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Thanks for visiting our guestbook!(This is an open guestbook. Please feel free to add an entry to the guestbook for others to read.)IF YOU DON'T SEE YOUR ENTRY AFTER ADDING -- PLEASE CLICK ON RELOAD/REFRESH Click here to sign the guestbook. Click here to go back to the main page. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers this holiday season and every day. May you be blessed in the New Year! Love and Hugs, Tami Slawson www.caringbridge.com/ca/slawson Tami - Wednesday, December 19, 2007 5:02 PM CST five years ago my son was in that same unit,my prayers are with you all .if you need any thing ,like for me to go an bring things back im your person,or just someone to talk to thats me. ghmvillage@yahoo.com Geneva Hasty Melton <ghmvillage@yahoo.com> Durham, NC Durham - Tuesday, October 23, 2007 9:02 AM CDT Just wanting to wish you a very happy 2007!! Hugs, Tami ( www.caringbridge.com/ca/slawson ) Tami Slawson <tlslawson@aol.com> - Wednesday, December 27, 2006 4:53 PM CST I am praying for your family. Ruth <blueeyed_female@msn.com> Hinton, WV US - Wednesday, May 3, 2006 8:44 PM CDT Hi Peggy and Matthew, It sure is good to see his picture. He looks fantastic. Great news about school. Also to have a dr that has a personal interest is fantastic. It looks like your family is doing well. Hope the final wean goes well. Hope to see you at Duke next year. Jeanne and "Taylor" Blair <jbbbtbbb@cox.net> Va Beach, Va USA - Thursday, November 10, 2005 7:29 AM CST Dear Matthew: All the church ladies are praying for you at daily Mass. We know that God loves you and that He is watching over you. Peace be with you, Mom, Dad, Sean and Victoria. Mrs. O and the OLVP Church Ladies Michele Olewack <molewack@olvp.org> Darnestown,, MD USA - Friday, November 4, 2005 9:04 AM CST Dear Matthew: All the church ladies are praying for you at daily Mass. We know that God loves you and that He is watching over you. Peace be with you, Mom, Dad, Sean and Victoria. Mrs. O and the OLVP Church Ladies Michele Olewack <molewack@olvp.org> Darnestown,, MD USA - Friday, November 4, 2005 9:03 AM CST Hi Peggy! It sounds like Matthew continues to do well-It would be great to get an update on his speech/language. Sorry we didn't hook up with you this summer-very busy with work and Danielle's activities. Keep in touch & say "hi" to Matthew! Nancy Thorner, M.A. Damascus, MD USA - Monday, August 22, 2005 12:36 AM CDT Hello Sackett Family! It was great to meet you in person at Duke. Matthew is adorable (as are the rest of your kids!)! Our Matthew keeps reminding us that he met another Matthew at Jake's "big doctors". I hope the remainder of Matthew's appointments went well...I know Tuesday wasn't the best day! Take care! Love ~ The Irish's - www.caringbridge.org/wa/jacobirish Melanie, Steve, Jacob, & Matthew <mairish@hotmail.com> Marysville, WA USA - Monday, June 6, 2005 10:57 PM CDT Hi Peggy and Matthew, Just wanted to say hi. Hey, when are you guys going down for his yearly checkup? We got bumped back a couple of weeks so maybe we can meet up. Everything looking good with Matthew, preschool - YEAH! Jeanne and "Taylor" Blair <jbbbtbbb@cox.net or caringbridge.org/va/taylor_blair> Va Beach, Va USA - Saturday, April 2, 2005 6:53 AM CST HAPPY EASTER LOVE KATHY AND KATILYNN www.caringbridge.org/ky/katilynnsmom KATHY AND KATILYNN PRESTON <katilynnsmom@yahoo.com> tomahawk, KY USA - Friday, March 25, 2005 5:06 PM CST  Alicia , Ciara, Hunter & ^^Angel^^ Tommy www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys <Lumberhead@twinwolf.net> - Thursday, March 17, 2005 3:34 PM CST Hi Matthew Sweetie! Just wanted to stop by and send you big ol huggerz from all of us at the Bridge of Dreams! You are on our minds, in our hearts and in our prayers! Blessingz & Hugz, Melissa  Bridge Of Dreams Melissa <melissa@bridgeofdreams.org> Lancaster, CA USA - Thursday, March 10, 2005 12:07 AM CST It is so good to hear that Matthew is doing so well. Your days sound very similar to ours. Therapists followed by more therapists. Like Matthew, our Jack does everything he can to keep up with his sibling. We are hoping to get off of meds here in the next couple of weeks. Jack has weaned down to almost nothing so when we stop the meds completely, we hope it will not be a big deal. Matthew looks so good. Isn't it amazing how they change so quickly. We will be at Duke for our two year check up the week of May 30th. If you happen to be there at that time, we look forward to seeing you. Jack and Noah loved the package they received from you in the mail. Thank you so much. David,Gina,Noah & Jack Shuler David Shuler <davidshuler@sbcglobal.net> Springfield, MO - Monday, March 7, 2005 2:14 PM CST Hi Matthew Thanks so much for the birthday card and stickers. So thoughtful. Need a new picture for everyone else to see on the website cause the one you sent was of a very good looking boy and family. Keep growing strong. Jeanne and "Taylor" Blair <jbbbtbbb@cox.net or caringbridge.org/va/taylor_blair> Va Beach, Va USA - Saturday, February 19, 2005 7:23 PM CST  Alicia , Ciara, Hunter & ^^Angel^^ Tommy www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys <Lumberhead@twinwolf.net> - Monday, February 14, 2005 9:57 AM CST Wishing you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!! Love and Hugs, Tami Slawson ( www.caringbridge.com/ca/slawson <tlslawson@aol.com> - Friday, December 24, 2004 9:09 AM CST HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!  Trisha Athy caringbridge.org/il/aaronathy <aaronsmom1027@sbcglobal.net> Belleville, IL - Monday, October 25, 2004 3:29 PM CDT Hello Matthew and Family My name is Jenna and I came across your website. Matthew is an inspiration and a true fighter! I love his smile, it just shines! He is in my thoughts and prayers. I love meeting and making new friends. I will come by again to see how he is doing. Your new friend Jenna. www.caringbridge.org/canada/jenna Jenna <hockeykid@telus.net> Kamloops, BC C - Wednesday, August 25, 2004 11:53 PM CDT Hello Matthew, Island Princess here stopping by to see how you are doing. I hope you infection clears up soon sweetie. I will keep you in my prayers. God Bless you, Island Princess Butterfly Island  Island Princess <mooks@bellsouth.net> - Wednesday, August 25, 2004 12:09 AM CDT Great to hear things are going well. Love, The Ramsey's Sam and Nancy (www.caringbridge.org/co/nolanramsey) <samdramsey@comcast.net> Erie, Co - Saturday, August 14, 2004 9:10 PM CDT Just dropping by to let you know that I linked your site to mine at MPS Forum.com on the “Links” page. I hope this was okay and thank you for sharing your site with other MPS/ML parents! I enjoyed looking at your pages! Jessica (Mom to Kaity~Hurler Syndrome age 13) Jessica Wellman <jessicalw@earthlink.net> Crandall, IN USA - Friday, July 30, 2004 7:16 PM CDT Hello Dear Cousins, I hope the Fourth of July was a happy one. It was a busy weekend here in Akron Ohio with Aunt Grace getting married. WOW. there has been no rain, ah, for 24 hours. I love all the pictures from the past year. what great, awesome children of God you and Eric have. all our love to everyone. we hope to stop on the way to or from the beach. love, mariann mariann riley <wriley8791@aol.com> - Tuesday, July 6, 2004 12:03 AM CDT We still check in now and then to keep up with Matthew's progress. You are still all in our prayers! Glad to hear how well he is doing and that he recovered so quickly. He truly is a fighter! Hope you are enjoying your summer! Laura Connolly <Laura.Connolly@noveon.com> - Wednesday, June 23, 2004 12:44 AM CDT  Alicia & ^^Angel^^ Tommy www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys <Lumberhead@twinwolf.net> - Monday, June 21, 2004 0:56 AM CDT Dear Peggy and Family, I check in on this website about once a week. What a year you all have had! Every time I'm down at Lisa's I think of you and want to call, but then I get busy and forget. I guess it's better to just write in the journal. I hope that everything continues to go well. Love, Paula Paula Myers <pkmyers@leggmason.com> Columbia, MD - Thursday, June 3, 2004 1:54 PM CDT Peggy and Eric, Sorry I missed all of your excitment lately. I am so glad that things are going well now. It is great of you to check out all the local hospitals for us so that we know how they rate if we ever need to go. Happy transplant birthday Matthew!!! Wow, one year. Things should get lots easier now! Love, Anne Anne Himes <arhimes@ msn.com, www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewh> Boonsboro, md USA - Monday, May 24, 2004 11:02 AM CDT So sorry about Matthew's fall but glad to hear that he is mending well. It would be much easier on all of us parent's if we had eye's in the back of our heads! Laura Connolly - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 10:57 AM CDT Peggy and Eric, I think of you all often and check in frequently to see how Matthew is doing. I will be praying for Matthew's recovery. You all take care. Kelly Kelly Chelf <kelly_chelf@hotmail.com> 5200, NC - Monday, May 10, 2004 11:47 PM CDT hi my name is kathy and my daughter katilynn is 2 1/2 and we were told last september that she has hurlers and is taking enzmye replacement treatments and is doing ok feel free to visit her web site it is www.caringbridge.org/ky/katilynnsmom kathy and katilynn preston <katilynnsmom@yahoo.com> tomahawk, ky usa - Friday, May 7, 2004 0:00 AM CDT Oh my! Sorry to hear of Matthew's accident. Sounds like he is making good progress though! It must have been scary for you all. In my prayers for a quick recovery and no further problems! Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net> - Thursday, May 6, 2004 6:39 PM CDT We will pray for a speedy recovery for Matthew. What a trooper. He has been through so much and then to have this happen. Jack has been climbing like crazy also. I know you feel awful when they fall but you can't watch them every second of the day. They are so fast at this stage. David & Gina Shuler <davidshuler@sbcglobal.net> - Thursday, May 6, 2004 2:42 PM CDT Happy to read that Matthew is doing so well! Sorry to read about your dog. Hope she is hanging in there. God Bless Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net> - Friday, April 30, 2004 10:00 PM CDT Hi Matthew, I saw your picture on the bulletin board at Duke. You are SOOOOO handsome. Sounds like you're fixing to make another big step in getting "drug/iv" free. Keep up the good work. Jeanne and "Taylor" Blair <jbbbtbbb@cox.net or caringbridge.org/va/taylor_blair> Va Beach, Va USA - Friday, April 23, 2004 12:35 AM CDT Sooooooo happy to hear how wonderful Matthew is doing!!! Laura Connolly <Laura.Connolly@noveoninc.com> Hudson, OH - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 10:03 AM CDT .gif?dc=4675458679663459861) Alicia & ^^Angel^^ Tommy www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys <Lumberhead@twinwolf.net> - Saturday, April 3, 2004 10:58 PM CST Aloha, So elated to read your journal, and hear of Matthew's progress!! Amazing kid, with amazing parents! Continuing to keep you all in our thoughts and prayers! God bless, Debbie and Greg Prichard <noahprichard@yahoo.com> Honolulu, HI USA - Tuesday, March 30, 2004 8:44 AM CST WOW... Walking AND talking... music to my ears! It' so good to read good news about my transplant kids! Yes, I consider Matthew one of mine! I look forward to reports from Duke and hope all continues to go well. Reese's Page Shawn, Taylor, & ^^REESE^^ Coble <selboc@aol.com> Winston Salem, NC - Thursday, March 25, 2004 2:54 PM CST Thanks for taking time to update us. Sorry to hear the family was sick and it lingering for Matthew. What fun to see him walk and interact with siblings. take care and much love The Rileys, Longs and Pauls. Mariann Riley <wriley8791@aol.com> - Tuesday, March 23, 2004 8:36 PM CST Thanks for taking the time in between all the kids and pets to update! It's always great to hear how well Matthew is doing! God Bless! Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net> - Saturday, March 20, 2004 5:24 PM CST I am sorry to hear about Matthew's tummy problems but I am glad to hear about the oral meds. That will be a blessing. Come home safe and sound. Love, Anne Anne Himes <arhimes@ msn.com, www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewh> Boonsboro, md USA - Friday, March 19, 2004 12:58 AM CST It is wonderful to hear of Matthew's progress. How fun to be able to watch him walk. What a blessing for him to have a twin to keep him striving ahead. Good news to hear that he may no longer need the IV's. Praises to God for the progress that Matthew has made! Much Love, Tiffany Eden <cmctiffanyeden@yahoo.com> Twin Falls, ID USA - Thursday, March 18, 2004 12:13 AM CST Happy St. Patrick's Day! You are all still in our prayers! Brian, Laura, Elizabeth, Madeline, Robert, Abigail and James Connolly <Laura.Connolly@noveoninc.com> Hudson, OH USA - Wednesday, March 17, 2004 10:51 AM CST a great big HAPPY ST. PADDY'S Day to all. we hope things are still on the right track and going well. all our love the riley's, long's (we are waiting for a new addition in a few weeks) and paul's Mariann Riley <wriley8791@aol.com> - Tuesday, March 16, 2004 3:00 PM CST So pleased his surgery went well...and that his eyes have shown so much improvement. That is terrific! We hope that you are all well...keeping warm too...so glad we don't have to contend with the cold...but do miss seeing you. Continue to keep you all in our thoughts and prayers. God bless, Debbie (angel Noah's mommy) www.caringbridge.org/hi/noah Prichard <noahprichard@yahoo.com> Honolulu, HI USA - Thursday, February 26, 2004 4:03 AM CST Hello Sackett cousins. We are sooo happy things are moving in the right direction. we pray for all of you daily. we are, also, waiting for Juliann to bring Gracie a new brother or sister in about 4 weeks. YIKES! love to all the Paul's, Riley's and Long's Mariann Riley <wriley8791@aol.com> - Tuesday, February 24, 2004 6:25 PM CST I hope that all is well at home. I check up on Matthew and you all often. Take care of yourselves. Kelly Chelf RN <kelly_chelf@hotmail.com> Durham 5200, NC - Monday, February 23, 2004 11:57 AM CST Hi Peggy, Sorry I've been out of touch a bit. We had baby Lucas on December 6th - I am no longer working - decided to take some time off and spend it with the baby. Andrew is a really good big brother. I am finally back at the computer and trying to catch up Matthew's progress - sounds like things are going well. Take care and as always you are in our thoughts and prayers. Lori Gwin Lori Gwin <lgwin@localnet.com> Painted Post, NY USA - Wednesday, February 11, 2004 3:11 PM CST Hello, Yeah, glad to hear things are going well! Keep up the good work and I will check in again soon. Take Care!  Alicia & ^^Angel^^ Tommy www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys <Lumberhead@twinwolf.net> - Sunday, February 8, 2004 11:49 AM CST Glad to hear that all went well and Matthew's eyes are improving! Stay warm! Brian, Laura, Elizabeth, Madeline, Robert, Abigail and James Connolly <Laura.Connolly@noveoninc.com> Hudson, OH USA - Thursday, January 29, 2004 10:58 AM CST Glad to hear the surgery went well. How nice to meet with the Himes'!! Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net> - Tuesday, January 27, 2004 10:18 AM CST We are so glad that Matthew is doing well. That is great news about his eyes! What a trooper! Jack is doing well. Drop us a line when you have time. gina shuler <ginashuler@sbcglobal.net> springfield, mo - Monday, January 26, 2004 4:02 PM CST Praying all went smoothly with Matthew's surgery. He continues in my prayers! Love, Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net> - Friday, January 23, 2004 8:13 PM CST Here's hoping the surgery went well and you are on your way back home! Brian, Laura, Elizabeth, Madeline, Robert, Abigail and James Connolly <Laura.Connolly@noveoninc.com> Hudson, OH USA - Wednesday, January 21, 2004 8:18 AM CST Sorry to hear about the scare you had with Matthews central line. Those things are a pain in the boody!!!! Sounds like you all had a great Christmas. I wish you a fabulous 2004!!!!!!!!! Trisha Athy CARINGBRIDGE.ORG/IL/AARONATHY <aaronsmom1027@sbcglobal.net> - Thursday, January 15, 2004 9:29 AM CST So happy that your whole family was able to be together for Christmas - a very happy ending to a extremely rough year. Our prayers continue for Matthew and Katie. Happy 2004! Brain, Laura, Elizabeth, Madeline, Robert, Abigail and James Connolly <Laura.Connolly@noveoninc.com> Hudson, OH USA - Tuesday, January 13, 2004 9:14 AM CST Hi Matthew, and family. I'm just stopping in on a few of the sites of MPS and Hurler children. I am glad Matthew is doing so good. I'll be keeping him in my thoughts and prayers that check ups go well in 2004. I would like to invite you to visit Smile Quilts http://smilequilts.com and see if you would like a virtual online Smile Quilt made just for Matthew. Our Quilting Angels would love to create one with him in mind. Have a great 2004.  