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 do not see your entry after adding - please click on reload/refresh - your browser may not have loaded the new page.
AOL Users: The AOL browser seems to have particular problems reloading after this page is updated. Your Entry is probably already there - it is just not being displayed. Close your screen completely and re-enter it.

Click here to sign the guestbook.

Click here to go back to the main page.

Click here to view older guestbook entries.

Huske Maddie og alltid selv om at det var 19 år siden... Hele veien fra Norge
Kevin
Lillestrøm, Norway - Thursday, July 6, 2023 2:02 AM CDT

Hei, jeg kan ikke tro at det er så langt (19 år siden) siden siden Maddie var bort. Jeg gråter hele tiden når det skjer på grunn at det skjer hele tiden. Nå er hun ville ha vært 33 år nå og jeg håper at allt vil bli bra. Selv om at det var 19 år siden føler jeg trist nå.
Kevin
Lillestrøm, Norway - Thursday, July 6, 2023 2:00 AM CDT

Remembering Maddie today and always.
Bryanne Smith <bryannej.smith@gmail.com>
Tulsa, OK United States - Friday, May 6, 2022 10:31 AM CDT

Thinking of Maddie today, and the impact she has had around the world! She will never be forgotten!
Bryanne Smith <bweaver83@gmail.com>
Tulsa, OK United States - Monday, May 6, 2019 10:08 PM CDT

Remembering Maddie today and keeping her family in my thoughts and prayers.
Bryanne Smith <bryannej.smith@hotmail.com>
Tulsa, Oklahoma United States - Sunday, May 6, 2018 9:05 PM CDT

Remembering all of our angels today.
http://caringbridgeclassic.org/tx/adrienne
Nichelle
Cedar Park, TX USA - Sunday, April 16, 2017 12:58 AM CDT

Happy Birthday, Maddie!!!

You are as much a part of our (growing:) family today as you were 27 years ago when you burst into the world!!!
I miss having you physically as my "wingman" but we are all continually blessed by your energy that surrounds us as we travel through life together.

I love you to the moon and back a million times!
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO

Mom
Julie Dornisch <juliedornisch@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Monday, January 16, 2017 6:49 AM CST

Me too, Liz!
XOXOXOXOXOXO to you, MaddieMo
Julie Dornisch <juliedornisch@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, October 23, 2016 9:51 AM CDT

missing you!
liz <lizshay24@gmail.com>
mpls, mn usa - Saturday, October 8, 2016 4:48 PM CDT

Maddie,

I know it's been a while since I've written on here but I feel your presence in my life daily. I was just reflecting on Chachi's wedding weekend and just wanted to let you know that she definitely chose a winner! It's truly touching that even though Cedric was never able to meet you, he truly understands what you meant to so many people, and was able to involve you in their special day. Thank you for always watching over us and inspiring us to always be better! Love you!
John Licht <jolicht@gmail.com>
- Thursday, July 21, 2016 9:24 PM CDT

Happy Birthday Maddie! Think of you often. You are missed by so many.
Emily Tucker
- Saturday, January 16, 2016 11:52 AM CST

I thought of you today when I heard of the passing of Lauren Hill of the same nasty tumor that took your sweet Maddie. I can't believe that it has been over 10 years since I met your wonderful daughter. I was at her birthday party and I felt like I was in the presence of an Angel on Earth. Since that time, I have become a grand mother to 8 children, one with special needs. Life moves on, but every once in a while I think about Maddie, and how your family is doing. Hope you are all well.
Karen Ueland <KLPU@AOL.COM>
St. Paul, Minnesota United States - Friday, April 10, 2015 1:48 PM CDT

Maddie, though we never met in person, I think of you a lot, especially on May 6th, and I try to live life by your example. Your spirit lives on in the lives of those who are inspired by you. Thank you for wearing the bracelet I sent you.
Bryanne Weaver Smith <bryanne.smith @hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, May 6, 2014 11:31 PM CDT

Maddie,

I was cleaning closets last weekend and in the back of John's closet among all his treasured baseball and soccer shirts, I found your St. Thomas basketball t-shirt - the one your mom gave to John one Christmas. I have noticed over the years that no matter where John is living your picture is on his desk; your now tattered card always in his wallet. You left an amazing mark on his heart and I can see it reflected in the choices he is making now as a young adult. You taught them well and they miss you.

Lori
- Tuesday, May 6, 2014 4:07 PM CDT

Without doubt we miss Maddies physical presence but feel her daily in our Hearts.
Grandpa Al & Grandma Carol <bigowl@windstream.net>
Ridgway, Pa - Tuesday, May 6, 2014 12:14 AM CDT

Merry Christmas Maddie! Thinking of you a lot today. Merry Christmas to the 4441 family, loved the flannel picture. Hope all is well in Minneapolis!

Brittany Dahlen
Madison, WI - Wednesday, December 25, 2013 4:20 PM CST

Missing you.
Liz <lizshay24@gmail.com>
- Wednesday, November 13, 2013 11:20 AM CST

It's been a while since I have visited Maddie's journal but today she was on my mind and I was compelled to pay a visit. It seems like yesterday when I walked in your home as Maddie's nurse and felt as if I had known all of you my entire life. I was touched by the love that was felt walking into your home and reading the journal I can still feel that love coming through the words as I read. I was blessed when I met you and I feel blessed even now having known you for that brief period of time. May God continue to bless others through you and your love.
Beverly Malekebu <bover80154@aol.com>
Crystal , MN - Monday, November 4, 2013 9:33 PM CST

It feels like yesterday we were singing the Sound of Music and playing soccer in those bright yellow jerseys...
You're so very present in our lives and I can't thank you enough... I get glimpses of you every so often... a huge smile and a warm feeling of reassurance.
Revisiting this site and reading your words gave me a lump in my throat thinking of the profound insight and honesty you had when we were young. So grateful to be able to come back here and become grounded in your wisdom.
Sending love and prayers to you all...
Maia Arroyo-Roppo <maia.aar@gmail.com>
Brooklyn, NY United States - Tuesday, September 17, 2013 11:05 AM CDT

Love you guys! I wish I could have been back in Minneapolis today celebrating Maddie.
Brittany Dahlen <b.dahlen@yahoo.com>
Madison, WI - Monday, May 6, 2013 10:53 PM CDT

Thinking of you all on this beautiful May day. The only way I am sure it has been all of these years is by seeing how grown up Keegan is and watching Chach take over the world, one country at a time. Maddie is shining down brighter than ever on all of us.
Kristina Amrani <Kristinaaamrani@gmail.com>
Minneapolis , Mn USA - Monday, May 6, 2013 10:09 PM CDT

Thinking of Maddie today. It's so hard to believe 10 years have gone by since your lives took such a big turn. Sending love and hugs to all of you!
Jan Tift <jantift@gmail.com>
Minnetonka, MN United States - Monday, May 6, 2013 9:10 PM CDT

Missing you Maddie!!
Julie Cameron <rjac63@aol.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Monday, May 6, 2013 2:15 AM CDT

Thank you for continually sharing your precious memories and gifts that Maddie left. I still think of her, as Maryah's friend and someone who shed a bit of light on the path that was coming to pass for Maryah too. They were so similar in character and I know they are dancing together now! May you all continue to be blessed by her presence in your hearts.
Joanne Martinson (Maryah's auntie jojo) <joannemartinson@msn.com>
Oak Grove, MN - Sunday, April 28, 2013 3:48 PM CDT

Thanks Maddie for playing "I hope you'll dance" on the radio after an emotional night shift. Feeling your love and spirit this morning. Thank you for being present in my life every day.
Love you!
Brittany Dahlen <B.dahlen@yahoo.com>
Madison, Wi - Saturday, April 20, 2013 8:03 AM CDT

Hi, I found out about Maddie through our mutual friend, Emily Tucker's caringbridge. She posted an excerpt of a beautiful poem that Maddie wrote. I just want you to know that I am in awe of Maddie's talent and wisdom. She obviously has touched a lot of hearts.
Love and prayers to you and your family.
Denise Alvarez
- Thursday, April 11, 2013 8:34 PM CDT

HAPPY 23rd BIRTH-DAY, MADDIE!!!

We know we've busy & haven't visited your page for some time.

We hope you had a great birth-day with your friends in Heaven as they too, know about Earthly birth-days'.

Andie, Tymon, & Crystal
Andie
- Friday, February 8, 2013 10:38 PM CST

Happy birthday maddie
admira <admirakucanin@gmail.com>
- Wednesday, January 16, 2013 10:43 AM CST

Happy Birthday Maddie! Thank you for always being a happy, hilarious, and beautiful friend. I cannot explain how you have helped me realize who I am meant to be. All I can say is thank you. You were always there for me- even though I was a high stress kid- you always included me. Today I will celebrate your beautiful life.
I love you Maddie!
Brittany Dahlen <dahlenb@gmail.com>
Madison, WI - Wednesday, January 16, 2013 3:47 AM CST

Happy birthday Maddie. This time is always bittersweet to me. So many amazing memories of all the planning, the invite list, the do not invite lists, the setting up, the torture to our moms who were right there every step of the way to make sure the limo/hotel/cake/gym/shirts were perfect. want to do it all again.. Wishing you were here today and always. Thank you for making me who I am.

Liz shay <Eshay@gac.edu>
- Wednesday, January 16, 2013 0:54 AM CST

Hi Maddie, heard your amazing news about the chemo working and making your illness go away, how wa your party? So xcited for you.. How is the PT going too. I love the therapist I have, she is so good. And really helps me out. Hope you have a wonderful day love you more with very second of the day. Kisses
Barbara Torzon <Fbtorzon@me.com>
Syracuse , Ny USA - Thursday, January 10, 2013 3:53 PM CST

Wishing you a Happy New Year of moments filled with love, peace and good memories. Maddie and her wise words and generous spirit continue to weave through the lives of both those who loved her intimately and those who were lucky enough to get a glimpse.
Emily Tucker
- Wednesday, January 2, 2013 12:17 AM CST

Thinking of you Maddie. Sending my love to you and everyone at 4441. Happy Belated 10th Keegan! I hope you all are having a wonderful holiday season, I will be thinking of you.
Love,
Brittany Dahlen <dahlenb@gmail.com>
Madison, WI - Wednesday, December 5, 2012 6:03 AM CST

Maddie,

I had such a good visit to Minneapolis-- you were there for all the happy moments-- which were countless! I walked around Lake Harriet a few times with some good buds, saw lots of monarchs fluttering by, and took a break from St. Louis. It is too hot here!!! I'm going home again soon to go to the state fair--remember when you, me, and Liz went to the fair just to pile up on all of the free stuff? That was my favorite time at the great MN get-together, and I don't remember buying a thing. We all had such keen eyes for the pencils, paper fans, and highlighters.
It is great catching up with friends because we end up reminiscing about old times, and awesome stories come out (about you!) that I either completely forgot about or maybe just wasn't there. We had some pretty sweet parties growing up. ;)
Sending lots of hugs to Heaven,
Dannie <dpaskewi@slu.edu>
St. Louis, MN USA - Friday, August 3, 2012 5:36 PM CDT

Maddie,
I wanted to thank you for being a main source of strength for me as I begin my life here in Madison. Everyone of our friends and all of your family knows that I tend to be a cautious and fairly serious person (wow that makes me sound boring...) and that I can sometimes need convincing to take a leap. Even when I got lost trying to find my way to the random training room yesterday, I just thought, would Maddie be freaking out right now? Obviously the answer was no, so I just chilled out and figured out how to find anything that looked familiar.
I will always be a little bit of a worrier and somewhat cautious, but I know that our friendship and the way you lived your life kept me from being a person who is paralyzed by fear or worry, it motivated me to at least try to live my days a little less seriously and to remember how much fun you can have!
I love you, thank you for being with me in this transition.
Much love,
Brittany Dahlen <B.dahlen@yahoo.com>
Madison , WI - Tuesday, July 31, 2012 7:46 AM CDT

Maddie Mo,
Saying this week/ last weekend was hard would be an understatement. Time truly will never matter when it comes to missing you. Whether is 8 years or 80, I will always wish you were here, doing what we get to and living your life here. I know that I have to realize that it wasn't supposed to happen that way and accept it, it just still doesn't seem fair. I wish with everything in me that you would be here- my mind explodes thinking of all you would have accomplished, but then again I think of everything you did and I just can't believe you did all of that in 14 years. Many will never get there in a full lifetime. It's unbelievable how far everyone has come since we last got to see you. I am so proud of Dannie and Brittany and their lives and profession YOU helped them steer to. As for me, my cards are not as set in place. I could use your guidance and detailed oriented lifestyle to help push me into doing something I love. I know I will get there- where ever that might be, and I know you will be with me every step of the way. As I share your stories with the new people in my life I can only hope to express you in a way that fits who you were to be and to everyone else- it is a difficult task. All I know is that my love for you comes across very boldly. Since my mom was diagnosed with cancer I have many times felt extremely angry and upset. Why God chooses the people who are the very closest to me to go through this blows my mind, and I will never understand why. What I know is that it has opened my eyes to live my life in a way that i will regret nothing and to do things I love doing. You have a great deal to do with that, and I can't thank you enough. Your family continues to be a source of strength, regardless of how much time I spend with them. You are without a doubt a piece of all of them and I can see it so clearly.
I love you.
I miss you.
always.
Liz Shay <eshay@gac.edu>
Minneapolis, Minnesota - Friday, May 11, 2012 2:18 PM CDT

Maddie,

Whether it is because of nurses’ week or eight years since you went to Heaven, I have been thinking lately of how much you have guided me, and all of our close friends, to be the people we are now. When I met you, I’m pretty sure I was still dreaming of becoming the next Julia Roberts. Girl, have times changed! And not until recently did I realize that it was you; you guided me into a field I love so much. As we accompanied you to appointments, met your nurses and doctors, and learned everything there is to know about DPG, we all grew up a little. I learned that being a famous actress probably wasn’t in the cards for me. Playing “olden days” in your backyard, “house” in Liz’s basement, and having singing and dancing parties in the backroom just didn’t equal stardom, I guess. But we didn’t stop learning from you. And we were so inspired. Everything you did to fight cancer and help others along the way put us where we are today. Looking back on the small things like when you brought a bag of kale to eat at my birthday (healthy girl!) and having us listen to the “No Mo’ Chemo” song online proved to us that you were confident and in control. Before going with you on the Children’s Hospital cruise, we filled out these questionnaires, and I don’t remember the exact question, but my answer is still clear in my mind: “Maddie will make it through this.” At fourteen this was what I truly believed. There was no other option to ponder. I think back today and realize that I didn’t really know what was going on, but that was only because you faced every obstacle with such poise; you were always ready to go. I gave you the questionnaire back and after you read it, you asked me why I thought you would make it through. I told you that God would never give up on you. I remember wondering, “Why is she asking me this?” After I responded you gave me a sort of surprised look. That was the only time when I got nervous, thinking that you knew of a different option for yourself, but the moment quickly faded as we left your room to go catch our limo ride. Just to remind you of how confident and beautiful you looked (and how nobody ever thought you were sick), that very same day on the boat ride, a patient from Children’s came up to us, took a glance at Mayumi, me, and you, and then proceeded to ask me what type of cancer I had. I sheepishly began: “I don’t...” And then you chimed in with no hesitation: “I have a brain tumor.” Maddie, your confidence is with me wherever I go. Your love of life, your need to help others, and your creativity are present everyday in us. Thank you for guiding me (and Brittany D!) through school and into the best profession we could ever imagine.

