Vander Wyden <mevande@aol.com>
Carmel, IN USA - Saturday, October 14, 2006 3:22 AM CDT
I remember checking on Clare every night before bed and saying prayers for her. A year is a very long time and I cannot imagine how you get by. I still remember all my caringbridge favorites each night, including Clare.
Love from CA,
XXOO, Cali Ali's Mom
Marey <kteachermom@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, October 11, 2006 10:42 PM CDT
Karen, Benno, and Phoebe,
You are in my thoughts and prayers---
I hope you have peace in your days as well as wonderful memories, laughter, and love.
Hugs,
Kandis and Olivia
kandis jones <kandiskones@hotmail.com>
mckinney, tx - Tuesday, October 10, 2006 11:56 PM CDT
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family as you face this upcoming year without Clare's physical presence. May you feeel her spiritual presence always surrounding you.
Gloria Galaska <ggalaska@wi.rr.com>
Oak Creek, WI US - Saturday, October 7, 2006 9:34 PM CDT
Here's a Clare Story that Phoebe knows all about.
Clare, Phoebe and I loved to go to Winterthur where we played in the children's garden, had snacks in the "secret cafe" and spent hours in 18th century costume in the Touch-it Room, re-creating activities of long ago.
Then we would stop in the Museum Store to choose a small keepsake. A few years ago, Clare chose, after careful deliberation, a little stuffed ladybug. It was bright red with black spots, just fit into Clare's hand and had a squeaker. Very satisfying. But as the girls were packing up to go home, the ladybug was nowhere to be found. We looked everywhere, but it had simply disappeared.
Last week, I was clearing off a low bookshelf in our small guest room where Phoebe and Clare usually slept. As I removed several books at once, out sprang the ladybug! I laughed (and cried) to see it. So The Mystery of the Missing Ladybug is solved - just the kind of story Clare would have delighted in. Now it will be a reminder of our special, happy times together.
Nancy Schmidt
Wilmington, DE - Friday, October 6, 2006 11:55 AM CDT
Karen,
It can't be a year since Clare has left, can it?
It doesn't "feel" like a year.
It feels like yesterday; no wait---maybe a week or two ago.
I can't sign the guestbook without crying like a baby---your wonderful Clare is so much like my wonderful Madie.
Please know that I send much love, hugs and heartfelt thoughts to you and your family during this time.
Clare will never be forgotton; don't worry about that.
Lots of love, always...........Regina
Regina, mom to Madie <r.ice@comcast.net>
Snellville, GA US - Thursday, October 5, 2006 10:10 PM CDT
Yep, we're still here and thinking about you all the time. Your words are always so touching and poignant. We wish you the best.
Alison (mom to Adrienne) <alison95070@yahoo.com>
Henderson, NV - Thursday, October 5, 2006 2:19 PM CDT
I can't believe it has been a year already since you had to say goodbye to Clare. I sure hope it has gotten a little easier because I don't know how a person could stand this intense grief for very long!
I tried to contact Gigi about the Day by Day list-serve but haven't heard back from her. I feel like it would be a big help to me. Can you let me know what I need to do to get on the list?
Juli Dalene <ljdalen@yahoo.com>
Santa Fe, NM - Thursday, October 5, 2006 10:40 AM CDT
We will never forget Clare. You will always be in our prayers.
love and hugs,
Audra, Keegan's mom /ALL-Kids
<audramama@yahoo.com>
Fayetteville, Georgia USA - Thursday, October 5, 2006 8:03 AM CDT
I won't be forgetting Clare. I get a bit of time with her every day, usually when I'm walking Angus. I see Clare's friends and imagine her giggling or running or achieving something with them. I wonder about who she would be today and am glad I knew her. I also hope that as I marvel in Phoebe's growth or watch the three of you manage to put one foot in front of the other every day, that you know my answer to "How are you?" is "I'm good and glad to be your friend."
Much love
Kathleen <q7_hockey@yahoo.com>
Cabin John, MD - Tuesday, October 3, 2006 2:50 PM CDT
Karen, Benno, and Phoebe:
We think about you all the time. I hope that in the beauty of the long weekend you saw evidence that Clare is all around you.
Lise Beske <elizabethbeske@hotmail.com>
Bethesda, MD USA - Tuesday, October 3, 2006 1:33 PM CDT
Karen, Benno, and Phoebe, The courtyard at St. Patrick's sings with memories of sweet Clare. I think of her often as I climb the steps and feel her spirit in the breeze. She is such a compelling memory with her great maturity and selflessness, yet lovely childlike spirit. May we all be so fortunate to know people like her, and like the three of you. You are an inspiration and a reminder of what is meaningful in life.
Cherry Bourque <bbb2home@aol.com>
Washington, , DC USA - Tuesday, October 3, 2006 11:26 AM CDT
Dear Karen, Benno and Phobe,
I hope you found some peace at the beach this beautiful weekend and heard Clare's laughter in the wind and the waves.
Love,
Lauren
Lauren Cernea <lrhodas.md@verizon.net>
Bethesda, MD USA - Monday, October 2, 2006 3:50 PM CDT
Dear Schmidt family,
The memory I have of Clare's journey and the snippets of her life that I've gleaned from your journal and this guestbook will stay with me always. She touched so many of us, as does your family. May your bad memories fade away, and the sweet ones stay strong...Sending big cyber hugs,
Lisa, mom to Brian & Kevin (www.caringbridge.com/va/kevin) <ltignor@comcast.net>
Montclair, VA - Monday, October 2, 2006 8:30 AM CDT
Karen, Benno and Phoebe-
I cried when I found out that Clare had passed away and it seems like yesterday when I read that. It makes no sense and never will. I know Clare touched so many lives in a positive way. She is an inspiration to so many. I will say a special prayer tonight for her. I am working hard on fund raising this year re: the Light the Night.
With prayers,
Mike and Andy
I know Karen, Benno and Phoebe .. you have been in my heart and in my prayers .. I sense Clare smiling down and watching over your home as I pass by .. your joy as a family, your faith have enriched all who know you ..
Angela
Cabin John, - Saturday, September 30, 2006 6:12 PM CDT
.. you have been in my heart and in my prayers .. I sense Clare smiling down and watching over your home as I pass by .. your joy as a family, your faith have enriched all who know you ..
Angela
Cabin John, - Saturday, September 30, 2006 6:12 PM CDT
Michael E Vander Wyden <mevande@yahoo.com>
Carmel, IN 46033 - Sunday, October 1, 2006 6:59 PM CDT
Keeping you all in our prayers. Thank you for sharing your story with all of us. Clare touched so many lives that she will always be remembered for people all around the world.
Aurea Vila mom to Daniela <aureavila@cablevision.net.mx>
Mexico, D.F. Mexico - Sunday, October 1, 2006 12:45 AM CDT
Karen, Benno and Phoebe .. you have been in my heart and in my prayers .. I sense Clare smiling down and watching over your home as I pass by .. your joy as a family, your faith have enriched all who know you ..
Angela
Cabin John, - Saturday, September 30, 2006 6:12 PM CDT
Dear Karen, Benno, and Phoebe,
Those yellow flowers came back again this summer. I waited and watched, part of me hoping that they wouldn't. But, how could they not? We're expert weed growers. And Clare loved them. I cursed them and blessed them at the same time with wet eyes. Bob mowed around them. They seemed to stay for a long time. Then they were gone.
I opened the top of my jewelry box and saw the colorful rhinestone cat pin, the mouse pin next to it. Clare's favorites from my collection. My favorites too when I was her age. She knew where I kept everything. Have you ever seen a colorful rhinestone cat head chase a blue rhinestone mouse pin around a bedroom floor? Picture me there. Picture Clare.
On a particularly brave and perhaps desperate night, I opened my desk drawer and skimmed the files for a special one. The "Lisa" file, filled with miscellaneous papers of the heart. I found it the second time through. Folded in half. An undated drawing of a bug-eyed creature with round hands, stick fingers, and no feet. "MADE BY CLARE" written in bold letters. The left half of the paper is totally taken up by the letters and most of the drawing. One very long arm reaches arcoss the fold mark and a round, open hand is there. I couldn't remember when or why she gave it to me. But it was there, tucked away. I placed it back inside the folder. I knew I'd need to look at it again. And I did. And I will.
So, how am I doing? Cursing and blessing flowers, opening jewelry boxes, and digging through files. I find Clare and her smile there. And I hear her say "Do you think Bob's yellow flowers will come back again this year?"
Love, Lisa
Lisa Gappa-Norris <lisabobjoseph@aol.com>
Cabin John, MD USA - Saturday, September 30, 2006 1:37 PM CDT
Saying a prayer for your sweet Clare tonight...
Kim and Nicholas (ALL-Kids) www.caringbridge.org/oh/nicky <nicknzachmom@yahoo.com>
Avon, OH - Saturday, September 30, 2006 0:28 AM CDT
Karen, Benno, and Phoebe,
I will never forget Clare and her beads! Thinking of you all.
Aimee Glasgow <raglasgow@hotmail.com>
- Friday, September 29, 2006 9:18 PM CDT
Just wanted you to know that I am thinking of you all and dear Clare. You are always in my prayers.
Susan Holcomb <sholcs@verizon.net>
Bethesda, MD USA - Friday, September 29, 2006 9:13 PM CDT
Keeping you close in thought and love today and remembering your beloved Clare from your elequent CB journal and memories.
Her life has touched so many people and will continue to do so. May you find some peace for your family in the days ahead.
mary and alex ziegler (all kids) <mary.ziegler@comcast.net>
steilacoom, wa usa - Friday, September 29, 2006 8:41 PM CDT
We have learned too much from Clare and you to ever forget. We pray that all your memories of your sweet little daughter are happy ones.
Noelle, Claire & George <cgntal@optonline.net>
Morris Township, NJ USA - Friday, September 29, 2006 7:42 PM CDT
Thinking of you and remembering Clare on this special day. She will always be remembered, even though many of us only "know" her thru the pc.
hugs,
Heather, mom to Brianna dx ALL in remission, www.caringbridge.com/ny/mylittlesunshine, daughter to Pete, dx CLL. Currently undergoing sequential, stem cell transplant at BW in Boston, MA, www.caringbridge.org/visit/petek
Syracuse, NY USA - Friday, September 29, 2006 5:33 PM CDT
Thanks to Darlene M from ALL-KIDS for reminding us all that your beautiful Clare has been gone a year. I cannot believe it has been that long, yet, as a bereaved mother, I know how it can be one year and feel like one day. Keeping all of you in prayer as you travel through your grief journey. Thank you for sharing your beautiful daughter with all of us. She will forever live on in those whose lives she touched, whether closely or from a distance, such as the ALL-KIDS 'family'.
Georgia, mom to Shannon, dx 7/16/02, OT 9/17/04 www.caringbridge.org/pa/shannonsjourney and Shawn, Savannah, forever an angel, (stillborn 1/22/97) and Shayla <leukemiamom702@yahoo.com>
Normalville, PA USA - Friday, September 29, 2006 4:14 PM CDT
Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers today and always. Thank you for sharing Clare's life story with us.
Kelle, Mommy to Houston ALL Group <Dudlebug19@aol.com>
Lubbock, TX USA - Friday, September 29, 2006 3:53 PM CDT
Thinking and praying of you all, especially today. I'm smiling at Clare's bright spirit. Those of us fighting the leukemia or other cancer battles with our children all learn something from one another. From those whose children have passed, we learn something about how to face the unthinkable. The three of you have been such examples of faith and honesty and love through this year. Even more, from Clare I've learned a real and tangible lesson that a child's spirit doesn't leave us just because they have passed on. In your photos, your words, and sometimes the bright sun and gentle breezes, I feel Clare's spirit, her love and faith and smiles and sunny spirit. Her life had so much meaning and continues to touch so many. Blessings and prayers for you.
Beth, mom to Kyle (www.caringbridge.org/in/kylefacts) <bdehoff@iquest.net>
Indianapolis, IN USA - Friday, September 29, 2006 2:43 PM CDT
Thank you for sharing that beautiful journal entry with us. Clare is very much in our hearts, and our thoughts and prayers are with your family more than ever today.
With love,
Katie (Hayley, Hunter and Taylor's mom) <dugan2b@yahoo.com>
Franklin, MA - Friday, September 29, 2006 2:29 PM CDT
Thinking of you today - I still think of you often. I know we never met, but your girls always reminded me of my girls, and my heart just aches for Phoebe and how much she must miss her sister. A story that always makes me smile (through tears) is the one of Phoebe sitting outside Clare's radiation room and playing "mission control". I know she helped keep her sister brave and in good spirits throughout her treatment.
I'll never forget your unwavering support of your sweet girl, even in Clare's last few days. Clare lives on in all the children who have been through this fight, and I know she will never be forgotten, by any of us.
Take care,
Kathi (Melanie's Mom, ALL-Kids list) <mom2melanie@chartermi.net>
Cadillac, MI - Friday, September 29, 2006 12:30 AM CDT
I just want you to know that I am thinking about you guys today and praying hard for strength for your whole family. I am so sorry you are having to deal with this horrible anniversary.
Jessica Kerr (ALL-KIDS) <robzgurl27@yahoo.com>
birmingham, al - Friday, September 29, 2006 12:20 AM CDT
I am just dumbounded that an entire year has gone by .... Darlene M. posted a note on All-Kids and I thought, "No, it can't have been a year. That's not possible" ... but it has. One year, five, or twenty, I will never forget the inspiration you all were during Clare's transplant. I would come to this website and laugh and cry and feel so very touched by your caring for your beautiful daughters. Thank you, on this anniversary, for continuing to share her with the rest of us. I will be thinking about you today, even more than normal.