Smile Quilts Angel Sprite <sprite@tds.net> Eckert, Colorado USA - Saturday, January 3, 2004 3:14 PM CST SO great to hear this "newsy" update... and SO glad you are home, safe and sound (regardless of the car trouble- UGH)! Peggy, congratulations on surviving the central line extravaganza... I shuddered when I read it came out, and couldn't imagine how scary that must've been for you! Best wishes for a happy, healthy 2004... we'll look forward to an update after your Duke visit. Hope all goes well! Your friends, Jenny Birmingham and family <jennybirm@comcast.net> Arlington Heights, IL USA - Wednesday, December 31, 2003 4:19 PM CST Peggy, It's good to hear an update on Matthew. Matthew, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers often. It was nice to see you post a little something about my mom. It was a ruff Thanksgiving... we are getting through it. As much as we know the risks and possible complications ...you are never quite ready to say good-bye. I hope you all have a safe and fun New Year. Tiffany Eden (Stan and Elizabeth Rosenquist's daughter) <cmctiffanyeden@yahoo.com> Twin Falls, ID USA - Tuesday, December 30, 2003 10:38 PM CST Welcome home to Maryland! I am glad you are home but I am sorry you had such a tough time lately-van, lines, hotel... Man you guys have really earned your homecoming. I am glad Dr. P. did such a great job. I sometimes wish we were closer to her. I kind of feel like we are up here with care who wouldn't know GVHD is it jumped up and bit them. Thank God we have never needed anything that took any insight. I hope in the years to come that we can get the kids together. I hope things smooth out for you and you can enjoy yourselves. Drop me a line if you need anything. Love, Anne Anne Himes <arhimes@ msn.com, www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewh> Boonsboro, md USA - Tuesday, December 30, 2003 11:20 AM CST Peggy, I hope you guys have made it home safely and that Matthew is doing well. It has been way too long since we have last spoken...but wanted you to know that you have never been far from our thoughts. God's blessings to you and Dennis and the kids this holiday season. Peace and Aloha, Debbie, angel Noah's mommy The Prichard Family <noahrprichard@yahoo.com> Honolulu, HI USA - Wednesday, December 17, 2003 7:17 AM CST  Alicia & Tommy Bennett http://caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys/ and www.helpachild.net <Lumberhead@twinwolf.net> - Friday, November 14, 2003 8:09 PM CST I had originally planned to visit as many caringbridge sites as possible, and leave some encouraging words, prior to my daughters passing. Unfortunately her passing came sooner than we had expected, but longer than any of her doctors expected. Another angel takes flight. My daughter Pam had a brain tumor and was fighting the fight since November 4th, 2002, after the birth of her daughter (Casey Morgan). My youngest daughter, Karen, set up a caringbridge website for Pam. Karen's friends mother shared a prayer with us, that I would like to share with you and Matthew. It's called DON'T QUIT: Don't Quit - When things go wrong, as they sometimes will, When the road you're trudging seems all uphill, When the funds are low and the debts are high, and you want to smile, but you have to sigh, When care is pressing you down a bit - Rest if you must, but do not quit. Life is queer with its twists and turns, As every one of us sometimes learns, And many a fellow turns about, When he might have won had he stuck it out. Don't give up though the pace seems slow - You may succeed with another blow. Often the goal is nearer than it seems to a faint and faltering man; Often the struggler has given up when he might have captured the victor's cup. And he learned too late when the night came down, How close he was to the golden crown. Success is failure turned inside out - The silver tint of the clouds of doubt, And you never can tell how close you are, It may be near when it seems afar, So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit, It's when things seem worst that you mustn’t quit.(Just call on Jesus). I would also like to share a saying that was on the card my wife Diane picked out, and we bought for Pam: If you were a star That wasn’t expected back In the universe For a thousand years, I’d wait. If you were the sky And everyone went inside When you got sad And started to rain, I’d stay. And if you were a peach And the world decided to get rid of all peaches, I’d pick you up, Put you in my pocket… AND KEEP YOU…. FOREVER.. Prayers have scientifically been proven to work. REMEMBER NEVER GIVE UP THE FIGHT. You are in our prayers. GOD bless you all. Frank father of ANGEL Pam (www.caringbridge.org/ny/pamostrowski) <frmurato@nyct.com> SYOSSET, NY USA - Thursday, November 13, 2003 1:40 PM CST Welcome back from the staff and women at N Street Village! You are still in our prayers. Thank you for the update. Sincerely Pascale Nouama <pnouama@nstreetvillage.org> Washington, DC USA - Wednesday, November 12, 2003 8:10 AM CST hi Peggy&Dennis, great to hear your news on homecoming, there's no place like home!, way to go!, the best of luck with Matthew and all, please if you need any help, don't hesitate to call, my prayers are with you all each day. love and God bless. Anh Vu <qavu@comcast.net> Laurel, MD USA - Wednesday, November 12, 2003 3:39 AM CST How wonderful you are home at last! Hope the transition is going as well as possible - it must be quite an adjustment - all be it a very welcome one!! We can only imagine how exciting it must be to be back! God Bless! Brain, Laura, Elizabeth, Madeline, Robert, Abigail and James Connolly <Laura.Connolly@noveoninc.com> Hudson, OH USA - Tuesday, November 11, 2003 11:43 AM CST Dear Team Sackett, So glad that you are all home-home in Maryland! What truly wonderful news! We hope and pray that all continues to go well for all of you, especially Matthew! Take good care. Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis Hagerstown, MD USA - Tuesday, November 11, 2003 10:21 AM CST I will be saying a prayer that you will get your blessing to go "home-home". I think of Matthew daily. I am sorry for the loss of your pet Snyder. We have 2 rabbits that mean the world to me and they are getting "old" by rabbit standards. I know how much a pet can mean to you. Hopefully this is a BON VOYAGE entry!! Take Care and God Bless, Renee Curkendall www.caringbridge.com/ny/my2angels <RCurk@aol.com> - Monday, November 10, 2003 8:10 PM CST I haven't posted in a while but pray every day for Matthew. I'm so glad to hear that he is home home this weekend and that the viral scares were only that. Looking forward to perfect health and perfect enzymes for your cutie-pie! Seven months since you were home - your pets will go nuts! So sorry to hear about your cat - the last one I lost, 12 years ago, still haunts me! I had 18 pets at one time, so I think we are a lot alike! God bless you all as you start the newest leg of your journey in the comfort of your own home. Whoo hoo! (By the way, I still think Maryland is the prettiest state I have ever traveled in! Are you familiar with Frostburg? Friends of mine (Dick and Lottie Green) are building a full size replica of Noah's Ark there.) Carolyn Wyman <sythismom@yahoo.com> Belding, MI - Sunday, November 9, 2003 4:44 PM CST Peggy, I am so excited for you all. I heard from Andre and Michelle that you and Matthew came up to the unit for a visit. I heard that he looks great and is just as cute as can be. It is always nice to hear how you all are doing from your updates. I will keep checking for updates and the date of your return to Duke. Maybe this time I will be able to meet up with you and visit in clinic. Take care. I am so happy that Matthew is doing so well. I miss you all. Love, Kelly Kelly Chelf <kelly_chelf@hotmail.com> Duke PBMTU, NC - Friday, November 7, 2003 9:22 PM CST Dear Peggy, Eric, Victoria, Matthew & Sean: So proud of you all and grateful that you are preparing to go home to Maryland. You all are an inspiration and a true example of faith & love. Best wishes and a prayer for homecoming from Proverbs 3,5: "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." Peace be with you on your journey home. Love, Irene, Michael & Alexia Christian Irene Zevgolis Christian <irene@irenezdesign.com> Olney, MD USA - Friday, November 7, 2003 9:13 PM CST Hey Team Sackett! GREAT news and GREAT new photos, too! We are SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO happy to hear that you will be heading home-home!!! Hurray! Hurray! Hurray! We hope that the packing goes well & the ride goes smoothly. Safe travels. See you in MARYLAND!!! Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis <TEAMDENNIS@aol.com> Hagerstown, MD USA - Friday, November 7, 2003 10:45 AM CST Peggy, It's great to hear that you will be heading home soon!! My prayers will continue to be with Matthew, you and your family during this transition. I pray that a routine will emerge quickly and that the adjustment will go smoothly. Just a quick note... My mom (Elizabeth) was admitted back in Duke yesterday because she was having trouble with a fever. I just briefly talked to my dad tonight and he said she is having shortness of breath today as well. My sister, Michelle is there right now to be a support. Please, send up some prayers for my mom. Have a safe trip home! Tiffany Eden (Stan and Elizabeth Rosenquist's Daughter) <cmctiffanyeden@yahoo.com> Twin Falls , ID USA - Thursday, November 6, 2003 9:49 PM CST Checking in on Matthew and sending my best. How is cousin Katie doing? She is in my prayers also. Love, Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net> - Saturday, November 1, 2003 7:06 PM CST I am so glad to read you will be soon be going home! We think of you daily and send our thoughts/prayers. I hope your mom has a speedy recovery and is able to hold her grandchildren (at home!) soon. Love to all of you! Linda Evans, Rob Parker, Parker Evans, and new edition due April 2004 <veganlinda@yahoo.com> Savoy, IL US - Friday, October 31, 2003 7:03 AM CST So happy to hear that you will be going home soon! You were all in our thoughts and prayers (along with your mom and niece) at Michael's ceremony this weekend. Have a happy Halloween with all of your pumpkins! Brain, Laura, Elizabeth, Madeline, Robert, Abigail and James Connolly <Laura.Connolly@noveoninc.com> Hudson, OH - Tuesday, October 28, 2003 11:04 AM CST Hey there Matthew, We just received your website information from The Pit Crew For Kids. We have an outreach ministry that includes many Caringbridge families and will be keeping you and your family in our prayers each day. Hold on to Jesus..He loves you so much!! In Christian love, Hendrick Motorsports Prayer Warriors John and Bonnie Curran <bjcurran@earthlink.net> Concord, NC - Saturday, October 25, 2003 7:52 PM CDT Hi Everybody!....just viewed the new October photos....WOW! How cute!!!! We're coming to your pumpkin patch! You have the BEST of the patch ...definitely the cutest, most adorable pumpkins we have ever seen!!! So happy to see Matthew cruising! GREAT photos! Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis Hagerstown, MD USA - Thursday, October 23, 2003 9:15 PM CDT Hi Team Sackett! ...lots going on in your lives... glad to hear that you are able to get out & go on some fun fall adventures with Victoria & Sean....especially happy to hear that y'all are heading in the right direction, i.e., HOME SWEET (Maryland) HOME!!!!!!!!!!! We know that the plans are not cast in stone, but we are encouraged by the news!!! Take good care. Love to all, Team Dennis Team Dennis <TEAMDENNIS@aol.com> Hagerstown, MD USA - Thursday, October 23, 2003 9:49 AM CDT Hello, I enjoyed the October photos - I can't believe how grown up all the kids look since a month ago. I am sorry to hear your mom took a fall - she is in our thoughts and prayers for a speedy recovery. Happy to hear you may be going home soon. Good luck with everything going on in your lives right now and please continue to keep us updated. Lori Gwin <gwin@corning-cc.edu> Painted Post, ny USA - Thursday, October 23, 2003 8:17 AM CDT I love the new pictures that are up. All three of them have gotten so big since the last time I saw them. It's great that all of you are together again. I can't wait until you come home. Give everyone hugs and kisses for me. Love you and miss you! Cousin Emily <eschettler@kaneconstruction.com> Silver Spring, MD - Monday, October 20, 2003 10:04 AM CDT Hi there, Thanks for signing in on Taylor's site. I remember that day in April. Hope it was the beginning of a long and wonderful life for Matthew. May be a little rough right now, but be vigilent and he will come thru. Love the glasses. Makes me think of Harry Potter. Maybe Matthew has magic too. Take care and God bless, Jeanne and "Taylor" Blair <mommyjb@cox.net or caringbridge.org/va/taylor_blair> Va Beach, Va USA - Sunday, October 19, 2003 7:12 PM CDT It was so wonderful to look at the pictures of your WHOLE family smiling together. They are all so cute. Hope the rash issue is a NON-issue soon. God Bless! Brain, Laura, Elizabeth, Madeline, Robert, Abigail and James Connolly <Laura.Connolly@noveoninc.com> Hudson, OH USA - Wednesday, October 15, 2003 9:09 AM CDT Beautiful pictures of everyone, Matthew seems top always have a smile through almost everything. His spirit and will seem to be strong!!! We hope you will be making your way back home soon!! Janet,Jay, Jason and Adam Frederick, MD USA - Monday, October 13, 2003 7:19 PM CDT Dear Peggy, Eric, Matthew, Sean and Victoria, We enjoyed seeing the new pictures of the siblings reunited. You continue to be in our thoughts and prayers each and everyday. We hope that Matthew's rash will disappear by increasing his medication. Take good care, and thinking of you. Love, Ferne, Jeff, Sarah and Olivia The Schrider's <JBSch1125@aol.com> Skippack, PA - Sunday, October 12, 2003 7:26 PM CDT Dear Peggy, Eric, Victoria, Sean & Matthew, Greetings from Hagerstown! We LOVE the new photos on the website!!! So nice to see everyone TOGETHER again!!! Plus, we LOVE seeing Matthew in his new glasses...so "brainy", indeed! We hope that increasing the FK506 will do the trick & make Matthew's rash disappear. We keep you in our thoughts & in our prayers. Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis Hagerstown, MD USA - Friday, October 10, 2003 9:42 PM CDT Hope Matthew's rash finally clears up. Thanks for telling us about cousin Katie. She will be in my prayers. Please let us know if they set up a Caringbridge website for her. Your family is really being challenged but you all sound so strong. God will get you all through. Love, Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net> - Friday, October 10, 2003 3:04 PM CDT Hello: We keep checking to see how you guys are doing. I am glad to hear that they have figured out what is going on with Matthew's rash. We had a similar situation with Jack. We just kept trying different creams until we found one that worked. Jack still has a little rash start every now and then and we just start expermenting with creams. We too were very upset to hear about Baby Noah. He and his family went through so much. Coming home has been an adjustment but not as much as we thought. No more days of waiting around in clinic. Almost every thing we need is taken care of by the home health nurse. We see our Pediatrician once a week which takes about 20 minutes. We have our first monthly visit with the transplant doctor in St. Louis on the 23rd. We miss the people at Duke but we certainly don't miss the long hours at clinic. Dr. Kurtzberg and Sue have been wonderful resources for our Doctors here and have been monitoring things very closely from Duke. I have forced Gina to slowly reintegrate herself back into the world. She wants to be Supermom to Jack and now to Noah also. It is important to go slow. We are moving into our new house next week. It is finally done. Hopefully the move won't upset the apple cart too much. We are so glad you guys are doing well. We continue to pray for Matthew and your family. I hope you can go home soon. It wiil be nice for you to be out of the apartment and especially the clinic. David Shuler David Shuler <davidshuler@sbcglobal.net> - Friday, October 10, 2003 9:33 AM CDT Hope that things are going well with y'all. Just wanted to say "Hi!". Give Victoria and Matthew hugs & kisses from us; and, give Sean a ball! ...Evan, Mara & Liza really miss their little playmate (i.e., Sean) LOTS! Take good care. Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis Hagerstown, MD USA - Thursday, October 9, 2003 9:48 AM CDT We're thinking of you all often. Glad to hear everything continues to get better. I'm sure you're enjoying all being together again! Have a wonderful week! Brain, Laura, Elizabeth, Madeline, Robert, Abigail and James Connolly <Laura.Connolly@noveoninc.com> Hudson, OH USA - Thursday, October 9, 2003 8:43 AM CDT Hi Team Sackett, Just wanted to say "hi!" and let you know that you ALL are in our thoughts and in our prayers each and every day! We love you & we miss you LOTS! Here's praying for a good week for ALL of you. Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis Hagerstown, MD - Monday, October 6, 2003 11:26 AM CDT Hello, I am just checking in to see how things were going. I will seeing everybody at clinic but hopefully we will be back out soon. Take Care! Alicia & Tommy Bennett http://caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys/ and www.helpachild.net <Lumberhead@twinwolf.net> - Saturday, October 4, 2003 9:25 PM CDT Hello Sackett family, I am so glad to hear things are going well. I know you will be going home soon. I hope to see you all when we are there in a couple of weeks, we will be back for the big six month studies. Love , the Ramsey's Sam and Nancy Ramsey (www.caringbridge.org/co/nolanramsey) <samdramey@msn.com> erie, co - Monday, September 29, 2003 10:07 PM CDT Hey, Team Sackett! This is Team Dennis; we are now Sean-less and we REALLY miss the little guy. We all enjoyed the four weeks that Sean stayed with us in Hagerstown & we are sure that Sean did, too! We are all very eager for you to move back to Maryland, so we will be only 65 miles apart! We hope & pray that Matthew continues to make strides in the right direction, i.e. NORTH to Darnestown! Special hugs & kisses to Tori & Matthew! Love to all, Team Dennis Team Dennis Hagerstown, MD USA - Monday, September 29, 2003 11:03 AM CDT Hey Aunt Peggy, Uncle Eric, Tori and especially Matthew!!! Yesterday was Uncle Pat's famous crabfest and the first time that I've been able to see Sean since I left NC just a few short months ago. Unfortunately, I was the only one that was not allowed to look in Sean's direction (I did a few times and he would begin to cry, so i had to sit far away from Sean with my dad). I guess he doesn't remember the three weeks of enormous amounts of fun that we had. Oh well, it all worked out in the end cause my parents got to take them home with them. I would've loved to stay at their house, but "unfortunately" I have my own place now with a few of my friends. Anyways, it was great to look back in the van and see little Sean sound asleep in the back next to my mom (who was asleep in the same position as Sean :)). I can't wait till all of you can come to see my new place and are back in MD for good. See you all VERY soon! Give matthew and tori my love! I miss you all. Cousin Mike <patadumass@hotmail.com> Fairfax, VA US - Sunday, September 28, 2003 10:40 PM CDT Dear Peggy, Eric, & Family, I was looking at all of your pictures and Matthew looks like such a sweet and happy little boy. He has grown so much! All of your children are beautiful. I hope your date to return to Maryland is very soon. You have been through so much. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. Take care. Love, Patty B. Patty Buddemeyer <pbuddemeyer@comcast.net> Timonium, MD USA - Sunday, September 28, 2003 8:54 PM CDT Hi from the Heile's. Just reviewed several of your entries Peggy and feel as though I was on the roller coaster with you as Matthew went from fine to worrisome and back. Also, was surprised about Eric. I'll move him up a little higher on the Prayer List. I'll visit the site a little more often as you get closer to coming home. Love to all. Don and Jane Heile <dhheile@cox.net> McLean, VA Fairfax - Thursday, September 25, 2003 8:10 AM CDT HI! Just read the update! Hope things are smooher in the future! Sounds pretty good though. Guess what? We're flying in Sunday (late). Don't have an apartment yet, because people that were suppose to leave - were waiting out the storm. So, we booked Homestead Suites through Monday. Hopefully, we'll get our complex. i'll let you know. so, we'll see you soon.Take care and bless you all. oh, we are definately doing the stem cell transplant when i get there. much love and blessings, Elizabeth and Stan Rosenquist <elizabethrosenquist@hotmail.com> Lodi, CA USA - Saturday, September 20, 2003 0:53 AM CDT Here is hoping that Matthew starts feeling better ASAP!! I will pray that you all get to go home and be together as a family in the very near future! Take Care and God Bless, Renee www.caringbridge.com/ny/my2angels <RCurk@aol.com> Liverpool, NY - Friday, September 19, 2003 7:58 PM CDT I guess mid-October is not so bad! That'll sneek up quickly. I love Matthew's picture with the balloons and drumming with the pots! What an infectious smile! Oops...I shouldn't use that word "infectious" I suppose!!! We don't want any of that! Glad to read that Eric's health is going to be fine. I was wondering about that. Love, Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net> South Windsor, CT - Friday, September 19, 2003 11:02 AM CDT Hi there, my name is Margaret and my son Max is +35 post transplant for Hurler Syndrome at Fairview-University Hospital in MN. I have checked your site often, but I don't think I have ever written (I am a little tired, so maybe I have but I don't think so!). Sorry to hear things have been so crazy. Matthew is so cute. I hope things settle down and you get to go home in Oct. as planned. Margaret Ciacciarelli <www.Mighty-Max.com> - Thursday, September 18, 2003 4:32 PM CDT We love checking in and hearing the updates and looking at all of the cute pictures. So many great smiles! Hope this week is much less eventful and everyone continues to feel better! Brian, Laura, Elizabeth, Madeline, Robert, Abigail and James Connolly <Laura.Connolly@noveoninc.com> Hudson, OH USA - Wednesday, September 17, 2003 8:49 AM CDT Greetings from Hagerstown! The Pit Crew for Kids website is DEFINITELY worth visiting to see Matthew & Tori in "Cheetoh Heaven!" So sorry to hear about your rough weekend... Glad to hear that Matthew & Eric are doing better. Sean sends all his love & LOTS of hugs & kisses to Mommy, Daddy, Tori & Matthew! XOXOXOXOXOXOXOX Take good care & we hope that apartment life gets BORING...with NO more episodes like occurred this past weekend.... You all continue to be in our thoughts & prayers daily. Love, Team Dennis & Sean Sackett Team Dennis Hagerstown, MD USA - Wednesday, September 17, 2003 8:45 AM CDT Thank you so much for Tommy's birthday present, he just LOVED them! Tori, thank you for playing with Tommy at clinic today, you are just too darling! Alicia & Tommy Bennett http://caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys/ <Lumberhead@twinwolf.net> - Tuesday, September 9, 2003 7:06 PM CDT Hi Sacket Family! What great news! My DSL has been down for about 3 weeks so Tiffany, my daughter, has been keeping updated. I'm still working on getting back to Duke. Of course, everything is taking longer than we expect (or want) However, I'm fine and enjoying being back at home. Stan says Hi to everyone and especially - Victoria! Remember I told you that you might be gone before we get back! As always, you are in our thoughts and prayers. Now we just need to get Eric straightened out. It will happen. Take care and God Bless... Elizabeth and Stan Rosenquist <elizabethrosenquist@hotmail.com> Lodi, CA USA - Tuesday, September 9, 2003 2:03 AM CDT Dear Peggy, Eric, Matthew and Victoria, You continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. So glad to hear that Matthew is doing so well! And Sean is enjoying his stay in Hagerstown! Take good care of yourselves. Love, Ferne, Jeff, Sarah & Olivia The Schrider's Skippack, PA - Monday, September 8, 2003 6:45 PM CDT Oh, I am so happy to read that Matthew is 100% engrafted and "HOME" could possibly be only a few weeks away!!! I know it's scary to leave your doctors and nurses. I read that in everyone's journals when they head home. I'm sure like the rest of them, you will find some diligent health care professionals near home that will make you feel equally "safe". God Bless!!! Love, Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net> - Friday, September 5, 2003 10:43 AM CDT Hi, Peggy, Eric, Matthew & Victoria! Greetings from Hagerstown.....Sean sends lots of HUGS & KISSES to you all! Sean is a very active, very busy toddler. Sean can spot a "BALL!" anywhere!....basketball, Evan's baseballs, soccer ball, honeydew ("BALL!"), apple (BALL!)....We have never noticed so many balls everywhere; Sean is quick to point them out! Sean is being loved LOTS! We are SO HAPPY to hear the GREAT news from Clinic that you can start thinking about coming HOME! HURRAY!!!! Keeping you in our thoughts & prayers each & every day! Love, Ann, Pat, Evan, Mara, Liza & Sean Team Dennis Hagerstown, MD USA - Thursday, September 4, 2003 8:46 AM CDT Hello: We are so glad to hear that things are going well for Matthew. We hope that Eric is doing better also. We are having a lot of the same feelings you are having. Gina has been so homesick and we have been praying for the day when she and Jack can come home. Now that Dr. K is actually talking about dates, it is scarey. So far, the nearest Doctor we have found with transplant experience is in St. Louis. That is a three hour drive for us. It appears as though we will be seeing our regular Pediatrician weekly and the St. Louis doctor monthly. It is scary to think that if something happens we are three hours from the nearest person who really knows what to do. Our pediatrician is wonderful and I am sure Dr. K would be available to him for advice - but it is scarey. As much as we hate clinic - - they do know what to do. Dr. K said we should leave our four-year-old in preschool. We were going to pull him out so that he wouldn't be exposed to so many bugs. She seems to think it won't be a problem as long as we clean him up very well before he has any contact with Jack. We are hoping to make a smooth transition with no setbacks. I guess we have to trust that Dr. K wouldn't send them home if they weren't ready. David Shuler - Wednesday, September 3, 2003 5:08 PM CDT Keeping Matthew and Eric in my prayers! Love, Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net> - Tuesday, September 2, 2003 6:18 PM CDT My thoughts and prayers continue to be with you all. Marjorie Fox <mlf@rdfadvisors.com> Falls Church, VA USA - Monday, September 1, 2003 12:53 AM CDT I check in most days but haven't written in a while. I am so pleased that Matthew is doing so well - the new pictures are so adorable of both kids! I'm so sorry that Eric is still unable to get a diagnosis, but we trust that he will be healed without one. It has to be a double agony, worrying about being able to be there for your family, to have the energy to do what is needed. We are praying that it is something that can be fixed easily. God is able, He is willing, and He is awesome! Carolyn Wyman <sythismom@yahoo.com> Belding, MI - Sunday, August 31, 2003 6:43 PM CDT Hello Eric, Peggy, Matthew, Sean & Victoria: I'm so grateful to see that Matthew is doing so well with the treatments and progressing in health and stature. Visiting your very personable and informative website, makes me feel as if I'm there with you all. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. I send my best wishes of health and light to Matthew & Eric and would like to paste in some quotes from a job I'm working on ... they are inspiring. Enjoy and God Bless, Irene Zevgolis Christian You can sing about the Light, or you can sing about what you see because of the Light. I prefer the latter. —T Bone Burnett, singer and songwriter Faith is an affirmation and an act That bids eternal truth be fact. —Samuel Taylor Coleridge (1772-1834), poet Faith is that which rests on him who is the truth-God. Faith is from God to God. It is not gained by man’s own toil or search or study, but is given by God. —Edward Bouverie Pusey (1800-1882), priest, a leader of the Oxford Movement When I go to church, what doesn’t particularly interest me is the Creed, although I find that I can say it. The Creed strikes me as very much like a political platform of some sort, and I believe that’s what it was. What I respond to is, “Lift up your hearts!” —Richard Wilbur, poet O help me God! for Thou alone Canst my distracted soul relieve; Forsake it not, it is Thine own, Though weak, yet longing to believe. —Anne Bronti (1820-1849), poet and novelist Missionaries must be ready at a moment to put their lives in their hands and go out to preach the gospel to others, with no weapon but prayer, and with no refuge but in God. —George Augustus Selwyn (1809-1878, first Anglican bishop of New Zealand Most people are brought to faith in Christ, not by argument for it, but by exposure to it. —Samuel M. Shoemaker (1893-1963), Episcopal priest and early supporter of Alcoholics Anonymous To choose what is difficult all one’s days as if it were easy, that is faith. —W.H. Auden (1907-1973 ), poet I see heaven’s glories shine, And faith shines equal, arming me from fear. —Emily Bronti (1818-1848), author of Wuthering Heights Let us have entire faith in the Divine arrangements for the growth of spiritual life, although they are to us, in our present condition, unfathomable mysteries. —Thomas Gallaudet (1822-1902), priest, founder of parish for deaf people Give me my scallop shell of quiet, My staff of faith to walk upon, My scrip of joy, immortal diet, My bottle of salvation: My gown of glory, hope’s true gauge, And thus I’ll take my pilgrimage. —Sir Walter Raleigh (c. 1552-1618), explorer and poet Our doubts are traitors, And make us lose the good we oft might win, By fearing to attempt. —William Shakespeare (1564-1616), playwright and novelist No coward soul is mine, No trembler in the world’s storm-troubled sphere; A Christian is an oak flourishing in winter. —Thomas Traherne (c. 1636-1674), poet and priest Faith, mighty faith, the promise sees, And looks to that alone; Laughs at impossibilities, And cries, It shall be done. —Charles Wesley (1707-1788), Anglican deacon and hymn writer What life have you if you have not life together? There is no life that is not in community, And no community not lived in praise of GOD. —T.S. Eliot (1888-1965), bank clerk, poet, and winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature If we had anything like a worthy notion of our near relation to God, adopted as we are by baptism to be his own children in Christ Jesus, we should then understand how very near the same adoption brings us to one another. —John Keble (1792-1866), priest and poet If you will build a glorious church unto God, see first yourselves to be in charity with your neighbors, and suffer not them to be offended by your works. —Hugh Latimer (c. 1485-1555), bishop and martyr If any question arise about the faith of the Scripture, let them judge by the manifest and open Scriptures, not excluding the lay-men: for there are many found among the lay-men which are as wise as the spiritual officers. —William Tyndale (c. 1494-1536), priest, translator of first English-language Bible Irene Zevgolis Christian <irene@irenezdesign.com> Olney, MD USA - Friday, August 29, 2003 11:13 PM CDT You are still in my thoughts and prayers. Day 100 is coming soon! I'm glad to hear that Matthew is doing well. I pray that continues. I pray that you find out soon what is going on with Eric. Not knowing why has got to be difficult. I pray that questions will soon be answered and that the treatment will be easy. Tiffany Eden (Stan and Elizabeth Rosenquist's Daughter) Twin Falls, ID USA - Thursday, August 28, 2003 2:44 AM CDT Hi! We are SO happy to hear that, in the big scheme of things, Matthew is doing GREAT!!!! The new photos are fabulous! It is so obvious that Matthew (& Tori) were in "Cheeto Heaven" when the box from the Nascar people arrived! Nice photos by your Apprentice Photographer, Tori... it's interesting to get a glimpse from Tori's perspective! Eric, we hope that you are feeling better & that the Duke docs can figure out what's going on. Take good care, y'all. You all remain in our thoughts & in our prayers each & every day. Team Dennis Hagerstown, MD USA - Wednesday, August 27, 2003 8:59 PM CDT Glad to hear that Matthew enjoys the car and Tori looks foward to getting our letters. We will continue to pray hard for both Eric and Matthew. Take care of yourself too, Peggy. God Bless! Brain, Laura, Elizabeth, Madeline, Robert, Abigail and James Connolly <Laura.Connolly@noveoninc.com> Hudson, OH USA - Wednesday, August 27, 2003 8:44 AM CDT Hello everyone, We continue to pray for Matthew's quick recovery and hope that Eric is feeling better as well. The Tinney's Laurel, MD - Monday, August 25, 2003 4:23 PM CDT Hello Matthew, I got to your website through the Marrow Foundation at work, I keep in touch with a few children at Duke and when I saw you I just had to write and tell you how cute you are! You keep fighting and continue getting better and I look forward to keeping up with your progress. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.... Robin Tucker <rtucker@hmsracing.com> - Thursday, August 21, 2003 9:18 AM CDT Dear Team Sackett, The new website photos are "AWESOME!" as per Evan, Mara & Liza!!!! They bring back great memories of the time we spent with you in Durham!!! It was so wonderful to see y'all ... and especially, Matthew ... he is doing so many great things, like sitting up, watching everything and everyone around him, grabbing things, and eating ...especially LOTS of Cheetos!!! YUM! You all remain in our thoughts and in our prayers each and every day. Love, Team Dennis P.S. A special "HELLO" to Tori from "Enna, Mar and Liya" Team Dennis Hagerstown, MD USA - Tuesday, August 19, 2003 10:06 AM CDT Was just e-mailed your website from another MPS mom and wanted to tell you that you are all in my prayers. Matthew is adorable!!! I pray that God continues to bring him healing. Our little boy Caleb has Hurler and we have been down the transplant road. Saying he is one year post transplant and doing great feels really good. Matthew will get there. Kelly Waddell <http://www.geocities.com/calebwaddell> Southaven, MS USA - Monday, August 18, 2003 10:12 AM CDT Keeping both Matthew and Eric in my prayers. Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net> - Sunday, August 17, 2003 8:16 PM CDT Matthew and family, I just checked your update and thought I should write. Matthew is one of the boys we check on frequently as we do all of the other kids who are getting transplants with us. We're only on day +3 today but reading your updates gives us a lot to look forward to. When I read the part about almost never thinking your son would sit up by himself I thought of our Max. He sits great now thanks to therapy and he loves to play with all the therapists here at the hospital. Please know that you have all our support and that we wish you the very best. Mike Ciacciarelli (Max's Dad) <http://www.mighty-max.com> Minneapolis, MN - Sunday, August 17, 2003 11:37 AM CDT Hi Peggy, Eric, Matthew, Sean and Victoria! I so happy to read that Matthew is doing so well and shall continue to keep him in my prayers. I shall say a special prayer this week at mass for Eric so that he has nothing serious and enjoys a quick recovery. My very best wishes to you all. Joseph Kirk Michael <jkm127@hotmail.com> Gaithersburg, MD 20878 - Thursday, August 14, 2003 4:10 PM CDT Aunt Peggy, Uncle Eric, Tori, and Matthew, It's amazing to think how long you guys have been down in North Carolina. I can not wait for the day when you can return home so I can be just down the road from visiting again. I miss you all very much and can't wait until I can come see you again (very soon i hope). I miss you all and wish the best for Matthew and Uncle Eric. Give Matthew and Tori tons of kisses for me. Love always Cousin Emily <eschettler08@kaneconstruction.com> Silver Spring, MD - Thursday, August 14, 2003 9:31 AM CDT Well, Peggy and Eric - All I could say was _______? Words cannot express my shock about Eric. We will keep good thoughts and prayers coming...sounds like Mathew is doing pretty well. Say hello to Victoria! We're still on track and had a CAT scan last Monday - we will know our schedule this Friday, and hopefully, we will see you soon. Take care and hang in there. When we get back, we can always send Stan for the cheetos or whatever! Love and blessings! Elizabeth and Stan Rosenquist <elizabethrosenquist@hotmail.com> Lodi, CA USA - Thursday, August 14, 2003 1:51 AM CDT It's great to hear that the surgery went well. Peggy, you are a very strong women, God is with you throughout this journey...keep the faith, and rely on Him. I will add Eric's health to my prayers, Matthew's continued improvement in health, Victoria's understanding and patience and for you, strength and peace knowing that God is in control. Tiffany Eden Stan and Elizabeth Rosenquist's Daughter Twin Falls, ID USA - Wednesday, August 13, 2003 10:44 PM CDT Just checking in to see how you all were getting along. Think of you often, pray for Matthew weekly(intentionally) and more often just 'because'. I'll add you to my list, with Matthew. Peggy, say HI to your Mom for us. Don and Jane Heile Donald H Heile <dhheile@cox. net> McLean, VA USA - Monday, August 11, 2003 5:39 PM CDT Praying all is well. Tiffany Eden <cmctiffanyeden@yahoo.com> Twin Falls, ID USA - Sunday, August 10, 2003 7:37 PM CDT Praying all went well with Matthew's surgery yesterday. Love, Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net> - Friday, August 8, 2003 11:59 AM CDT Dear Peggy, Eric, Matt-You (as Victoria calls her brother) and Tori, It was GREAT to see you! Matthew, we are so pleased that you are doing so well; you