We love you, Maddie!

Dannie <dpaskewi@slu.edu>
St. Louis, MO USA - Wednesday, May 9, 2012 1:01 AM CDT

My Dearest Maddie...
I hate this website...it always brings me to a sad place. That being said, I love coming here to read your mother's words. I often think of how I would have handled the same situation, and knowing me (as my eyes are filled with tears) I probably would have curled up in ball and died. Your family is a great source of stength for alot of other people, many going thru the same ordeal, and many like me that have watched from the outside, looking in. I have been blessed to know all of you, and greatly appreciate all you have shared with me and with Cree. We all think of you often, and have a very special place for you in our hearts.
Julie Cameron <rjac63@aol.com>
Minneapoli, - Monday, May 7, 2012 2:59 PM CDT

Love you guys and I hope that the rest of the day went well. Keegan, I am sure you played really well today, despite the stomach bug you had all night. I feel like there are no words to adequately say how nice it was to see you guys. Thank you for the love and support during this transition with graduation.
I love you all and I know that these past couple weeks are always hard. Stuff always seems to keep coming and life changes even when we want to take a moment and have it just stay the same.
Thank you for today and thank you for always welcoming me into your home and your wonderful group of friends and family. I was truly blessed to have met Maddie, she helped me figure out how to relax and enjoy life (which frankly is a miracle).
Hope to see you guys again sometime soon.
Much Love,
Brittany Dahlen <b.dahlen@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Sunday, May 6, 2012 10:56 PM CDT

Sending Love and Peace
Emily Tucker <etucker06@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, May 6, 2012 7:43 PM CDT

Madz:

May 6th: conflicting and contradictory feelings bumping into each other causing us to reflect, remember and remind us to respect life and live with hope.

May 6th will never be the same, but in reality I don't think it has changed us as much as we all hoped it would. Even today, some of us are caught up in personal grievances and holding grudges for things that were never that big anyway.

You are just so different. Your "live life for today attitude and a "nothing is that important' to keep you a state of inertia, from moving forward from feelings and and disagreements that are blown out of proportion. Standing in your beliefs and convictions, while not being afraid to respects someone else's perspective, even if in sharp contrast, and keep moving forward alone, or better yet together with your friends and sometime adversaries.

I remember how I felt and the promises I made to myself and you. And then I forget so quickly and fall back into the "every day but May 6th"
habit of reacting harshly to other's actions and inactions, when I disagree...

Your spirit , then and now, has always moved so fluidly through the challenges of everyday life, and gives me an excuse to not work so hard at being better. "Maddie is special." "There will never be another Maddie."

You are beyond beautiful in every way, but not being able to be as good, as patient, as forgiving, as pure, as joyful, as thoughtful as you, does not give me a pass from trying.

So today, I start to try again...

With more admiration and love for you today than ever,

Sara

Sara
mpls., mn - Sunday, May 6, 2012 2:22 PM CDT

Having A Maddie Day
Grandma Caro; <bigowl@windstream.net>
- Thursday, April 26, 2012 7:46 AM CDT

Maddie,
I thought of you a lot today. I have been busy in my last semester of nursing school, but as this transition comes closer I find myself thinking more and more of you. I really owe a lot of who I have become to you. Some therapists or even my family have said that this thought of your involvement in shaping me is "unhealthy", but I just think when they say that "they didn't know Maddie, they would understand if they had met her". I have big news! I just accepted a position at American Family Children's Hospital in Madison WI on the pediatric hem/onc floor! I was nervous at first to venture out into the world (well four hours away at least...) but I felt this encouragement with me this last week while I thought about the offer. I think that the support from you, your family, Liz, Austin, Dannie, and so many other friends that I met truly through you, helped me take this leap. You know that I can be a little cautious and maybe too serious at times, and I want to thank you for helping me take chances and be more joyful in my life.
I know people may think that it is odd for me to credit you (at least partially) with how far I have come and where I am going, but I can think of a few words from your alphabet to tell them... :)
I love you Maddie! Even though I only knew you for the last few years of your life, know that I will carry you with me and think of you often.

I love you guys. I hope to see you sometime soon. Even when a lot of time passes by, just know that I am always thinking about you guys and sending my love.

Brittany
Brittany Dahlen <B.dahlen@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Tuesday, February 28, 2012 11:30 PM CST

Happy birthday dear Maddie!
Julie, thank you for the lovely card and photo in the mail. I was not sure what your email address is. Could you please drop me a note via email and I will be sure respond. I would love to be able to thank you personally.

Have a wonderful year ahead...

Always remembering Maddie,
Janice

Janice Liew <janiceliew1981@gmail.com>
Melbourne, Australia - Tuesday, January 24, 2012 3:06 AM CST

Happy Birthday Maddie- You may have noticed that I haven't signed this website before. It is only now that I can do it. The journey we have been on since you left us has been full of joys and sorrows. I still ask the questions why you and not Liz. We won't ever know. As you know Liz misses you so very much. Every happy and sad moment!! Thanks to all you have given her as a foundation for her life.
Linda Shay
- Monday, January 16, 2012 2:17 PM CST

Hope all is going well with all of you over at 4441 Colfax! It's always nice to stop by and read the wise words that Maddie had to share. I hope to make it over there sometime before baseball starts up and consumes every hour of every day! No matter how difficult school or life gets, it's always nice to know that I have a butterfly watching over my shoulder.
John Licht <jolicht@gmail.com>
MPLS, MN - Sunday, January 8, 2012 10:53 PM CST

I just wanted to let you know that I am thinking of you all this holiday season. I know that this time of year can be harder for you guys. You are such a wonderful family and I hope you are doing well. Maybe I will see you during break? My mom told me she saw Julie at 50th and France. Sending all my love,
Brittany Dahlen <Dahlen@stolaf.edu>
Minneapolis, - Monday, December 26, 2011 11:55 AM CST

Thinking of you, Maddie.
Colin <COLIN.EIDE@GMAIL.COM>
Beirut, Lebanon - Saturday, December 24, 2011 6:50 PM CST

Checking on all the caringbridge kids that I did in 2004 when my grandson was battling a pontine glioma. We lost my Matty on May 4, 2004. Thanks for your Holiday message. Love and Peace to you and your family.
Suzanne Hewitt <Ferngarden2@aol.com>
Tracy, CA - Saturday, December 3, 2011 0:02 AM CST

Hello, I have stumbled upon your site honoring your beautiful Maddie completely by accident while checking out the home page for the Dragonfly Project. I lost my sweet "Mattie" just 8 months ago to leukemia. She was 17 and survived just 9 months after her diagnosis on her 16 1/2 birthday. What an amazing path we walked with her as she too, like your Maddie, walked faithfully and fearlessly hand in hand with her God. I just want you to know how moved I am by your words, and how incredibly similar they are to my own. We share such a loss and it gives me hope as I see you carry on with your life, always with your Maddie, but always forward. For me, I am still struggling some days just to leave the house. What a blessing to have 4 such wonderful, beautiful children. Thank you for sharing your joy, your sorrow, your wisdom and your Maddie. I miss my own Mattie so much but I like thinking that she has connected to your Maddie. She is someone my girl would have loved. I still write about her on carepages.com under the name "fighlikeagirl" and yes, the T is missing out of fight;)
Mary Nickels <tvaiello@tds.net>
Madison, WI USA - Monday, November 28, 2011 8:34 PM CST

What a beautiful essay.
Jennifer Hartley
- Wednesday, November 16, 2011 11:35 AM CST

I just read Liz's essay for probably the fifth time, I really love hearing about you guys at Kenny! I can so easily picture Maddie leading the line of second graders and helping Liz out with her drawing. Maddie never hesitated to help people. I remember Maddie always smiling and giving me tips in basketball (which I really had no coordination to play). I used to take forever to make my freethrows at the end of practice, it was so embarrassing. And I could always count on maddies smile of encouragement even after the fifth shot. I love you guys. I know Keegan's birthday is coming up, and it makes me think about how time can fly by. I would love to stop by sometime and see what is happening at 4441. I hope you are all doing well.
Sending all my love!

Brittany Dahlen <Dahlen@stolaf.edu>
- Wednesday, October 26, 2011 11:15 PM CDT

awesome essay, Liz! Thanks for sharing.
Longtime Maddie Reader
CA - Sunday, September 25, 2011 10:41 PM CDT

Liz - that was beautiful. Thank you for letting Julie share with all of us.
~Tess
Tess Baker <tessbaker@sbcglobal.net>
Piedra, CA USA - Tuesday, September 6, 2011 3:34 PM CDT

Maddie,

I’ve never stopped thinking about you and I miss you every day. When we were very young I watched you become this very strong and beautiful person while you were facing unimaginable, difficult, and ugly circumstances. You where always someone that was so full of life and you could make even the most sad and depressed person smile, you where able to give others strength when they couldn’t find it in themselves, and you were able to give others hope and faith when they were unable to find it on their own. These past few years have been crazy, so many things have happened....some good, some very bad, and then there have been some things that have happened that I will never be able to understand. I just thought that I would stop by and let you know that I’m always thinking of you and looking for your type of strength, love, and faith. I LOVE YOU!!!!!

Stephanie Moore <Princess015@comcast.net>
Minneapolis, mn - Saturday, August 27, 2011 1:03 AM CDT

Liz: your awesome essay brought soooooooo many memories back... thank you for writing and sharing.
Maddie: you will always be my one and only angel... cuz I know you have the power to make stuff happen up there.
I love you both very, very much.
MLD4LIFE

Dannie <dpaskewi@slu.edu>
Minneapolis, MN USA - Friday, August 12, 2011 7:57 PM CDT

I have come to this website looking for answers many times, and knowing somehow I will find them. Maddie, I feel very privileged to get a peek into the force this IS you, your family and your friends. Liz, your essay is simply beautiful. Julie, thank you for continuing to share.
Emily Tucker <etucker06@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, August 3, 2011 8:35 PM CDT

Maddie,
I miss you. I am sitting here at work and just thought I'd come to a place where I've been hundreds and hundreds of times. This website has been a place where I've come to read up on what fun activities we have planned for the week, whether that was ditching school (to do more important things like learn how to drive or go bowling of course) or having movie nights. This website has been somewhere I've come to read your encouraging words to other kids going through cancer and all the love and hope you've given them and their families. I've come here to read about the sticky details of that disgusting brain tumor you so gracefully fought. Here, I've read the words written by your mom (so many times) to let the world know you had passed away and that you were starting your new life in a better place. And www.caringbridge.org/mn/maddie is where I continue to come to remind myself what an amazing best friend I still have in you. I am going to start my senior year in college next month, and every milestone I reach I think of how badly I wish you could be here doing the same thing. While I understand that can't be, I know you are with me every step of the way. Your family continues to be such a source of strength for me, and for that I am so so thankful. I hope I can write on here in 50 years, because you know I will still be re-reading your words and your families words- because they truly are timeless. I miss you Maddie. I really do.
Love Love Love you.
Liz <eshay@gac.edu>
mpls, mn usa - Monday, August 1, 2011 10:14 AM CDT

Thank you Julie and Maddie for sharing and being so brave and amazing. Your daughter had an insight that somehow brings comfort to me all these years later. Thanks again for sharing.
Melanie Tropple <mtropple@comcast.net>
vancouver, wa usa - Monday, May 23, 2011 10:54 PM CDT

Thank you Maddie for what you wrote and thank you Julie for posting it. Amazing how sometimes we find a comfort we were needing (without even knowing we were in need) where we never expected. Thank You.

Love you,
Susan
Susan Griffin
Palm city, Fl - Saturday, May 14, 2011 10:06 PM CDT

Maddie, I can still remember how shocked I was seven years ago when I read on your facebook page that you had passed away. I always had hope that you would get better, and I cried when I read the entry. I'm glad that even though your earthly body is no longer here there are still people who remember you and talk about you often. I never met you in person but I think of you often, and about the impact you made in so many lives. I pray your family knows that as long as the people who love you are still here, you will never truly be gone.
Bryanne Weaver <catdogbre83@gmail.com>
Tulsa, OK USA - Saturday, May 7, 2011 0:45 AM CDT

Julie,

You, Maddie, Ashley, Charlotte, Keegan and the aunties have been in my thoughts these past few weeks. Today I hope all of you can find those happier memories, the ones that let you smile through the tears.