Kristie (ALL List) Kendrie's Page <kristieokc@cox.net>
Byron (Robins AFB), ga - Friday, September 29, 2006 11:36 AM CDT
Just want you to know that I have been thinking of you on this sad and difficult day. Thank you for your caringbridge updates; I am glad to hear that Phoebe is liking her new school, and that you are going out of town with friends this weekend -- you have an amazing group of them! As always, you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Mary Catherine Ruocco
Bethesda, MD USA - Friday, September 29, 2006 11:25 AM CDT
Thinking about you this week just a little more than the other days. Always with a prayer for all of you! How can a year seem so long and short at the same time? Bless your hearts. Hang in there. Love, love, love, Kris
kristin stinnett <stinnett7@sbcglobal.net>
independence, mo USA - Friday, September 29, 2006 10:44 AM CDT
thinking about you today and always. Much love and "peace" to you
Teresa(mommy to the greatest love of my life-Marcus-forever in my aching heart)
www.caringbridge.org/mn/markie
Teresa <trrn@sympatico.ca>
- Friday, September 29, 2006 10:16 AM CDT
One year. A milestone in the journey, which ever continues.
Special love today, and always,
Sana, Jim, Flanders, Alera
Shtasel-Kretz Family <shtasel@speakeasy.net>
Cabin John, MD 20818 - Friday, September 29, 2006 9:51 AM CDT
Thinking of you all on this Day, Our Clare, always in our hearts.
Cindy, Jim, Brandon and Kendall Z <cindy_Zammit@yahoo.com www.caringbridge.org/md/brandon214>
Damascus, MD - Friday, September 29, 2006 9:50 AM CDT
thinking of your wonderful family today and the memories you made with your sweet angel clare...She will never be forgotten...
melissa mom to baby donovan <meldardyl2000@yahoo.com>
Durham for now, - Friday, September 29, 2006 8:52 AM CDT
We are thinking of you and your family today. Thank you for sharing your lives with us; you are models of strength and grace, and you give us hope.
Kelli Brew
www.caringbridge.org/visit/benbrew
Kelli Brew <kellibrew@yahoo.com>
Gainesville, FL USA - Friday, September 29, 2006 8:40 AM CDT
Hi I am thinking of all of you on this difficult day. HUGS and prayers to you.
www.caringbridge.org/mn/alexisstern
Karen Stern <jandkstern@connections-etc.net>
Big Lake, MN - Friday, September 29, 2006 8:27 AM CDT
Karen,
I am thinking of your family today. Clare is one of God's special Angels and always in our hearts.
With love,
Nancy, Matthew's Mom
Nancy Vinson <nvinson@comcast.net>
- Friday, September 29, 2006 8:06 AM CDT
Thinking of you today and your brave little angel.
Kelley Fitzgerald (www.caringbridge.com/ny/lindsay)
Rochester, NY - Friday, September 29, 2006 7:56 AM CDT
This morning we were getting ready for school-the usual chaos that occurrs and Missy said, "I can't wait to show Claire my new socks-she is my patrol at lunch." Dave and I both paused and looked at each other-Dave said,"Today is the 29th." Clare came to our minds immediately and we all said a prayer for Clare and You, Benno and Phoebe. Please know we are holding you all in our thoughts and prayers today. Lots of hugs and love, Darlene
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Friday, September 29, 2006 7:26 AM CDT
As always, thinking of you and especially today.
Judy
Judy Brookes <judy@brookes.com>
CJ, MD - Friday, September 29, 2006 7:01 AM CDT
Rain started here last night, after a few brilliant autumn days. I slept fitfully, woke sad. And this morning, thoughts of Clare and your family. Just another stranger here in cyber-space echoing, "I remember Clare"--without ever having met her. Your precious girl and your stories of her touched so many of us.
Sending love and wishing you the best of memories,
Lauren
www.caringbridge.org/vt/fergus
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
East Montpelier, VT USA - Friday, September 29, 2006 6:02 AM CDT
A million hugs and kisses (and very big swings on our swings) to all of you today. Thinking of you often and always, especially today.
Your BNS Family
Wendie Guterl
Bethesda, MD USA - Friday, September 29, 2006 5:06 AM CDT
I don't know how many times I've started writing in your guestbook and then stopped...not knowing what to say or for lack of words to say it. Perhaps I worry that you'll think me a bit odd for having frequent thoughts of Clare, whom I never met. Sometimes I wonder if I am but a voyeur to your pain, so I remain silent for fear of hurting you more or catching you with another barbed memory.
Hurt more? That's not possible, is it? I remember Clare. I wept at her passing and have learned from her life. She helped me, a cyber-space disembodied presence. I am sorry for your loss and the depth of your grief. I am sorry for the sadness of this day and the lesson that you did not need to learn, especially Pheobe and all of Clare's friends.
Erica Hoelscher, mom to Zenus, ALL-kids <ebh2@lehigh.edu>
- Thursday, September 28, 2006 10:29 PM CDT
Thinking of you guys tonight - I imagine that tomorrow will be a difficult day. I still think of Clare often and her valiant fight to survive.
I was in the ICU / Surgery waiting room the other day and I was talking to one mom about your way of communicating with Clare when she was on the vent. I thought it was such a great way to communicate when she couldn't talk.
Sue (Katie's mom) canada/katiespage
Ottawa, Canada - Thursday, September 28, 2006 8:23 PM CDT
Dear Karen, Benno, and Phoebe,
I just wanted to send you a little note to let you know that I am thinking of you. Although I did not meet Clare, I know that she was part of a special and loving family. Sincerely, Erin
Erin Monroney <emonrone@ngs.org>
Arlington, VA U.S.A. - Thursday, September 28, 2006 5:18 PM CDT
Phoebe, Karen, and Benno,
I don't know if you listen to much country music, but every time Brad Paisley's song "When I Get Where I'm Going" comes on, my mind goes to Clare. It doesn't matter where I am, what I'm doing, or the fact that I never actually met Clare. I see her petting a lion, riding a drop of rain, and walking in step with Grandpa Bert. She is still seven years old, missing a tooth in the front, but she is happy and at peace.
Re-reading Robert's sermon tonight in the journal, I got another vision of Clare. She has taken her place at the pearly gates, and while St. Peter stands by with the keys, Clare is there to greet the newcomers "Hi, my name's Clare...welcome to my heaven. We're glad you're here...everything will be alright."
While I cannot imagine the pain you have lived through, and continue to struggle with, I am in awe of you all – not only for living through it, but living through it with grace, strength, and the wherewithal to share your journey with others. While you have mentioned many times in the journal how blessed you are by your community, please be assured that it is your community that is blessed by you.
Prayers, good wishes, and gentle thoughts are with you.
***********
When I Get Where I'm Going (Brad Paisley with Dolly Parton)
(Rivers Rutherford/George Teren)
When I get where I'm going
On the far side of the sky
The first thing that I'm gonna do
Is spread my wings and fly
I'm gonna land beside a lion
And run my fingers through his mane
Or I might find out what it's like
To ride a drop of rain
Yeah when I get where I'm going
There'll be only happy tears
I will shed the sins and struggles
I have carried all these years
And I'll leave my heart wide open
I will love and have no fear
Yeah when I get where I'm going
Don't cry for me down here
I'm gonna walk with my grand daddy
And he'll match me step for step
And I'll tell him how I missed him
Every minute since he left
Then I'll hug his neck
Yeah when I get where I'm going
There'll be only happy tears
I will shed the sins and struggles
I have carried all these years
And I'll leave my heart wide open
I will love and have no fear
Yeah when I get where I'm going
Don't cry for me down here
So much pain and so much darkness
In this world we stumble through
All these questions I can't answer
So much work to do
But when I get where I'm going
And I see my maker's face
I'll stand forever in the light
Of his amazing grace
Yeah when I get where I'm going
There'll be only happy tears
Hallelujah
I will love and have no fear
When I get where I'm going
Yeah when I get where I'm going
***********
Emily (McWhorter) Williams
Herrin, IL USA - Wednesday, September 27, 2006 11:30 PM CDT
My thoughts are with your famiy as you approach one year since Clare's passing. I imagine everyday is a painful struggle, but the first anniversary must bring feelings even closer to the surface. May God grant you the ability to cope, and to find a way see joy in life .
Love,
Michele ALL list
www.caringbridge.org/ny/brendan
Michele Miranda <missym004@yahoo.com>
Wantagh, NY USA - Monday, September 25, 2006 7:37 PM CDT
Thinking of you up here in Vermont, as leaves change and drift down in the winds. I grieve a little every autumn, more so since Fergus was diagnosed, and ever more since you lost Clare. Love and strength to all of you.
Lauren
www.caringbridge.org/vt/fergus
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
East Montpelier, VT USA - Monday, September 25, 2006 8:12 AM CDT
You all are in my thoughts today.
Suzanne Dimoff <vvsdad1@comcast.net>
Bethesda, MD USA - Sunday, September 24, 2006 2:11 PM CDT
Hi Karen, Benno ,and Pheobe,
I just wanted to drop by and say hello. I know it's been a long time since we last spoke/wrote. You all have been on my mind latly and I just wanted you to know that I havn't forgotten you guys. My thoughts and prayers are still with you everyday. Bruce is still doing well. He amazes me everyday. We are approaching his 1yr old. NEW birthday, Nov 1. Just thought you would like to know. Stay strong with the Lord and know We will never forget.
Love and miss you all...
Karey ( Bruce's Mom)
Karey Lunt <kareyllunt@yahoo.com>
Jessup, md USA - Saturday, September 23, 2006 6:24 PM CDT
Hello Karen, Phoebe and Benno,
I have been thinking of Clare more recently, maybe because of the anniversary now. It is unbelievable that Phoebe is starting middle school already, wow! It is a Jewish new year today and I hope that it will bring you peaceful and happy days. I am remembering Clare, always.
Love
Lola and Julia
- Saturday, September 23, 2006 2:29 PM CDT
Hi Benno, Karen and Pheobe, wow middle school that is such a big step,how is everyone doing? Lisa and I wanted to send you all something, we have been thinking so much of you all especially as the end of September is getting here. It's hard to know sometimes what the right thing is to do or say, it was such a difficult time, but we both agree that we feel so close to you right now and want you to know that we are carrying all of you in our hearts. As we went through it with you a year ago, we will be there with you again in our hearts and prayers. Your postings sound like Miss Pheobe is doing really well, she must have inherited that inner strength from her parents. I would love to hear from you all, take care, Love Denise Thomas
denise thomas <weezys4@yahoo.com>
alexandria, va - Friday, September 22, 2006 4:35 AM CDT
I am glad that Pheobe is enjoying school and had a great time at camp.
I just wanted to let you know that I am thinking of you all.
HUGS
www.caringbridge.org/mn/alexisstern
Karen Stern (all-kids) <jandkstern@connections-etc.net>
Big Lake, MN - Wednesday, September 20, 2006 10:18 AM CDT
{{{Karen}}}
I'm so glad that Phoebe adapts so well to new things. Middle school is a challenge, but I just love this age. They're still little ones in so many ways, but also showing such maturity. Her camp experience sounded wonderful and I know she will treasure the memories, as much as you'll treasure those letters (letters are one of the benefits of having daughters, I'm sure!)
Last night as we were watching one of those medical shows, there was a child on an ECMO machine. I was overcome with emotion, remembering Clare's fight so vividly... it's not like I've ever forgotten what she went through -- I think of her and you often -- but I guess it hits more fiercely with a trigger like that. I can only imagine how very hard something like Cam's death hit you, with the anniversary of Clare's coming up... I too am grieving with the Dalenes. Please know you all are often in my thoughts and prayers.
Sending lots of hugs,
Lisa, mom to Brian and Kevin (www.caringbridge.com/va/kevin) <ltignor@comcast.net>
Montclair, VA - Thursday, September 7, 2006 5:21 PM CDT
Hi, Karen. I still think of Clare and all of you. Grieving now with Juli for Cam, it made me think even more acutely of you, and I wanted to check in. I hate cancer, but what wonderful online friends it has brought to me. I'm praying for you in earnest.
Beth, Kyle's mom (www.caringbridge.org/in/kylefacts) <bdehoff@iquest.net>
Indianapolis, IN USA - Wednesday, September 6, 2006 11:13 PM CDT
Thanks for giving us even a glimpse of the effort it takes to keep moving forward. I am so glad Phoebe had a wonderful time at camp, and I can just imagine how much joy her letters brought you. I think of you daily, and wish you all the strength that can be mustered as you weather this month and anniversary of losing Clare. Fergus started reading his first Magic Treehouse books this summer, and I thought of your journal, and Clare enjoying them. Amazing that I never met her, yet her smile pops up in so many places in my life.
Lauren
www.caringbridge.org/vt/fergus
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
East Montpelier, VT USA - Wednesday, September 6, 2006 7:20 AM CDT
sending some hugs your way. Know that you are always in my thoughts and prayers. Love Darlene
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Tuesday, September 5, 2006 5:21 AM CDT
It's September and Clare is very much on my mind. She is still so loved and so missed, even by those of us that never had the privilege of meeting her face to face.
Karen, Benno, and Phoebe, you are always in our thoughts and prayers.