are amazing!!! And, Peggy & Eric, WOW!...we still can't get over how busy you both are taking care of Matthew in SO many ways!!! The medications alone each day are enough to keep you all VERY busy...add in the feedings, the dressing changes, the baths, the trips to the hospital, and a very busy big sister, Victoria, who is definitely a social butterfly complete with her accessories--pocketbook and hat....there is never a dull moment! We eagerly look forward to the day when you are heading back home to Maryland. Keep eating those Cheetos, Matthew!!!... THANK YOU for your warm hospitality and for the VERY fun birthday celebration for Mara (& Pat & Christopher) in Durham! Love, Team Dennis AKA "Aunt Ann, Un Pat, Enna, Mar and Liya" as Tori calls us! Team Dennis - Tuesday, August 5, 2003 10:04 AM CDT Peg and Eric, My favorite niece, and grandniece and grandnephew Matt. Hello from Chicago, this is your Uncle Father Ned. I’ve just been initiated into Internet and saw Matt’s website, and I’m speechless. Many of these pictures are up on our bulletin board and the priests pass by and ask, “How’s Matthew today?” Our community has fallen in love with him. And I am so proud of his mom and dad. Keep the flag flying! Father Ned, Daneo Hall Chicago, Il - Tuesday, August 5, 2003 7:09 AM CDT Hello Eric, Peggy, Tori and Sweet Matthew!! I am so glad to hear that everything is going so good for you guys! I am sure that everything will go just fine with the surgery on Thursday. Matthew is a trooper and he has a great family rooting for him. I would love to see you guys real soon. I will be thinking of Matthew on Thursday. XOXO, Jen E. Jen Edmisten Durham, NC - Sunday, August 3, 2003 9:14 PM CDT Hello Everyone! Have been following your update - if Tiffany, our daughter sees it first - she calls and lets me know. Stan and I are delighted to hear all of the good news. We think and speak of you often. Stan misses seeing Tori on your daily walks. I think that was the highlight of his day while we were in Durham. Still on the path to go back to Durham, however, you all may make it back to Maryland before we get there. Right now, we are looking at the first week of September. We will let you know. Again, we are so happy for you and your entire family. I'm writing this without really knowing how Matthew did with his surgery, but I'm sure he came through like a trooper! Take care, know that we keep you in our thoughts, hearts, and prayers. Much love and blessings, Elizabeth and Stan Rosenquist Elizabeth and Stan Rosenquist <elizabethrosenquist@hotmail.com> Lodi, CA USA - Sunday, August 3, 2003 2:14 AM CDT The "Connolly Clan" was at Bethany Beach last week and you all were in our thoughts and prayers! Glad to see that WC going up,up,up! We all love Cheetos too! We hope that the surgery goes just fine and that you all have lots of fun with your cousins! Have some pool time on us as we are sun-deprived back here in rainy OH! God Bless! Brian, Laura, Elizabeth, Madeline, Robert, Abigail and James Connolly <Laura.Connolly@noveoninc.com> Hudson, OH USA - Thursday, July 31, 2003 2:29 PM CDT Hello Sacketts... I was thrilled today to FINALLY come across another child's site with a link to Matthew's page. I heard about him when you were first getting to Duke and I have wondered many times how he was doing (obviously he's doing GREAT!). I am another Hurler mom from Alabama and these little guys just mean so much to me. My daily prayers especially include these children who are so precious and who fight so hard. They are blessings and they teach us so much, even though they are not aware of it. My son fought a strong fight but in the end he had a bigger purpose than could be carried out on Earth, and became and angel almost 2 years ago. So now, with every Hurler child who is beating the odds, I can say, "There's another one for my sweet Cameron" and it warms my heart. I pray that you will continue to realize God's blessings. Cameron's Page Love from Alabama, Emily Martin and ^Cameron^ <esmw72@yahoo.com> Anniston, AL USA - Thursday, July 31, 2003 11:12 AM CDT Dear All, I am so glad I checked in today. I have had a prayer for Matthew and will continue to pray and think of you as the day go on. I will look forward to your update as soon as everything is A-ok. Love, Anne Anne Himes <www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewh> Boonsboro, md USA - Thursday, July 31, 2003 6:42 AM CDT Hello Matthew, Peggy, Eric, and Tori, It is so nice to hear things are going well. I knew that you all would get the hang of things. I'm sure that it is so wonderful to be together and hope that Sean will join you soon. I will keep you all in my prayers and hope that things go smoothly. I would love to see you all sometime. I will be working next Tuesday and will try to stop by clinic. Take care. Love, Kelly Kelly Chelf <kelly_chelf@hotmail.com> 5200, NC - Thursday, July 31, 2003 0:09 AM CDT Hi Matthew, It was nice to finally meet you at clinic yesterday. You are such a cutie, and so is your sister. I hope that you have a nice quiet day and we will see you again soon. Here are some teddy bear kisses for you, share them with your sister.  Alicia & Tommy Bennett http://caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys/ and www.helpachild.net <Lumberhead@twinwolf.net> - Wednesday, July 30, 2003 12:25 AM CDT We're keeping Matthew in our thoughts and in our prayers. We are friends of Laura Connolly's from the M.O.M.S. group at Saint Barnabas. We'll look forward to the update after Matthew's surgery on Thursday and we'll keep the prayers coming! Diane Fleming <msfdef@aol.com> Peninsula, Oh USA - Wednesday, July 30, 2003 12:22 AM CDT Hello Sacketts!!! I hope that you are all adjusting well to life outside of 5200! I haven't had internet access until now so I've been slack at looking at websites! Thanks again for those great chocolates you gave all the nurses...they were great and we ate them up very quickly! I'm back in Belmont, near Charlotte, looking for a new job. There's plenty out there, but I'm just looking for the right one. Enjoy those days when you're not in clinic, I think it's great that your clinic days got cut down! That's definitely good news. Take care and I will keep in touch! Love, Kitty Kitty Harris <kittyhar@aol.com> Belmont, NC - Monday, July 28, 2003 1:46 PM CDT Peggy, Eric, Matthew and Tori, We are soooooooo happy to hear that you are doing so well. God sure is listening to all of our prayers. Thinking of you. Continue to take good care. Love, Ferne, Jeff, Sarah & Olivia The Schrider's - Sunday, July 27, 2003 12:54 AM CDT Glad to hear things are going well. We can certainly relate to the clinic days. I can't believe it is so unorganized. Having immune defficient children waiting in crowded rooms of people seems like a bad idea to me. What is it with the Cheetos? Jack loves them also. We are trying to get him to eat other things. It seems like some days he eats and some days he won't. We are counting down days but keeping in mind that going home is never a definite thing. We want to go home soooo bad. I am sure you can relate. David Shuler - Friday, July 25, 2003 2:56 PM CDT It's great to hear an up-date!! Cheetos! Yum! My children love cheetos, too. I will continue to pray for stregth for all of you. It's nice to hear that Matthew is sleeping through the night. It helps to get a full nights sleep. Take Care, Tiffany Eden, Stan and Elizabeth Rosenquist's Daughter <cmctiffanyeden@yahoo.com> Twin Falls, ID USA - Friday, July 25, 2003 2:54 PM CDT Hi Sackett Family! For Team Dennis, it's "North Carolina or Bust!" We leave this afternoon for NC....we'll see you next Thursday! Get ready, Victoria, cousins Evan, Mara & Liza are eager to play with you and spend time at the pool with you, too! We can't wait to see y'all! Take good care. Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis - Friday, July 25, 2003 10:18 AM CDT Hello - We are soooo happy to hear that everything is going well with Matthew. We continue to keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Lori Gwin <gwin@corning-cc.edu> Painted Post, NY USA - Friday, July 25, 2003 8:27 AM CDT Dear Peggy, I am Ann and Pat's friend from Hershey. I met you long ago, but have been praying for you and Eric and Matthew, thanks to Ann's info. I am glad to see your website and hear all the good news! Matthew looks adorable in the picture. I will continue to pray for the success of this treatment, and for the specifics of the support you and Eric need from family, friends, medical people, and our great God, who loves Matthew more than we can imagine, and who knows every detail of what is best for him and you! Karen Oerter Klein <koklein@juno.com> San Diego, CA USA - Thursday, July 24, 2003 11:54 AM CDT Dear Peggy, I am so happy to see that things are going well. I love to read your entries and scroll back on those of others...I saw one from Karen Abato. I also enjoyed the quote from Mother Teresa...how true. Don't forget to take care of yourself too...you've been through so much. Take care and I'll be visiting the website. Love, Paula Myers Paula Myers <pkmyers@leggmason.com> Columbia, MD - Tuesday, July 22, 2003 3:06 PM CDT Congratulations on "graduating" to the apartment. We know your days are full as you care for Matthew and make clinic visits. Best wishes for you always! Love, Courtney and the crew Hendrick Marrow Program Courtney Hurd <churd@hmsracing.com> Charlotte, NC - Tuesday, July 22, 2003 7:31 AM CDT Hi, Peggy and Eric. Was wondering how Matthew was getting along and came back to your 'first' email and found the entry to the web site. Yes, you are learning many new skills. I'm sure that our many prayers and daily thoughts are helping both of you and Matthew. Hang in there with all the love you have. We'll keep praying for all of you. Don and Jane Heile Don Heile <dhheile@cox.net> McLean, VA USA - Sunday, July 20, 2003 7:06 PM CDT Congrats on discharge!!! I know it is all confusing, but you'll get into the routine and it won't be so overwhelming! Keep smiling Matthew!!! God Bless! Love, Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net> South Windsor, CT - Friday, July 18, 2003 11:45 AM CDT Hope all is well. I am still praying for you daily. I think of you often. I hope the routine of medications has not been overwhelming. Much love, Tiffany Eden <cmctiffanyeden@yahoo.com> Twin Falls, ID USA - Thursday, July 17, 2003 11:50 PM CDT Hey Guys! I am so glad that you are doing well. I miss you all very much, but I am glad that you are at the apt. so that you can enjoy each other much more. Hope to see all of you real soon. Keep laughing "our special laugh" sweet Matthew. XOXO Love, Jen E. Jen E. (5200 nurse) <medmisten@mindspring.com> Durham, NC - Tuesday, July 15, 2003 8:58 PM CDT We ( N Street Village et Al) are still praying. With much love and faith. Pascale-Emmanuelle Nouama <pnouama@nstreetvillage.org> Washington, DC USA - Tuesday, July 15, 2003 1:13 PM CDT Hey...I'm so glad things are getting better. I just got the news, because I can't figure this computer thing out...I'm going to get in touch with my north carolina buddies for a little southern prayer circle... and one in new york at the same time. I'll be keeping you all in my prayers. karen abato <kabatoart@yahoo.com> hampton bays, ny usa - Monday, July 14, 2003 10:01 PM CDT Peggy, It is wonderful to hear the up-date on Matthew. The amount of medications is incredible. I was talking with Mom about Matthew's progress, we are both delighted to hear that he is doing well. I am praying that God will continue to improve Matthew's health, that the new cells will grow, grow, grow!, and that his white cell count stays at a healthy level. I am also asking that God keeps you strong and healthy, and your spirits up. At times the running around and waiting at the clinic can be long and wearing, I pray that the Lord will give you and your family the strength you need to get through it. I also praise God for all He has done. He has placed people in your life to comfort you and help you through this time. He has provided the Dr.'s with the knowledge to get Matthew to this point and will continue to work in Matthew's life. What an Awesome God! Much love, Tiffany Eden (Stan and Elizabeth Rosenquist's Daughter) Tiffany Eden <tiffanyeden@yahoo.com> Twin Falls, ID USA - Monday, July 14, 2003 0:48 AM CDT Dear Peggy & Eric, Patrick & I read your newest journal entry together this evening.....and, we have decided that IN ADDITION to awarding you both a medical degree and a nursing degree, you will be receiving a pharmacy degree, too! WOW!....it's overwhelming just READING about ALL that you are doing! ...and, you are doing an EXCELLENT job taking such good care of sweet Matthew! ...we are so happy that Matthew is at the apartment & that his WBC is so good. We LOVE the new photos & the video, too! Hang in there. We'll see you soon in North Carolina. Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis Hagerstown, MD - Sunday, July 13, 2003 9:34 PM CDT Hello Peggy and Eric, Petra told me about this website and I was absolutely overwhelmed as I read what you and little Matthew have been dealing with! Thanks for keeping all of us who love you informed, I add my prayers to theirs. Elaine Bennett <ebennett17@aol.com> Frisco, TX - Sunday, July 13, 2003 11:01 AM CDT Congrats on your discharge from 5200, Matthew! It sounds like you are doing great... Don't worry, mom, all those IV's will make sense in about a week. I remember how stressful it was becoming the "full time nurse", and my only advice is to be patient and give yourself a chance to learn slowly- before you know it, you'll be doing it all with your eyes closed! Take care and best of luck with clinic visits. Love, Jenny Birmingham <brmnghmj@aol.com> - Sunday, July 13, 2003 10:52 AM CDT Hello, Matthew. We have seen many pictures of you from your Aunt Ann. She is so proud of you! We keep you in our prayers and are happy to see that you are now home! I'm sure your Aunt will gives us all the details...hugs and kisses Beth, Steve,Nick and Molly Berry Beth Berry - Saturday, July 12, 2003 7:20 AM CDT Dear Baby Matthew, We are friends of you Aunt Ann and Uncle Pat and your cousins, Evan, Mara, and Liza. We have been praying for you for many months now and will continue to do so. God bless you and your family. Susan and Danny Burkey <Susan.Burkey@myactv.net> Hagerstown, MD USA - Friday, July 11, 2003 9:52 PM CDT Peggy, this is my first time on the website. I talked to Sandra today and she told me about it. I've printed out all the journal entries and will read them tonight. I'm so sorry that I had to cancel my trip, I was really looking forward to seeing you. Petra Sienkiewicz <psienkiewicz@aarp.org> Rockville, MD - Friday, July 11, 2003 4:47 PM CDT Peggy, It was so nice visiting with you today in clinic. Hope we get a chance to talk again soon. Matthew looks great!!! The wait is not always that crazy! The only good thing about waiting is the visiting!! We all actually get to socialize with adults. See you around the clinic and the Apartment complex. Love, Nancy Nancy and Sam (Nolan Ramsey MPS-1-H www.caringbridge.org/co/nolanramsey) - Thursday, July 10, 2003 8:45 PM CDT Sounds like there are alot of blessings for Matthew!!! Yeah! That's so wonderful about his FISH test results! And discharge soon! Woo Hoo! Love, Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net> - Thursday, July 10, 2003 2:51 PM CDT Dear Matthew, Peggy & Eric, How's everything going? How has clinic been so far? We are eager to know how things are going regarding "Apartment / Clinic Life after Hospital Discharge"....we realize that you are very busy & we want you to know that you are in our thoughts and in our prayers each and every day. Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis - Thursday, July 10, 2003 8:50 AM CDT Peggy, Eric...I just got goosebumps when I read your 7/2 journal entry about Matthew being engrafted. I feel like I took a deep breath back in April when I started reading Matthew's journal entries, and just let it out! You guys are all (Matthew especially, of course) always in our prayers, and we miss you lots. Love, Beth and Marcus. Beth Axelrod <baxelrod@erols.com> Centreville, VA USA - Wednesday, July 9, 2003 10:25 PM CDT Hey, Team Sackett!!!!...and Aunt Rosie Toes, too! How is everything going at the apartment???? Matthew, how does it feel to be out of the hospital????....Uncle Pat and Aunt Ann know how GREAT it feels to EXIT the hospital!!!...we hope that things are going smoothly at the apartment and at clinic. We want to hear about the CONFETTI party upon your departure from 5200. We know that you are keeping very busy with meds, with nursing care, etc. You all remain in our thoughts and in our prayers. Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis - Wednesday, July 9, 2003 3:48 PM CDT Hope all is going well. I had to go back home yesterday. It was really hard to leave Gina and Jack. Gina has the meds down now but I am glad I was able to be there during that process. We are so thankful that Matthew is doing well. It is quite a transition going from the hospital to the clinic routine. It will get easier when they don't have to go every day. Hope to hear more good news soon. David Shuler - Tuesday, July 8, 2003 2:11 PM CDT We are soooo very happy you get to go home Matthew!!! Know that you are loved and prayed for by many. We have the prayer chain at St. Barnabas (Northfield, OH) praying hard. God Bless you and your family! Brian, Laura, Elizabeth, Madeline, Robert, Abigail and James Connolly <Laura.Connolly@noveoninc.com> Hudson, OH USA - Tuesday, July 8, 2003 1:50 PM CDT Hi my name is Cathy Peters and I just learned about your family's website from the Wigglesworths'! My daughter Isobel had Hurler's. Unfortunatly she lost her battle with this awful disease on April 10 of this year. I am so happy when I read good updates from other families and I'm so happy about your discharge! I will pray for your whole family and hope to read good news as I follow your journey! Love and prayers! Cathy Peters <www.caringbridge.org/canada/isobel> St.Albert, AB Canada - Monday, July 7, 2003 4:00 PM CDT Matthew and all of the Family, What a great day today is! I am so excited for you! Keep continuing to get well. It may seem like forever has already passed, but the future is bright and you are in it!! Enjoy your day! You are still in my thoughts and prayers! Sky <skygdss14@cox.net> Las Vegas, NV USA - Monday, July 7, 2003 11:29 AM CDT Dear Matthew, Peggy & Eric, Wish we could be there for Matthew's CONFETTI PARTY today!!!! How truly awesome! So glad to hear the GOOD news about the donor cells, the discharge from the hospital to the apartment...you are one BIG step closer to coming home! HURRAY! Keeping you in our thoughts & in our prayers. Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis - Monday, July 7, 2003 8:13 AM CDT Peggy, You are doing great! Learning about taking blood and keeping sterile while doing it. It can be overwhelming, but through God's strength you will be able to handle it. According to my Dad (Stan Rosenquist) you definately can handle it. He thinks a lot of you and your family. Victoria just melted his heart nad Mom's heart, too. It is wonderful to hear that Matthew is going home to the apartment soon. I bet Victoria is thrilled. You are still in my thoughts and prayers. With love, Tiffany Eden Tiffany Eden <cmctiffanyeden@yahoo.com> Twin Falls, ID USA - Sunday, July 6, 2003 11:44 PM CDT Way to go Matthew!!! 99%!!! That is wonderful! That is the best news. All your hard work has been worth it. You got what you came after and you are working hard on coming home. Maryland awaits! Love, Anne Anne Himes <www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewh> Boonsboro, md USA - Saturday, July 5, 2003 4:02 PM CDT Congratulations on the good news about donor cells...glad you were able to "hang in there" as the waiting is so hard. Have a great few days with family and I'll be excited to see you in clinic soon. Give that boy a hug! Sue Wood PNP - Friday, July 4, 2003 8:43 AM CDT you are an remarkable little boy matthew,and extremely adorable. lets keep those cells coming! Gracie can,t wait to meet you she loves looking at your pictures.Keep mommy& daddy laughing. we love you. Jeff, Julie & Grcaie. Jeff, Julie & Gracie Long(Paul) <JandJLong@cs.com> Canton, Oh - Thursday, July 3, 2003 5:48 PM CDT Hello dear cousins. what great news for your family. That is a wonderful and appropriate quote from Mother Theresa. We do possess some fierce inner strength when called upon. Love Mariann Mariann Riley <wriley8791@aol.com> East Canton, Ohio USA - Thursday, July 3, 2003 5:25 PM CDT Dear Matthew, Hip, Hip, Hurray!! We were just checking in, and we are so happy to hear the great news!! YEA! God Bless you. Love, Ferne, Jeff, Sarah & Olivia The Schrider's Skippack, PA USA - Thursday, July 3, 2003 9:53 AM CDT I know that it seems like an awful lot to learn but really in a few days it will be old hat and you will feel like a pro. It is really kid of nice to be able to do some much for your child after spending such a hard time not being able to do anything and having no control! You will do great. I am so happy for all of you good news! Love, Anne Anne Himes <www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewh> Boonsboro, md USA - Thursday, July 3, 2003 7:20 AM CDT We are doing cartwheels in response to the EXCELLENT news of WBC's and ANC's!!!!! HURRAY, Matthew, HURRAY! Are you smiling, Matthew?...'cause we are smiling BIG SMILES of happiness and joy 'cause you are making cells! Keep those cells coming! ...and to think that you may soon be discharged from the hospital....start dreaming and thinking "confetti!"....... Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis - Wednesday, July 2, 2003 10:48 AM CDT What wonderful news! This is what we've all been waiting to hear. I can imagine at first you will be a overwhelmed, but I know that all of you will do just fine. Please continue to keep us updated! Lori Gwin <gwin@corning-cc.edu> Painted Post, ny USA - Wednesday, July 2, 2003 8:45 AM CDT Gina and I are so thrilled to hear the good news. Being discharged is scarey at first. It is more work for the parents but a much more natural environment for the child. Jack seems to be so excited to be in his "Durham home". Rely on the home health nurse as much as you need to. Go at your pace, not theirs. Getting to clinic is a challenge that seems to get easier as the days go by. We are starting to get a system down. Gina and I were both the type of people who passed out when we had to get a shot. Believe me, if we can do this, you can. It seems like so much at first but then you begin to understand. Hope to see you soon. David Shuler - Tuesday, July 1, 2003 9:31 PM CDT What great news!!! We are so excited for Matthew! Being discharged is overwhelming at times, but my advise is to rely on the home health nurse as much as you need to and to not be pushed into something you are not ready for. It is great having Jack here with us in the apartment but it is a 24/7 job. Grow cells!! We will look for you in clinic!!! Gina, David and Jack Shuler - Tuesday, July 1, 2003 9:12 PM CDT HOORAY, HOORAY, Way to go Mathew. This is really wonderful to hear that you may be ready for the next step. I'm sure that your Mom, Dad and Rose will have everything in great shape for you to go to the apartment. Miss you, Victoria and Sean. .....Much Love.......G'ma and G'pa Sackett Peg and Chuck Sackett Kennel City, MD - Tuesday, July 1, 2003 6:41 PM CDT Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaa Matthew!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Way to go, we are all so happy to hear that you have gotten up to .9. Keep growing and you will soon be able to come home where everyone misses you. Much Love, Bill, Christopher, Jay and Nicholas Christopher Walck and Bill Dennis <cwalck@naccas.org> Alexandria, VA USA - Tuesday, July 1, 2003 3:40 PM CDT Oh BOY! Oh BOY! We are jumping for JOY! 0.9 is EXCELLENT! Way to go! Way to GROW! GROW CELLS GROW! Plus, we LOVE the new photos on the website! THANKS so much for keeping us up to date with Matthew's progress at Duke and for the photo updates of everyone! XOXOX Team Dennis Team Dennis - Monday, June 30, 2003 5:48 PM CDT Matthew, Hurray for YOU! Keep up the good work! Glad to see that those cells are growing!!!Take good care. Thinking of you. Love, Ferne, Jeff, Sarah & Olivia The Schrider's Skippack, PA USA - Monday, June 30, 2003 1:47 PM CDT Great job Matthew!!!! I knew you would start pumping up those wbcs!!! Keep 'em coming!!! Love, Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net> - Sunday, June 29, 2003 8:17 PM CDT I love hearing that he was unhooked from the IV's for awhile. I loved that time. It was a wonderful taste of the freedom that is coming your way! I esp. love hearing about those climbing numbers!!! Yea Matthew!!! Love, Anne Anne Himes <www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewh> Boonsboro, md USA - Sunday, June 29, 2003 9:33 AM CDT Well, Mr. Matthew, looks like you must be some kind of celebrity - your own private therapist and growing cells and everything! You sure are cute enough for TV, that's for sure! Praise the Lord for more cells and breathing easier for all of us! He is able, He is willing, and He has a plan to prosper you and keep you in health! Grow cells grow - in every kid on that whole floor! In Jesus' mighty name, Amen! Carolyn Wyman <sythismom@yahoo.com> Belding, MI - Sunday, June 29, 2003 0:07 AM CDT Matthew, I designed the web site for the Pit Crew members that came and visited you, and I must say, you are so photogenic!! Will keep praying and looking forward to hearing about your continued progress!! Sky <skygdss14@cox.net> Las Vegas, NV USA - Saturday, June 28, 2003 8:38 PM CDT Peggy and Matthew, WOOHOO!!!! Grow cells grow! I am so glad to hear things are growing! I know we will see you in clinic before we head home. Love, The Ramsey's Nancy and Sam (Nolan Ramsey MPS-1-H www.caringbridge.org/co/nolanramsey) - Friday, June 27, 2003 10:30 PM CDT We have seen you only in passing, yet are 'living' next door in #5215. Sorry that we have not taken the initiative to stop in and say hello. We are pleased that Matthew is starting to show signs of engraftment. We hope that his cells will take off and begin to grow like crazy! GROW CELLS GROW, as the motto goes on this floor. We will keep Matthew and your family in our prayers, along with the other PBMTU kids. God bless, Aloha, Greg, Debbie and baby Noah The Prichard Family <www.caringbridge.org/hi/noah> Honolulu, HI USA - Friday, June 27, 2003 10:19 PM CDT Peggy, Eric and Matthew, We keep praying for those cells to grow and GROW!!!! Thinking of you, and checking on your progress everyday!May God bless you and keep you, for we ALL are on pins and needles. Love, Ferne, Jeff, Sarah & Olivia The Schrider's Skippack, PA USA - Thursday, June 26, 2003 9:09 PM CDT Ok, "Flicker"...sounds like you've got mommy a bit nervous with your cell count! Let's see you start pumping that number up ok? I know you love those nurses but you don't want to hang around there too long, ok? I'm keeping my prayers flowing! Love, Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net> - Thursday, June 26, 2003 8:56 PM CDT Hi Matthew, Great news! Grow cells grow! Keep arguing with Mom. It will help her prepare for when you are 3 and want to watch you own video on the tv not her show. Take care and God bless. Jeanne and "Taylor" Blair <mommyjb@cox.net or caringbridge.org/va/taylor_blair> Va Beach, Va USA - Thursday, June 26, 2003 2:06 PM CDT I was so happy when I read the journal entry from yesterday the 25th of June! I check everyday to read about Matthew's progress....and it was great to read such good news. I know it will just get better every day!!!! I send my love to everyone. Gwyneth Byrd <gwyniebyrd@yahoo.com> Rome, Italy - Thursday, June 26, 2003 10:37 AM CDT Hi! TEARS OF JOY! That's me while reading your last entry! I just sat here and cried for you all. We were a little worried when you had not written anything for last few days. I will write more to you later. I'm going to golf (9 holes) before the big chemo Monday. Love, best wishes, and hugs for everone! Elizabeth and Stan Rosenquist Elizabeth and Stan Rosenquist <elizabethrosenquist@hotmail.com> Lodi, CA USA - Thursday, June 26, 2003 9:20 AM CDT Yea Matthew. I knew you could do it. I am glad Dr. K is right there keeping a good eye on you. We will be looking forward to seeing those numbers climb and climb!!! Love you. Anne Anne Himes <www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewh> Boonsboro, md USA - Thursday, June 26, 2003 7:16 AM CDT Dear Matthew, Cousins Evan, Mara & Liza want you to start doing MATH...addition, division AND multiplication. Addition: ADD more and ADD more and ADD more cells. Division: Divide cells, divide, into more & more cells. Multiply: MULTIPLY, MULTIPLY, MULTIPLY those new WBC's!!!!! Way to go, little buddy! XOXOX Team Dennis Team Dennis - Wednesday, June 25, 2003 9:20 PM CDT We are praying for all of you. Love from the Madden family. Kathy Renner <KRenner736@yahoo.com> Cuyahoga FAlls, OH USA - Wednesday, June 25, 2003 6:50 PM CDT Hi Aunt Peggy, Uncle Eric, Tori, Sean and Matthew. I miss you all very much. Hope things are going well. I can't wait to come visit again. Keep us updated. Love and kisses XOXOXO Love, Cousin Emily <eschettler08@hotmail.com> Silver Spring, MD - Wednesday, June 25, 2003 12:42 AM CDT Peggy, Hope things are going well, I was just thinking of you. I pray cells are growing. Love, Nancy Nancy and Sam (Nolan Ramsey MPS-1-H www.caringbridge.org/co/nolanramsey) - Tuesday, June 24, 2003 9:01 PM CDT I learned about Matthew from Nolan Ramsey's site and have been checking your website frequently. I will keep all of you in my prayers. Grow Cells Grow!!! Kim Barron <kbarron@ibsacom> Rowlett, TX USA - Tuesday, June 24, 2003 10:47 AM CDT Peggy, Hang in there. You have a lot of friends and family praying for you, Matthew and the rest of the family. I think of you often and will continue to pray that God gives you the strength you need and that Matthew continues to improve. Much love, Tiffany Eden (Stan and Elizabeth Rosenquist's Daughter) Tiffany Eden <cmctiffanyeden@yahoo.com> Twin Falls, ID USA - Monday, June 23, 2003 8:44 PM CDT I've been praying that Matthew's cell count has rebounded since your last update. I know...the waiting is so hard! Hang tough....lots of us out here praying!!! Love, Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net> - Monday, June 23, 2003 4:49 PM CDT Dear Matthew, Sean, Victoria, Peggy & Eric: Your strength and dedication are an inspiration to this world. Matthew is so wonderful, strong and brave. What a good patient soul he is; and may everyday be a milestone to his complete recovery as miracles unfold. May God Bless you all and keep you strong & healthy. You are always in our prayers and we are thinking of you all with Love! Irene, Michael & Alexia Irene Zevgolis Christian <izdesign@aol.com> Olney, MD USA - Monday, June 23, 2003 0:46 AM CDT Dear Peggy and Eric, Since we share the same wedding day -- (a few years apart, ours #44 and yours #11) -- we are remembering your beautiful wedding and lovely reception. May you have many happy returns of the day! We continue thinking of Matthew and wishing him well. GROW CELLS, GROW! We keep Matthew and all your family in our prayers, as you go through this "Duke Experience." Much Love, Beth & Tony Lewandowski Lafayette Hill, PA USA - Friday, June 20, 2003 10:27 AM CDT Dear Peggy and Eric, Since we share the same wedding day -- (a few years apart, ours #44 and yours #11) -- we are remembering your beautiful wedding and lovely reception. May you have many happy returns of the day! We continue thinking of Matthew and wishing him well. GROW CELLS, GROW! We keep Matthew and all your family in our prayers, as you go through this "Duke Experience." Much Love, Beth & Tony Lewandowski Lafayette Hill, PA USA - Friday, June 20, 2003 10:27 AM CDT Dear Peggy and Eric, Since we share the same wedding day -- (a few years apart, ours #44 and yours #11) -- we are remembering your beautiful wedding and lovely reception. May you have many happy returns of the day! We continue thinking of Matthew and wishing him well. GROW CELLS, GROW! We keep Matthew and all your family in our prayers, as you go through this "Duke Experience." Much Love, Beth & Tony Lewandowski Lafayette Hill, PA USA - Friday, June 20, 2003 10:27 AM CDT HAPPY BIRTHDAY TORI!! Give her a hug and a kiss for me tonight and tell her I love her! Don't worry Aunt Peggy, Matthew is strong and he can feel all the love around him, I just know it. He will start growing those cells soon! Julie <jschettler@ahadirect.com> Olney, MD - Thursday, June 19, 2003 4:21 PM CDT HAPPY BIRTHDAY VICTORIA! Matthew, we keep you in our thoughts and in our prayers. We love you. We miss you. We are going to have a LOT of celebrating to do when you are engrafted...for many reasons!...including your birthday & Sean's birthday; now, Victoria's birthday, too. Hope that you are having better, more comfortable days and restful nights. XOXOX Team Dennis Team Dennis - Thursday, June 19, 2003 4:11 PM CDT Peggy, the cells are slow sometimes, but once they really start the just go go go!! We had made it to .3 then went into PICU and hit .1 again all in one day! but slowly the cell count started back up and soon they were doubling themselves. We continue to pray for a smooth ride. Love, Nancy and Nolan Nancy and Sam (Nolan Ramsey MPS-1-H www.caringbridge.org/co/nolanramsey) - Thursday, June 19, 2003 3:45 PM CDT Happy Birthday Victoria!! I will keep praying everyone else! Hang in there. Ann Fitzpatrick <fitzpata@mail.nih.gov> Rockville, MD USA - Thursday, June 19, 2003 3:09 PM CDT Dear Matthew, We are glad to have your Aunt Susan back with us but know that you all miss her. But you now have Michael whoo knows great games & stories to tell you when you feel a bit better. Mary Ronan & the gang at 1111 Constitution Mary Ronan DC - Thursday, June 19, 2003 1:57 PM CDT Matthew, I have been checking your website to see how you all have been doing. I miss you all and will be back to work on Friday. Grow Cells Grow...you can do it buddy!! Love, Kelly Kelly Chelf <kelly_chelf@hotmail,com> Raleigh, NC - Wednesday, June 18, 2003 2:26 PM CDT Peggy, hope things are going well, we continue to pray for ya'll. Grow Cells Grow!!!!!! Love, Nancy and Nolan Nancy and Sam (Nolan Ramsey MPS-1-H www.caringbridge.org/co/nolanramsey) Erie, Co - Tuesday, June 17, 2003 7:31 PM CDT That's a boy, Matthew! Keep growin' those cells! Love, Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net> - Tuesday, June 17, 2003 4:09 PM CDT Good Morning Matthew, Sean, Victoria, Peggy, and Eric, Glad to hear that Matthew is progressing along better than expected. We look for the journal entries everyday to check on his progress and pray for his speedy recovery. We look forward to the day you all return back to the DC area. We hear that Victoria and Sean are on their way back next week and look forward to taking them out to the movies again. Victoria is always such a little lady. It gives us the opportunity to see all of the kids movies without feeling guilty. The dogs and cats are doing fine. Jessica loves to play Mother to Nick. Looking forward to seeing you all soon. Love, Bill, Christopher, Nicholas and Jay Christopher Walck and Bill Dennis <cwalck@naccas.org> Alexandria, VA USA - Tuesday, June 17, 2003 7:50 AM CDT So happy to hear that Matthew's WBC went up. I love the new picture of him - he is such a sweet little guy! Keep up the good work Matthew! With Love - Lori, Mike and Andrew from Painted Post, NY Lori Gwin <gwin@corning-cc.edu> Painted Post, Ny USA - Monday, June 16, 2003 12:06 AM CDT Way to go Matthew. Gina and I are praying for you daily. I know those numbers will keep going up. David Shuler - Monday, June 16, 2003 11:56 AM CDT Dear Matthew, We are so happy to have met you. We'll keep sending smiles, hugs, and prayers your way. Love, Courtney and the crew Hendrick Marrow Program Courtney Hurd <churd@hmsracing.com> Charlotte, NC - Monday, June 16, 2003 8:43 AM CDT Just wanted you to know that Matthew (and all of you) are in my prayer sand thoughts. What a brave little guy he is. Maureen Jais-Mick <d.mick@verizon.net> Bethesda, MD - Monday, June 16, 2003 5:23 AM CDT I am so glad that Matthew's fever is down and it sounds like he is feeling better. This is a very tough time waiting for things to happen. One thing I am convinced of is that the Doctors at Duke are very honest. If they didn't think Matthew was doing well, they would tell you. The doctors have stressed to us that every child progress at a different pace and that they all have their good periods and bad periods. One day last week, I was so concerned about Jack. He was breathing heavy and burning up. Then just a few minutes later he was feeling much better. This seems to be a really up and down sort of process. I just wanted to let you know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Right now, Noah and I are planning to be back at Duke on Friday. I hope that we will see you then. David Shuler - Saturday, June 14, 2003 9:37 AM CDT Hi Matthew. It sounds like you are doing great. Keep up the good work. I hope you got sleep last night because The Pit Crew for Kids is a great group of people and you will have lots of fun today. Make sure you give them your new laugh while they visit. Vandy <Vandyhandy@aol.com> Baseball City, FL USA - Saturday, June 14, 2003 5:01 AM CDT Dear Matthew, Today is T +20 ... 