Lori
- Friday, May 6, 2011 11:34 AM CDT

Damn I miss you Mimi; your amazing insight and spirit. You have made me a better person!
lol, asap, brb, suv.....
Auntie Tricia <triciadornisch@yahoo.com>
- Friday, May 6, 2011 3:37 AM CDT

I miss you guys so much. I have been thinking about you all each day, wondering what my problem is that I haven't gotten in my car and driven up to see you all. I know that you all like to take this next week as it comes and so I hope to see you all but if not this week, sometime soon I hope.
I have been very busy this year with the nursing program. After many clinical rotations, I found my "dream job" somewhat challenged. I always thought I would work at Children's Minneapolis on the Hem/Onc inpatient floor, especially after volunteering there all last summer. When a few professors of mine heard this was my plan, they almost discouraged me. Some said "oh but that is so sad", and said I would probably change my mind. After these conversations, I worry if I have the strength to be the best nurse for those families and patients, and worry whether or not I am able to do it.
On Friday, we had a lecture on Pediatric Hem/Onc (it was supposed to be on May 6th but they moved it, I think that Maddie had a hand in that... I would have been a mess in that 3 hour lecture if it was on the 6th). The professor started out saying statistics of how many children get diagnosed with different types of cancer and how treatment protocols have improved so much in the past few decades that 80% of children survive. Everyone else in my class seemed to be impressed. And when the professor said that about 12,000 children are diagnosed each year, one student said "that's it?". I realized that knowing Maddie and your family gave me a much better perspective on these numbers.
Even though 12,000 may seem small to some, I know that when Maddie was diagnosed it affected hundreds of people. And when I hear that 80% of children survive, I think about the other 20% and I think about what each of those children and families had to endure before their cure, whether it been on earth or in heaven as Maddie said.
The Relay for Life event is going on right now at St. Olaf and many nursing students were amazed that I was not going (because I want to go into oncology). I don't know if this sounds logical but, whenever I think of cancer and what I want to do to help, I don't think of ALL or breast cancer or the research that goes into treatment protocols (although I know those are important), I think about the rare forms or the inoperable, untreatable cancers and the quality of life of all cancer patients. What about those families?
In class on Friday all I could think about was how different I felt, but instead of feeling uncomfortable about my differences I was so happy that I had figured something out in life. I had found out what made me excited about my career, and everyday I thank Maddie and many of the Monarch families for helping me see that.

Sorry for rambling. I will never know that emotions you all experience daily and especially in these next few weeks, but I just wanted to tell you that I am thinking of you all. Maddie is still one of my closest friends, and I will never forget her and I know I will continue to find things in my life that she has taught me or helped me to see.

I love you all.

Brittany Dahlen <b.dahlen@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Saturday, April 30, 2011 5:11 PM CDT

Julie, I'm still here, periodically...checking up on you and your family and revisiting the photos of lovely Maddie. Your beautiful updates keep her alive for those of us who didn't have the privilege of knowing her well.

Fun to see you at Good Sam the other day. I think of you often and am glad our paths crossed those many years ago. Happy Birthday to Ashley! Kate just celebrated her 24th...in Australia. Lucky girl.
Ann Sundberg <annmurt@aol.com>
Edina, MN - Saturday, April 30, 2011 8:09 AM CDT

What a beautiful and strong girl. I am truly amazed at the strength Maddie had during such a difficult time.
Olivia Wilson <via7338@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN Hennepin - Thursday, April 28, 2011 2:37 PM CDT

Julie and family,

As I do most days, I began clicking the shortcut buttons on the top of my browser, to check on the days news and sports, peruse craigslist, and of course visit Facebook. I usually keep to my routine but today clicked on the link to this page as I know it had been a long time (too long) since I've visited.

After attending the funeral of Lee Graba, a parent of one of our current SW students yesterday, I began to again realize the importance of making the best of the time you have. I remember thinking this in May of my Senior year of high school, as I know you do each day. I feel so lucky to have spent time with Ashley and Charlotte at SW and know that Maddie would have been cherished in her activities and the center of attention there as well- I've grown to expect nothing less from a Paguyo sister...

I'm so thankful that you keep this journal going because as it has been for me, as I know it is for you and so many others, it is a place where I can go and just feel good. Reading about Maddie's life and your amazing family, it just reinforces what is important in life. And for every time I sway away from remembering that, Maddie and you all are always there to put my thoughts back in line. And for that I am so grateful.

And when I need a boost of energy or confidence I always look to this little yellow card above my desk that reads
"You can do anything you want to do.
Pray, believe, have faith,
visualize, dream, trust
and work your ass off."

Such wise words!

I hope you have a wonderful Spring, and I'm sure I'll see you soon.
David Premack <davidpremack@mac.com>
Minneapolis, MN United States - Sunday, April 10, 2011 12:17 AM CDT

Checking in to see how you are , Maddie! This is the first time I've used this...

Jeane
Jeanne Stodola <jeannestodola@comcast.net>
St. Paul, MN Ramsey - Wednesday, April 6, 2011 5:56 PM CDT

Just thinking about you and remembering the amazing stories of your family. Hope all is well.
Toni Brooks <tbrooks4176@yahoo.com>
Abingdon, MD - Wednesday, March 9, 2011 10:00 PM CST

Julie, such a beautiful tribute to an absolutely beautiful soul. Remembering Maddie, always. Stopping by to let you know that your beautiful daughter's impact on my life and so many others..is with me still and always will be. Wishing you and your gorgeous children, health happiness and love.
Kathy-mom to David
caringbridge.org/fl/david
password: david43
username: david43
kathy cummings <kcummings03@gmail.com>
boynton beach, fl usa - Saturday, March 5, 2011 6:11 PM CST

I thought you might like to read this article: Discoveries offer first new hope in three decades for lethal pediatric brain tumor; http://med.stanford.edu/ism/2011/february/pontine.html It's a long way from a treatment, but hopefully the progress will save other children some day from suffering.
Ellen
Stanford, CA - Monday, February 28, 2011 2:42 PM CST

I just came acoss tnis site today, I have a fourteen year old daughter who is wonderful yet as I just read Maddies entries I was blown away. You raised an awesome human being! I actually read the first half of her entries and will finish. Maddie was an incredible, inspiring, loving, and literally every other inspiring word I can think of young lady!
Lisa Zubar
Chaska, MN, MN USA - Saturday, January 29, 2011 10:34 AM CST

Happy birthday Maddie!

Tell Mamie and Jesus I love them.

www.caringbridge.org/al/mamieadams
Mamie's Daddy
- Sunday, January 16, 2011 8:13 PM CST

Happy Birthday Maddie! Thinking about you and your family in an extra big way today.
Mary Sievert <Msievert15@hotmail.com>
Minneapolis, MN US - Sunday, January 16, 2011 12:36 AM CST

Wowwwwwwww it had been way way wayyyy too long since I last visited this site. Maddielicioussss I miss you so much, you and your family. Know that you are super special in all our lives, we love you. Happy Bday my dear!
Mariana Sanchez
- Friday, January 14, 2011 8:26 PM CST

Just wanted to stop by and let you know that we still miss you like crazy Maddie! Not a day goes by that I don't think about you and how great of a person you were/would be. Hope all is going well for you and your family!
John Licht
Minneapolis, MN - Sunday, December 12, 2010 0:22 AM CST

Happy Thanksgiving! I know many many people are thankful that they got the chance to know and learn from Maddie.

We are all a little bit more thankful and aware because of you, Maddie!

With love,
Emily Tucker
- Thursday, November 25, 2010 5:54 PM CST

Read an article for class today on Reality TV and specifically Judge Judy...
Missing those days at 4441 like crazy.
♥
Liz Shay <eshay@gac.edu>
mpls, mn usa - Monday, November 22, 2010 10:30 PM CST

Julie and family,
Thinking of all of you and ...thinking of Maddie and Maryah dancing in heaven! Two incredible angels we were blessed to know on earth. Hope all is well with your family.
Love and blessings,
Jan
Jan Tift <jantift@comcast.net>
Minnetonka, MN - Friday, November 12, 2010 9:32 PM CST

Thinking of you Maddie. I cannot believe its been 5 years....I know exactly where I was when I heard you earned your wings....your infectious smile and beautiful face leave an impression on anyone's heart! Thank you for inspiring, thank you for being. Blessings to you and your amazing family.
Kathy
caringbridge.org/fl/david
kathy <kcummings03@gmail.com>
boynton, fl usa - Saturday, October 23, 2010 6:41 PM CDT

Hey everyone its great to read that message Maddie gave Julie before she left. I'm happy i found this site. Its great to look at her pictures again and read what people have said. Well all and all i know that i love Maddie so much i will never forget such a wonderful person like her <3
Ally Dornisch
- Saturday, October 16, 2010 11:37 AM CDT

Hey guys!
I just wanted to check in and say hi. I have a lot to tell you guys about nursing classes and clinicals, it is going to be amazing! I am learning to conduct a basic physical assessment and take a patient's vital signs (if you want you blood pressure checked let me know, I need to practice)!
On another note, did you guys notice how many Monarch's were floating around these past few weeks? I loved it, and every time I saw one I thought of Maddie and all of you.
I hope Chachi is loving school and that Keegan still loves Jefferson Elementary. I can't believe I let so much time slip by without coming by and catching up with you all. I will try to do better, maybe over a break?

As always, I hope that all is well.
Much Love,

Brittany Dahlen <dahlen@stolaf.edu>
Minneapolis, MN - Monday, September 20, 2010 10:26 PM CDT

I just wanted to let you know that your entries are soo incredible. I have read them all over time and feel the pain and love at the same time in Maddie's passing. Sad that she is gone, but happy to have been able to see Maddie's amazing grace through this tumultuous journey she was given.

I have had several people in my life diagnosed with this cancer beast and have actually came back to your pages to read how you handle situations and have used your words as words of encouragement, hope & inspiration. Finding a purpose in life is one of God's biggest assignments to us and I believe being a beacon of His love and compassion is yours. Your words have been a comfort to many in their times of despair and I thank you for that! God Bless!
Cindy Erickson <cindy_1176@yahoo.com>
Leipsic, OH USA - Tuesday, August 31, 2010 11:03 AM CDT

I am forever touched by Maddie! Thank you!
Katie Lindenfelser
Coon Rapids, MN USA - Wednesday, July 28, 2010 5:00 PM CDT

Hey Maddie,
I just looked at your page for the first time ever today just now. I am inspired to do things that I have never even tried to dream about reaching for thanks to you. I know that you parents are very proud of being able to say even today "Yes. That is my daughter" I am proud of you for not feeling scared when you heard the news. You stayed strong and I am positive that you fought right up till the end. Even after today I will feel extremely honored to have been able to write a letter to a girl who is watching over me right now smiling.
-Abi
Abi <abi19901@yahoo.com>
Dover, Delaware USA - Wednesday, July 7, 2010 6:24 PM CDT

Hi Julie -

It was nice to meet you at Maryah's funeral despite the circumstances. All of us who have lost children share a bond that no others can truly understand. I like to think of my son Tony as being the girls' big brother in heaven. Thanks for being such a kind and caring soul. Grandma Teri
Teri Davids <write2teri@vbe.com>
- Wednesday, June 30, 2010 9:48 AM CDT

I can't wait to see you guys in just a few days! I am hoping that the rain will subside for Sunday. I hope all is well and that you guys have been enjoying the summer!
Much Love,
Brittany Dahlen <dahlen@stolaf.edu>
Minneapolis, MN - Thursday, June 10, 2010 9:42 PM CDT

I missed your heavenly birthday Maddie, but I thought of you, as I do every year on May 6th. Hope you are having fun in Heaven. I hope to meet you up there someday.

Bryanne Weaver <catdogbre83@hotmail.com>
Bristow, OK USA - Monday, May 31, 2010 8:40 PM CDT

I can't help but feel Maryah and Maddie have met again in Heaven, and resumed their friendship. It is a comfort to know she had a friend to show her "the ropes". Thank you Julie, for your continued following of Maryah, I know what that meant to Rachel!

Auntie Jo/ Joanne Emerson Martinson
www.caringbridge.org/mn/maryah
Joanne Martinson <joannemartinson@msn.com>
- Monday, May 17, 2010 9:06 AM CDT

Thinking about Maddie. Still learning from the great teacher.

Love and Peace to you all.
Emily Tucker
- Thursday, May 6, 2010 11:05 PM CDT

I love you Maddie! <3 <3 <3 Thinking about you today and always. Got my phone call from Brittany and got my #1 song sung to me. "Never go to bed angry" has never meant so much to me. I miss you, girlfriend. Thanks for continuing to teach. :D
Dannie <paskyloohoo@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN USA - Thursday, May 6, 2010 10:53 PM CDT

Thinking of you and your family lots today Maddie. Figured today was a good opportunity to share with you an essay I wrote for a class this fall. If you're not familiar with the NPR show This I Believe take a listen to some of the others. I'm sure you could write an incredible essay Julie... Lots of love to all of you.

http://thisibelieve.org/essay/58032/
Mary <Marysievert@hotmail.com>
Milwaukee, - Thursday, May 6, 2010 9:07 PM CDT

Thinking of you all today...
Admira
- Thursday, May 6, 2010 11:46 AM CDT

This week has been full of reflection for me. Six years have passed but it still seems like it was just recently that we were all watching Matilda in the back room, or that I was making that damn tray that I NEVER grouted (is that how you spell it?). Anyways, I love you all. The people I met through Maddie from 6th grade and on have changed my life.
I hope that I will continue to live my life loving all that is around me and giving back to everyone I meet.
I wish I could stop by today and give you guys a hug and some banana bread or something but instead I will leave this message. During my reading for Religion class on Tuesday I came across a quote that really hit home for me.
This comes from Dietrich Bonhoeffer (the Lutheran pastor who was imprisoned during WWII for his involvement in the resistance against Hitler):

"Nothing can make up for the absence of someone whom we love, and it would be wrong to try to find a substitute; we must simply hold out and see it through. That sounds very hard at first but at the same time it is a great consolation, for the gap, as long as it remains unfilled, preserves the bonds between us. It is nonsense to say that God fills the gap; he doesn't fill it, but on the contrary, he keeps it empty and so helps us to keep alive our former communion with each other, even at the cost of pain."

I will be thinking of you all today. Perhaps we will see each other soon. Know that you have changed my life for the better, and that I will always hold you close to my heart.

Much Love,
Brittany Dahlen <dahlen@stolaf.edu>
Minneapolis, MN - Thursday, May 6, 2010 11:35 AM CDT

Maddie, we think and talk of you often. Tomorrow John will be 20 - your eighth grade gang now college sophmores and you are there. The thread you wove through their lives keeps them connected, makes them a unique group. They are stronger, more compassionate, more giving and more in tune with what really matters because you shared your journey with them - you taught them well.

Lori Licht, Mpls
- Thursday, May 6, 2010 10:46 AM CDT

Thinking of the Dornisch Paguyo James family today and always for the incredible strength and love you have always had for one another and all of us. The past 6 years have been filled with great memories and I am honored to see Maddie living through all of you.

Love you all and miss you dearly.