Lots of love
Katie (Hayley, Hunter and Taylor's mom) <dugan2b@yahoo.com>
Franklin, MA - Monday, September 4, 2006 10:48 PM CDT
Hey you guys! Thinking of you always. You know I can't imagine how quiet your house must be daily, but even quieter when Phoebe was at camp. Thinking about you all are going thru (and have been thru) gives me patience and strength to wrangle my very small annoyances/daily struggles. Hang in there as this anniversary month looms. Will be with you in thought and prayer continually. Take care. :) Kris
kristin stinnett <stinnett7@sbcglobal.net>
independence, mo USA - Monday, September 4, 2006 10:33 PM CDT
We are all thinking and praying for you particularly during September because of Clare's birthday. Lots and lots of love, Sara
Sara Flynn Murphy <sflynnmurphy@aol.com>
Washington, DC US - Monday, September 4, 2006 3:28 PM CDT
I havent signed in a while but wanted to say a special belated happy bday to your daughter that doesnt go unfrogotten. I love reading your journals and look to you alot since we are going through this difficult time with Donovan. How cool of the LLS to have a sponsored swim in honor of CLare that is so cool...I am so glad it was a greatly attended. thank you for continually checking on us
melissa Rasmussem (all-kids) www.caringbridge.org/in/babydonovan <meldardyl2000@yahoo.com>
- Friday, September 1, 2006 10:36 AM CDT
I have visited your several times prior to this but lost track of the address. Today I saw your posting on Baby D's site and it reminded me of what the site address was. I think of your family from time to time--there are so many families that I have come in contact with briefly since first being introduced to a CaringBridge site. Each time I have visited your site I have been impressed with the way that you express yourselves, and the gentleness that flows through what you share is very soothing. I am sure that anyone who visits this site will be inspired to make the most of every moment with their child/family, and will benefit from your sharing Clare with us all. May GOD continue to go with you all, and may He continue to provide you with a community of support.
Kristi Gerdon <kgerdon@widrick.com>
Croghan, NY - Tuesday, August 29, 2006 2:55 PM CDT
Just checking in to see how you're all doing, keeping busy with the start of the new school year. Thanks for checking in on us.
Alison (mom to Adrienne) <alison95070@yahoo.com>
Henderson, NV USA - Monday, August 28, 2006 6:17 PM CDT
We're thinking of you all.
Tobi & Bruce
CT - Monday, August 28, 2006 7:15 AM CDT
Way to go Phoebe! 100 lengths of love and determination.
Thinking of you and Clare,
Beth Lennox <ejlennox@cox.net>
Newport News, VA - Monday, August 21, 2006 7:48 AM CDT
Karen,
Thinking of your family as the kids head back to school. How difficult.
It's encouraging to read how well Pheobe is doing in spite of losing Clare. Hoping Pheobe has a great school year surrounded by lots of friends, but only a little homework!
Michele ALL list
www.cringbridge.org/ny/brendan
Michele Miranda <missym004@yahoo.com>
Wantagh, NY USA - Sunday, August 20, 2006 9:40 PM CDT
I was thinking about you guys as we get ready for another school year. It is such a poignant time of year for parents. I was very happy to read about your summer and the 100 lengths! Please come and visit us if you get a chance. We'd love to see you. As always, let us know if there is any way we can help. Sincerely, Sara
Sara Flynn Murphy <sflynnmurphy@aol.com>
Washington, DC US - Sunday, August 20, 2006 6:50 AM CDT
Just wanted to let you know that I was thinking of all of you and sending hugs and prayers your way.
www.caringbridge.org/mn/alexisstern
Karen Stern (all-kids) <jandkstern@connections-etc.net>
Big Lake, Mn - Friday, August 18, 2006 3:45 PM CDT
Karen:
Sending warm fuzzy thoughts your way...
Thnking of you, Benno and Pheobe, and hoping you continue to be well.
Hugs from Texas--
Kandis and Olivia
kandis jones <kandiskjones@hotmail.com>
mckinney, tx - Thursday, August 10, 2006 9:15 PM CDT
Thanks for coming over to Wes' site to check on him (and us). Happy Birthday to your beloved little Angel Clare. Way to go Phoebe on the swimming. It is scary enough for me to just put a bathing suit on let alone swim laps. You go girl! :-) Don't know if you have ever visited Angel Jacob's site in Fla but wow his mom writes some powerful stuff about their grief but moreso about their hope and the gifts that they have received along the journey. I often felt like we were all there in the ICU with you and that I wanted to hug your daughter and hold her and help her through it all. Funny how this computer can bring complete strangers together with such an immediate bond. Please know that your family is still carried in prayer. God Bless and again thank you for visiting Wes. It means so much to me.
THe Millers: Bob, DIane, Wesley, Matt and Ben
North East, MD - Thursday, August 10, 2006 8:50 PM CDT
I saw Phoebe at the pool yesterday and I was delighted to see her smiling and frolicking with her friends. It made me smile and think of all of you. Clare's garden at the pool is so sweet and I visit it often (but after my allowed 10 laps, not 100 this year! Go Phoebe!).
Hope to see you in class in the fall, selfish of me but I've missed you!
Judy <judy@brookes.com>
CJ, MD - Thursday, August 10, 2006 3:06 PM CDT
I wanted to let you all know I was thinking about you and Clare. Shane and I spent a few nights in Four Yellow last week due to a bacterial infection in his lungs and the memories of last summer came back to me.
Kim Chazin <kchazin@hotmail.com>
Pooelsville, MD - Wednesday, August 9, 2006 2:38 PM CDT
Just checking in on this hot August day even though I am lucky enough to see you often at St. Patrick's. It just helps somehow to come to the website, sit and read, cry and laugh. Much love and thanks ever so much for keeping on, keeping on.
Betty McWhorter <esmpat@aol.com>
Washington , DC USA - Wednesday, August 2, 2006 3:01 PM CDT
We're thinking of you all.
Tobi & Bruce
CT - Wednesday, July 26, 2006 8:04 AM CDT
Arms around you.
Jane Snell Copes
Inver Grove Heights, MN USA - Tuesday, July 25, 2006 9:58 PM CDT
Karen, Benno and Phoebe, I think of your sweet Clare so often--her smile was delightful and truly made the room glow. She provided such clarity and strength to all the lives she touched. Phoebe, WOW, fantastic, 100 laps totally terrific:)!! I know Clare was right there swimming with you, she adored you and spoke with such love for her big sister. Continuing my prayers and Hugs for a special family.
Dianne---Pain RN
Washington DC, USA - Tuesday, July 25, 2006 3:19 PM CDT
Thoughts of your family during this most difficult time. May your memories provide some comfort.
I am a knitter, and everytime I pick up my needles I think of Clare. She is not forgotten.
Michele ALL KIDS
www.caringbridge.org/ny/brendan
Michele Miranda <missym004@yahoo.com>
Wantagh, NY USA - Tuesday, July 25, 2006 0:03 AM CDT
Thinking of you all and sending hugs and prayers...
Heather and Brianna, www.caringbridge.com/ny/mylittlesunshine
Syracuse, NY USA - Monday, July 24, 2006 10:32 PM CDT
Hi Karen, keeping you, Phoebe and Benno in our thoughts during this time. Hey, Clare must be having such a great time on her birthday with all the other angels - can you just see how happy she is, laughing and smiling all the way??
Hugs from afar,
Ann <annlatimer@optusnet.com.au>
Sydney, NSW Australia - Monday, July 24, 2006 3:26 PM CDT
Thinking of you on Angel Clare's birthday. I wish I could give you a hug in person.
Love,
Nancy
Nancy Vinson <nvinson@comcast.net>
- Monday, July 24, 2006 11:58 AM CDT
Hi Karen, Yes, I've been getting your messages. The comments only appear on the page where they were posted (if that makes sense).
I'm glad to hear that Phoebe is doing so well and that you are all coping. You have an amazing strength.
Thanks for checking in with us regularly. We take things a day at a time.
Alison (Adrienne's mom) <alison95070@yahoo.com>
Henderson, NV USA - Monday, July 24, 2006 9:08 AM CDT
Thinking of you ..... what a great job Phoebe did with her swim team! She *should* be very proud of herself, and very tired, too! :) Just know that we're keeping your family in our thoughts,
Kristie Kendrie's Page <kristieokc@cox.net>
Byron (Robins AFB), GA - Monday, July 24, 2006 6:32 AM CDT
Thinking of you all and especially your sweet angel.
Kim and Nicholas (ALL-kids) www.caringbridge.org/oh/nicky <nicknzachmom@yahoo.com>
Avon, OH - Monday, July 24, 2006 1:48 AM CDT
Karen, Benno and Phoebe,
What a difficult time this must be. Been thinking of our Birthday girl. I bet she has been planning what she is doing for a while now. A very long long year for all of you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you always, but especially this week. Hugs to all of you, Phoebe, great job on the swimming. You go girl!!
Cindy, Jim, Brandon and Kendall <cindy_Zammit@yahoo.com www.caringbridge.org/md/brandon214>
Damascus, MD - Sunday, July 23, 2006 2:53 PM CDT
Dear Benno, Karen and Phoebe,
It was so nice to meet you all last month. I wish your visit could have been longer and that we could have chatted a little more....next time, I hope. I hope your visit to the Springs was nice! Congratulations to Phoebe on her swimming!! That is so great! She's such a beautiful and strong girl.
We are all here thinking of you today, singing Happy Birthday to Clare. It's so weird, knowing that I never met her but I still feel so close to her and to you. I want you to know you all are never far from my thoughts and my heart...this day and everyday.
All our love and prayers,
Troy, Andrea, Jack and Samuel Schultz
Andrea <ams031804@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, July 23, 2006 1:44 PM CDT
We know that today is a tough one for you and we wanted you to know that we often think of you and Clare.
Happy Birthday Clare.
Noelle, Claire & George <cgntal@optonline.net>
Morris Township, NJ USA - Sunday, July 23, 2006 10:15 AM CDT
We wanted to let you know we are thinking of Clare,Phoebe, You and Benno today. We went to Carrabas for dinner the other night in Frederick and Missy said, "I love this place, it always makes me think of Clare." I just started to cry. Out of the mouths of babes.
Phoebe-you rock!! Keep swimming and we hope you have a great time at Camp-I know the kids will miss you at Camp Friendship-maybe another year. Have a great time and ride those ponies!!
We would love to have you all over-the summer is sneaking by! Please know how much we are thinking of you today and how much we love you all. We hope Clare is having one heck of a party in heaven today.
Love The Melkonians
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Sunday, July 23, 2006 9:46 AM CDT
Happy Birthday, sweet Clare. I'm not one to spend much time looking for things to be other than they are, but as I read your post I cried again at the sheer wretchedness of Clare not being with you to celebrate turning 8. I hope today is a day filled with as many smiles as tears. Lots of memories of your bright and shining girl.
Phoebe, that is so cool that your swim team keeps raising money for LLS. I learned to swim all over again this year so I could do a Team in Training triathlon. With hard work, I could do the 70 or so lengths I needed for my event. One hundred lengths is exhausting for me to even think about! Once again, we get to see what an amazing big sister you are.
Hugs and loving thoughts heading your way, today more than ever.
Lauren
www.caringbridge.org/vt/fergus
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
East Montpelier, VT USA - Sunday, July 23, 2006 7:10 AM CDT
We're going to miss you at Bannockburn. Thanks for your post.
Love, Ross aka Mr. Mills
Ross Mills <rossmills3@aol.com>
Deer Isle, Me USA - Sunday, July 23, 2006 0:17 AM CDT
Dear Karen,
I just wanted you to know that you, Benno, Phoebe and Clare are thought of often. Anniversary dates are certainly hard but then again, every day is hard. I just read a very good book called "Beyond Tears" that was written by a group of bereaved parents. I believe that at one time, they all participated in the support group, "Compassionate Friends". I believe you could find it in Borders Books if you are interested. I found it insightful and comforting and very honest.
My thoughts are with you at this very difficult time of year. Take care of yourselves.
With love,
Donna Guarton (ALL-KIDS) www.caringbridge.org/ny/mollyg
Donna Guarton <dguarton@aol.com>
N. Bellmore, NY USA - Saturday, July 22, 2006 9:26 PM CDT
Happy Birthday, Clare. Phoebe, you are an awesome big sister! What a great swimmer you must be, too. (I know I could not swim 100 laps.) You should be very proud of everything you've done for your sister and your family.
I know that Clare knew how much she is loved.
Love's Lantern
By Joyce Kilmer
Because the road was steep and long
And through a dark and lonely land,
God set upon my lips a song
And put a lantern in my hand.
Through miles on weary miles of night
That stretch relentless in my way
My lantern burns serene and white,
An unexhausted cup of day.
O golden lights and lights like wine,
How dim your boasted splendors are.
Behold this little lamp of mine;
It is more starlike than a star!
Erica Hoelscher, ALL-kids <ebh2@lehigh.edu>
- Saturday, July 22, 2006 1:37 PM CDT
Hi -- I think of you often -- you are all in my prayers. Our Lady still holds your names. I keep a sticky note next to my computer at work with Clare's name on it to keep me mindful -- of clarity, and strength.
Christine Rathbun <christinerathbun@hotmail.com>
Forestdale, MA - Saturday, July 22, 2006 0:46 AM CDT
I just like to check in now and then and let you know that Clare's life still sweetly touches so many lives on earth even as her spirit soars free. I hope Phoebe's swim team is going well. Blessings to you all.