20 days post transplant. We will remain on pins & needles until we hear that you have WBC's. GROW CELLS GROW. We hope that you are feeling OKay today, that the rash is resolving, the new cells are growing and the smiles are returning. Love ya, little buddy. Team Dennis Team Dennis - Thursday, June 12, 2003 2:07 PM CDT Dear Peggy and Family, I have been visiting the website and keeping up on Matthew's progress. Your family is beautiful. I can't wait to visit you from Potomac when you get back to Maryland. Please know that I pray for you all often... Paula Myers <pkmyers@leggmason.com> Columbia, MD 21045 - Thursday, June 12, 2003 12:41 AM CDT Way to go, Matthew! So glad to know that you are playing with your toys and back to smiling! Now you keep smiling and we'll keep praying and you'll be healthy in no time! The Lord is so good to us! Here is a verse for today: "The Spirit Himself prays for us with groanings too deep for words." Romans 8:26b Carolyn Wyman <sythismom@yahoo.com> Belding, MI - Thursday, June 12, 2003 8:58 AM CDT Dear Matthew and family, You don't know me but I have a special Hurler child in my life too. These kids are so special and sweet. I just wanted to let you know that Matthew has been added to my list of precious Hurler children I pray for each day. This is the tough part of transplant as he must feel the effects of the treatment the most right now. I'll keep him close in thought and prayer! Grow Donor Cells, Grow!!! Love, Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net> South Windsor , CT - Wednesday, June 11, 2003 2:28 PM CDT Dear Matthew and his parents - I am a friend of Susan and Bernie in Washington,DC. I have written before but want to let you know that I continue to keep Matthew in my prayers. The Bible tells us that when we are the weakest, God's power is the strongest. I know Matthew will do well. Charlie Doty <Mullandoty@aol.com> Washington, DC - Wednesday, June 11, 2003 2:14 PM CDT Hi - I am a friend of Bill's from work and I have been keeping up with Matthew's progress through your website. You are all in my prayers and I am so happy to read that Matthew is continuing to get stronger and stay on track. I will continue to pray for Matthew and your family!! Ann Fitzpatrick Rockville, MD - Wednesday, June 11, 2003 10:50 AM CDT Way to go - steady, slow improvement is the key. Each tiny step forward can be rejoiced in. Nancy & Ed Aman <nancyaman@charter.net> Sanford, NC - Wednesday, June 11, 2003 6:19 AM CDT Hi everyone, this is Trisha Athy. My son Aaron had his transplant for Hurlers on Feb 6 of this year. We too had the problem with the long finger nails. The nurses suggested to us that we use a nail file instead of clippers. I know babies nails are soft and hard to file but it did offer some relief. I hope everything is going well and I am praying for you daily. Keep up the good work!! Trisha Athy <caringbridge.org/il/aaronathy> IL - Tuesday, June 10, 2003 9:03 PM CDT Peggy you are amazing. The Lord has given you the grace and strength to get through this chapter in your family's lives. I continue to pray for you and Matthew and your family. Matthew is an amazing little boy to be so resilient and responding so well to this treatment. Prayers and peace, the Conlon Family Jeanne and John Conlon <JJERP1@aol.com> Hagerstown, MD USA - Tuesday, June 10, 2003 8:35 AM CDT Hello, I am Stan and Elizabeth Rosenquist's Daughter. Mom has kept me posted on how Matthew has been doing...as well as how Victoria and Sean are doing. I think about you often. I pray that Matthew will continue to get stronger and grow new cells. Hang in there...As my 5 year old would say...Jesus is there with you. Love, Tiffany Tiffany Eden <cmctiffanyeden@yahoo.com> Twin Falls, ID USA - Monday, June 9, 2003 6:03 PM CDT Hi! This is great! You were too kind with your words about us. We keep Mathew and your family in our thoughts throughout our day. I think he looks pretty good. Yesterday, I made banana pudding - one for you all. So will drop it off later today. Elizabeth and Stan Rosenquist <elizabethrosenquist@hotmail.com> Durham, CA USA - Monday, June 9, 2003 12:14 AM CDT What a blessing to hear that Matthew is rashing out and getting better - and what a relief to be at this point. May things continue to move ahead well, in Jesus' mighty name. GROW, DONOR CELLS, GROW!!!!! Carolyn Wyman <sythismom@yahoo.com> Belding, MI - Sunday, June 8, 2003 4:03 PM CDT Way to go Matthew. I am glad you are feeling a little better. Don't you guys worry about sending those therapists away. I did it all the time for awhile. Sometimes I think they had no concept of how bad our kids felt. Also, sending them away sometimes felt like all the controle I had over what happen to Andrew and I was going to be darned if I was going to let him go through anything else in those hard days. Keep up the good work Matthew. Love, Anne Anne Himes <www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewh> Boonsboro, md USA - Friday, June 6, 2003 9:20 PM CDT Hi, my name is David and I am one of Evan Dennis's friends. I hope Matthew will get better and better. David <Dburkey91@myactv.net> Hagerstown, MD USA - Friday, June 6, 2003 5:39 PM CDT Hi Eric and Peggy, Tori, Sean and Matthew- I have been thinking of you and hope all is well...the family has been praying for you and if you need anything, anything at all- please feel free to call. Mom and I think of you often... Regina Brady Riley <Rosigap980@aol.com> East Canton, OH US - Thursday, June 5, 2003 6:38 PM CDT Can't stop thinking about you, baby ...baby Matthew, that is. You remain in our thoughts and in all of our prayers. We hope that you are feeling better and better with each passing day ... as those new cells grow, grow, GROW! We love you little Matthew. XOXOX Team Dennis Team Dennis - Thursday, June 5, 2003 4:28 PM CDT Dear Matthew, It was so great to get to stop by and see your pictures and get to talk to your daddy. I know these are some tough days for you. It is hard work growing all those new cells. It will be so worth it! Love, Anne (your new friend from md.) Anne Himes <www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewh> Boonsboro, md USA - Thursday, June 5, 2003 9:58 AM CDT I don't believe I've signed yet, but I found out about you on Nolan's website. My little Reese was a Hurler baby, too. Only, he earned his wings on March 10th this year. Looking at little Matthew is like looking at Reese. He reminds me so much of him - especially the one on the main page! God has truly blessed us with special children. I will continue to check on Matthew and his progress. As hard as it is, fevers are a good sign! I will ask my little 'reesie cup' to watch over your son.... Shawn & ^REESE^ (www.caringbridge.org/nc/reesecup) <selboc@aol.com> Mount Airy, NC - Thursday, June 5, 2003 7:15 AM CDT Hey guys, I have not checked in the last couple of days, I am at home with my older two children, sorry to hear about the fevers, reading your entries made me cry, I remember every single minute of the 106-107 fevers, cold clothes, cooling blanket, not being able to hold him and the oxygen. I will be praying hard for you over the next few days as you know you are hitting the peak time for mucositis,only a few more days then things will turn for the better!!!! Hang in there it will be so worth it!!!! Love you, Nancy Nancy Ramsey (www.caringbridge.org/co/nolanramsey - Thursday, June 5, 2003 0:15 AM CDT Happy Birthday, Matthew! I am sorry to read that you have had a rough couple of days. However, I am praying that these yucky fevers mean that good things are on the way for you! I am so sorry I have been missing this week, but I am still fighting a respiratory infection. I really just don't want to take any chances at all until I feel 100% better (and don't worry, even then I will make sure I am cleared by your nurses!). Peggy, I hope salon day holds off for a few more days! Matthew, I haven't really gotten to know you yet, but I could see your fighting spirit in your eyes and in that precious smile. Fevers are yucky, but hopefully that means you're cooking up some cells :) Take care, Your Best Buddy Lauren Lauren McQueen <lam15@duke.edu> Durham, NC - Wednesday, June 4, 2003 2:31 PM CDT Happy Birthday Matthew! May you have many many more! Susan Wensel - Wednesday, June 4, 2003 10:23 AM CDT HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Matthew and Sean. Someday, your mom will tell you that Sean means "God's grace" and Matthew means "God's gift." Seems to fit, wouldn't you two say? Matthew, our hearts are with you in prayer as you go through these trials. Praise the Lord that you won't remember them! I will pray that the steroids will not be that bad for you painwise, and that you will only have the right reaction to them - that they help make you better! I'm so glad Mom was able to hold you through this fever - most of us parents can relate!!! Carolyn Wyman <sythismom@yahoo.com> Belding, MI - Tuesday, June 3, 2003 9:38 PM CDT HAPPY BIRTHDAY BOYS!!! Michael & I are thinking of you all everyday. Until we talk again, All our Love !!! Jill Jill Byrd Boyds, MD USA - Tuesday, June 3, 2003 9:06 PM CDT HAPPY BIRTHDAY BOYS!!!! I LOVE YOU!!!! Emily <eschettler08@hotmail.com> Silver Spring, MD - Tuesday, June 3, 2003 7:13 PM CDT HAPPY 1st BIRTHDAY MATTHEW AND SEAN!!! Well it looks like Aunt Ann beat me to the the site;-) I can't believe it's been a year already. Time has just flown by. I wish I could be down there to hold my Godson on his 1st birthday and give him lots of hugs and kisses, and Matthew too, so you will have to do that for me! (Which I know you already do.) I miss all of you so much! I'm sure I'll be back down there soon because I know Emily wants to see everyone so we might just have to take a little road trip. I'm sorry to read that Matthew had a fever but if it means that those cells are growing I won't worry to much. GROW CELLS GROW!! Well all my love to everyone and I hope to see all of you sometime soon! HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Julie Schettler <jschettler@ahadirect.com> Olney, MD - Tuesday, June 3, 2003 6:18 PM CDT Today, June 3rd, 2003 is Sean's and Matthew's 1st Birthday! Happy Birthday, Sean! Happy Birthday, Matthew! And, indeed, what an incredible year it has been for you....with the best of times & the worst of times, too. The best have included the arrival of two very special baby boys on June 3rd, 2002; one baby with little hair, one baby with lots of hair; one baby who cried a lot, one baby who didn't; one baby who wanted to be held through the night, one baby who was a major laundrymaker! Terrific (and sometimes tiring) times with twins! Then, the worst of times hit...with Matthew's diagnosis of Hurler's, with your family being separated (three in NC and two in MD)for about a month, the numerous days & nights spent in the hospital. Indeed, what a ROLLERCOASTER year of ups and downs, it has been. Matthew, ...with this new year of your life beginning with new cells growing... we hope that you are resting comfortably, that you are hanging in there, little buddy. We look forward to celebrating MANY, MANY, MANY HAPPY Birthdays with you, Matthew. And, Sean, we hope that you are having a good day, cruising around the NC apartment and we look forward to celebrating MANY, MANY, MANY HAPPY Birthdays with you, Sean. You all remain in our thoughts & in our prayers! Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis - Tuesday, June 3, 2003 5:27 PM CDT Hi all, What a wonderful website...Julie told me about it yesterday while we were "sipping" marguerita's at Olive Garden following Katie's graduation. I drove Grandma Juana down to Constitution Hall, then after the diploma thing Cathy picked up Grandma Mary and we all met back at the restuarant... I used to collect cord blood in my "former life" and now I know nearly first hand how wonderfully life-giving it can be. Thoughts and prayers are with you all; in spite of all the tubes, prods, pokes etc., Matthew seems to be a very happy little boy. By the way, nurses don't look very "kindly" at their patients chewing the IV tubing in two, but if it helps, what the hey. Will check in on you every now & then. Loving thoughts, Karen Karen Schettler - Tuesday, June 3, 2003 8:05 AM CDT Hello Matthew, Sean, Victoria, Peggy & Eric: You are in our prayers, your website is wonderful and I am inspired by your great Faith & Work. You are an amazing family & it is a tribute to see how God works through people to perform miracles. With much Love & Best to You All. Love, Irene, Michael & Alexia Christian Irene Zevgolis Christian <izdesign@earthlink.net> Olney, MD USA - Monday, June 2, 2003 4:13 PM CDT Dear Peggy, Eric, Matthew, Sean and Victoria, We have been thinking of all of you while Matthew has been going through his donor cell transplant. We keep praying that the cells will grow, grow, GROW!! God bless you. Love, Beth and Tony Lewandowski Lafayette Hill, PA - Monday, June 2, 2003 3:46 PM CDT I talked to Gina last night and she told me about Matthew's fever. We have been praying for him and I was glad to see from your web page that it has gone down. It is so strange because in so many ways, the sickness is a sign that they are getting better. I will be back at Duke on Thursday with Jack's big brother, Noah. This will be Noah's first time seeing Jack actually in the hospital. I hope that Matthews fever is from those new cells growing like crazy. As always, you will be in our prayers. David Shuler <davidshuler@sbcglobal.net> - Monday, June 2, 2003 2:28 PM CDT Dear Peggy, Eric, Matthew, Sean and Tori, Sorry to hear that Matthew has had rough couple of days, but we are praying for the donor cells to continue to grow and GROW!!!Just wanted to let you know that we are thinking of you during this difficult time. Take good care and God bless. Love, Ferne, Jeff, Sarah and Olivia <JBSch1125@aol.com> Skippack, PA - Monday, June 2, 2003 2:12 PM CDT How good the Lord is to hear our request for the donor cells to GROW! Now we pray that the proof of such an awesome answer will subside quietly, quickly, and that Matthew can be comfortable. How it hurts to know he hurts! But the pain will not be remembered by him and one day he will only know that when he was little, his parents chose this path so that he could lead a normal life with his siblings. Keep focused on that and you will be able to get through this, however much it tears your heart! You have so much to be thankful for, including the wisdom of researchers to find a treatment that can correct Hurler's. The Lord be praised for helping mankind find this, and we look forward to a complete cure soon! Carolyn Wyman Belding, MI - Monday, June 2, 2003 11:29 AM CDT Dearest Baby Matthew, So sorry to hear that you were having a rough afternoon/evening....that's a very HIGH fever....BUT, we have HIGH hopes that the high fever signals new cell growth ....and GROW CELLS GROW!!! You are in our thoughts and prayers every day. We love you LOTS. Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis - Monday, June 2, 2003 8:58 AM CDT Eric and Peggy: Keeping all of you in thoughts and prayers during this difficult time in your life. Hopefully everything will go well, and Matthew will enjoy good health. Be strong and God will see you through this. With love and concern, Ron and Sandy Stallard - Lifelong friends of Grandpa and Grandma Sackett <rons@toolcity.net> Meadville, PA USA - Sunday, June 1, 2003 3:27 PM CDT Hi Matthew and family- I got your website address from Kara and I wanted to write to say hi and that I hope everything is going well. I've been fighting a bit of a respiratory something-or-other the past couple of days so I am keeping my distance for now, but I am on the upswing and as soon as the 5200 nurses give me the all clear, I'll be back to establishing myself as the new "Buddy". I hope Matthew is doing well and that you all are hanging in there too. I'm going to go take some more vitaming C so that I can get back up there and see that adorable smile! Take care, Your Best Buddy Lauren Lauren McQueen <lam15@duke.edu> Durham, NC - Sunday, June 1, 2003 10:04 AM CDT Hello to Matthew and his family... Just wanted to let you know that we will be keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers! Our son, Jacob, had his transplant for Hurler Syndrome one year ago (May 22, 2002) at Duke. You are in good hands and we truly hope Matthew gets through everything with little to no difficulties! Take care and feel free to contact us for any reason! Love ~ The Irish's Melanie, Steve, Jacob, & Matthew <www.caringbridge.org/wa/jacobirish -OR- mairish@hotmail.com> Marysville, WA USA - Sunday, June 1, 2003 1:10 AM CDT This is my first time signing in but it definitely won't be my last. I just want to let you know that now that I've come across your site, I will be keeping up with how you are and praying for you. Blessings to you. If I can help you in any way while you are here, please let me know. Khalita My Caringbridge Site Duke Peds BMT Aplastic Anemia <khalita@hecaresonline.org> Lexington, NC - Saturday, May 31, 2003 11:45 PM CDT Just stopping by to check on sweet Matthew and to pray for him. Looking forward to his release from the hospital and Hurler's! James 5:14-15 Carolyn Wyman <sythismom@yahoo.com> Belding, MI - Saturday, May 31, 2003 9:11 PM CDT Hello! Greetings from North Canton, Ohio. I am Mariann Riley's step-daughter, Tracy. I will say special prayers for Matthew and the rest of the family and will request prayers at church and work (where we regularly pray for each other and special requests). God Bless. Tracy Riley <triley@uakron.edu> - Saturday, May 31, 2003 5:36 PM CDT Hi Matthew, I am glad to hear you are doing so well. It was nice to meet you in April. Hope the cells GROW!GROW!GROW! Jeanne and "Taylor" Blair <mommyjb@cox.net or caringbridge.org/va/taylor_blair> Va Beach, Va USA - Saturday, May 31, 2003 3:43 PM CDT Hi Matthew, You sure are a cutie! I hope that you have a nice quite weekend and we will be praying for you. My son, Tommy, is 3 years old and has Sanfilippo Syndrome. He will be getting his 3rd transplant in about a month but hopefully you will not be there still. Maybe we will see you in clinic before that. Alicia & Tommy Bennett http://caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys/ <Lumberhead@twinwolf.net> - Saturday, May 31, 2003 9:24 AM CDT Hi, Matthew- So good to find your site! We are the Birminghams, and our daughter Molly was transplanted at Duke 2 years ago for MPS1. We will be following your journey and praying for you and your family. Be strong... we love you, cutie pie! Love, Jenny, John, TJ (age 6) and Molly Birmingham <www.missmollyb.com> - Saturday, May 31, 2003 8:49 AM CDT I found your website through Nolan's page. My name is Jennifer Restemayer and my daughter, Allison, has MPS 1 also. She is 27 mo old and just started receiving an Enzyme Replacement Therapy last Wednesday! I am happy to hear that Matthew has been doing so well. I pray that the mucositis Matthew is going through remains very mild. Love, Jennifer Restemayer Jennifer Restemayer www.caringbridge.org/nd/allison <jennmarie@bis.midco.net> Bismarck, ND Usa - Friday, May 30, 2003 10:21 PM CDT Peggy, it was so nice to see you and Matthew today. He is such a sweetheart! I will continue to pray for the mucositis. I know it has been a very hard week for all of us. I pray your stay will be short on the unit and you will get to clinic before you know it!! Hey 20 days seems to be a good day to shoot for. Hang in there! We are all in the same boat! Love, Nancy Nancy Ramsey(Nolan Ramsey) www.caringbridge.org/co/nolanramsey - Friday, May 30, 2003 5:34 PM CDT I just wanted to say hello from Missouri. Jack was transplanted today and I was able to be there via telephone. We are praying for you and your family daily. Gina has been experienceing the same emotions you have mentioned regarding the deaths and the children that are going home. I will be back down on Thursday with Jack's big brother. I am sure I will see you then. I was so glad to see that Matthew is doing well. David Shuler - Friday, May 30, 2003 5:02 PM CDT Our neighbors (Jeanne & John Conlon) think that Matthew looks like Liza (Liza was happy to read that!). Uncle Pat says, "...if what you say is true about Matthew losing his hair, then he'll start to look more like Uncle Pat. The only difference is that Matthew's hair will grow back!" We continue to pray for you several times a day....Hang in there. We love you. We hope that Matthew had a good day today. Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis - Friday, May 30, 2003 4:37 PM CDT Just checking in on your little sweetie and praying for his quick and effortless recovery from Hurlers. Jesus is Lord, and He knows all the needs of every human being as He waits for us simply to ASK, SEEK, and KNOCK. "Lord, we ask that the mucositis disappear in Jesus' mighty name. We seek a complete and total cure from Hurlers, again in Your sweet name. We knock on the door of opportunity to spread Your message of love to 5200. We thank You that Your promises are YES and AMEN. In Jesus Christ's name, we thank You for all your benefits and for what you will do for Matthew today. Amen. "And we ask that Juan's family will be able to visit him more often. We thank You that when someone was grumbling that their fiance' forgot their birthday, we were able to point to Juan and say, 'Be grateful that you were healthy on your birthday.' Thank You that we all have things to be grateful for, things we do not deserve. Thank You that life isn't fair - because if it was, we would go to hell with no hope instead of the innocent Son of God taking it for us. Thank You for the knowledge that You have given researchers into finding a cure for genetic diseases and cancer. Lead them on to it soon, Lord, again in Jesus' mighty name. Amen." Carolyn Wyman <sythismom@yahoo.com> Belding, MI - Friday, May 30, 2003 10:47 AM CDT Matthew, we are praying that you will sail through this BMT and be healthy and strong. Keep smiling, and we'll keep praying! Prayers for Juan, also. Luke 18:1 Carolyn Wyman <sythismom@yahoo.com> Belding, MI - Thursday, May 29, 2003 11:45 PM CDT Peggy, just read your update, my mind drifts back to days not so far behind me, at the mention of difficult breathing my heart did a little dip, I will pray for Matthew daily that the mucositis will not win! Hurler babies smile through some of the worst of it. They are the toughest, little fighters I know!!! It is so hard to be on the unit, I know the ups and downs with the emotions. This has been a hard couple of weeks up there, we have all been effected by it. Hang in there, you and Matthew will be joining us in clinic soon!!! I plan to stop by tomorrow and see you. Take care and smile it helps make the unit more bareable. Love, Nancy Nancy Ramsey(Nolan Ramsey) www.caringbridge.org/co/nolanramsey - Thursday, May 29, 2003 10:23 PM CDT Matthew, Eric, Peggy, Sean, and Tori, We're happy that Matthew is doing well. Our prayers are with him. We hold all of you in our thoughts and prayers. We love looking at the pictures. If there is anything that we can do to help, just let us know. The Tinney's Laurel, MD - Thursday, May 29, 2003 8:30 PM CDT GOOD TO SEE THAT MATTHEW'S DOING WELL! CONTINUED GOOD LUCK AND HEALTH TO THE SACKETT FAMILY FROM THE ECHO FAMILY. BRUCE GORSUCH ROCKVILLE, MD. U.S.A. - Wednesday, May 28, 2003 7:41 PM CDT Dear Eric and Peggy, We have been following Matthew's progress from Bill who gives us updates. My whole office if praying up a storm for Mat and all of you. We will continue to hold Mat and each of you up to the Lord in the months to come. God's peace be with you all. Denny Marcotte & the staff of the Paulist National Catholic Evangelization Association. Denny Marcotte <denny.marcotte@pncea.org> Washington, DC USA - Wednesday, May 28, 2003 3:45 PM CDT You have a beautiful family. Our hearts and prayers are with you. If I can do anything from OH let me know. Take care and know you're loved and thought of often. Cheryl Connolly <cconnoll@akron.k12.oh.us> North Canton, OH USA - Wednesday, May 28, 2003 8:41 AM CDT Today is T+4 and we hope that our little buddy continues to do well! Bouncing in his exersaucer ....that's so GREAT to hear! We keep you all in our thoughts & prayers. Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis - Tuesday, May 27, 2003 5:26 PM CDT our prayers are with you. Mary Kaytrosh Mountaintop, PA - Tuesday, May 27, 2003 4:50 PM CDT Dear Matthew's family: We are praying with you and for you and your beautiful baby Matthew. Thank you for sharing your family photos with us. I am amazed at how much he looks like Liza D. (we are neighbors of Pat and Ann). It sounds like Matthew's transplant day went very well - and we pray that these upcoming days are as smooth for all of you. The Conlons Jeanne and John Conlon <JJERP1@aol.com> Hagerstown, MD USA - Tuesday, May 27, 2003 4:10 PM CDT I'm glad to hear all are doing well. These are strenuous times. My prayers and best wishes to all of you. If there is anything I can do please let me know. Mark Newcastle - Tuesday, May 27, 2003 6:09 AM CDT T+3.....hope all is going smoothly for our sweetest Baby Matthew. The newest slide show is AWESOME! Quite a memorable day, indeed. Hope that the fever is due to NEW cells.....not infection.....we keep you all in our thoughts & prayers. Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis - Monday, May 26, 2003 2:03 PM CDT So happy to hear that the transplant went well! Matthew is a very strong and brave little boy! With so much support and love around him, and his joyous and determined spirit, he should have everything it will take to move through these next couple of weeks with grace. Much love and strength to Matthew, and to his wonderful parents, sister and brother as well. Brian Harris - Monday, May 26, 2003 10:44 AM CDT Congratulations Matthew, now the real work begins, we will be praying for an easy time of growing cells. Hope to see you again soon. Love, Nolan and Nancy Nancy Ramsey(Nolan Ramsey) www.caringbridge.org/co/nolanramsey - Sunday, May 25, 2003 11:24 AM CDT We were thinking of you all day yesterday...knowing that it was TRANSPLANT day! Looks like it was quite the celebration in Room 5216!...the coordinating outfits for Victoria, Sean & Matthew are SO cute! We hope that Matthew is doing well today...with his NEW cells...his NEW beginning! We keep y'all in our thoughts & prayers. GROW CELLS GROW! Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis Hagerstown, MD - Saturday, May 24, 2003 6:50 AM CDT Hi, I loved seeing the pictures of Matthew smiling! I'm happy to hear the transplant went well and hope the next two weeks won't be too difficult. Thanks for keeping this diary for your family and friends. Your family deserves the best. Love, Jean Jean Colison - Friday, May 23, 2003 10:17 PM CDT Hi Matthew, Sean, Victoria, Peggy and Eric, We love the web-site since it gives us a chance to stay in touch with Matthew's progress and to see his smiling face. Bill and I think of you everyday and miss seeing you and spending time togeather. We wish Matthew a speedy recovery and hope to get to North Carolina in July. Let us know if there is anything else we can do at this end. You all are in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Bill, Chris, Jay and Nicholas Christopher Walck and Bill Dennis <cwalck@naccas.org> Alexandria, VA USA - Friday, May 23, 2003 2:25 PM CDT Hi Peggy and Eric, We are thinking of you and hope that everything goes well with the transplant today. We've been reading the website, and are so glad to hear that so far Matthew is doing well. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Terry Cummings and Dave Hoerauf <info@animalsanctuary.org> Poolesville, MD USA - Friday, May 23, 2003 9:51 AM CDT Dear Peggy, Eric, Matthew, Sean and Tori, Glad to hear that Matthew has been in good spirits. We are counting down T -01 with you! We pray that everything will go well tomorrow, and will continue to pray each and every day that the cells will grow! Thinking of you. Love, Ferne, Jeff, Sarah and Olivia <JBSch1125@aol.com> Skippack, PA USA - Thursday, May 22, 2003 9:02 PM CDT Peggy & Eric: I talked to Gina and she said that Matthew was doing well. I really appreciate the fact that you and Gina are in such close proximity. I know that Gina has appreciated it when you have popped in to say hi. I think she is doing much better now that she is actually in the hospital. She certainly isn't getting bored and has doesn't get so lonely. I am glad that the chemo hasn't made Matthew too sick. It is my understanding that the toughest days are coming up both for Matthew and Jack. We will be praying for them both. I hope to see you this weekend. David Shuler David Shuler - Thursday, May 22, 2003 2:08 PM CDT Peggy & Eric Thanks so much for thinking of us during this difficult time by writing to us and bringing us up to date on Matthew's progress. I know it has been a long time since we have communicated but rest assured we are thinking of you and have you and Matthew in our prayers. God Bless. Love, Jeff, Maureen & Anthony Cairns Jeff Cairns <jeff58@earthlink.net> - Thursday, May 22, 2003 11:15 AM CDT Hello. Nolan's mother Nancy asked us to check on your website and to pray for Matthew - something we are all very happy and blessed to do! I have bookmarked your site to keep an eye out for specific prayer requests - so fire away! You have a very nice-looking family and we will be so relieved when this is all over for you. The Lord has given us a promise for healing in James 5:14-15 that is often overlooked, so I would like to share it with you tonight. It says, "The prayer of faith WILL save the sick, and they WILL recover." So we are praying with you to have total trust in the Lord as you go through this grueling process with your son. The Lord is able, and He is WILLing -- just believe! Sounds like you have that covered already! Carolyn Wyman <sythismom@yahoo.com> Belding, MI - Tuesday, May 20, 2003 9:38 PM CDT Hi Matthew and Family. My name is Trisha Athy and my son Aaron had hurlers also. Aaron had his transplant 103 days ago and is doing awesome. I hope things go well for you all. I just heard mention of your name today but rest assured you will be added to my personal prayer list. I can't wait to follow Matthew's progress. These Hurlers Kids are the toughest I know. Until next time XOXO Trisha Athy <caringbridge.org/il/aaronathy> Belleville , IL USA - Tuesday, May 20, 2003 10:39 AM CDT Hello Aunt Peggy, Uncle Eric, Tori, Sean and Matthew! Mom has probably talked to you but we will be coming down this weekend. I can't wait to see all of you! I wish we could stay longer then just the weekend. I love this web page, its such a great way to keep the family up-to-date about everything. And the slide show that Aunt Susan put together is so cute. Well I love all of you and am always thinking of you! See you soon. Julie <jschettler@ahadirect.com> Olney, MD - Tuesday, May 20, 2003 7:26 AM CDT We are thinking of you all and counting down the days to transplant. Healing thoughts and prayers are coming your way. Hugs to all the kids! Linda, Rob, and Parker <veganlinda@yahoo.com> Savoy, IL USA - Tuesday, May 20, 2003 4:53 AM CDT Matthew, I just found your wed page. It is great!!! I am sorry we have not been back to visit you, we have been busy with clinic, you will be here soon too, then we can wait together!!! I hope you are still feeling ok and the dreaded ATG wont get you down. We will be praying for you and your mommy and daddy! We will try to come by again soon and see you, hang in there buddy, you will be out before you know it. Love, The Ramsey's Nancy and Sam (Nolan Ramsey MPS-1-H www.caringbridge.org/co/nolanramsey) <samdramsey@msn.com> Erie, Co - Monday, May 19, 2003 9:17 PM CDT Dear Matthew's parents - I am a friend of Susan and Bernie from the Lincoln Group of DC. It has been wonderful seeing all the new photos on Matthew's website. The children seem to be having a good time and Matthew is very cute except the one with the tube down his nose. He doesn't seem too happy! I do not know you but Matthew is an important part of my daily prayers. P.S.-we need Susan back soon! Charlie Doty <mullandoty@aol.com> Washington, DC - Sunday, May 18, 2003 10:36 PM CDT Hello: Just checking in to see how Matthew is doing. I am glad that things are going smoothly. Dr. K sent me and e-mail yesterday and said things look good for Jack to be admitted Tuesday so hopefully we will be neighbors soon. I will not be in Durham until late Friday night. Gina will be there on her own until then. I hope you all will be able to visit some when things aren't too hectic. Gina and I were talking about the fact that probably the hardest thing right now is having our family seperated. We seem to have moments when we feel things are going to be o.k. and then we have our low moments. I know you understand. Again, I wanted to let you know you are in our thoughts and prayers. David Shuler <davidshuler@sbcglobal.net> - Sunday, May 18, 2003 3:41 PM CDT Hi Everyone! Just checking in and so happy to see the new slide SHOWS on the photo page! Excellent! Your new haircut looks great, Peg! We're doing the transplant countdown with you. Hope you are all OKay. Keeping you in our prayers. Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis - Sunday, May 18, 2003 12:40 AM CDT Dear Sacketts, Add us to the list of people who are thinking of you all and praying that all will go well for Matthew. It sounds like you are in great hands. You have a wonderful family. Cecilia and Phil (friends of Ann and Pat from the old Hershey days.) Cecilia Caldwell Portland, ME - Saturday, May 17, 2003 4:58 PM CDT Hello Sackett Family! I've been enjoying the website and the wonderful slide show Susan put together. It's a great way for all who care about you to learn Matthew's progress. What a long haul you are facing, but it looks like the love and prayers of many families and friends are with you. What a great time to have a big, tight knit family! Best wishes to all of you from Judy Perrotto (Ann and Pat's friend). Judy Perrotto <jap3u@virginia.edu> - Friday, May 16, 2003 8:32 AM CDT I just thought Matthew might have a web page. This is David Shuler (Jack's Dad). I am back in Missouri and as you know, Gina is in Durham by herself. We are being told that Jack will be admitted on this next Tuesday. I hope we don't have any further delay. I wanted you to know that Gina and I are praying for Matthew and your family all of the time. I will never forget meeting you. Somehow I could just tell by the expression on your faces that you were the Sackett's we had been told about. The look on your faces was just like ours (tired and bewildered). It looks like we will be going through this together. We are so hopeful that both Matthew and Jack will come out of this with flying colors. I hope this process will go smoothly and be as comfortable as possible for Matthew and Jack. Gina and I are trying our best to stay upbeat and optimistic but we have our good days and bad days. Hopefully we will be able to help each other on those bad days. I just wanted to say hello and let you know we think of you constantly. If there is ever anything you need or just want to talk, do not hesitate to call. Gina's number in Durham is (919)383-8043. Our home number is (417)881-0163. I will be in Durham late on the 23rd. This is the first time Gina and I have ever been seperated for more than one night. I can't wait to see her. Jack's big brother and Aunt are arriving in Durham tomorrow. Prayerfully yours, David Shuler <Davidshuler@sbcglobal.net> - Thursday, May 15, 2003 4:27 PM CDT Hey Aunt Peggy, Uncle Eric, Tori, Matthew and Sean, We all miss you back here at home. I hope all is going well with Matthew's treatments. I can't wait until we can all come to visit you. It'll be nice to see the kids again. Keep in touch and keep adding more pictures so we can watch them grow. = ) Love from all Emily <eschettler08@hotmail.com> Silver Spring, MD Montgomery - Thursday, May 15, 2003 12:58 AM CDT A climb to a mountaintop begins with the first step. You've begun that climb...and we are with you in spirit and in prayer. One day done...Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis - Wednesday, May 14, 2003 10:09 PM CDT Hi Peggy and Eric and family, My name is Deb Kravik. I'm a friend of Rose and Al's. I have heard lots about your family, including the birth of your twins. Now Rose has told me of Matthew's diagnosis. It is very tough for all of you. I just sent her some information that may be helpful for your situation while Matthew is receiving treatment. I have worked for programs in Wisconsin dealing with children and families with some very difficult medical and developmental situations. If I can be of any help to you in locating resources or just knowing what questions to ask let Rose know or you can call me collect or email me. My prayers are with you. Deb Deb Kravik <dkravik@centurytel.net> Osceola, WI us - Wednesday, May 14, 2003 4:36 PM CDT Dear Peggy,Eric & The Gang, I sit & think of what I want to say, & theres so much. So until you're home... I'll just keep checking on Matthew's web site ,& saying a prayer for all of you.Your family is on the prayer chain at my moms church:) Lots of love, jill Jill Byrd <jillbyrd7@aol.com> Boyds, MD USA - Tuesday, May 13, 2003 9:14 PM CDT Now that Matthew has been admitted to start his treatment, we are revving up the prayers more than ever. Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis - Tuesday, May 13, 2003 8:02 PM CDT Hi Eric and Peggy -- I just recently learned about your son's illness. I will keep you in my prayers and hope to hear positive results before too long. Kevin Kilcullen - Tuesday, May 13, 2003 2:41 PM CDT We were all so glad to see Eric while he was in town on Friday and to get a personal up-date on Matthew, Peggy, and the rest of the family. Every time we look at the beautiful graphics that you do for our program, we think of you all and send an extra wish for Matthew to get well fast and for you all to be able to return to your home. Federal Preservation Institute, National Park Service <constance_ramirez@nps.gov> Washington, DC - Monday, May 12, 2003 10:49 AM CDT Hi, Peggy, Eric, Matthew, Sean and Tori, Peggy, on this mother's day, Matthew is truly blessed to have you for his mother. We continue to pray for Matthew, and frequently check on how you all are doing by this website, and with phone calls to Ann and Pat. Take good care. Love, Ferne, Jeff, Sarah and Olivia <JBSch112@aol.com> Skippack, PA - Sunday, May 11, 2003 8:59 PM CDT Dear Matthew's parents - I am glad that Matthew is progressing and hope he continues to do well. I am, also, glad that you have a picture of him on his website so that I can see how he looks. I am a friend of Bernie and Susan at the Lincoln Group of Washington, DC. We miss all the help that they give to our group but we are glad that Susan is with you and Matthew. Best wishes with his treatments. Charlie Doty <Mullandoty@aol.com> Washington, DC - Sunday, May 11, 2003 4:10 PM CDT Hi guys! Sorry to hear you have to wait for Matt's admission, but that means more time with his family. Tell Tori I miss our walks to the train park and tell Sean I miss his cheeks. Give Matthew big kisses from all of us. Much Love from the Ruddick Ranch. Rose Ruddick <alruddick@comcast.net> Jessup, MD USA - Wednesday, May 7, 2003 9:19 PM CDT Dear Peggy, Eric, Victoria, Sean, and especially Matthew, Our "guardian" showed us your web-site today and it is way-cool. Matthew, U R a cutie-pie with that big smile! We will save some dog biscuits for you to share with us. Vegan, of course! Arf. We love you all. Asha the Alpha Greyhound and Hershey the Big Bad Pitbull <baxelrod@erols.com> Centreville, VA USA - Wednesday, May 7, 2003 8:50 PM CDT The new photos are DARLING!...how nice to see the three (Victoria, Sean and Matthew) TOGETHER again! You remain in our thoughts and in our prayers each and every day. Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis - Wednesday, May 7, 2003 8:25 PM CDT You are in our thoughts and prayers. Much Love, Lori, Mike and Andrew Lori Gwin <lgwin@localnet.com> Painted Post, ny USA - Wednesday, May 7, 2003 10:02 AM CDT Dear Peggy & Eric & family, I am so sorry to hear about Matthew's condition. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Please keep us updated on how Matthew is doing. We hope to see you all our next trip to the States. Love Always, Gwyneth and Marco Gwyneth Byrd <gwyneth.byrd@fao.org> Rome, Italy - Wednesday, May 7, 2003 1:49 AM CDT Hello Susan told me about Matthew's website and I had to come and say hello. I live in Brisbane on the east coast of Australia. My husband and I have a daughter named Daria (pronounce Dah-ree-ah) and a son named Caleb. Daria was diagnosed with Hurlers at the age of 7 months in May 2000. She is now a fighting fit 3 1/2 years old. She received a cord blood transplant in September 2001 just one day before her 2nd birthday thanks to the arrival of her miracle baby brother who was a 6/6 HLA tissue type match. Caleb does not have Hurlers. Daria is Day+587 today, 100% engrafted and doing really well. Whilst I know that when you are stuck in hospital it feels like a prison... but there is always a light at the end of the tunnel and things can only get better. My only piece of advice is..... coins are your best friend, it means food at 1am from a vending machine!! Wishing you all the best for not only Matthew but his brother, sister, mummy and daddy. Love and best wishes from your Aussie buddies Trina, Doug, Daria and Caleb Ward Daria's website: www.users.bigpond.com/daria99 Trina Ward <daria99@bigpond.com> Brisbane, QLD Australia - Tuesday, May 6, 2003 11:25 PM CDT To the family: I work with Susan, and I keep Matthew and the family in my thoughts and prayers. I wish Matthew the best for a speedy recovery. God Bless! Iesha Ward <Iesha.Y.Ward@irs.gov> Washington, DC US - Tuesday, May 6, 2003 12:10 AM CDT Dear Peggy, Eric, Tori, Sean, & Matthew, Jill & I just received your letter this afternoon. You have our hearts and prayers and you will have them always. Everything thing will work out and we trust to God for you and Matthew's well being. We told our other 37 little spirits in our household as well as our hummingbirds, squirrels, and all our songbirds. Even the foxes & hawks have paused in praise of Matthew's courage. All are joined in hope and faith for little Matthew and Nature's Grace. Each and every morning you all will be our first thought and know we will say our bedtime prayers for Matthew. God's Speed and We Love You. Stay Strong as we know you are! Jill & Michael Byrd <jillbyrd7@aol.com> Boyds, Md USA - Monday, May 5, 2003 9:09 PM CDT Dear Peggy, Eric, & Matthew, Paula called me today and forwarded your email regarding Matthew. I am so sorry. My heart broke for you and your little guy. I can only begin to imagine what you are going through. It sounds like the three of you have already been through a lot and have quite a tough road ahead. Thank you for keeping us abreast of the situation. I loved seeing the pictures of your beautiful family. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Patty B. Patty Buddemeyer <pbuddemeyer@comcast.net> Timonium, MD USA - Monday, May 5, 2003 3:24 PM CDT hello Peggy and Eric, I am so sorry to hear about Matthew's news, it saddens me deeply when learned about this in your letter. Please accept my apolpogy for not keeping in touch lately, but good friends like you are hard to find. Be assured that our prayers are with Matthews each day now, Eric & Peggy please be strong and be there for him/them, for they are so special, if you need any help at all to get through this please don't hesitate to let me know. love your friend Anh Vu <qavu@comcast.net> Laurel, MD USA - Monday, May 5, 2003 2:46 PM CDT Dear Peggy, I am so sorry to hear about Matthew. You have been in my thoughts and prayers each and every day since I got your email. I am trying to let the Kappa Deltas that I keep in touch with know also. I'm so glad that you have this wonderful website so that we can keep in touch and updated on Matthew. I loved seeing the pics of your family. Looking forward to good updates. Take care of yourself... Paula Myers <pkmyers@leggmason.com > Columbia, MD - Monday, May 5, 2003 2:02 PM CDT Dear Sacketts & Susan, We're thinking of you all today. The Office is quiet without Susan. But we're all glad she's putting her "mothering" talents to such good use. Mary R & the rest of the gang at 1111 <mary.ronan@irs.gov> Washington, DC - Monday, May 5, 2003 12:26 AM CDT Matthew has been in my prayers since the day I heard he was ill. I followed your pregnancy and the birth of the twins through your very proud brother Bill, my co-worker. My granddaughter Kailee is about the same age as Victoria and Bill and I often share stories about the girls. God Bless you and your family and may this time pass quickly so that the happy years can erase these trying times. Carol Smith <smithcar@mail.nih.gov> Germantown, MD USA - Monday, May 5, 2003 8:31 AM CDT Dear Peggy, Eric, and my sweet Matthew: I just wanted to let you know.. if you need anything.. I am here..and I can be there in a heartbeat. You have all been a part of my extended family for so long now, I want you to know I love you all so much! The picture of Matthew is so beautiful. Just like his mother. Sweet, caring, and full of life and love. I'm saying a prayer for Matthew every day - Suzanne Hadidi <suzannehadidi@yahoo.com> Germantown, MD USA - Sunday, May 4, 2003 7:59 AM CDT Peggy & Eric, You are both so loving and strong , I know Matthew is as very lucky boy to have you. My love to your whole familiy. Jeanie Freeman & Doug Ciskowski <jeanie@freeshell.org> Falls Church, VA - Friday, May 2, 2003 12:49 AM CDT Dear Peggy & Eric, I was so sorry to hear about baby Matthews illness. The pictures of your family on the website are beautiful. Please know that you all will be in my thoughts and prayers through the coming months. Celeste Wheeles <Wheeles@bbcpa.com> Monrovia, MD Frederick - Thursday, May 1, 2003 12:59 AM CDT Hi Matthew, that sure is a nice picture of you smiling and being happy. In the days ahead you are going to have a few rough ones, but do your best and make your parents proud. They are great parents that are doing a lot for you. Just make their day easier by giving them a knowing and loving smile when you can. This would be a huge help ffor them. We know that you can read our thoughts and prayers and understand. With love..........Grandma and Grandpa Sackett........... Charles and Margaret Sackett <charlesfs@csonline.net> Meadville, PA USA - Thursday, May 1, 2003 10:16 AM CDT I am a friend and co-worker of Susan, as well as a phone friend to Victoria. (have talked to her when I called Susan at Grandmother's house). What a sweetie! Susan will be reading "The Run Away Bunny" to the kids each night while she is with you in Durham. My heart and prayers are with you and your entire family. Dorothy D'Antoni <mamadanton@aol.com> Laurel, MD US - Thursday, May 1, 2003 9:57 AM CDT Hey Peg, Eric & Matthew, Aunt Nurse Susan is on her way! She did wonders with me, I know she'll do the same for all of you. Especially with the "medicine" Bern mentioned. Thinking of you always. Love, Unofficial Aunt Ellie Ellen Beezy <ellen.beezy@irs.gov> Arlington, VA - Thursday, May 1, 2003 9:54 AM CDT Peggy and Eric: Thanks for keeping us all up to date on Matthew's progress. The picture on the website is great--he is such a beautiful little boy, and obviously very strong, too, to endure everything he's going through. Please take care of yourselves, and I am thinking of you. Julie Olson <julie320@highstream.net> Washington, DC USA - Wednesday, April 30, 2003 12:26 AM CDT Hello Peggy, Eric, Victoria, Sean and especially Matthew, Sending my best wishes to Matthew -- the strength to pull through this and a speedy recovery. To Peggy and Eric, sending the strength needed to support him through this ordeal. Thanks for sharing the beautiful photos of Matthew! Love, Brian Brian Harris Silver Spring, MD - Tuesday, April 29, 2003 11:24 PM CDT Hi Matthew! Hello to all of the Sacketts' and Dennis'! The website looks great! Make sure Susan D. keeps it updated! What a great service! Our thoughts are with you. Keep us posted. TSA Smithsonian Web Developers Team Smithsonian <smootde@tsa.si.edu> Washington, DC USA - Tuesday, April 29, 2003 12:26 AM CDT Hi Aunt Peggy, Uncle Eric, and of course Matthew. Since Bernie and i are away from home, this is the first time that I have seen the site. We were asked to come with our parents when they bring Tori and Sean down this weekend, but unfortunately we cannot due to finals next week. We both had a blast last weekend spending time with Tori and Sean, and at the same time we were keeping Matthew in our thoughts during the Easter weekend. I gotta go get ready for class, but I just wanted to say that I love the picture of Matthew on the opening page. Also, both Bernie and I are keeping Matthew in our prayers. Maybe after finals, we'll get a road-trip together with the other cousins to drive down and see you guys. God Bless. Mike Dennis <patadumass@hotmail.com> Washington, DC United States - Tuesday, April 29, 2003 12:20 AM CDT Hi Gang, Just checking in during lunch - the web page is great. Matt looks good and we look forward to seeing you and reuniting the family this weekend. Keep the spirits Peg up until Susan gets there with her medicine from the beach. Mom enjoyed the pictures you sent Tori and has them hanging in the living room under the Sacred Heart picture. I'll take my laptop over this week and give Mom a peak at the web page. All our prayers are with you - Bern Bernie Dennis <berniedennis@mindspring.com> Arlington, VA USA - Tuesday, April 29, 2003 12:01 AM CDT Dear Peggy, Eric and Matthew, Just wanted to let you know that you are in our thoughts and prayers each and every day. Matthew has been truly blessed to have you for his parents, along with such a supportive family that steps up to the plate in time of need. Take comfort in knowing that we are with you in spirit. May God bless your sweet baby boy. Love, Ferne, Jeff, Sarah and Olivia - Monday, April 28, 2003 7:49 PM CDT Dear Eric and Peggy, Perhaps God was speaking to me of late, but you have been on and in my mind as I roll up my ninth month of being back at PBI. And now I get this message and feel the love that surrounds you and your family and little Matthew. I have a lot to ask, but I will save my questions for your safe return and the news of Matthew's complete success and eventual recovery. You are in my prayers. I will check in to the page from time to time to see what's up. Thank you so much for putting me on your list. Lots of love, Scott Scott Chase <schase@pbimedia.com> Potomac, MD USA - Monday, April 28, 2003 1:51 PM CDT What a darling photo of Matthew on the opening page!!! What a nice surprise! Hope that you all had a restful weekend. You're in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Team Dennis Team Dennis - Monday, April 28, 2003 1:35 PM CDT Dear Peggy and Eric, Thank you for keeping us up to date on Matthew's progress. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Arabella Juarez <arabella.juarez@usda.gov> Washington, dc usa - Monday, April 28, 2003 10:01 AM CDT Peggy and Eric, you all and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. If there is anything you all need or anything I can do to help please do not hesitiate to ask. I know how difficult it can be when one of your kids is in the hoispital. Words can't begin to express the gamut of emotions one feels in that situation but it is good to always remember your family and friends are thinking of you and especially Matthew. Please make sure to take care of yourselves as well. The Duke University Gardens are a beautiful and peaceful place to go when you need some down time. Again, if there is anything I can do please let me know. Love Tom Thomas L. McCally <TLM@CarrMaloney.com> Washington, D.C., USA - Monday, April 28, 2003 9:14 AM CDT We think of you all every day. I can't imagine what you are all going through. I do know what it is like to see your little one go through major surgery and I wish I could give you all a huge hug and hold your hands through all of this. Parker (3 now) is sending his positive thoughts and prayers your way. If there is anything we can do, please let us know...we have friends/family in North Carolina so please don't hesitate to ask for anything. I know it can be hard, but please try to take some time for yourselves. Love, Linda, Rob, and Parker Linda <veganlinda@yahoo.com> Savoy, IL USA - Monday, April 28, 2003 2:43 AM CDT P.S. Peggy, I forgot to mention that I read about "Salon Day" in Nolan's mother's journal entries. What a great idea.....I am sure that having your hair done will work wonders....make you feel a bit better, a bit refreshed, a bit pampered.....***Be sure to take advantage of "Salon Day". Let others take care of you so that you can take care of our Matthew! Love, Ann Team Dennis - Tuesday, April 22, 2003 1:51 PM CDT Dear Peggy & Eric, This afternoon, with the trio at school and Patrick at work, I read through all of the Journal entries on Nolan's website. WOW. Very intense. Very moving. Now, I can much better understand and appreciate what you are and will be experiencing with Matthew at Duke. Oh my... Particularly moving was the entry that Nolan's mother made on April 17th... and, I think that Nolan's mother was writing about y'all in the April 8th entry (family with a 10 month old who will be beginning the same process); I bet that it was Nolan's grandmother, Nana, who you met in the elevator on your first day at Duke.??? I pray that Nolan is having a good day today & that his new cells are growing...Grow Cells Grow!....that will be our "cheer" for Matthew, too. How is Matthew today? Has he taken a bottle yet? Please know that we carry you all in our hearts and in our prayers constantly. Love y'all, Ann Team Dennis Hagerstown, MD USA - Tuesday, April 22, 2003 1:16 PM CDT Hi Peggy, Eric & Matthew, We are checking out this web page. We just read some of the entries on Nolan Ramsey's web page & we will keep Nolan in our prayers, too. This looks like it will be a good way for all of us to stay informed about Baby Matthew's hospital course. We pray that you all are doing well, that Matthew continues to heal after his tonsillectomy & that you have a good week together before Matthew's hospitalization for the stem cell transplant begins. We keep you in our thoughts & in our prayers. Love y'all, Team Dennis Team Dennis Hagerstown, MD USA - Monday, April 21, 2003 8:14 PM CDT |
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