-Kristina
Kristina Amrani <crystalina2315@yahoo.com>
Coral Gables, FL - Thursday, May 6, 2010 0:31 AM CDT

My darling baby hunkasmunk!

I think of you today, tomorrow, and always and am so honored to be your sister. Tomorrow, I'll spend the day in the car exploring Tanzania and reminding myself of all the silliness we got into on our long road trips with all of our crazy grandparents.

Love you to the moon and back,
You big sissy, Ashley
Ashley Paguyo <ashley.paguyo@gmail.com>
Arusha, Tanzania - Wednesday, May 5, 2010 7:19 AM CDT

Madz, can't believe it's been 6 years. I think of you often, everytime I watch American Idol, see a butterfly, see Liz or talk to her on fb, and when I hear the song "Ain't No Mountain High Enough." It's amazing how much everyone's grown...the gang, Brittany, Liz, Ashley, Cha Chi, Dannie...etc etc they are beautiful young women. I can visualize how beautiful you are..what a remarkable young lady you are and what an impact you have had on so many peoples lives. I am proud of you, blessed to have known you and your family and I miss you more than words can say. Love you Miss Maddie! Look for our balloons on Thursday!!
Julie Cameron <rjac63@aol.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Tuesday, May 4, 2010 0:38 AM CDT

forever loving the BRAVEST girl I know. Maddie, the brave.
I MISS YOU!
Dannie <paskyloohoo@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN USA - Wednesday, April 28, 2010 10:49 PM CDT

<3 you.
liz shay <eshay@gac.edu>
mpls, mn usa - Wednesday, April 28, 2010 10:25 AM CDT

Hey guys,
Just writing to say Happy Spring! I hope things are still going well at 4441. I hope to hear an update soon, a lot of stuff has been getting in the way of me stopping by. Perhaps my mom and I can swing by sometime this upcoming week? I still have something to give you guys and a lot to update you on!
Keeping you in my prayers,

Brittany Dahlen <dahlen@stolaf.edu>
Minneapolis, MN - Sunday, March 28, 2010 9:16 AM CDT

I've never met Maddie but based off the letter she wrote I can tell she was special. Not only was she beautiful on the outside, but her letter was beautiful. Very smart, loving and caring. She clearly was an amazing girl and I am so sorry for your loss. I am truly inspired.
Mary
Edina, MN usa - Friday, February 19, 2010 11:05 PM CST

Still in my thoughts! Glad to see everyone is doing well. Please tell everyone hello for me.
Forever Cameron's Aunt Toni <tbrooks4176@yahoo.com>
Abingdon, MD - Wednesday, January 27, 2010 9:20 PM CST

I just wanted to say hi. I have been checking Ashley's Kickabout updates, it sounds like the trip is starting off well. I finally heard about the nursing program and I am in for the class of 2012! I hope Chachi and Keegan are having a great second semester so far. I can't wait to hear updates from you guys. I hope you liked the butterfly shaped brownies, that took some creativity to figure out how to get the butterflies out of the pan intact.
I will be back this Friday until next Sunday, maybe I will see you!
Much Love,

Brittany Dahlen <dahlen@stolaf.edu>
Minneapolis, MN - Wednesday, January 27, 2010 9:52 AM CST

Julie, It sounds like things are going well for you, the girls and Keegan. Wow how time flys. I think of Maddie often. Take care and thank you for continuing to share your thoughts.
Melanie Tropple
Vancouver, wa - Wednesday, January 20, 2010 10:00 PM CST

Happy Birthday Maddie! Thinking about you today...
Mary Sievert <Msievert15@hotmail.com>
Milwaukee, WI - Saturday, January 16, 2010 8:01 PM CST

Happy Birthday Maddie Mo-
Wishing you were here with every inch of me.
Birthday time not getting easier, yet I'm happy your doing it big up there. :) Miss you.
<3 <3 <3 you!!

Liz Shay <eshay@gac.edu>
mpls, mn usa - Saturday, January 16, 2010 5:54 PM CST

I miss you guys! Please give everyone a kiss for me and let me know if we can send Ashley anything.
Carla Brooks <cmfbrooks66@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, January 12, 2010 4:07 PM CST

Hey guys,
I will be seeing you guys this weekend I hope, and finally talk with you about some stuff. I planned on doing this months ago, but time got away from me. I saw Liz play basketball at Olaf last week, it was nice to see her and Linda.
Something interesting, I just realized Anne B. from Anthony goes to St. Olaf now. I am sure you remember her, won the Maddie award Austin's year. Anyways, just was a little shock to see someone from Anthony (I don't know anyone else who goes here from junior high).
I am missing you guys. I had a very odd dream two nights ago that we were watching grown up Keegan playing basketball for SW, everyone was there and he was an amazing player. My subconscious is very random I think.

Hopefully see you soon!
Much Love,

Brittany Dahlen <dahlen@stolaf.edu>
Minneapolis, MN - Tuesday, January 12, 2010 2:30 PM CST

It's been forever since we have spoken, so I just wanted to say hello. I visit often but am very bad about writing.... Tell that girl to be careful over there!!!!!!

We are keeping all of you in our thoughts and prayers...

Roy
Roy Fiveash www.caringbridge.org/tx/cheyenne5 <rfiveash@wcc.net>
San Angelo, tx usa - Saturday, January 9, 2010 8:49 PM CST

Julie, Ashley, Maddie, Charlotte, and Keegan~

Thanks for the update! You write so beautifully, Julie. It's wonderful to hear all that you guys are up to! And as always, the card was gorgeous and memory-filled. Thank you! I hope you are having a great holiday. It was so nice to see Charlotte randomly at Caribou because my mom and I got to find out what she was up to! College searching, of course! Congrats on getting into all of them, ChaChi! And Ashley: what an awesome adventure ahead of you! I'm ready to read the blog-- I know it will be informative and written in such a cool way. I love your spunky writing!! Keegan, I cannot believe you're SEVEN!! So much time has passed yet I can still vividly remember Maddie, Liz, and I jumping on Maddie's bed and dancing to Celine Dion. Hahaha. I love you, Maddie! I love you Julie, Ashley, Charlotte, and Keegan! I'm thinking about all of you lots and lots. Happy Holidays!
Kisses and Hugs and Lotsa Maddie Love,
Dannie
Dannie Paskewitz <paskyloohoo@yahoo.com>
Cleveland, OH USA - Tuesday, December 29, 2009 8:36 PM CST

As always your entry was so touching and I feel like I can see all of the activities going on as I read them, you all are such articulate individuals!
I am sorry my phone number didn't get to you very quickly (messages seem to get lost on our home answering machine). You guys are amazing. I hope that I will be able to stop by and see you guys before I leave on the 3rd to go back to school. I will give you a call soon to see when might be best for you all.

I hope your Christmas was full of love and relaxation, it sounds like you guys have been busy!
Much Love,

Brittany Dahlen <dahlen@stolaf.edu>
Minneapolis, MN - Sunday, December 27, 2009 4:36 PM CST

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Emily Tucker <etucker06@yahoo.com>
- Saturday, December 26, 2009 10:10 AM CST

Hey,
Just checking in to say I have been thinking of you guys. I know that this time of year has been hard for you guys in the past. I hope that you are relaxing and enjoying the holidays as much as you can. I am sending prayers and love, all the way from Northfield. And honestly, I need to meet up with you guys, maybe during our winter break?
Hoping that all is well,

Brittany Dahlen <dahlen@stolaf.edu>
Minneapolis, MN - Sunday, November 29, 2009 6:25 PM CST

Mads
I am beyond thankful for you & your family.
Know that please.
loving you always & wishing you were here.
Liz Shay <liz11shay@mSN.COM>
mpls, mn usa - Saturday, November 28, 2009 0:54 AM CST

Hi Julie, it's Julie. I was talking with a CO Pilot the other day, and somehow got to talking about Catholic schools in Minneapolis. He went to Visitation and well I cannot remember where he said he went to high school, but he was naming off people he knew that went to AHA, and he knows your family. I check this site about 1x month looking for your updates, but this time decided to check in with you. I saw Ashley at the mall awhile back she is so beautiful. Anyway, I hope you are all still doing fine. Would love to get together sometime soon...maybe sometime during Winter break if you're not too busy. I think of you often. Take care! love Julie
Julie Cameron <rjac63@aol.com>
Minneapolis, MN USA - Tuesday, November 17, 2009 9:41 PM CST

Hey guys,
I need to stop by soon to catch up on Chachi's senior year, how Keegan feels about 1st grade and all the other things that have happened over the MONTHS since I have seen you all. It feels like such a long time since I have been sitting the back room being toughened up by Keegan and enveloped in the joy and love and humor of your family.
I will give you a call soon. I am planning on hanging out with Dannie (another person I haven't seen for months) on Saturday. Maybe you guys will have time, and if not hopefully we will connect soon!
I love you all.

Brittany Dahlen <dahlen@stolaf.edu>
Minneapolis, MN - Wednesday, November 4, 2009 5:07 PM CST

This time of year always draws me to Maddie's website.....I hope all is well. You and your family are always in my thoughts. Take care.
Melanie <mtropple@comcast.net>
Vancouver, wa - Saturday, October 31, 2009 0:19 AM CDT

Just wanted to stop by and let you know that I was thinking of Maddie and you and your family today. With all of the holidays coming up and Halloween very near, wanted you to know that my thoughts are with you throughout these days. Hope your family has a fun and safe Halloween! And as you know, you have a very special Angel watching over you all!
Amy Thomas
CA - Friday, October 23, 2009 5:06 PM CDT

Hi Julie,

I haven't been by in a while, but today is Jan's birthday and when I think if Jan and Harris, that usually goes hand in hand with thinking of Maddie :-) Your August post is just so beautiful, I am so glad also that you lived your lives with Maddie with such joy, hope and faith. Maddie has always been an inspiration to so many and thru your journal, she will continue to be until the end of time. Are you on Facebook? I would love to see some recent photos of your beautiful children, Keegan must be so grown up now! Thinking of you all in MN, hope you are all excited for Hallowe'en,
love and hugs, Tracey xo <traceyhewison@shaw.ca>
Calgary , - Monday, October 19, 2009 12:22 AM CDT

Just stopping by to say hi and check in. We of course think of Maddie and your family often. Cannot believe six years have passed. She is still, and will always be fresh in our minds and our thoughts. Love to you all!
Lynn Moore <mlaws@comcast.net>
St Paul, - Saturday, October 17, 2009 12:56 AM CDT

Dear Angel Maddie, I have been thinking a lot about you lately. Your words have taught me so many things. You have affected my heart, my life in an extraordinary way. Thank you.

With love, Emily
Emily Tucker <etucker06@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, October 14, 2009 3:16 AM CDT

Missing you, god I wish I could hear your crazy jokes and see your smile again.

Brittany <dahlen@stolaf.edu>
- Monday, October 5, 2009 9:48 AM CDT

Julie - I just wanted to stop by and let you know that I continue to think of you and your family, and your beautiful Maddie. Our children are never forgotten!
Shayleen <shayleen_harris@hotmail.com>
Campbell River, BC, Canada - Friday, September 25, 2009 9:43 PM CDT

What a BEAUTIFUL SPECIAL young lady!
debi dawson <DEBI.DAWSON@US.ARMY.MIL>
woodbridge, VA USA - Friday, September 25, 2009 3:20 PM CDT

Julie
Just stopped by to say hello and to let you know that we were thinking of you.
Hugs & Blessings being sent your way.
Kim mom to angel Marissa Faith Miao Burghart
www.caringbridge.org/ks/marissa
Kim <8hearts@sbcglobal.net>
- Monday, September 14, 2009 9:10 AM CDT

What a great update, Julie. Thank you so much. I think of all of you often. You are correct in saying, 'I miss Mddie', 'that's just the way it is'. yup. it is.

Life is good for me. Many life-turns, many Blessings, many memories - more love.

xoxo
~Tess
Tess Baker <tessbaker@sbcglobal.net>
CA - Wednesday, September 9, 2009 10:34 PM CDT

Still checking in on you and your family. Although I was never blessed to have met Maddie, I love hearing about her through your stories and memories. You are an amazing woman, Julie, and you have one Terrific family. So happy to hear everyone is doing so well. Please take care and if youre ever in CA please let me know.
Amy Thomas <mrdruthomas@google.com>
- Saturday, September 5, 2009 4:33 PM CDT

Missing you... a lot...
Liz Shay <lshay90@aol.com>
mpls, mn usa - Tuesday, September 1, 2009 0:04 AM CDT

What a wonderful journal entry. Even when you feel like you had nothing to write, you still write with intense passion, love and honesty.
You are a wonderful influence on me. I have been baking a lot lately (which I guess is like me, domestic weird friend). I have been doing it so often that I will probably need to drop off some brownies, pie or banana bread at your house.
I hope the last few days of summer are lived like your summer on steroids. You guys will always know how to party the best!
Much Love,

Brittany Dahlen <dahlen@stolaf.edu>
Minneapolis, MN - Tuesday, August 25, 2009 9:31 PM CDT

Hi Julie and family,
What a beautiful entry into the journal! You have a wonderful way of sharing what is so deep in your heart! No wonder all of your daughters are such great writers! Thanks for updating and sharing what's going on with your family!
Jan
Jan Tift <jantift@comcast.net>
Mtka, MN - Tuesday, August 25, 2009 7:37 PM CDT

Just to let you know we have not forgotten Maddie or the rest of your family.

Hugs and kisses from Nana Sherry - Forever Ryan's Nana
Sherry Courtney <scourtney209 @hotmail.com>
St Peters, MO USA - Monday, August 3, 2009 1:19 PM CDT

Hey guys,
It has been far too long. I am working quite a bit. However, I will have the week off this next week, I will have to give you guys a call to see how you all are doing and if I can stop by sometime.
I hope everyone is having a relaxing summer so far.
Much Love,

Brittany Dahlen <dahlen@stolaf.edu>
Minneapolis, MN - Tuesday, July 28, 2009 9:43 PM CDT

Hi Maddy and Justin!
Love,
Great Aunt Tina
xoxo
Tina Campbell <antyt1@aol.com>
Surfside, fl USA - Thursday, July 16, 2009 5:45 AM CDT

May 6th came and went for me this year. It not only marked the date of Maryah's big surgery but it marked your passing. Your life touched our hearts so deeply it is hard to put exactly how much into words. Maryah kept your photo posted on her hospital room wall for the next several days and then right next to her bed for a couple of years after that. You have been a light in her life and I noticed today in my internet history that she is still visiting you here regularly. I am pleased that you live so strongly in her heart. I didn't know you, I've met your beautiful Mother and I see how you became the young lady you did. I wish I had met you, but still feel that you are always with us in our quiet times. Thank you for being a part of my heart, of Maryah's heart and for being so amazing. We miss you!
Rachel Perez (Tift) <rachelperez01@comcast.net>
Cottage Grove, MN USA - Wednesday, July 8, 2009 3:28 PM CDT

Dropping by to say hi, havent in a long while, a year or two. Hope you are all doing well.