Beth (www.caringbridge.org/in/kylefacts) <bdehoff@iquest.net>
Indianapolis, IN USA - Tuesday, July 18, 2006 11:59 PM CDT
Dear Karen, Benno, and Phoebe,
There is not a day that goes by that you -- your courage, and grace, and faith, and love -- are not in our minds and hearts. But, today. And this week. And the birthday. And the months' coming. Please know that Clare's star shines ever brighter -- and the hope you let us share continues to sustain. We love you all -- and send thanks beyond words for helping our family during the past weeks (when you had plenty to deal with of your own).
Sana, Jim, Flanders and Alera <shtasel@speakeasy.net>
Cabin John, MD USA - Tuesday, July 18, 2006 9:04 PM CDT
Dear Phoebe, Karen and Benno,
I've be thinking about you all day. Mostly I've been thinking about Clare, the bravest girl I've ever known, and Phoebe, the most phabulous sister! Love to you all.
Lynda Allen <callen@toad.net>
Baltimore, MD USA - Tuesday, July 18, 2006 3:46 PM CDT
Argh. July...so many hard dates. Tomorrow is transplant day +365. So much anticpation last year, so hard to even get through this year. Taking my buddy Angus for walks helped last year and we are walking this summer. Love you.
Kathleen Black & Angus
Cabin John, MD - Monday, July 17, 2006 4:42 PM CDT
Thinking of Clare today so thought I would view pictures today. Think of you all often. Hope Phoebe is having a great summer.
Take care
Cindy Szparaga <cszparaga@comcast.net>
Bethesda, MD USA - Sunday, July 16, 2006 12:09 AM CDT
Just remembering today how packed with significant dates and poignant memories this summer must be for you all. Hope you are hanging on to each other, finding moments to smile, and feeling the love and support that still heads your way.
Lauren
www.caringbridge.org/vt/fergus
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
East Montpelier, VT USA - Saturday, July 15, 2006 1:42 PM CDT
I still think of all of you every day, and should probably tell you that more often.
Lauren
www.caringbridge.org/vt/fergus
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
East Montpelier, VT USA - Friday, July 7, 2006 10:01 PM CDT
Thinking of your family and Clare,
Lisa, mom to Brian & Kevin (www.caringbridge.com/va/kevin) <ltignor@comcast.net>
Montclair, VA - Thursday, July 6, 2006 3:23 PM CDT
Hi Karen and Benno,
Good to see you, but it's already been a month since that time...let's do it again. Hope you're still putting one foot in front of the other, a day at a time.
Cindy, Jim, Brandon and Kendall <cindy_Zammit@yahoo.com www.caringbridge.org/md/brandon214>
damascus, MD - Monday, July 3, 2006 6:54 PM CDT
Karen,
You and Clare popped into my head today, so I thought I'd stop by to let you know I'm thinking of you both.
Matthew made it home from DC safe and sound...thank you so very much for your kind "I'm here if he needs me" offer! It meant the world to me to know you were there "just in case"!
Always in my thoughts,
Nancy, Matthew's Mom
Nancy Vinson <nvinson@comcast.net>
- Tuesday, June 27, 2006 8:32 AM CDT
It was right about this time last year that things were gearing up. Relapse chemo underway, some radiation completed, big family meeting, days leading up to bmt admission and one last vacation. Right about this time I found your page and dear Clare's story; right after my son had been discharged from his 32-day hospital stay for tx complications. One year ago. In one way it seems like forever ago, but the pain, sorrow, fear, loss is ready to well up in me at any time. And your loss? I cannot comprehend the depths of your heartache and the senseless finality of a life cut so short. I know you have to wonder "what if" and "how could it be so?" One thing I can assure you of is that you did the very best you could and it was all that Clare needed of you.
Blessed be,
Erica Hoelscher, mom to Zenus, pre-B ALL dx 2/14/05 <ebh2@lehigh.edu>
- Monday, June 26, 2006 9:54 PM CDT
Remembering Sweet Clare here in CA,
XXOO, Marey, Ali's mom
Marey <kteachermom@hotmail.com>
- Monday, June 26, 2006 7:20 PM CDT
Hi Everyone, this is Denise Thomas, it is a particularly crazy yet thoughtful night here at Children's, we have 4 kids on the pump and like always it brings Clare to my mind. How is everyone doing? Pheobe must be out of school for summer break. How is her swimming going. I know the next couple of monthes will be difficult for you all, but I want to let you know my prayers, heart and love are with you. Love Denise T
Denise Thomas <weezys4@yahoo.com>
- Saturday, June 24, 2006 1:00 AM CDT
I watched "Lion in the House" this morning since we have been gone-the little girl Alex just reminded me of Clare and she is so much on my mind and heart today. Hugs to all of you and hopefully we will see you soon. Love Darlene
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Thursday, June 22, 2006 4:01 PM CDT
Just thinking of you all a lot lately. Sweet Clare's spirit is just so present in so many ways and places and people she never physically met. You are in my prayers. May you find some moments of joy in your summer and may it remind you of your sunshine girl beside you always.
Beth (www.caringbridge.org/in/kylefacts) <bdehoff@iquest.net>
Indianapolis, IN USA - Wednesday, June 21, 2006 6:52 PM CDT
We never stop thinking of you all...
Love, Jaime
Jaime Fishman
- Sunday, June 18, 2006 8:31 PM CDT
Thinking of you all this Father's Day. Benno, you are a terrific father, and an inspiration to all of us.
Lise Beske <elizabethbeske@hotmail.com>
Bethesda, MD - Sunday, June 18, 2006 7:41 PM CDT
As my son Max (ALL) continues with his battle, I find myself thinking of your family often and always feel compelled to check-in. Although we have never met, I guess all of us in this exlusive "club" feel a connection to one another. And since we live so close, I know that we've walked down the same hallways and turned to the same doctors and nurses for help. I cannot truly comprehend your loss, but I do admire your strength and courage to carry on. Please know that Clare's spirit continues to touch so many people....even those of us who only got the chance to know her through the entries on this website. I wish your family lots of strength and peace as you continue on your journey....
Jamie Bass <jamiebass@verizon.net>
Gaithersburg, MD USA - Friday, June 16, 2006 8:10 PM CDT
Today I'm thinking about the 1000 cranes and all they represent. I hope that the crane's beauty will lift you up and lighten your hearts too.
"I shall write peace upon your wings, and you shall fly around the world so that children will suffer no more."
Amen
Erica Hoelscher, ALL-kids <ebh2@lehigh.edu>
- Wednesday, June 14, 2006 9:53 PM CDT
Hi guys. I was so glad to hear from you on Bruces website. I miss you guys. I was hoping you could make it to Bruces party, but I understand the need to get away. Please continue to take care of one another and trust in the Lord. God Bless !
If you get a chance give us a call ...we would love to talk to you guys/ 410-799-0464
Karey Lunt ( Bruces mom) <kareyllunt@yahoo.com>
Jessup , MD US - Tuesday, June 13, 2006 12:00 AM CDT
Hello! I wrote you an e-mail as well but I just wanted to say hi and let you know that you are in our thoughts in prayers!
Kristin Johnson <divertigozzy@gmail.com>
Odenton, Md UsA - Tuesday, June 13, 2006 11:08 AM CDT
The pig roast was great fun this weekend but I was reminded of our girl and last year when we had "Clare's Pig" because she was on steroids and was very hungry. Sweet memories of a sad time. Some days are easier than others but the three of you manage to do much more than just put one foot in front of another and carry on. It keeps the rest of us doing the same and marvelling in your strength.
Love.
Kathleen Black
Cabin John, MD - Monday, June 12, 2006 4:34 PM CDT
Just stopping by to let you know I'm thinking of your family...
Lisa Tignor, Mom to Brian, ALL survivor, and Kevin, relapsed ALL, off treatment November 2005 <ltignor@comcast.net>
Montclair, VA - Monday, June 12, 2006 12:52 AM CDT
Thinking of you today as always. Thanks for the visit and support you now give us.
XOXOXOXO
Melanie
melanie Moll <mfrostmoll@earthlink.net>
- Sunday, June 11, 2006 2:07 PM CDT
I just reread the whole journal again. Today is my sister's birthday and I was thinking about Clare and Phoebe. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Please let us know if there is anything we can do. Sara
Sara Flynn Murphy <sflynnmurpphy@aol.com>
- Sunday, June 11, 2006 9:08 AM CDT
Hi! The weather has been so lovely these past few days. It has made me think a lot about Clare and of you all . We hope you have good plans for the summer. Please let us know if you would like a visit or if there is anything we can do to make you more comfortable or happy. We will be here in DC all summer. You are always in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Sara,Honor,Kevin and Coal the puppy.
Sara Flynn Murphy <sflynnmurpphy@aol.com>
Washington, dc - Sunday, June 11, 2006 8:33 AM CDT
Thinking of you all with love from Baltimore.
The Allens -- Lynda, Chris, Lucie & Sophie <callen@toad.net>
Baltimore, MD USA - Tuesday, June 6, 2006 7:17 PM CDT
Karen: Thank you for checking on us--we peek in on you as well...
Praying for peace and strength for us all. Many hugs to you and sweet Phoebe,
Kandis and Olivia
kandis jones <kandisjones@hotmail.com>
mckinney, tx - Monday, June 5, 2006 11:22 PM CDT
Clare and the rest of your family has been on my mind. Glad to see you are still updating this site. It is always nice to come here to see the beautiful photos of Clare.
Thinking of you,
Tiffany O'Neil - mom to Jackson and Faith <jetoneil@yahoo.com>
Rohnert Park, CA - Monday, June 5, 2006 3:59 PM CDT
Thank you for continuing the journal and guestbook. So many people care how you are doing. It must be incredibly hard to adjust to a world without Clare. Thinking of you and praying for strength for your family for all the days yet to come.
Dot Coltrane <dotcoltrane@bellsouth.net>
Atlanta, GA USA - Friday, June 2, 2006 8:34 PM CDT
Thinking of you today.
Tina & Lance <lancejrmommy@comcast.net>
- Monday, May 29, 2006 1:12 PM CDT
Just wanted to say hi and thinking of you...
(((((((cyber hugs))))
Heather and Brianna, www.caringbridge.com/ny/mylittlesunshine
Syracuse, NY USA - Thursday, May 25, 2006 8:18 PM CDT
Just wanted you to know that I was thinking of you. HUGS.
www.caringbridge.org/mn/alexisstern
Karen Stern all-kids <jandkstern@connections-etc.net>
Big Lake, MN - Tuesday, May 23, 2006 5:41 PM CDT
Thinking of you all.
Angela *www.friendsofallie.org*
- Monday, May 22, 2006 1:28 PM CDT
Greetings from Memphis. I'm about 36 hours away from my TNT triathlon, and thinking of Clare and your family more and more. Her name will be on my jersey, and her smiling-while-running charm on my mind.
Lauren
www.caringbridge.org/vt/fergus
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
East Montpelier, VT USA - Friday, May 19, 2006 10:28 PM CDT
We are happy to see that you are still updating Clare's page. She and you are often in our thoughts and prayers. We hope that the one day at a time brings you peace, happiness and nothing but joyfull memories of your sweet little girl.
Noelle, Claire & George <cgntal@optonline.net>
Morris Township, NJ USA - Tuesday, May 16, 2006 12:34 AM CDT
I can only imagine how hard all the anniversaries are, and will be, for a very long time if not forever. I am sure that Mother's Day was especially hard....{{{Karen}}} I hope that your day was filled with family and friends.
It is good to hear that Phoebe is up to some normal things. I pray that you all find some bit of comfort from the memorials at school and at the pool. Clare will be remembered fondly by so many of us.
God Bless,
Lisa Tignor, Mom to Brian, ALL survivor and Kevin, relapsed ALL survivor, off treatment 11/05 (www.caringbridge.com/va/kevin) <ltignor@comcast.net>
Montclair, VA - Monday, May 15, 2006 11:05 PM CDT
I'm thinking of you all, and hoping you made it through the first of these painful dates, clinging to each other and the sweetest of your memories of Clare.
Lauren
www.caringbridge.org/vt/fergus
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
East Montpelier, VT USA - Monday, May 15, 2006 8:03 AM CDT
We love you guys!
Love,
Melanie, Kevin, Alex and Andrew
Melanie Moll <mfrostmoll@earthlink.net>
- Saturday, May 13, 2006 9:22 PM CDT
We're thinking of you today.
Tobi & Bruce
Sherman, CT - Saturday, May 13, 2006 6:23 PM CDT
Thinking of you especially today.
Lise & Gavin Beske
Lise Beske <elizabethbeske@hotmail.com>
Bethesda, MD USA - Saturday, May 13, 2006 2:53 PM CDT
I'm so glad you posted to let us know how you're doing, even though things are so difficult for you. It sounds like Phoebe is doing well. Wow, off to middle school next year. What a great accomplishment.
We really appreciate you visiting Adrienne's blog and leaving messages of encouragement. We too take each day at a time.
Love, Alison (mom to Adrienne)
Alison <garnett@garnettgrp.com>
Saratoga, CA USA - Saturday, May 13, 2006 10:04 AM CDT
I can't even imagine how tough each day is to get through, but I am sure tomorrow will be even more of a challenge. Please know that we think of you all everyday, but we will be holding you close to our hearts tomorrow and pray for strength for all three of you.Love Darlene
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Friday, May 12, 2006 12:45 AM CDT
I have thought of saying that I wish I could take away the anguish. But I worry that in doing so I would also be taking away the joy and blessings of Clare in your lives. I know there are no words that can stop time that can let you hang suspended in a moment. Perhaps that is what I wish for you - that you could be in an instant and not have to face what's next. But I worry that would mean the destruction of your will and your right to choose.
What I wish for is the impossible possibilities of going and staying at the same time. I wish to not put into words my thoughts of you that hold you in a light where Clare can be too; all of you free from pain. Today, tomorrow, these days, weeks, months to come that bring back all that was in a flood, may it not drown you. If I, a stranger, can buoy you up from a distance, by sheer determination and compassion, with no action on your part, then perhaps there is some reason to being.
Erica Hoelscher, mom to Zenus, age 2.5, pre-B ALL dx 2/14/05 <ebh2@lehigh.edu>
Bethlehem, PA - Friday, May 12, 2006 10:36 AM CDT
Venus Transiens
Tell me,
Was Venus more beautiful
Than you are,
When she topped
The crinkled waves,
Drifting shoreward
On her plaited shell?
Was Botticelli's vision
Fairer than mine;
And were the painted rosebuds
He tossed his lady,
Of better worth
Than the words I blow about you
To cover your too great loveliness
As with a gauze
Of misted silver?
For me
You stand poised
In the blue and buoyant air,
Cinctured by bright winds,
Treading the sunlight.
And the waves which precede you
Ripple and stir
The sands at my feet.
~Amy Lowell
Erica <ebh2@lehigh.edu>
- Thursday, May 11, 2006 9:59 PM CDT
She Walks In Beauty
She walks in beauty, like the night
Of cloudless climes and starry skies;
And all that's best of dark and bright
Meet in her aspect and her eyes:
Thus mellow'd to that tender light
Which heaven to gaudy day denies.
One shade the more, one ray the less,
Had half impair'd the nameless grace
Which waves in every raven tress,
Or softly lightens o'er her face;
Where thoughts serenely sweet express
How pure, how dear their dwelling place.
And on that cheek, and o'er that brow,
So soft, so calm, yet eloquent,
The smiles that win, the tints that glow,
But tell of days in goodness spent,
A mind at peace with all below,
A heart whose love is innocent!
~Lord Byron
Erica <ebh2@lehigh.edu>
- Wednesday, May 10, 2006 10:18 PM CDT
Parted
Farewell to one now silenced quite,
Sent out of hearing, out of sight,--
My friend of friends, whom I shall miss,
He is not banished, though, for this,--
Nor he, nor sadness, nor delight.
Though I shall talk with him no more,
A low voice sounds upon the shore.
He must not watch my resting-place,
But who shall drive a mournful face
From the sad winds about my door?
I shall not hear his voice complain,
But who shall stop the patient rain?
His tears must not disturb my heart,
But who shall change the years and part
The world from any thought of pain?
Although my life is left so dim,
The morning crowns the mountain-rim;
Joy is not gone from summer skies,
Nor innocence from children's eyes,
And all of these things are part of him.
He is not banished, for the showers
Yet wake this green warm earth of ours.
How can the summer but be sweet?
I shall not have him at my feet,
And yet my feet are on the flowers.
~Alice Meynell
Erica <ebh2@lehigh.edu>
- Tuesday, May 9, 2006 9:15 PM CDT
So glad to have an update from you. I continue with prayers for strength through these difficult days and nights.
Beth Lennox <ejlennox@cox.net>
Newport News, VA - Tuesday, May 9, 2006 6:49 PM CDT
I think of you often and especially on Monday and Friday mornings. Karen, I hope you can find the strength to come back to class once in awhile. Selfish of me because I want to see you but I am hoping that it will help strengthen your heart and soul (plus your muscles!).
Judy <judy@brookes.com>
CJ, MD - Tuesday, May 9, 2006 4:23 PM CDT
One up, one down, motion with emotion is the name of the game. You keep doing it and just keep doing it knowing that you have all our love and support.
Brams Family
kim brams <kimbrams@aol.com>
bethesda, md usa - Tuesday, May 9, 2006 8:19 AM CDT
To a Poet a Thousand Years Hence
I who am dead a thousand years,
And wrote this sweet archaic song,
Send you my words for messengers
The way I shall not pass along.
I care not if you bridge the seas,
Or ride secure in the cruel sky,
Or build consummate palaces
Of metal or of masonry.
But have you wine and music still,
And statues and a bright-eyed love,
And foolish thoughts of good and ill,
And prayers to them who sit above?
How shall we conquer? Like a wind
That falls at eve our fancies blow,
And old Maeonides the blind
Said it three thousand years ago,
O friend unseen, unborn, unknown,
Student of our sweet English tongue,
Read out my words at night, alone:
I was a poet, I was young.
Since I can never see your face,
And never shake you by the hand,
I send my soul through time and space
To greet you. You will understand.
~James Elroy Flecker
Erica <ebh2@lehigh.edu>
- Monday, May 8, 2006 9:22 PM CDT
The disolution of the world proovd from the mortallity of every part
By Lucy Hutchinson
And (Memmius) least you thinke I false grounds lay,
When I of fire, ayre, earth and water, say
That each of them is mortall, dayly dies
And doth againe from dissolutions rise.
First know, parts of the earth with the suns heate
Scorcht dayly, and worne out with trav'lers feete,
Exhale thick clouds of dust, which every where
Blowne with wild winds, are scattered into ayre.
Part of the furrows wast with every showre,
And the encroaching floods their banks devoure.
Earth for her part made by her fruitfull womb
The general mother, is the common tomb.
Soe wasts she all which there have birth or food,
Soe is herselfe diminisht and renewd.
Erica <ebh2@lehigh.edu>
- Sunday, May 7, 2006 4:07 PM CDT
Karen, I wanted to come by yesterday to leave a note and finally found the time and courage to come by.
I knew it was getting close to the 'crapaversy' (new word invented courtesy of Momma Audra) and felt a strong pull to leave you some support and good words to keep in your soul for the week. I know it will take about a million of them to help lift you up these coming days.
I look at my little girl spinning around and singing.
I weep that your little one is gone from your hugs, now vespers of air glinting in the moon beams of your memories that you keep close to your heart.
Please know that I send you prayers of strength, love and courage for all that your heart can hold.
Thinking of you.......Regina
Regina, mom to Madie <r.ice@comcast.net>
Snellville, GA US - Saturday, May 6, 2006 9:52 PM CDT
A Noiseless Patient Spider
A noiseless, patient spider,
I mark'd, where, on a little promontory, it stood, isolated;
Mark'd how, to explore the vacant, vast surrounding,
It launch'd forth filament, filament, filament, out of itself;
Ever unreeling them--ever tirelessly speeding them.
And you, O my Soul, where you stand,
Surrounded, surrounded, in measureless oceans of space,
Ceaselessly musing, venturing, throwing,--seeking the spheres, to
connect them;
Till the bridge you will need, be form'd--till the ductile anchor hold;
Till the gossamer thread you fling, catch somewhere, O my Soul.
~Walt Whitman
Erica <ebh2@lehigh.edu>
- Saturday, May 6, 2006 8:44 PM CDT
Karen:
I was sad to see you leave the relapsed ALL site, but totally understand. On the other hand I was thrilled to see you had checked in under Olivia's CB site--Thank You. I think of your family and pray for peace and strength, and more love. God Bless,
Kandis and Olivia
kandis jones <kandiskjones@hotmail.com>
mckinney, tx - Saturday, May 6, 2006 6:47 PM CDT
Invocation Of Laughter
O, laugh, laughers!
O, laugh out, laughers!
You who laugh with laughs, you who laugh it up laughishly
O, laugh out laugheringly
O, belaughable laughterhood - the laughter of laughering laughers!
O, unlaugh it outlaughingly, belaughering laughists!
Laughily, laughily,
Uplaugh, enlaugh, laughlings, laughlings
Laughlets, laughlets.
O, laugh, laughers!
O, laugh out, laughers!
~Velimir Khlebnikov
Erica <ebh2@lehigh.edu>
- Friday, May 5, 2006 9:50 PM CDT
Karen,
Just checking in today, as I do several times a week, and was delighted to see your post and hear that you are generally sort of mostly getting to kind of near "okay." I have to imagine it is unbelievably difficult. Just know that we are thinking of you a whole lot, and hoping that, as the days pass, "okay" becomes gradually easier to attain.
Best regards to all 3 of you.
Lise Beske
Lise Beske <elizabethbeske@hotmail.com>
Bethesda, MD - Thursday, May 4, 2006 9:31 PM CDT
Sudden Light
I have been here before,
But when or how I cannot tell:
I know the grass beyond the door,
The sweet keen smell,
The sighing sound, the lights around the shore.
You have been mine before,
How long ago I may not know:
But just when at that swallow's soar
Your neck turn'd so,
Some veil did fall, I knew it all of yore.
Has this been thus before?
And shall not thus time's eddying flight
Still with our lives our love restore
In death's despite,
And day and night yield one delight once more?
~Dante Gabriel Rossetti
Erica <ebh2@lehigh.edu>
- Thursday, May 4, 2006 7:23 PM CDT
I wish I could give you a hug Karen......
I think of you and Clare a lot and wanted you to know that I care.
Love,
Nancy, Matthew's Mom
nancy vinson <nvinson@comcast.net>
- Thursday, May 4, 2006 6:03 AM CDT
God Gave a Loaf to Every Bird
By Emily Dickinson
God gave a loaf to every bird,
But just a crumb to me;
I dare not eat it, though I starve,
My poignant luxury
To own it, touch it, prove the feat
That made the pellet mine,
Too happy in my sparrow chance
For ampler coveting.
It might be famine all around,
I could not miss an ear,
Such plenty smiles upon my board,
My garner shows so fair.
I wonder how the rich may feel,
An Indiaman - an Earl?
I deem that I with but a crumb
Am sovereign of them all.
Erica <ebh2@lehigh.edu>
- Tuesday, May 2, 2006 8:50 PM CDT
Nurse's Song
When the voices of children are heard on the green
And laughing is heard on the hill,
My heart is at rest within my breast
And everything else is still
Then come home my children, the sun is gone down
And the dews of night arise
Come come leave off play, and let us away
Till the morning appears in the skies
No no let us play, for it is yet day
And we cannot go to sleep
Besides in the sky, the little birds fly
And the hills are all coverd with sheep
Well well go & play till the light fades away
And then go home to bed
The little ones leaped & shouted & laugh'd
And all the hills ecchoed
-William Blake, Songs of Innocence
Erica Hoelscher, mom to Zenus, pre-B ALL, age 2.5 <ebh2@lehigh.edu>
Bethlehem, PA - Monday, May 1, 2006 9:05 PM CDT
Wanted to drop a note to say I stopped by. I come by often and from doing so have learned many life lessons in courage, hope and love...
Thank you and God Bless Clare and her family..
Elizabeth <e_spehr_99@yahoo.com>
Bowie, MD USA - Friday, April 28, 2006 1:34 PM CDT
Wanted to drop a note to say I stopped by. I come by often and from doing so have learned many life lessons in courage, hope and love...I like pie too - as long as its not mincemeat.
Thank you and God Bless Clare and her family..
Elizabeth <e_spehr_99@yahoo.com>
Bowie, MD USA - Friday, April 28, 2006 1:32 PM CDT
Hi Karen, Phoebe, and Benno...just checking in to say hi and send you our best wishes. Love, Alison and Adrienne
Alison <garnett@garnettgrp.com>
Saratoga, CA USA - Friday, April 28, 2006 9:44 AM CDT
Hi guys, this is Denise, I am down in the CICU now with Lisa, how is everyone, how is Miss Pheobe, is she ready for summer break, I miss you guys, I'm glad you all are going to therapy and that it seems to be helping. I stopped into Clare's website a few weeks ago, but didn't have time to write. Love Denise t
Denise Thomas <weezys4@yahoo.com>
- Friday, April 28, 2006 2:18 AM CDT
Thinking of you, praying for comfort.
Beth Lennox <ejlennox@cox.net>
Newport News, VA - Tuesday, April 25, 2006 9:54 PM CDT
Hello Melchar/Schmidts: wanted to say hello. Been thinking so much of our Clare....and you all too. When's lunch..or should we do dinner? (with the boys?)
Cindy Z <cindy_Zammit@yahoo.com www.caringbridge.org/md/brandon214>
Damascus, MD - Tuesday, April 25, 2006 6:34 PM CDT
Thinking of all of you on a beautiful spring day. Every time I push a child on the swings I think of Clare. The BNS family sends their abundant love to all of you and hopes you can harness the stength of the sun and all our strong memories of a special girl in these days ahead.
Wendie Guterl <guterl@worldnet.att.net>
Bethesda, MD USA - Tuesday, April 25, 2006 1:09 PM CDT
Stopping by to say hello. We think of you often.
Hope things are going good and you are enjoying this spring season.
Eric, Tiffany, Jackson and Faith O'Neil (ALL-Kids) <jetoneil@yahoo.com>
Rohnert Park, CA - Tuesday, April 25, 2006 10:58 AM CDT
I loved the poem about hope. I like pie too, Phoebe. :)
I have been thinking lots of Clare and of your family during this Easter season. You are all in our prayers.