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/lauradunks

Laura
~X~
Laura Dunks <take_my_breath_away_@hotmail.com>
St. Albans, Herts England - Sunday, June 21, 2009 3:44 PM CDT

What a brave and very beautiful girl you have.
I never knew your daughter but she has touched my life.
Louise Hughes <Louise87@blueyonder.co.uk>
Brierley Hill, W.Midlands UK - Tuesday, June 9, 2009 6:53 AM CDT

Maddie I love ya babe
Jenny Bellew
Mpls, MN USA - Friday, June 5, 2009 5:28 PM CDT

thinking of you.
Kathy
caringbridge.org/fl/david
kathy <joy2jak@comcast.net>
boynton beach, fl usa - Sunday, May 31, 2009 1:35 PM CDT

picturing maddie at the beach with me today.

love you all
Caitlin Eide <caitlin.eide@gmail.com>
Minneapolis, MN USA - Saturday, May 30, 2009 1:57 PM CDT

We love you Maddie oh yes we do
We don't love anyone like we love you
When your not near us
We're blue (Boo hoo)
Oh Maddie we love you!

I remember singing that in front of 4441 after your memorial service. You know how much I love you, I always will. I missed you yesterday especially when we were in the back room, it is odd for you not to be there, the place I remember you the most. I am so blessed that you took me under your wing at Anthony. I didn't know anyone and you included me in everything. I wish I had had more time with you, we all wish that, but the time I did have was priceless.

Thank you Julie for having everyone over last night. I love seeing you guys. Hope to see you more once I get back from school in a week and a half!

Much Love,
Brittany Dahlen <b.dahlen@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Thursday, May 7, 2009 7:46 AM CDT

Remembering you today especially Maddie!
Love, Rachel
Rachel Holmes <rlholmes@uwm.edu>
MIlwaukee, WI - Thursday, May 7, 2009 0:50 AM CDT

Maddie-
I love you. No other way 2 say it. Wish I had said it more often when we were younger, but I know you know I do!
Love forever and always.

Liz Shay <lshay90@aol.com>
mpls, mn usa - Thursday, May 7, 2009 0:16 AM CDT

Maddie we miss you and love you so much! You are beautiful!
xoxoxoxo -Emma
Emma Paskewitz <elpaskewitz@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Wednesday, May 6, 2009 10:49 PM CDT

Maddie,
Muchos popos (ask Charlotte) for you today!
Love to infinty and beyond!
Keela Potter
Minneapolis, MN - Wednesday, May 6, 2009 10:32 PM CDT

Maddie-

Though you never got to experience the majesty of the facebook newsfeed firsthand, I'll have you know your spirit is painted all over it right now. Through the unlikliest of media, I feel like I'm reconnecting with an old friend.

With Love,

Colin Eide

p.s. Let me see that Mrs. Saddam Hussein impression sometime soon...

--"You don't have a soul. You are a Soul. You have a body." C.S. Lewis--
Colin Eide <colin.eide@gmail.com>
Minneapolis, MN United States - Wednesday, May 6, 2009 9:10 PM CDT

You were in our family's special intentions during both our morning and evening prayers. We think of you often and are so inspired by the imprint Maddie left on so many lives. May God bless you with peace,
Katherine Hall <tokyohalls@aol.com>
Tokyo, Japan - Wednesday, May 6, 2009 4:37 PM CDT

Thinking of you today and always. Hang in there, its hard but you guys are one amazing family.
Klassy <klassykernan09@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, May 6, 2009 4:32 PM CDT

Maddie was an awesome young lady and such an encouragement to all who knew her. The world lost a great person on May 6, 2004. I believe no one who knew her will ever be the same. I know I won't. In the sixth Harry Potter Book, after Dumbledore dies, it was said that Dumbledore will only be gone when those that are loyal to him are gone as well. I believe the same holds true for Maddie. Though she isn't here physically, her memory and legacy will only leave when those who remember and love her leave as well. I pray that you guys feel the peace of God during this time.
Bryanne Weaver <catdogbre83@hotmail.com>
Bristow, OK USA - Wednesday, May 6, 2009 4:18 PM CDT

Just letting you guys know that I am thinking of you today and always. I can't believe that it's been 5 years already. Time flies so fast.
Admira <ak301285@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, May 6, 2009 2:36 PM CDT

<3 Thinking of Maddie today and always, I remember today 5 years ago like it was yesterday.
Love you all.
Maia A Roppo <maia.aar@gmail.com>
Queens, NY USA - Wednesday, May 6, 2009 2:01 PM CDT

I love you Maddie P. You're in my heart for good.
Charly Blackwood <blackylrahcwood@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, May 6, 2009 10:01 AM CDT

Thinking of you on this day
Jo <bachings@nycap.rr.com>
- Wednesday, May 6, 2009 5:15 AM CDT

Thinking about you always, Maddie. Miss you and love you.
I know you're with us!
Dannie Paskewitz <pask0030@umn.edu>
Minneapolis, MN USA - Wednesday, May 6, 2009 0:59 AM CDT

Hi Maddie.

Two weeks ago marked four years since Mamie joined you. You're probably both finding as many new, exciting, and beautiful things every day as you did at first. We look forward to the time when you will have eternity to tell us about it.

www.caringbridge.org/al/mamieadams
Mamie's Daddy <george.f.adams@us.army.mil>
Huntsville, AL USA - Tuesday, May 5, 2009 8:58 PM CDT

Thanks for the call today. I stayed so busy, pretending that today was just like any other. I'm sure that's not healthy, but.....you do what you got to do.
I will be thinking of all of you and Maddie tomorrow.

I miss talking to you. My class will be over soon and I will be a better friend.

Carla Brooks <cmfbrooks66@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, May 5, 2009 7:45 PM CDT

((HUGS))
Jennifer Hartley <hartley1025@verizon.net>
- Tuesday, May 5, 2009 2:36 PM CDT

Was thinking of you all on tuesday and everyday. Love you and Miss you mads. xoxo

<3 always!!
Liz Shay <lshay90@aol.com>
mpls, mn usa - Friday, May 1, 2009 0:43 AM CDT

checking in every day, knowing there won't always be an update but finding strengthin the pictures of your smiling face and the powerful words you always wrote. i miss you maddie. i pray for your family often. keep on keeping on.
follower <butterflylights@anonymous.com>
- Wednesday, April 29, 2009 9:19 PM CDT

Maddie, I think about you all the time. The legacy of your heart, determination and generous spirit will live on forever. Thank you for still providing us all with comfort and strength.

Love, Emily
Emily Tucker <etucker06@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, April 28, 2009 5:05 AM CDT

I hope you guys are enjoying the nice weather! I have been thinking of you all. You know your family is always in my prayers and that I would do anything for you, just name it. I can't wait until the semester is over! I will hopefully see you soon, it has been a while.
Much Love,

Brittany Dahlen <dahlen@stolaf.edu>
Minneapolis, MN - Thursday, April 23, 2009 8:57 PM CDT

Hi Julie and family,
I hope spring is finding its way to Minneapolis. It's taking forever to get here!
Charli and Chachi seem to keep up through facebook so I see you are doing well. I think about Maddie often, wishing I had met her.
Let's try to get together, summer will be here soon.
I miss you guys.
Carla <cmfbrooks66@yahoo.com>
West Hartford, CT - Monday, April 13, 2009 7:21 PM CDT

Hey Julie

I had Maddie in my thoughts today. I hope all is well with you, the kids and your 27 sisters.

Terry, Julianna's dad
Terry <tjosephson@shaw.ca>
Winnipeg, MB Canada - Wednesday, April 8, 2009 1:11 PM CDT

Miss you today, yesterday, the day before that, tomorrow and always.

<3
__
- Monday, April 6, 2009 2:03 AM CDT

Remembering you today. I love you Maddie.
"Perhaps they are not stars in the sky, but rather openings where our loved ones shine down to let us know they are happy."
Much Love,

Brittany Dahlen <b.dahlen@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Wednesday, February 25, 2009 11:09 PM CST

Hey guys,
I am sure it is busy over there at 4441. I just wanted to say hi and to ask for your prayers. Two of my campers, one of which you have met, are not doing really well. Jackson was diagnosed with Stage IV Neuroblastoma and has relapsed for a third time in his bones and has limited options. And Will, Humor honoree, is not doing very well either. They found two new tumors (inoperable) in addition to the one they were checking up on.
Both of these boys were particularly sweet to me, and little monsters sometimes to Austin (Especially Jackson who tackled her to the ground the first day of camp).
I hope you guys are having a restful semester. I am only a week in and I am already tired!
Much Love,

Brittany Dahlen <b.dahlen@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Sunday, February 15, 2009 9:56 PM CST

Maddie, please, tell us what to think about this horrible Chris Brown wife beater scandal. I am so lost.

Thinking of you,
Caitlin Eide <caitlin.eide@gmail.com>
MPLS, MN - Monday, February 9, 2009 3:13 PM CST

Julie - you and your family and your beautiful Maddie were in my thoughts today. The birthdays are difficult, I think because they are reminder of the shining hope we had for such a short time, and the longing we feel to hold them still. You describe it best as an ache. And as you know, it takes pulling ourselves out and looking at the love around us that brings our lost children closest. I feel Cameryn when I'm snuggling with Carson, or laughing with Brooke. She increased my capacity to love deeply,and for that gift I am eternally grateful. I know you too are a recepient of that special gift from Maddie.

Your card was beautiful, and I would have liked to have sent you one back but it didn't have an address this year. Some time soon I shall make that phone call so we can connect in person. Wishing you and your family a healthy and happy 2009!
Shayleen, mom to Brooke, Carson and angel Cameryn <shayleen_harris@hotmail.com>
Campbell River, BC Canada - Sunday, January 18, 2009 0:00 AM CST

Thinking of and praying for all of you. Happy birthday maddie, you are missed.
Mary Sievert <Msievert15@hotmail.com>
- Friday, January 16, 2009 10:31 PM CST

Happy Birthday Maddie,
I remember attending Maddie's last birthday party on earth and was amazed by your beautiful family. I had never met your family before and still felt comfortable coming. Maddie had a gift for my neice Julie ( who also has a Maddie in heaven) She was such a wonderful caring person, I know you will always miss her.
Karen Ueland www.caringbridge.org/mn/kylie
Karen Ueland <klpu@aol.com>
Saint Paul, Mn - Friday, January 16, 2009 3:33 PM CST

Happy Birthday Maddie!
Thinking of you guys!
Rachel Holmes <rlholmes@uwm.edu>
Milwaukee, Wi - Friday, January 16, 2009 11:53 AM CST

Thinking of you today and always. Happy birthday to Maddie.
Admira <ak301285@yahoo.com>
MPLS, - Friday, January 16, 2009 11:23 AM CST

I always thought the perfect title for a story about Maddie would be "Lookout Heaven Here I Come". And so if there is consolation to be found it is my vision of her organizing the other angels into action on our behalf.Happy Birthday Madeline. Grandma Carol
Carol D <bigowl@windstream.net>
- Thursday, January 15, 2009 7:49 PM CST

Hey guys,
For the past few weeks I have found myself thinking more and more about Maddie and all of you guys. Tomorrow is another day that I will be thinking of her.
I know it sounds a little odd and it could totally be explained by the fact that I listen to Delilah too much, however, for the past couple weeks driving to and from volunteering I have heared "Ain't no mountain high enough", "Somewhere over the rainbow", "The world's greatest", "Hero" and "I hope you dance" at least once. I remember dancing and singing "Ain't no mountain high enough" frequently with Maddie and to Maddie later on.
Every memory I have of Maddie and with your family I cherish. I often revisit these times when I need to remind myself that there are great people everywhere, especially you guys.
I am looking forward to continuing to make these memories with you guys over breaks and anniversaries and random days when I drop off baked goods or stop by to check in.
Here is a song to Maddie's 19th tomorrow,

I love you Maddie, Oh yes I do
I don't love anyone like I love you
When your not near me, I'm blue
Oh Maddie, I love you

Much Love,
Brittany Dahlen <b.dahlen@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Thursday, January 15, 2009 4:45 PM CST

Hello Julie,
Julie, thank you very much for the great x-mas card that was really beautiful, I can only say I wish you some more of the strength you already have shown. You were a great cousin way back when I new you, now I can see that you have become an amazing Mother,Friend, Cousin ,PERSON.
I am also sure under strong, compassionate, caring, devoted, determined loving in the book of people on earth there is a picture of you. I read your update and happy new year to you I know you will be strong Julie, I truly wish I could give you a hug. Just one more thing Happy Birthday Maddie
Claude Dornisch <cdornisch@excite.com>
St. Marys, Pa. United States - Monday, January 12, 2009 5:42 PM CST

stopping by to say hi and to let you know that I am thinking about Maddie and your family. Even though I do not know you all, I still feel a connection to Maddie and your famiy from the 1st moment I read Maddie's journal entry at the beginning of her journey. As you well know, she had a captivating spirit, and her spirit lives on now and always. I hope you all have a great 2009!.