With love,
Katie, mom to Hayley, Hunter, and Taylor <dugan2b@yahoo.com>
Franklin, MA - Monday, April 24, 2006 3:21 PM CDT
Just wanted you to know that I was thinking of you. HUGS.
www.caringbridge.org/mn/alexisstern
Karen Stern (all-kids) <jandkstern@connections-etc.net>
Big Lake, MN - Monday, April 24, 2006 2:43 PM CDT
Thanks for the note. It just blew my mind about Isiah.We think about you all the time. You ready for another lunch date? Darlene
Darlene Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Friday, April 21, 2006 3:24 PM CDT
It's not only the cherry blossoms, but the promise of summer -- and the pool -- not far behind. There isn't an ice cream eaten in our home that I don't think of Karen and Clare sitting on the bench near Tony's truck....or laps swum pre-season that don't replay many a conversation about what should have been. That was a hopeful time.
Our love, Sana, Jim, Frankie and Alera
Sana Shtasel <shtasel@speakeasy.net>
Cabin John, MD USA - Tuesday, April 11, 2006 9:49 PM CDT
Thinking of you every day.
I hope HOPE is growing...
Jaime Fishman <fishmanjv@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, April 11, 2006 12:46 AM CDT
Hi Everyone,
I just wanted you to know that Clare JUST popped into my head this beautiful sunny day! So, I thought I'd stop by to say hi and to let you know someone is thinking of you and your beautiful angel.
Love,
Nancy, Matthew's Mom
Nancy Vinson <nvinson@comcast.net>
- Tuesday, April 11, 2006 9:03 AM CDT
Just wanted to visit and say hello. It sounds like the cherry blossoms are beautiful out there and we hope you're getting out to see them. We think of you often.
Alison and Adrienne <garnett@garnettgrp.com>
Saratoga, CA - Thursday, April 6, 2006 7:12 PM CDT
Thinking of your family! I like your hope poem!
Keri and Katie Rose <mommyof8plus1@cox.net>
Lakeside, CA - Tuesday, April 4, 2006 11:09 AM CDT
Just wanted to say hello. Hugs to all of you. Love The Melkonians I think it is the cherry blossoms....
Darlene Melkonian <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Monday, April 3, 2006 10:42 AM CDT
Cherry blossoms are back,
toothless smiles are remembered,
and tears flow.
Love.
Kathleen
Kathleen Black
Cabin John, MD - Friday, March 31, 2006 12:50 AM CST
Dear Karen, Benno and Phoebe,
I am not sure what it is about this morning, but I just wanted to let you know that I have been thinking of all of you. Perhaps it is because of the cherry blossoms that seem to be everywhere, and it reminds me of the beautiful picture on this website. In any event, please know that you continue to remain in my thoughts and prayers.
Mary Catherine Ruocco
Bethesda, MD United States - Thursday, March 30, 2006 11:18 AM CST
I just wanted you to know that I was driving home tonight from picking up dinner, I suddenly thought very specifically of Clare. I said a prayer for her and for all of you, and it was just like a little message from God and Clare that maybe you needed to know that people who never even knew Clare still remember her and think of you and pray for you. What a bright spirit to be shining all the way into a car in Indiana. Just wanted you to know.
Beth (www.caringbridge.org/in/kylefacts) <bdehoff@iquest.net>
Indianapolis, IN USA - Wednesday, March 29, 2006 10:56 PM CST
We haven't posted in a long time but a day does not go by that we don't think of you. It's also wonderful seeing you from time to time in various places. I know you all are taking it one day at a time.
Taylor speaks of Clare often and when you passed us in the school hall the other day, Taylor looked at me after and said, Mom "Clare's Mom is doing okay" I responded, little by little that's what you do, you do okay.
Again, thinking of you and you're still not off the hook for coffee. Hopefully we'll do it soon.
Love,
Kim
Kim Brams <Kimbrams@aol.com>
Bethesda, MD USA - Friday, March 24, 2006 10:52 AM CST
We were driving in the car, arranging our lives last week. I said to Diana, "You have a playdate with Emma next Wednesday." I then said to Daniel, " If you could have a playdate with any one of your friends, who would you pick?"Daniel replied, "Eli." Diana piped up, "If I could pick anyone, I would pick Clare!"
I nearly drove off the road.
Diana then replied, "Knock, Knock" I said, "Who's there..." She said, "Boo.." I replied, "Boo Who?" She finished with "Don't cry it's only a knock knock joke!"
I felt like Clare was with us.
Kathy Butler <kebutler@earthlink.net>
Bethesda, MD USA - Thursday, March 23, 2006 11:12 AM CST
Karen,
It was really great to see you the other day. and talk, and laugh and carry on about our experiences. It was good. We will do it again.
Benno, guess sometime we'll have to include the boys too.
Much love,
Cindy Z and family <cindy_Zammit@yahoo.com www.caringbridge.org/md/brandon214>
Damascus, MD - Wednesday, March 22, 2006 1:53 PM CST
Dear Karen, Benno, and Phoebe,
Just checked in to see your latest journal entry. Even before Clare became ill, I always perceived Karen and Benno to be very special, down-to-earth, practical, and caring people. You both just had that aura. What I didn't know was the seemingly endless supply of perseverence and strength you have.
Some of our fondest memories of Bannockburn Nursery School are of getting to know your family. I remember your kindness a couple of years ago when Victoria and Phoebe were supposed to get together, and I had the flu, and you came over to pick up Victoria and let her stay all day at your house.
Anyway, I can't begin to know the depth of your grief; the loss of a child must be almost too much for any human being to bear. I also wonder if it is extra hard for Phoebe, losing her sister, seeing her parents suffer. Thank goodness you have such a large extended family and so many friends. But no matter how much support you have, this is a burden that you each ultimately carry alone, in your own individual ways. There is probably very little consolation in anything for you right now.
So it's good that you're going to counseling. I sincerely hope you feel at least a tiny bit better every day. Continue being the lovely people that you are.
Suzanne Dimoff <vvsdad1@comcast.net>
Bethesda, MD - Friday, March 17, 2006 11:46 AM CST
Just wanted to check in and see how you're doing. We think of you often.
Alison (Adrienne's mom) <garnett@garnettgrp.com>
Saratoga, CA - Sunday, March 12, 2006 11:32 AM CST
thinking of you
Robyn mom to Nicole and angel PJ
www.caringbridge.org/visit/nicole
RW
Petawawa, Ontario (Canada), - Saturday, March 11, 2006 5:07 PM CST
Wishing you well in your minute to minute effort to deal with the loss of Clare. We struggle every minute too with the loss of our Isabel. Even though it is not an envied group to be a part of, we are all together in some way, losing our children. I'm sure they ask God everyday to take care of us just as we cared for them on Earth.
Elisa Turse <eturse@aol.com>
Hainesport, NJ - Thursday, March 9, 2006 5:45 PM CST
Karen
This week has been a hard week for me, mostly because Matthew had a bit of a relapse scare. My mind went to some really scary places. As the new day dawned, I for some reason thought of little Clare's adorable smile...and it made ME smile.
I think of you and of Clare....
Nancy, Matthew's Mom
caringbridge.org/in/matthewk
nancy vinson <nvinson@comcast.net>
- Saturday, March 4, 2006 5:12 PM CST
Yesterday I took a minute to look at Clare's guestbook and found the poem on HOPE .. somehow my heart and mind were filled with thoughts of FAITH .. knowing that there is a God who watches over each of us .. may the God of Heaven and Earth keep you in His care ..
Angela <angelacoppola710@aol.com>
Cabin John, - Thursday, March 2, 2006 1:12 PM CST
I stopped by to say hello and to let you know that we are thinking of you. The concert that was given in Clare's memory went well. I think she liked it too.
When the CD is finished, we will send you a copy of it.
Love and hugs,
Melanie and Kevin
Melanie Moll <mfrostmoll@earthlink.net>
Greenville, NC - Tuesday, February 28, 2006 9:57 AM CST
The brownies lined up on Sunday at Thinking Day. There was clearly a gap in the line where another girl should have been. As Kathleen said, we all get socked in the gut now and then.
I really miss Clare. Her abscence is something I cannot wrap my mind around.
I thought the order should be Karen, Benno and Phoebe. Does Phoebe like pie?
Kathy
Kathy Butler <kebutler@earthlink.net>
Bethesda, md usa - Tuesday, February 28, 2006 8:52 AM CST
I re-read your poem of hope a few times before I could feel the hope. Then a little happy hope light bulb went off in my head and I remembered talking with you, Karen, in your kitchen one night after babysitting Clare and Phoebe, about foods we like to eat and it dawned on me that if one of you is thinking about enjoying pie I can feel very hopeful. The Clare cheer is here to stay. So are all the wonderful feelings, memories, energies and more that our loved ones leave behind for us to enjoy and feel in our hearts and minds every day. Thank you Karen and Benno so much for your journal entries.
Tina Adler <tmadler2@verizon.net>
Cabin John, MD USA - Sunday, February 26, 2006 10:16 PM CST
Thank you for sharing your hope poem and your hope. We love you all, The Melkonians
Darlene Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Sunday, February 26, 2006 7:41 PM CST
Dear Karen, Phoebe and Benno,
My grandmother would have been 100 years old on February 21 -- missed it by 18 months. The first thing Sophie did when she woke up Tuesday morning was to sing "Happy Birthday" to her great-grandmother. Then she said, "I hope Great Grandma's party is fun. [pause] Clare will have to tell me all about it when I get to heaven."
We think about Clare very often around here.
love,
Lynda
p.s. I agree with Kathleen -- the Hope poem verses must be Phoebe, Karen, Benno!
Lynda Allen <callen@toad.net>
Baltimore, MD USA - Saturday, February 25, 2006 6:39 PM CST
Thinking of you all, today and everyday.
Much love, Jaime Fishman
Jaime Fishman
Olney, MD - Saturday, February 25, 2006 4:04 PM CST
Thinking about you today and wishing you well.
Elisa Turse, Isabel's Mom <eturse@aol.com>
Hainesport, NJ - Friday, February 24, 2006 2:14 PM CST
Thinking of you all today.
Tina & Lance <lancejrmommy@comcast.net>
- Friday, February 24, 2006 8:43 AM CST
Just stopping by to let you know I'm thinking of you all and little Clare.
So, it is Phoebe who likes pie?? :)
Many Hugs,
Nancy, Matthew's Mom ALL-kids
Nancy Vinson <nvinson@comcast.net>
- Thursday, February 23, 2006 10:09 PM CST
Dear Phoebe, Karen and Benno,
Thanks very very much for sharing the Hope poem. I have to say it helps me a great deal to visit the site.
All the best from Baltimore,
Luv CA
Chris Allen <callen@toad.net>
Baltimore, MD usa - Thursday, February 23, 2006 2:35 PM CST
Hello Schmidt Family-
I don't know you personally. I signed the guestbook early in October. I've been asking my brother regularly about how Phoebe is doing. He says she's great. I'm awestruck. Phoebe- you are the strongest little girl on earth. I remember I was babysitting one night when one of the girls brought up Clare. I asked if she knew Clare personally. She did. I asked her if she missed Clare now that's she's gone. She replied:
"Yeah, I miss her, but it's O.K. I know Clare is always watching over me; my mommy says she's an angel now. Sometimes I talk to her before I go to bed. She tells me that she's happy now that she's in a better place. No matter what some people say, she's never gonna be gone."
You're all in my prayers, and I hope your lives start getting back on track soon. You more than deserve it.
Emma Rackstraw <LuckyDucky1008@aol.com>
Bethesda, MD United States - Tuesday, February 21, 2006 6:18 PM CST
Dear Karen and family,
Just wanted to let you know that I think of you and Clare daily. Sometimes I would be driving or just falling asleep and think of you and remember Clare. It was a sunny day today and observing the waterfalls, I felt a light presense which reminded me of Clare. How much you must be missing her.
Love,
Lola <lolafox@yahoo.com>
Rockville, MD - Monday, February 20, 2006 10:12 PM CST
I read all your journal entries today and realized that we lost our precious daughters on the same day. You were hopeful until the end. Sept 29th, Children's Hospital of Phila. told us that we had no hope. We were lucky to care for Isabel at home for another 7 weeks, and a lot of it was good. You know, in the way we parents of sick children consider good. I am so sorry for your loss. Wishing for the best for all of us parents and families of our little ones lost to cancer.
Elisa Turse <eturse@aol.com>
Hainesport, NJ - Saturday, February 18, 2006 2:49 PM CST
Sending our thoughts and well wishes. www.caringbridge.org/oh/deryck
Keli <kbderyck@sssnet.com>
ALL-Kids, OH - Saturday, February 18, 2006 7:43 AM CST
Karen, Thanks for sharing on the ALL-Kids site, I pray as time goes the memories of Claire endure and the Comfort through all this endures also. You have gone down the path we all pray not to travel but thanks for being brave enough to share the parts of that experience you are able.
Kelsey, Faith and Colleen-ALL Kids-caringbridge/northamerica/kelsey <colleencadaret@sbcglobal.net>
Tahoe City, CA - Friday, February 17, 2006 10:22 PM CST
Your address was sent to me from a friend of mine. We also lost our daughter to ALL after a long battle that we seemed to be winning for a while. Her name is Isabel and she was 6 years old. She passed 3 months ago in our home, in our bed. I applaud you for getting counseling. We need it badly. If you want to stop by Isabel's caringbridge we would love it, isabelturse. It is a new site. Thank you.
Elisa Turse <eturse@aol.com>
Hainesport, NJ 08036 - Friday, February 17, 2006 5:07 PM CST
Karen I just wanted to stop by and let you know I was thinking of all of you. HUGS sent to you.
www.caringbridge.org/mn/alexisstern
Karen Stern (all -kids) <jandkstern@connections-etc.net>
MN - Friday, February 17, 2006 2:02 PM CST
We miss Clare, too. Missed her the other day at the sledding hill. Remembered the fun we all had there last year, including that snow encrusted big kid named Benno who looked a bit like the Abominable Snowman. Think I had the same hit in the gut that Kathleen got.