Julie, I love your journal entry about learning to live along side of the pain. So true, so true. I lost a child during my pregnancy and the pain is always there....but like you said you learn to live along side with it. Great advice. you are an amazing woman!
Amy <mrdruthomas@google.com>
CA - Friday, January 9, 2009 3:54 PM CST

Merry Christmas! I can't wait to see you guys and deliver some banana bread and brownies for everyone. I hope this holiday season has been okay. You guys deserve a wonderful Christmas and a very happy New Year!
Brittany Dahlen <b.dahlen@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Wednesday, December 24, 2008 7:03 PM CST

I hope Keegan is enjoying being six! Thanks for making time to hang out with all of us. Chachi, Thanks for being so silly at dinner 'I don't play that'. Liz and I were chatting about trying to hang out again, I am going to make chocolate chip banana bread, any other requests? Brownies?
Julie, if you need any help with your project just give me a ring I will be in the city a little before break.
Love you guys!
Brittany Dahlen <dahlen@stolaf.edu>
Minneapolis, MN - Saturday, December 6, 2008 1:51 PM CST

MADDIE!!!
I miss you. A LOT.
Love You.
Liz <lshay90@aol.com>
mpls, mn usa - Monday, November 17, 2008 4:41 PM CST

Hey,
Just to let you guys know, we (Liz, Dannie, John, Cree and me) are planning on bringing you guys dinner/going out to dinner if you feel like it, sometime over our break. Let me know when you have time the weekend of thanksgiving (28th-30th). I can't wait to see you guys!!! And to wish Keegan a HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
I am missing you all, and blowing kisses up to the gorgeous, crazy and compassionate Maddie. She has popped into mind many times today.
Much Love,

Brittany Dahlen <b.dahlen@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Monday, November 17, 2008 1:04 AM CST

Thinking of you.
Maryellen
jacksonville, fl usa - Monday, November 10, 2008 0:18 AM CST

Just stopping in to see how everything is, great to see an update. I can't believe little keegan is almost a Kindergartner. Glad to hear that everything is good with everyone. Thinking of you, and maddie.
Rachel Holmes <rlholmes@uwm.edu>
M - Sunday, November 9, 2008 11:16 PM CST

Hi Maddie's Family! I stop in now and then to check up on you, and I'm so happy to see you remain the loving, close-knit family I got to spend time with a few years ago. I still think of those days and smile at Maddie's...what shall we call it?...spunk? I continue to wish the best for you...and cannot believe little Keegan is five!

Peace, Joan
Joan Steffend Brandmeier <Joanredhed@aol.com>
Edina, MN USA - Sunday, November 9, 2008 11:12 PM CST

Just checking in. Glad to see an update.
Forever Cameron's Aunt Toni <tbrooks4176@yahoo.com>
Abingdon, MD - Sunday, November 9, 2008 0:51 AM CST

Thinking of you Maddie
Maggie Fransen <Frans068@umn.edu>
- Thursday, November 6, 2008 10:19 PM CST

Hey guys,
I hope things are going well. I am so glad Barack Obama is our next president, Maddie would be proud.
I don't know why, but today is a little harder than most.
A little girl named Marit is having a really hard time with her treatment. She is my godmother's best friend's daughter. Unfortunately she was diagnosed with Medulloblastoma in May. She is currently at St. Jude's getting the best treatment out there. Although she is doing well, I have found myself worrying constantly about her and the family I have come to care about. I realized I have become attached to children going through this battle. I especially find myself clinging to the children who are dealing with brain tumors.
Today, the what has really helped me cheer up is thinking of a skit Maddie had us all put on at one of Dannie's Birthday parties. I had just started to hang out with Maddie and I remember not knowing many people who were at Dannie's party. Everyone was from Kenny or had known each other for years.
Maddie saw a divide occurring in the group and she brought everyone together by starting to plan a skit. She recruited me, Jenny Bellew, Mary and Liz to pretend we were a family and she was the grandmother who made ridiculous comments and bossed around the dad.
Although I love St. Olaf and I am so happy with the friends I have made here, I have a special attachment to Maddie, Liz, Dannie, Austin and your family. You guys are the best second family anyone could ever ask for.
I would do anything for any of you, I know you know that.
Thank you for being my family.
Much Love,

Brittany Dahlen <dahlen@stolaf.edu>
Minneapolis, MN - Thursday, November 6, 2008 6:16 PM CST

Julie!!
I just updated and decided to check on you. We must be on the the same wave length. I read your paragraph abbout Chachi and could have almost changed the name, sport and job location but those girls are right in line. Especially with the room thing - it's crazy.

Let's plan to go visit colleges together. I know I owe you a few return calls. I will call today.

I think about you guys often.
Carla Brooks <cmfbrooks66@yahoo.com>
West Hartford, CT - Sunday, November 2, 2008 6:43 AM CST

Julie,
Your last paragraph telling us what Keegan said to you, brought tears to my eyes. Honestly. What a beautiful boy you have. I'm so glad you are all doing well. I still think of Maddie often and am constantly inspired by her passion to really live life and enjoy every moment.

Love,
Janice <janiceliew1981@gmail.com>
Melbourne, Australia - Thursday, October 30, 2008 5:13 AM CDT

hey guys,
miss you all!
Brittany <b.dahlen@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, October 23, 2008 5:14 PM CDT

Maddie. Stay strong for Charlotte.
She loves you so much.
Keela Potter <Kiwiiistar@msn.com>
Minneapolis, MN U.S - Wednesday, October 22, 2008 9:00 PM CDT

Maddie I miss you greatly and I LOVE YOU! Thinking of you... xoxoxoxo
Jenny Bellew <jenny_bellew@hotmail.com>
- Friday, October 10, 2008 7:27 PM CDT

Hey guys,
I miss you all! I hope everything is going well. I just got some good news! An organization here called Spread the hope, a quality of life group for MN organizations, is planning on fundraising for Camp Jornada with me!!!
I love you Maddie, you are always around me. Thanks for sending me that sign to CHILL OUT!
Much Love,
Brittany <b.dahlen@yahoo.com>
- Monday, October 6, 2008 6:34 PM CDT

I SO miss the back room fun.
Maddie, I miss you!
Dannie Paskewitz <pask0030@umn.edu>
Minneapolis, MN United States - Monday, October 6, 2008 11:56 AM CDT

Thinking of you...and Maddie.
Beth
Mansfield, OH USA - Sunday, September 28, 2008 9:21 PM CDT

MISS YOU all!!
Liz <lshay90@aol.com>
mpls, mn usa - Wednesday, September 24, 2008 5:03 PM CDT

I am looking forward to seeing you all at Humor to Fight the Tumor event on Saturday! I can't believe it is already the fourth week for me here at St. Olaf. I have many exams coming up and I have to say I am a little overwhelmed. But I have loved it at the same time.
I hope school is going well for Keegan (1st year of school!), Chachi I know you are still the social butterfly, and Ashley I bet you are getting excited for "starting" your adult life in a year!
I miss you guys. Be ready for a big hug from me at the event!
Much Love,

Brittany <b.dahlen@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Monday, September 22, 2008 9:42 AM CDT

Hi Julia and Family, Been thinking 'bout you so thought I'd check here first and enjoyed reading your July words. So True that our daughters took a part of us with them and we keep a part of them with us. The transitions, of our children with us, bring pangs of grief of the milestones in life Maddie and Corinna never experienced. Shay is 10 now. 1 year older than Corinna. It is such joy watching Shaylee change and mature. Hard to believe Keegan is 5 and your girls are young women. Hope you are well!!
Lorri Barry <grainbabe@yahoo.com>
Almira, WA USA - Thursday, September 18, 2008 11:41 AM CDT

Hi Julie & Family,
I can't believe the summer went by and we didn't see you. We were busy doing nothing. Charli & I are back at school. I know your whole group is back and I can't wait to see pictures of Keegan in Kindergarten. I miss you and think about you guys all the time. I still tell everyone how much Charli and I love Minneapolis.
I promise to call soon. I really wish you lived next door!!!! School has started and Cameron would have started Middle School. It's been rough just thinking about it.
Carla Brooks <cmfbrooks66@yahoo.com>
West Hartford, CT - Thursday, September 11, 2008 9:36 PM CDT

This past week has been exciting, fun and inspiring. I have met many wonderful people who I could see myself being lifelong friends with.
But last night and this morning I find myself pausing. I can't help but think of Maddie. Four years seems to be really 4 months in my mind. I can't imagine it has been that long because she is still so ingrained in my mind.
I often find myself telling new friends stories about the crazy stuff she would do, how hilarious she was. Sometimes I use past tense but often I find myself talking in the present, as if I was still in the back room watching her pretend to be a talk show host or be Ms. Quehl or just say naughty words and laugh.
God how I miss her. But I am blessed to have known her for the short time that I did. I am also blessed to be in your lives and still be in the lives of Liz, Dannie and Austin. I think these friendships will always be there no matter how long we all go without seeing one another.
Much Love,

Brittany <b.dahlen@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Monday, September 8, 2008 10:30 AM CDT

thinkin about you and your family today maddie...
Mary Sievert <Msievert15@hotmail.com>
Milwaukee, WI 53202 - Sunday, September 7, 2008 2:56 PM CDT

Just another random person out in the world, whose life was forever changed by stumbling across Maddie's site four years ago. Thank you for sharing her, her incredible perspective, and her love of life with us. It often serves as a much needed reminded.
Joyce <jdadekia@skidmore.edu>
- Monday, September 1, 2008 2:43 PM CDT

Hi Julie

I was just thinking of you today and found your link. Our baby will be 2 tomorrow and our youngest daughter Jalin will be 5 on the same day that our sweet angel Marissa gained her angel wings on Sept. 20th. Drop us a line, or give us a call any time. HUGS
Blessings Always, Kim
Mom to Angel Marissa Faith www.caringbridge.org/ks/marissa
8hearts@sbcglobal.net
Kim Burghart <8hearts@sbcglobal.net>
Halstead, KS USA - Saturday, August 30, 2008 11:05 PM CDT

Hey guys,
I was so glad to see you very briefly at chachi's party. You guys still through the best parties. It has been far too long since I have really been able to hang out with you guys. It is less than a week until I leave for St. Olaf. I would love to stop by when you gus have time.
I can't wait to tell you guys all about Camp Jornada, it was amazing!
Chachi, I hope your party was amazing! Happy sweet sixteenth birthday!! Give me a call about going to lunch later this week.
Much Love,
Brittany Dahlen <b.dahlen@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Friday, August 22, 2008 1:51 PM CDT

Maddie Maddie Maddie-
I LOVE YOU!! i miss you tons n tons too. not a day goes by that something doesn't remind me of how amazing you are. My summer has been crazy! Full of work, bball, soccer, sleeping, kentucky, cop, boundary waters n jus lots of stuff-- but IM soo lucky to see you in everything I do. From being assigned to "The Butterfly Room" at work, a classroom of 2 yr olds that I was to be a 'teachers aide' in... the highest rank I ever got in your class as well :) To a guy talking to us in Kentucky who had MP tattooed on his chest & another one of our leaders we met in Kentucky having the birthday of Jan 16th, you are everywhere. I have "Maddie Moments" a ton and i love them, once I was in the butterfly room and one of the teachers started playing Ain't no mountain high enough super loudly. I was just sitting there being kind of sad listening to the song we danced to countless times and this little girl was being picked up at the end of the day. She never really seems to mind leaving class when her dad comes but that day she screamed at him when they were leaving so she could come back in for a little bit. He put her down and she came running to me and gave me a HUGE hug and then left. Thanks mads, I needed that hug. College is coming up real quick... man I can't even believe it. I know you'll be watching over me and our friends as we go learn how to live on our own, but that doesn't stop me from desperately wishing you could have been here to experience it with us. I miss you everyday, and thats not going to change. Thanks for your maddie moments you give us, they are very much needed and greatly appreciated. I love you Maddie mo!!!!!!!!!
Liz Shay <Lshay90@aol.com>
mpls, MN USA - Monday, August 18, 2008 0:17 AM CDT

Hi my northern friends!! Was doing a caringbridge cruise and popped around a bit to say hello to all our friends. Miss you guys and hope you are doing well. Maddie, what can I say? I love and miss that girl too. Amazing that she is still comforting me even today with her words.

Love you all.

Susan mommy of Jakey Bear/Big Jake et. al.
www.caringbridge.org/page/jakegriffin
palm city, fl - Sunday, August 17, 2008 4:02 PM CDT

Ok - Great entry like always. Summer has been.....just been. Nothing exciting. Flights are crazy so we probably arent coming to visit, maybe one of our breaks.

I promise to pick up the phone. I miss you guys.

Carla <cmfbrooks66@yahoo.com>
West Hartford, CT - Thursday, August 7, 2008 7:24 PM CDT

Hi Julie,
Claude here I was organizing "my favorites" and saw this website and wondered if you were still there. So I clicked it and read the most beautiful words I ever have about caring loving remembering grieving. I am proud to be your cousin, you are so strong, I never met Maddie in person but I read your entry and feel like I did. I hope everything is going good for you guys, my Minneapolis friends. Nice talking with you Love Claude
Claude Dornisch <cdornisch@excite.com>
St. Marys, Pa. United States - Thursday, July 24, 2008 12:06 AM CDT

Hi, Your entry just touched my heart and made it ache for you. Thinking of you.

Take care, Sherri

www.caringbridge.org/oh/kara
sherri <ketch16@yahoo.com>
ohio - Wednesday, July 23, 2008 6:35 PM CDT

Still checking in on you guys. Hope everyone is enjoying the summer. I so wish we could do another trip to MN!
Forever Cameron's Aunt Toni <tbrooks4176@yahoo.com>
Abingdon, Md - Friday, July 11, 2008 9:36 AM CDT

Hi Julie,

I haven't been very good about visiting CB sites lately. However, I wanted to check on you and your family and let you know that I think of you and of Maddie.

I love your entry. You always express your feelings so well. I guess Maddie got her abilities from you. She always put her thoughts and emotions together so perfectly.

Kindest regards,

Diana, Mother of Angel Katherine
Diana Cross <diana-99@comcast.net>
Houston, TX - Friday, July 11, 2008 8:41 AM CDT

Julie - Funny that I, too, have been experiencing writer's block, and became "unstuck" yesterday as well. So much in my heart, but not always easy to put into words these days. As you are, I'm trying to stay grounded in the business of living, while part of my heart is still elsewhere. I think the irony of it is that I am living more completely now than I ever have - a gift from Cameryn. I can see that Maddie has done the same for you and your beautiful children. Thinking about you, and hoping that you are having a relaxing summer! Please continue to keep in touch. You can also find me on Facebook, if you have an account.