Rick Duffy <duffy.rick@epa.gov>
Cabin John, MD - Wednesday, February 15, 2006 11:10 AM CST
We miss Clare, too. Missed her the other day at the sledding hill. I was remembering how much fun we all had there last year, and how that snow encrusted big kid named Benno looked like the Abominable Snowman. I got the same hit in the gut that Kathleen got.
Rick Duffy <duffy.rick@epa.gov>
Cabin John, MD - Wednesday, February 15, 2006 10:51 AM CST
Hope is instead of tears and sad, lonely thoughts there will be smiles, laughter and a warm fuzzy feeling when thinking of Clare.
I envision lots of pies in your future.
Nancy <nancycdunn@yahoo.com>
Potomac, MD - Wednesday, February 15, 2006 8:44 AM CST
Hear the words of the universal goddess,
The dust of whose feet are the hosts of heaven,
She whose body encircles the universe:
"I am the beauty of the green earth,
And the white moon among the stars.
Come into my presence with dancing and singing,
For all acts of love and pleasure are my rituals.
And you who seek to know me, know the mystery,
That if that which you seek you find not within you,
You will never find it without.
For behold, I have been with you from the beginning,
And I am that which is attained at the end of desire."
May hope hold you up.
Blessed be
Erica Hoelscher, mom to Zenus, pre-B ALL <ebh2@lehigh.edu>
- Tuesday, February 14, 2006 8:36 PM CST
I miss Clare. I greet her every morning at the creek where I can see her walking on stones... I envison her balancing precariously on one leg and smiling while waiving her arms to keep her balance. It is a happy place.
Angus "The Cancer Fighting Dog" always gets a drink of the bubbling water there. Angus doesn't talk much any more, maybe counseling would be good for him too.
There is one spot where a spritz of water splashes up on most days, it is playful and happy, like our girl.
As I was shoveling snow this weekend, a sweet little girl bounded across the street and for the second time this winter I did a double-take to be sure it wasn't Clare with her bright red cheeks and sparkling eyes. Sort of a punch in the gut. I miss Clare.
The poem is like Haiku. My guess for who wrote what is: Phoebe, Karen and Benno. (But of course the Zen-like nature of the first one could be Benno and I could second-guess this all night so I'm going to go with my first guess.)
Love.
Kathleen Black
Cabin John, MD USA - Tuesday, February 14, 2006 5:23 PM CST
It was so wonderful to see the photos of Clare. Her infectious smile holds a dear space in our heart. We all think of her often in the Holt family and send prays of comfort to you all.
Many times the phrase "the clarity of Clare" rings through my ears. I was please to see the sermon reprinted. I like to read it over and over as it has a power all its own.
Bless you all,
Brenda Holt
- Monday, February 13, 2006 1:08 PM CST
thinking of you , take care.
Robyn mom to Nicole and angel PJ
www.caringbridge.org/visit/nicole
RW
Petawawa, Ontario (Canada), - Saturday, February 11, 2006 6:26 PM CST
Karen and Benno,
I just wanted to let you know I do think of you all and Clare often.
Kim Chazin (Shane's mom) <kchazin@hotmail.com>
Poolesville, MD - Saturday, February 11, 2006 2:04 PM CST
Thinking of you, praying that God surrounds you with comfort, love and blessings! The Spragues
Andrew's Page <kim.sprague@cox.net>
Ladera Ranch, CA USA - Friday, February 10, 2006 10:39 PM CST
Karen, I am so happy that you have found the strength (literally!) to come back to class. I love seeing you there and it is nice to see you smile. Your strength warms my heart.
Great job on the blood drive! 50 pints is fabulous.
I think of you all frequently and hope you are well.
Judy Brookes <judy@brookes.com>
CJ, MD USA - Friday, February 10, 2006 10:11 AM CST
Hi -- haven't posted in a long while, though I still check in to see how you all are faring. I have an update on Our Lady of Guadalupe (well, on My Lady of Guadalupe, at any rate)...I had breakfast with my friend Ellen on Sunday. We met when we were both in treatment for breast cancer almost 5 years ago -- she was, in a way, a kind of guardian angel to me then, even in her own illness. She began the meal by asking if she could read a prayer that was very special to her -- Our Lady's prayer:
Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mystical Rose, help all those who invoke you in their necessities, and since you are the ever Virgin Mary and Mother of the true God, obtain for us from your most holy Son the grace of keeping our faith, of sweet hope in the midst of the bitterness of life, of burning charity, and the precious gift of final perseverance.
It was printed on a tattered scrap of paper that she read from every morning, she said, and it was covered with the names of people for whom she prays. Many of the names, she explained, were crossed out because they had died -- but she said that she still prayed for them anyways, and hoped that Our Lady wouldn't mind.
I was so moved by her prayer, and the names that the paper held, and by my connection to Our Lady, begun or discovered when Clare was sick. I told Ellen about the little shrine on my desk -- how she came to be there in the first place, and why she stayed. I told her Clare's story, and that Our Lady now holds many names, including hers. Ellen is still sick, having battled her cancer for over 6 years, in the midst now of the gift of final perseverance. She was delighted to know of the coincidence (and reminded me that there are no coincidences) and told me how glad she was that Our Lady held her so lovingly.
I'm not sure what all that means...there is a circle, maybe -- or a single thread woven among us all...Our Lady asserts herself and reminds us of our connectedness, our duty to care for one another, of sweet hope and burning charity. And that she holds us all so lovingly.
Christine Rathbun <christinerathbun@hotmail.com>
Forestdale, MA - Wednesday, February 8, 2006 8:33 PM CST
Thanks for your love and thoughts and thanks for the pancakes! Let's do it again soon-Feb 28th-IHOP in Gaithersburg is participating! Love Darlene
Darlene Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Wednesday, February 8, 2006 9:24 AM CST
Thinking of you....
Lisa Tignor, mom to Brian and Kevin <ltignor@comcast.net>
Montclair, VA - Monday, February 6, 2006 9:50 PM CST
You cross my mind often, as do many memories of our Clare Bear, and I wanted to let you know we are all thinking of you and hoping things are improving a little each day. With best regards to all of you from your BNS family.
Wendie Guterl <guterl@worldnet.att.net>
Bethesda, MD USA - Monday, February 6, 2006 6:19 AM CST
Just wanted you to know your family was on my mind today ....
Kristie (ALL List) Kendrie's Page <kristieokc@cox.net>
Byron (Robins AFB), GA - Sunday, February 5, 2006 3:17 PM CST
Thinking of Clare today. I have added her name to my 100 link chain for my 100 mile TNT bike ride in June....and I will ride a mile of the ride in her honor.
Sending you hugs and wishing for peace in each day that passes.
XXOO, Marey, Ali's mom
Marey, ALL-KIDS <kteachermom@hotmail.com>
- Friday, January 27, 2006 9:37 AM CST
I am one of many friends who've met your family and Clare only through the wonders of cyberspace. As a friend of a little boy now going through post-relapse treatment for ALL, I find comfort and inspiration in reading about Clare's journey. Seeing her beautiful smile (and those of her lovely mom and sister) next to the cherry blossoms is a ray of light in the bleak mid-winter. Thank you.
Dot Coltrane <dotcoltrane@bellsouth.net>
Atlanta, GA USA - Wednesday, January 25, 2006 3:02 PM CST
Thinking of you all, still and every day. Made a recent decision here to do a Team in Training triathlon (though I'm more of a curl up and read kind of person), and when I think about why I'm doing it, I think of Clare as much as Fergus.
Lauren
www.caringbridge.org/vt/fergus
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
East Montpelier, VT USA - Wednesday, January 25, 2006 7:52 AM CST
We just stopped by to say hello. Our crane mobile still hangs in our play room. We think of you everyday.
Hugs to all of you.
Melanie, Kevin, Alex and Andrew
Melanie Moll <mfrostmoll@earthlink.net>
Greenville, - Monday, January 23, 2006 7:36 PM CST
Karen, you blow my socks away.
I think of you (all) every day.
Keep sharing your insight,
"Cause on any old night,
Someone will heed what you say.
Uncle Mark <eandrew@columbus.rr.c>
- Thursday, January 19, 2006 8:22 PM CST
Dear Phoebe, Karen and Benno,
Thank you so much for keeping your journal availablle to read. It is so lovely and comforting. I read it often. I hope this is not too strange, but we got a puppy for Christmas that always reminds us of Clare! Honor was sure that Clare would recover in time to come over to meet him during Christmas vacation. Honor was so very sad that she did not have the chance to share Coal with Clare before she died. I told her that since Clare was in heaven, she could see Coal and anybody else whenever she wanted. Now, when our little puppy wags his tail and licks and bites us in joyful adoration, and for no apparent reason, Honor says, "Clare must be here!" We smile and we find ourselves suddenly extra patient with him. We can feel God's gift of love, and of Clare, during this moments as clearly as if He walked through our front door. Thank you again for including us. And a
And as always, please let us know if you need anything. XX Sara
Sara Flynn Murphy <sflynnmurphy@aol.com>
Washington, DC US - Wednesday, January 18, 2006 11:30 AM CST
Hi Karen, Benno, and Pheobe,
Just wanted to stop by and let you know you're thought of often. I misplaced your # and address. Please email it to me if you can. Bruce is doing well. Got a virus, got dehydrated and now we're back at our 2nd home. Hopefully going home tomorrow. Love and miss all of you.
Karey Lunt ( Bruce's Mom) <kareyllunt@yahoo.com>
Jessup, MD US - Monday, January 16, 2006 3:03 PM CST
I think it's wonderful that you've decided to keep this site going to help other families and to honor Clare. You continue to show amazing strength and I learn from you every day.
Alison Humphries (Adrienne's mom) <garnett@garnettgrp.com>
Saratoga, CA - Tuesday, January 10, 2006 10:40 AM CST
I'm so very sorry for your loss. Thank you so much for sharing Clare's journey with us. I will keep you all in my prayers.
Denise <dhod0702@aol.com>
- Monday, January 9, 2006 9:39 PM CST
Thank you for your selfless contribution to the community of ALL parents. Even now, at the hardest and most painful junction in your families life, you continue to share with us.
May your special memories of Claire ease your hearts. And may God hold you in the palm of his hand until you meet again.
Love,
Michele Miranda
www.caringbridge.org/ny/brendan
Michele Miranda <missym004@yahoo.com>
Wantagh, NY USA - Monday, January 9, 2006 8:30 PM CST
I'm so sorry still for the loss of Clare. As a parent of a child who has ALL it hurts. Thank you for sharing Clare with us and God Bless, Cecelia Kenna
Cecelia Kenna www.caringbridge.org/in/dustinkenna <ckenna@sbcglobal.net>
Lebanon, IN USA - Monday, January 9, 2006 5:47 PM CST
Still remembering Clare, whose light shone so brightly even though I only knew her here, and praying for you now. Thank you for sharing so much with other ALL families even in such difficult times.
Beth (www.caringbridge.org/in/kylefacts) <bdehoff@iquest.net>
Indianapolis, IN USA - Monday, January 9, 2006 12:06 AM CST
Epiphany ... a time of gifts ... so we think about the gifts Clare gave us, the fortunate family members and friends who knew and loved her, as well as the many new friends who met her only on her web site.
We think of:
Her brilliant smile and bubbling laughter.
Her sense of humor and her relish of a good (or not-so-good!) joke.
Her delight in small things in the daily routine - and for Clare, there were always delights!
Her engaging interest in, and willingness to share with, others - unusual in young children.
Her eagerness to accept challenges and her determination to succeed: in learning to ride a bike or spell a hard word, to master a swimming stroke or win a game (Candyland!).
Her fine intelligence and idiosyncratic (and amusing) turn of phrase.
Her courage and forbearance in facing the sometimes daunting, often painful, medical tests and procedures required throughout her illness.
Her deep love for her mother, father and big sister and the obvious joy she took in being surrounded by their love and care.
Her joie de vivre. She embraced life with open arms and an open heart.
These precious gifts Clare gave us will remain in our hearts forever.
Nancy and Kurt Schmidt, Clare's paternal grandparents <nschmidt23@comcast.net>
Wilmington, DE USA - Sunday, January 8, 2006 3:30 PM CST
Hello. I'm sorry you didn't get more of your questions answered. I admire your courage for sharing so much with so many in the hopes to help others. My prayers are still with you . God Bless, Sue G.
http://www.caringbridge.org/va/megan <suegut@earthlink.net>
hampton, nj - Sunday, January 8, 2006 11:37 AM CST
Karen and Benno,
Though we don't "know" each other personally, I want you to know that you continue to be on my mind and in my heart. Our losses are different but some aspects certainly overlap. I wish and pray for peace for us all this new year, as the process of mourning and living with such profound grief can truly be exhausting on all levels. You are a remarkable family...I am so grateful that you continue to share your thoughts and feelings with us here. Also, thank you for caring so much and for your unselfishness even in your darkest hours as you continue to try to help others going through difficult times during treatment.
May God bless you all and may your memories of Clare comfort you.
With love,
Donna Guarton (ALL-KIDS) www.caringbridge.org/ny/mollyg
Donna Guarton <dguarton@aol.com>
N. Bellmore, NY USA - Sunday, January 8, 2006 7:40 AM CST
Karen & Benno,
I think of your family daily. What Clare went through, and you went through...no one should have lost such a fierce battle as that. I think of how unselfish you are to share Clare with medical science, to help someone else's child in the future. Sharing her story and your grief here will definitely help another family. I hope it also helps you. God bless you.