((HUGS))
Shayleen - http://www.caringbridge.org/canada/cameryn/ <shayleen_harris@hotmail.com>
Campbell River, BC Canada - Tuesday, July 1, 2008 3:49 PM CDT

Hello Julie, just getting a chance to get online tonight and thought I'd run through my list of CB children. Some have grown so much, it's amazing to see them all. When I come to the sites where the children have gone Home, I just smile and think that Jeffery is surely hangin out with them. He to would be 21, my baby is now 20. Wow where does the time go? Our days are moving quicker now, seems there is now time to do things out in the world but I'm not so quick to get out there. Looking for a job, haven't run our hot dog cart for awhile now, though of selling it but couldn't, Jeffery wanted it so bad. It was his baby but we all loved working it! We'll see how it goes this year, if we don't use it soon, we will sell. We have just now, this week given his skateboard to our nephew, I think he's scared to use it....... My husband and Joey can't seem to let anything go, so I'll wait. I'm the kind of person who likes to use it or loose it. Jeffery had so much "stuff". His room was like an apartment. I'm still finding things that he put away somewhere. I love those days, I love to think, what in the world was he thinkin???? I miss him so much! We only have one other child, I imagine with 3 your pretty busy! God bless you, Julie! Your a great person, mother, friend! Thank you for praying for our family! I'll check back later for some more of your inspiring writing! Peace and Prayers to you all, 4j*4ever! Ps. how are the children doing where Maddie is concerned? Joe has just now finially gone to see a Phy. dr., he got where he just couldn't hardly move, he didn't want to go out w/friends, just work and school and bed..... I begged him to go just once, he's been about 5x's now and going to start with the young adults group soon.
julie, jeffery and joseph's mom www.caringbridge.org/fl/jeffery <jsample2@comcast.net>
jax, fl usa - Wednesday, June 18, 2008 10:07 PM CDT

Isnt it time for an update YET? :)
KP <kmlindberg@yahoo.com>
toledo, oh - Tuesday, June 17, 2008 11:14 AM CDT

Tomorrow and everyday after that, Thanks for being with me always.

I love you forever.
Liz Shay <Lshay90@aol.com>
mpls, mn usa - Saturday, June 7, 2008 11:51 PM CDT

Okay, so I was just sitting here, being bored, when a random memory of memory of you just popped into my head. We were at Rich's... Why?? I don't remember. lol. But we were bored and we couldn't think of what to do. We somehow ended up in his garage and we found wood, nails and a hammer. We thought it would be cool to make him a bird house, so we spent like forty minutes trying to fit the peices together... Neither of us had any idea how to build one and realized that anymore attempts would be futile, it probably didn't help that we didn't have enough wood. We ended up making this little garden box type of thing. We were so proud of it, we decorated it and put in little signs. It was so much fun and we forgot that we were bored. You kept on singing, I kept on bending the nails, and we wrote these really weird things to put in the box. We laughed so much. Remembering that put a smile on my face. I miss you.

Love,
Cree
Cree <beepers023@yahoo.com>
- Saturday, May 31, 2008 1:36 PM CDT

Hi Julie, how are you and the family doing. I want you to know how much I think of Maddie daily. She has been an inspiration to my life, although I haven't met her in person just hearing and thinking about her is just like knowing her. I know that God has taken her home to be with him, he has lots of other beautiful things in store for her that we don't know about and will never know about either. About 3yrs ago I also lost a son who was 25yrs old, and you know how I've move on because I'm always thinking about him and how I've missed him but he also wanted me to go on with my life just like Maddie wanted you to do. May Gods' blessings be with you and your family.
Kerin <kerinbajanchase39@hotmail.com>
Minnapolis,, Mn USA - Sunday, May 18, 2008 3:45 PM CDT

Hi Julie and family, I didn't post on May 6th but I was thinking of Maddie and y'all. I am sure that you were able to again reflect on her beauty and bask in her love and the love that you all share. My best to you.
Laura <lreifel@comcast.net>
Seattle, WA - Wednesday, May 14, 2008 10:57 PM CDT

Hello to Maddie and her family! I recieved this website from a mutual friend. Maddie was an amazing young woman and I'm lucky to have read her words. Thank you!
Cara Brand
St. Paul, - Wednesday, May 7, 2008 8:44 PM CDT

Maddie, I never knew you, but can certainly see you in the love and caring that Emily Tucker shows me every day. You obviously left a lasting impression and that love is not lost on us; it is a legacy that will go one forever. I look forward to the day that we will all be together where there will be no more pain and the only tears will be happy ones.

Mitakuye Oyasin
Dick
Dick Nelson <dick@hoofprinthill.com>
Cedar Falls, IA - Wednesday, May 7, 2008 8:41 PM CDT

Hey maddie!

Thanks for all you help over the last 18 months. I'm thinking about you every day. Fly high sweet angel!

Emily Tucker <etucker06@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, May 7, 2008 2:31 PM CDT

I♥u
MADDIE!!
- Wednesday, May 7, 2008 0:53 AM CDT

Thinking you today. Everyday.

Hope all is well
klassy kernan <klassykernan@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, May 6, 2008 10:40 PM CDT

Thinking about Maddie and your family especially today. Know that you are never far from my thoughts and prayers.
Forever Cameron's Aunt Toni <tbrooks4176@yahoo.com>
Abingdon, MD - Tuesday, May 6, 2008 9:50 PM CDT

Missing you tons today Mads ! I love you more than a fat kid loves cake !!!
Charlotte <charlottepaguyo@Yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, May 6, 2008 8:57 PM CDT

thinking of you all today. lots of love and prayers
mary sievert <msievert15@hotmail.com>
minneapolis, - Tuesday, May 6, 2008 8:52 PM CDT

So busy, really busy, too busy... I thought that if only I could just stay busy, today would be tomorrow and I would make it through without a tear or that feeling of loss that creeps up on me.
I am so busy, really busy, too busy, but my first thought today was of you and the empty feeling was there. My first conversation, I spoke of you and the tears were there.
The feeling I have right now, when I am writing this, is of overwhelming sadness. Never too busy to remember and never wanting to forget.
I am grateful I couldn't avoid these feelings. They are real and they are now, no matter what else is happening at work or at home.
I am always busy, and I am always thinking of you. Tomorrow and for the next 363 days after that there will be laughter, a heart full of you and some of the best memories of my life shared with you and your family.
Never too busy for you...

More love than I can say...
Auntie Sara <sdornisch@gmail.com>
- Tuesday, May 6, 2008 8:42 PM CDT

Hey guys,
Yesturday was fun, thanks for having us all over!
I hope your day is going okay. I have been thinking of you all day.
Can't wait to see you guys on Thursday!
Much Love,

Brittany Dahlen <b.dahlen@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Tuesday, May 6, 2008 4:22 PM CDT

So many memories - four long years - I'm glad John was able to join all of you for dinner last night. Keep close watch over your friends during these next few weeks Maddie - they need you!
Lori Licht, Mpls <llicht@jacobs-mgmt.com>
- Tuesday, May 6, 2008 4:01 PM CDT

thinking about you guys today....
admira <ak301285@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, May 6, 2008 2:10 PM CDT

Reflection good for the soul. And today a great one to do just that Much love Grandpa & Grandma D
Grandma Carol <bigowl@alltel.net>
- Tuesday, May 6, 2008 8:24 AM CDT

Maddie,
Although I've never heard your voice, I feel your presence everyday through your sister Charlotte. Everyone in your family never fails to amaze me, & you are all held close to my heart. From what I've heard, YOU are powpowPOWERFUL, have a kind heart, and are the best Maddie Taylor Paguyo ever.
It's 11:11 and I wish for you and your family. Stay strong and keep loving forever.

Yours,
Keela Potter
Keela Potter <Kiwiiistar@msn.com>
MPLS, MN US - Monday, May 5, 2008 11:13 PM CDT

I'm thinking of you all!! I hope your all doing fantastic!!

Love,
From the Casey Family
Norita <shortynorty2@yahoo.com>
Omaha, NE United States - Monday, May 5, 2008 9:31 PM CDT

Just stopping by to say that I'm thinking of your family as tomorrow approaches.

((HUGS))
Jennifer Hartley <hartley1025@verizon.net>
- Monday, May 5, 2008 9:42 AM CDT

Hey guys,
I hope the birthday celebration was amazing! I have missed you guys. I had planned on coming over at the beginning of this week however I got hit with a bug and thought I better not give it to you guys.
Now that I am better, I would love to come chat a little with you guys and officially invite you to the Second Annual Monarch Music Benefit. It is on Thursday May 8th from 7-8:30.

I will call soon to set up a time to catch up.
Much Love,

Brittany Dahlen <b.dahlen@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Thursday, May 1, 2008 0:16 AM CDT

Thinking of you all, and Maddie today!
Hope all is well!
Rachel Holmes <rlholmes@uwm.edu>
- Monday, April 28, 2008 7:34 PM CDT

I love you all 2 the moon n back times a million plus 2. or maybe plus another million.

I miss you MADDIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Love always n always n always,
Liz shay <lshay90@aol.com>
mpls, mn usa - Monday, April 28, 2008 6:51 PM CDT

Dear Julie and Family,
Just stopping by to say I was thinking of you all and besides, I love coming here to see Maddie's beautiful smiling face, and Julei, to read your eloquent updates. They are always full of meaning and enlightment. Blessings to you all.
Kathy
caringbridge.org/fl/david
kathy <joy2jak@comcast.net>
boynton beach, fl usa - Saturday, April 12, 2008 5:16 PM CDT

hi!
its been a while since i have been to this page. i was just thinking about you and decided to say hi :) i hope everything is going great! amanda and I just started track recently its going pretty good. but give us a call anytime your free because it has been a while! oh and looking at maddies page got me to thinking about our moms page, i was wondering how to get there. i cant figure it out.
love you and again call when your free
love, Allison
Allison Seaburg <ACSeaburg@comcast.net>
hopkins, - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 11:33 PM CDT

It has been a long time since I have seen you guys. I hope things are going well. I have about a month to get the 2nd annual Monarch Music Benefit together!!! Yikes!
This year we are raising funds for Camp Jornada. They provide free camp for children with cancer, their siblings and the children of adults suffering from cancer. They emphasis the importance of quality of life, and that everyday is a journey, a new experience.
I have really enjoyed working with this years Monarch Council. Lease girls are very dedicated and often give up social time to work on a project for the group. The four juniors this year on the Council will be the leaders of Monarch next year. I don't really know how I feel about being less involved next year. I really will only come to large events and act as a "mentor" to help with questions and problems they may have.
It is going to be really difficult I think, but I trust that these girls will honor Maddie and help as many people suffering from cancer a they can.
I hope your family will be able to come to the Music Benefit. I know it is not the perfect timing, unfortunately the space determined the date, Thursday, May 8th. I wil completely understand if you decide not to come. My mom said she would save seats right next to her no matter what.
You guys are such amazing people. I am very thankful for being a part of your lives and you mine. I will stop by sometime soon, maybe this weekend? I can bring you a flyer that Kaija Ulstrom designed, and catch up on what you guys have been up to.

Much Love,
Brittany Dahlen <b.dahlen@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Tuesday, April 8, 2008 9:17 PM CDT

What a beautiful journal entry....

Thinking of your family as May approaches..

((HUGS))
Jennifer Hartley <hartley1025@verizon.net>
- Tuesday, April 8, 2008 10:36 AM CDT

It has been a while since I was "out" visiting Caringbridge pages. I pray your family is well. Blessings!
Nichelle (Adrienne's mom: http://www.caringbridge.org/tx/adrienne)
- Thursday, April 3, 2008 3:45 AM CDT

I still stop by often but don't sign as much. Just know you are not far from my thoughts.
Forever Cameron's Aunt Toni <tbrooks4176@yahoo.com>
Abingdon, MD - Wednesday, April 2, 2008 10:02 PM CDT

Dear Julie and family,
I wasn't going to sign this entry as I often read and never have signed. Tonight I have goose bumps at the divine intervention and could not let it go untold. Your Maddie amazes me, even in her spiritual life she is teaching still. I read tonight your post about the pools and reflection and began to think of your Maddie. I lost My Maddie in Jan 2004, and at my lowest emtional point there was a knock on my door. My aunt was standing there with a big book and a box. I was perplexed as she has never been to my house before and I wasn't sure what to think. I opened it up to find a beautiful collection of my Maddies journals from the caringbridge as well as all the entries. It had been shut down and the first chapter of her life was erased. Your Maddie's journey began and she then had that site so we started over as maddiej. What my aunt delivered filled me so full of joy, your Maddie had orchestrated that entire thing to copy it and give it to me. I gushed with tears of joy, awe and reverence, and gratitude. I was so touched, as I had been following your Maddies journey, it meant the world to me. I opened the little box filled with tissue paper, and inside was more love. She made a beautiful little angel of clay that looked like my Maddie. Rosy cheeks, blue eyes dark hair and beautiful wings. What amazed me more than anything was that in her last months she took it upon herself to reach out to me to bring me joy and comfort, when I just didn't know if I would be able to feel that ever again like I had before her passing. Since then we have had many spiritual "moments" with butterflies and in your Maddies memory we hang a butterfly on our Christmas tree. Tonight I reflected on some of those times and then wasn't going to write, but when I read your guestbook I had a bit of an awakening. Your post about Melody. Her son Shane who died was my very close friend. My son honors his memory with the same name, my sister once nannied for them and we then became inseperable. In Melodies book, there is a story about keeping memories alive and my shane doing so.(pg 303) After the goosebumps stopped I reflected a bit more and knew that I had to share this. How amazing is a girl who is dying, that doesn't take pity upon herself, instead she spreads love and complete generosity. I marvel at her her kindness, love, compassion, and presence. Even years after her passing she is still teaching such wonderful lessons! I believe Maddie P is a reflection of Heaven, so pure and sweet! Thank you for sharing her with us and Thank you for giving her a beautiful mirror image!

Julie Johnson <sallyj082@yahoo.com>
Isanti, mn 55040 - Monday, March 31, 2008 0:14 AM CDT

Thinking of your family and hoping to bump into you all someday soon!
Caitlin Eide <caitlin.eide@gmail.com>
Minneapolis, Mn - Thursday, March 27, 2008 5:07 PM CDT

Just stoping by to say hello. Hope you have a wonderful break!
klassy kernan <@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, March 26, 2008 0:07 AM CDT

Hi Julie, Ashley, Chachi, and Keegan: It seems so long since I last saw you but you are always on my mind. I still have Maddie's picture on my refrigerator door and she touches my heart as much today as the day I met her. You will forever remain in my heart because something in me changed on that wonderful day of our meeting. I hope all is well with each of you. You are a wonderful family. Take care.
Beverly Overton-Malekebu (home care nurse) <bover80154@aol.com>
Crysal, MN USA - Friday, March 21, 2008 11:54 AM CDT

Dear Julie, girls and Keegan...