Lisa Tignor, mom to Brian and Kevin <ltignor@comcast.net>
Montclair, VA - Saturday, January 7, 2006 12:30 AM CST
Karen,
Thank you so much for your entry about Clare's condition. It helps so much to understand more even though there are still some unknowns. I hope you know that I want to support you too, but am trying to give you space as needed and not pressure you in any way. But I'm supporting you always in my thoughts. I wonder often how you are holding up, and pray hard for some type of comfort and peace for you!!!!! Love,
Lucy Shapiro
- Thursday, January 5, 2006 7:30 PM CST
Karen,
I read your entry and I myself have often wondered about the concept of "closure"; I think it sounds like a good idea, but in reality, I am not so sure it happens. Thank you for the info re the final report. In the end, someone like me who never met Clare feels a sadness and a wistful love.
M Elton <meltonva@yahoo.com>
Richmond, VA - Thursday, January 5, 2006 4:26 PM CST
I check back often to see the smile of a little girl who touched my heart. I never met Clare on this earth, but I plan to someday. I think you all are so unselfish in that you are willing to bear your hearts full of so much pain and sadness so that others may benefit. I admire you greatly and I bet that a sweet little soul is looking down on you with a huge grin on her face. I pray for peace in your hearts.
Nancy
Nashville, - Thursday, January 5, 2006 10:00 AM CST
May God grant you peace .. that you may know joy even in these hours and days of sorrow .. my prayers and the prayers of my family are with you .. thank you for sharing with us ..
Angela <angelacoppola710@aol.com>
Cabin John, MD - Wednesday, January 4, 2006 8:59 AM CST
Just wanted to let you know we continue to think about you guys and to wish you the best in this New Year. It's been great to see you at St. Pats. Take care.
Susan, Sean, Kate, and Rachel Mulvaney <ssmulvaney@comcast.net>
Arlington, VA - Wednesday, January 4, 2006 8:51 AM CST
Karen, thanks for the update. I wish there could have been more "answers" for your sake.Thank you for willing to share Clare with all of us and those who will face some of the fight that Clare did. We think of you all so often and wish you strength and peace in 2006. Love, Darlene
Darlene and Christopher Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Wednesday, January 4, 2006 5:47 AM CST
I hope that the new year is gracious and uplifting for your family. Clare's spirit will carry you through as you all adjust to 'different'. God Bless you and keep you hopeful and well as you step into 2006.
The Millers:Bob, Diane, Wesley, Matt and Ben
North East, MD - Monday, January 2, 2006 12:40 AM CST
Wishing you guys peace and the sweetest of memories this new year. You all and Clare are in my heart and in my thoughts every day.
Lauren
www.caringbridge.org/vt/fergus
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
East Montpelier, VT USA - Sunday, January 1, 2006 7:54 AM CST
Your family and Clare are very much on our minds and in our hearts. Wishing you all peace and good health in 2006.
With love,
Katie, mom to Hayley, Hunter, and Taylor <dugan2b@yahoo.com>
Franklin, MA - Sunday, January 1, 2006 0:37 AM CST
Thinking of you this New Year's eve...
I think of you daily, remembering Clare. Bope that the new year will bring some peace for your whole family.
With love
Lola and Julia
Rockville, MD - Saturday, December 31, 2005 9:49 PM CST
Thinking and praying for you during this time of the year. I know Christmas was difficult for you. My husband and I are team leaders for Texas with CureSearch and we think of you often. Hopefully we will have an opportunity to meet in Washington D.C. in January. God Bless You.
Angel Adam's Mom
ADAM CHRISTIAN CULLIVER
Donna R. Culliver <misstex@worldnet.att.net OR adamsangelsministry@worldnet.att.net>
Brenham, Texas USA - Saturday, December 31, 2005 8:20 PM CST
We still think of you often and pray for you all. I hope the New Year brings you peace. God Bless, Sue G.
http://www.caringbridge.org/va/megan <suegut@earthlink.net>
hampton, nj - Saturday, December 31, 2005 1:36 PM CST
Just stopping by to say that your family remains in my thoughts and prayers.
Denise Ward <deniward@shaw.ca>
Winnipeg, Canada - Friday, December 30, 2005 8:51 PM CST
Wishing you health, peace, comfort, and much deserved rest during this holiday season and always!
Lucy Shapiro
- Thursday, December 29, 2005 11:15 PM CST
Just wanted you to know that I've been thinking of you all.
Sending hugs and much love,
Lisa Tignor and Kevin <ltignor@comcast.net>
Montclair, VA - Thursday, December 29, 2005 9:01 AM CST
You have been on our minds so much these days. Please know so many of us are holding you close to our hearts to give you strength. Love Darlene www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko
Darlene Melkonian <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, MD - Wednesday, December 28, 2005 11:35 AM CST
Take comfort in knowing that you are deep in the hearts and minds of so many. Sending peace and love.
The Philbins <pcphilbin@verizon.net>
- Tuesday, December 27, 2005 2:01 PM CST
Much love and prayers are with your family. May you feel God's love and everlasting arms sustaining and carrying you. He alone is the great Comforter!
Blessings,
Carrie Holdcraft <choldcraft@yahoo.com>
Ashburn, Va - Tuesday, December 27, 2005 7:53 AM CST
Thinking of you and hoping that God envelops you in his love this holiday season.
Shelley, Mom to Caroline; Liver Tx 3/01
- Saturday, December 24, 2005 7:59 PM CST
Thinking of you!
Many Christmas Hugs!
Nancy, Matthew's Mom
nancy vinson <nvinson@comcast.net>
- Saturday, December 24, 2005 5:01 PM CST
Thinking of you all during the holidays.
Sending love hugs and prayers,
Love,
Audra, Mike, Amanda, Ariel, Keegan The Crusader, and Liam /ALL-Kids
<audramama@yahoo.com>
- Saturday, December 24, 2005 12:02 AM CST
Thinking of you all on Christmas and throughout the holiday season.
Love,
Katarina and
Amy Hausman <amyholli1@yahoo.com>
Naperville, IL - Saturday, December 24, 2005 11:15 AM CST
Benno, Karen, and Phoebe--Hugs to all of you this Christmas season. You and Clare are in my thoughts daily. Hoping that Christmas brings you some kind of peace and that the New Year is one of joy and love.
Lauren
www.caringbridge.org/vt/fergus
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
East Montpelier, VT USA - Friday, December 23, 2005 6:56 PM CST
Thinking of Clare often and wishing your family a peaceful holiday!
Tiffany O'Neil (ALL-Kids) @ Jackson's Page <jetoneil@Yahoo.com>
Rohnert Park, CA - Friday, December 23, 2005 5:23 PM CST
Last night Christopher said that he wanted to ask God at Christmas to let Clare come back to earth for a visit so everyone could see her. I told him that Clare was an angel looking over all of her friends-- and Chris knew that was true "because Clare was so nice". We hope you will find peace in knowing your little angel is looking mostly over you-- at Christmas and always. Peace and best wishes -- the Zdenek family.
Anne Hoskins <anne.hoskins@verizonwireless.com>
Bethesda, MD - Thursday, December 22, 2005 11:51 AM CST
Just wanted to stop by and let you know that we are thinking of you. Clare was the luckiest girl in the world to have such a wonderful family and friends. Best wishes during the holidays.
Alison and Adrienne <garnett@garnettgrp.com>
Saratoga, CA - Thursday, December 22, 2005 11:17 AM CST
Thinking of all of you, as we all do, almost daily. Wishing you a holiday season filled with exquisite memories of a wonderful girl who changed us all. The world is a better place for our cherished thoughts of Clare and the good works she did here. I am confident she is still at work for all of us. Kisses and hugs from the BNS family and hopes for a peaceful New Year.
Wendie Guterl <guterl@worldnet.att.net>
Bethesda, MD USA - Thursday, December 22, 2005 6:51 AM CST
Stopping by to wish you Merry Christmas - and to let you know you're in my thoughts during this holiday season. I can only imagine how hard this Christmas will be without your sweet Clare. Give Phoebe a hug from us, and one for you too.
Take care,
Kathi and Melanie (ALL-Kids list) <mom2melanie@chartermi.net>
Cadillac, MI - Wednesday, December 21, 2005 8:28 AM CST
Thinking of your sweet family. Praying for you too.
Pam (Olivia Joy's Mom) <hull_g@bellsouth.net>
GA - Tuesday, December 20, 2005 5:47 PM CST
Dear Karen, Benno and Phoebe,
It seems like anytime I find myself in a mood where I'm feeling blessed or thankful my thoughts eventually turn to you and your family. I hope you are coping well and finding comfort in eachother and in your community. You're still in my thoughts and prayers and you probably always will be. The experience you shared with so many people has changed me personally. I'll always check in and I'll always keep you close to my heart.
All our love,
Troy, Andrea and Jack Schultz
Andrea Schultz <ams031804@yahoo.com>
Highlands Ranch, Co - Tuesday, December 20, 2005 3:52 PM CST
Thinking of you guys and Clare this morning. Just wanted to leave a note to let you know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Cindy Szparaga <cszparaga@comcast.net>
Bethesda, MD USA - Tuesday, December 20, 2005 1:58 PM CST
Dear Karen, Benno and Phoebe,
I think of you every day and hope that you can feel the energy of everyone's thoughts. Karen, I miss you at class and hope that you can find the strength to join us in the winter. Your heart will become stronger.
Judy Brookes <judy@brookes.com>
CJ, MD USA - Sunday, December 18, 2005 1:25 PM CST
Karen, Benno and Phoebe,
Thinking of you, think of you all a lot. Hope that one day at a time is working. I continue to see Phoebe's smiling face at school from time to time which leads me to believe that you're doing just that.
I haven't written in a while due to the never ending parental crisises but a day doesn't go by that you are not thought of.
Hope the season finds you surrounded and supported with love and the New Year continues with that love.
Love,
The Brams Family
kimbrams@aol.com <kimbrams@aol.com>
Bethesda, MD USA - Sunday, December 18, 2005 9:10 AM CST
Thinking of you and trying to "will" you some type of strength/peace/comfort somehow.
Lucy Shapiro
- Friday, December 16, 2005 9:01 AM CST
Wishing you strength, light, and peace. So many, many people send enfolding love.
Jane Snell Copes
Inver Grove Heights, MN USA - Thursday, December 15, 2005 8:18 AM CST
With silent steps you come, snow spirits,
silently descending, silently landing.
You who silence the world with your falling,
silence it so I can hear from you.
How is it that you give birth to everything, Great Mother,
never once growing infertile?
Even in the cold time, when everything is still,
each moment is born after its predecessor
and time goes on: you give birth even in the poverty of winter.
You are on my mind ~~
Erica Hoelscher, mom to Zenus, pre-b ALL <ebh2@lehigh.edu>
Bethlehem, PA - Wednesday, December 14, 2005 11:06 PM CST
Dear Karen, Benno and Phoebe,
Just dropped by to tell you that I was thinking about you. You are never far from our thoughts. The Christmas photo you sent a few years ago sits on my night stand and I see you everyday. Know that we are with you.
Love,
Melanie
Melanie Moll <mfrostmoll@earthlink.net>
Greenville, NC - Wednesday, December 14, 2005 12:09 AM CST
Thinking of you all today as I often do, especially quiet mornings at home. Hope you are finding strength in each other and your memories of Clare, and the love of family and friends.
Lauren
www.caringbridge.org/vt/fergus
Lauren Quinn <peckschoolhouse@gmail.com>
East Montpelier, VT USA - Wednesday, December 14, 2005 9:17 AM CST
Karen, Benno and Phoebe, I just wanted you to know I was thinking of Clare today, as I do from time to time, and praying for all of you. She is still and always will be such a bright, bright spirit.
Beth from ALL-kids (www.caringbridge.org/in/kylefacts) <bdehoff@iquest.net>
Indianapolis, IN USA - Wednesday, December 14, 2005 8:47 AM CST
Karen and Benno,
We thought so much about you this weekend at candlelighters. We put a gold Ribbon up for Clare. Brandon found the perfect place for it.
We think of you often and hold you close to our hearts, knowing this holiday season will be oh so different for your family.
Cindy z <cindy_zammit@yahoo.com>
Damascus, MD - Monday, December 12, 2005 9:44 AM CST
We continue to hold your family
in our thoughts and our prayers.
Trish/Angel_Wings(Angel_Wings@yahoogroups.com) <Kngboyer@aol.com>
Kingston, TN USA - Saturday, December 10, 2005 11:26 AM CST
Karen,
Just stopping by to let you know I think of you and your family all the time. I think of your angel Clare and how brave she was. I know this time of year is hard for you....I pray God gives you extra strength and peace.
In my thoughts and prayers....Nancy, Matthew's Mom All-kids
nancy vinson <nvinson@comcast.net>
- Thursday, December 8, 2005 12:14 AM CST
We just wanted to stop by and let you know that we were thinking of you today. We were at the hospital and we met a family whose daughter was in the PICU for months waiting for a heart transplant. They were in Blue and green PICU and such very nice people. We all said a little prayer for Clare when we pulled in and thought of you all. Love Darlene
Darlene Melkonian http://www.caringbridge.org/md/chrismelko <melkonid@comcast.net>
Gaithersburg, md - Wednesday, December 7, 2005 7:23 PM CST
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