Since I seem to be living and breathing caringbridge sites these days I thought I would check in on Maddie's site.

Julie, you are one of the most amazing people I have ever met. Each time I am with you, I am awed by your grace, sensitivity, and complete genuineness! I just wrote a couple words that could be completely mis-spelled, oh well, you know what I mean.

See you tomorrow...thanks for being a part of my journey!

Love and blessings,
Joelle
Joelle Syverson <jwsyverson@comcast.net>
Minnetonka, MN - Wednesday, March 5, 2008 6:48 PM CST

Hey Guys,
It has been a while since I have seen everyone. Dannie filled me in a little on the birthday happenings, sounds like it was fun. I am doing pretty well now that I have figured out how all my new classes work.
I am working on the Music Benefit again! It is going a lot more smoothly this year, probably because we already have a space and nobody on the council this year is passive aggressive...
I hope to see you all soon!

Much Love,
Brittany Dahlen <b.dahlen@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Friday, February 22, 2008 8:52 PM CST

Just checking up on my mpls buddies. Tell Keegs to expect a valentine from colton! Yes I know it is Feb 20th but I have newborn twins so I get a pass.

Love you guys.

Susan Et Al
www.caringbridge.org/page/jakegriffin <susnjude@aol.com>
Sunny Palm City, fl - Wednesday, February 20, 2008 11:55 AM CST

I ♥ you all!!!!
LIz Shay <lshay90@aol.com>
mpls, mn usa - Thursday, February 14, 2008 11:42 PM CST

Happy Valentines Day, Julie, Ashley, Charlotte, and Keegan

I haven't talked to you guys in forever!
I hope all is well...

sincerely,
Norita
Norita Casey <shortynorty2@yahoo.com>
Omaha, NE United States - Thursday, February 14, 2008 5:33 PM CST

i love and miss you madz.
Charlotte Paguyo <charlottepaguyo@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Wednesday, February 6, 2008 10:23 PM CST

HAPPY BELATED 18th BIRTHDAY MADDIE!!!!!!
Julie sending you blessings and prayers.
Kathy
www.caringbridge.org/fl/david
kathy <joy2jak@comcast.net>
Boynoton Beach, florida usa - Saturday, February 2, 2008 8:14 PM CST

Hi,
I knew maddie when she was in sixth grade and I was in eighth, I still remember her sweet smile and quick to laugh attitude. I visited this site often and still do.
When I was diagnosed with cancer, over a year ago, my thoughts immediately went to maddie and her fighting spirit. Any time I feel defeated I think of maddie. Thank you Maddie, you are an amazing teacher. Your on my mind and in my heart every day.

Love, Emily
caringbridge.org/visit/emilytucker
Emily Tucker <etucker06@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, January 29, 2008 7:31 PM CST

Hey Maddie, I haven't came by in YEARS, but I seen the website in my dads favorites, and I thought I would come by... I missed your birthday, and I am sorry, but happy be-lated birthday sweetie. And I know we weren't that close, but I miss seeing you around, you were such a sweet girl. Not just to your friends, but to everyone. I have your poem on my wall, the one from your memorial service. I read it everyday. When I wake up, and before I go to sleep. We all miss you, and love you.
Asia Stripe <asiastripe@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Tuesday, January 29, 2008 1:35 AM CST

Hi Julie,

I am so glad that you visited Katherine's site. A few months ago, my husband got us a new computer and I lost all of my Caringbridge links. I think of your family often. I am sorry that I missed Maddie's birthday. I hope you and your family found a special way to celebrate.

Love,

Diana, Mother of Angel Katherine
Diana Cross <diana-99@comcast.net>
Houston, TX - Monday, January 28, 2008 8:09 PM CST

18 Maddie Mo-
WOW!!!!

I LOVE YOU!!!
Liz <Lshay90@aol.com>
mpls, mn usa - Sunday, January 20, 2008 1:55 PM CST

Hello Julie,

My name is Marsha Lardin, I "found" Maddies web page years ago and followed her battle, lurking in the back ground hoping that she would beat the tumor. Our paths have been parallel, my daughter Allison was dx a few months after Maddie, with the same tumor, and lost her battle a few months after Maddie. For some unknown reason I came back today to check on you and your family, only to realize that Maddie's 18th birthday was only 2 days before Allison's 18th birthday. Needless to say it brought tears to my eyes. I question everyday why our children, what caused our children to have this kind of tumor. This is the first time I have wrote in the guest book, but I was hoping that you would like to e-mail, or talk about our children, maybe finding some common "thing" that may have cause our kids to have a tumor on their brainstem. If not I totally understand.
Hugs to you all!
Marsha Lardin <jlardin@lightbound.com>
Shelbyville, IN - Sunday, January 20, 2008 11:52 AM CST

CAN'T STOP THINKING ABOUT YOU I HOPE YOU GOT MY BALLOON! I LOVE YOU

KEEP SHINING!
Austin Kennedy <Austinkennedy09@yahoo.com>
Mpls, MN Usa - Wednesday, January 16, 2008 9:42 PM CST

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADDIE POO
i love you and miss youuuuuuu

moo moo <mayumihara90@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, January 16, 2008 8:07 PM CST

Julie, Ashley, Charlotte, Keegan, Tricia & Sara,

Thinking of you all today - the many memories and stories being shared - and hoping there are more smiles and laughter than tears.

Maddie - Happy Heavenly 18th! You are such a big influence in John's life. I always imagine you as the angel looking over his shoulder - keeping him somewhat on the straight and narrow (with a few wacky detours) but pushing him to have fun along the way. Keep it up - he needs you!
Lori Licht, Mpls <llicht@jacobs-mgmt.com>
- Wednesday, January 16, 2008 5:06 PM CST

As I was cleaning my room yesterday, I found things that I hadn't seen since, well, 2004. I discovered a wrinkled up piece of paper that had "Maddie Day" written at the top. Below that I had planned out fun things we could do in all different areas of Minneapolis. "Fun stuff 4 home" were the best ideas on the list by far. We always had so much fun just hanging out in the back room. We spent days playing Family Feud, scrapbooking, watching movies, doing arts and crafts, and resting with you.
When you came to my birthday party, you sat all the girls down in my computer room and you introduced us to the song "No Mo Chemo." Yesterday I found the lyrics that I had printed out to keep. That song is so catchy-- I still remember all the words! :)
Among some pretty great pictures, I found pages from “Bibiana La Valiente” (Bibiana the Brave), the children’s book I wrote about you and gave to your big sister. I also came across the letter I wrote for you to put in your scrapbook, and finally, a newspaper cutout of the Doug Grow article titled “A girl born to teach left lessons in living.”
Maddie, you are in my mind all the time. I miss you and love you and wish you a happy birthday.

Dannie <paskyloohoo@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN USA - Wednesday, January 16, 2008 4:12 PM CST

HAPPIEST BIRTHDAY WISHES EVER, although I know in heaven, every day is your birthday!

KP <kmlindberg@yahoo.com>
TOledo, OH - Wednesday, January 16, 2008 4:01 PM CST

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADDIE!!!!

klassy kernan <kernan_6_6_91@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, January 16, 2008 1:35 PM CST

Happy Birthday Maddie!
I love you and miss you tons. ♥
Charlotte Paguyo <charlottepaguyo@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Wednesday, January 16, 2008 7:45 AM CST

Happy birthday maddie. Thinking about you today...
Mary Sievert <Msievert@miad.edu>
- Wednesday, January 16, 2008 7:20 AM CST

Hi Julie, I'm thinking of Maddie today. What would have the girls been like at 18? It's a hard day. Much love to you.
Karla Blackwood <blackwood1@mac.com>
Bozeman, MT - Wednesday, January 16, 2008 7:01 AM CST

I know I'm one day early but tomorrow is the 16th and that means Maddie's Birthday! I just wanted to say Happy Birthday darling, you are forever missed.
<3 <3

And Happy New Year!
Maia Roppo
New Rochelle, NY - Tuesday, January 15, 2008 11:24 PM CST

Julie i didn't even know Maddie but she seemed outstanding from what I've both read and heard..!
I just cant imagine the struggles that the Paguyo family had to face due to her illness..!
However we cant rewind time so now just live on and hope for the best..!!
While reading over Maddie's 8th grade essay I took from it "live everyday like its your last" but don't let things stand in the way of LIFE....
The entry to a new year [2008] my resolution was based on Maddie and her inspiration to me.
I wanna leave off wishing you and the rest of your family a Happy new Year..!

Travon Sellers <t_sellers11@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, Mn United States - Wednesday, January 2, 2008 7:12 AM CST

Happy New Year to all.
Kathy
caringbridge.org/fl/david
kathy <joy2jak@comcast.net>
boynton beach, florida usa - Monday, December 31, 2007 9:17 PM CST

Have a very merry christmas! I love you all!
liz <lshay90@aol.com>
mpls, mn usa - Tuesday, December 25, 2007 2:43 AM CST

Hey lovelys.
I miss all you guys dealry and i wish everyone a merry christmas.
Also, id like to rethank you for everything you guys have done for me in the past.

Hope to see you guys soon :]
Britney Paddock <aimpaddock@aol.com>
fridley, mn usa - Sunday, December 23, 2007 11:50 PM CST

Oh Julie...thank-you so much for the beautiful Christmas card of Maddie...what a wonderful tribute to an amazing young lady. I cannot believe how much Keegan has grown...I've literally seen him grow-up on Maddie's site and through photo's! You and your girls are epitomize beauty...inside and out. Sending blessings, hugs and warm thoughts to all!
Kathy Cummings
www.caringbridge.org/fl/david
kathy <joy2jak@comcast.net>
boynton beach, fl usa - Friday, December 21, 2007 10:01 AM CST

Dear Julie, Ashley, Charlotte, Keegan & Angel Maddie,

I got your beautiful Christmas card in the mail yesterday.. thank you so much! The quote on the front of the card has become one of my favourites- it means so much. Julie, thank you for all your journal updates.. I really look forward to reading them and find such inspiration from them. Of course, Maddie continues to be in my thoughts and I often go back and read her journal entries. She was so mature and smart for a girl her age and I continue to look up to her. I hope your family has a beautiful and safe Christmas.. and may the new year bring all of you all that you wish for.

~*~*Girlie's Page~*~*~

Lots of love from Down Under,
Janice
XOXOXOXO
Janice <janiceliew1981@gmail.com>
Melbourne, Australia - Wednesday, December 19, 2007 0:17 AM CST

Hey there JUlie and Family: Just thinking of you this season. You are often in my prayers and thoughts. I am so amazed at the love that surrounds you all. You are all blessed.
Amy Elsen <elsenae@hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, December 18, 2007 9:20 PM CST

Hello Julie and family, it's been awhile since I've checked in on ya'll. I see all IS well! Maddie must be so proud of you. You are right, even though they are not with us in the flesh, they are is spirit! We feel Jeffery just about every day now. I just can't quite get over not being able to hug him, that was such a big part of our life. I talk, and imagine what he'd say though, that helps some. I pray that you have a Wonderful Holiday this year! Stay strong! Peace and Prayers, 4js*4ever
Julie, Jeffery and Joseph's mom www.caringbridge.org/fl/jeffery <www.jsample2@comcast.net>
Jacksonville, fl usa - Friday, December 14, 2007 8:43 AM CST

Julie, I just wanted to say Merry Christmas.. time has gotten away.. Keegan must be 5 by now maybe 6 I cant believe that. How maddie loved that little guy so much. I still am in Awe when i read anything maddie wrote she was so so wise for her age.. she knew and faced it bravely.. and to leave these notes and things for you to treasure and Know she is o.k.. well she is the bravest girl I know. I miss her.. I know you must be sad with the kids gone for a bit.. but you gave them there wings to fly... they are so ready to face the world because of you! Your just a great mom... and I admire you so much... Im sorry i dont come around much at all. It is a hard thing for me to do. but its getting easier... I feel blessed you shared maddie with all of us,. and she shared herself with us. she will never be forgotten... God bless you
kim <dakk2222@netnitco.net>
IN - Thursday, December 13, 2007 10:38 PM CST

Hey Julie,
I hope you are doing well! The thanksgiving journal is so wonderful. I love how you somehow find ways to fight through something difficult and give a meaning to something unbearable in life. You are a great role model, mother and friend.
I have spent some of my time the past month or so preparing meetings for Monarch and signing everyone up for volunteer events. But, I have found the holidays actually make my peers more selfish and less giving... kind of backwards I think. I have tried to think like you and Maddie would about the situation. I just thought Monarch is here to help as many people as we can, if these next couple weeks are "slow" or have less participants, then we will just do what we can.
I really am getting worried about Monarch and where it will be next year. So many administrative people at South and Vicki have asked what I am doing next year with Monarch. Who will run it? Will it still have the music benefit and all the meetings? (And most of all...) How will I leave it completely behind?
I know I will never forget this cause that Maddie was so passionate about. When I get a letter back from a family or see the little kids at Children's laugh at our funny decorations, I know I could never give this up. I love it too much. It will be really hard though, I don't exactly know how I am going to do it next year. I need to focus on school, because I know it will be very challenging.
I can always draw strength from the wonderful support around me from all of you guys. Dannie called me a few days ago and we talked about what was going on in our lives. But what I loved was it felt nothing had changed our friendship during the time since we last spoke. That is the sign of a true friend. I will love all of you for ever. And I hope when I get to heaven (whenever that may be) that Maddie and I will be able to catch up just like old friends.

I love you guys! I hope you had a good Thanksgiving. I am thinking of you.

Much Love,
Brittany Dahlen <monarch_president@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Tuesday, December 11, 2007 9:04 PM CST

Julie and family,
Just stopping by to tell you thank you for the christmas card. I thought it was wonderful and hopefully see you soon. It's always fun to be around your family especially when celebrating important days. Liz says we're gonna be over EVERY day over break so we'll see how that goes but anyways, thanks again and see you soon.
John Licht <jolicht@gmail.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Tuesday, December 11, 2007 7:07 PM CST

Julie,
I'm visiting to get your home address. Sending x-mas cards this year. First in a long time, since our girls became ill. I think of you and it is nice you wrote about your Thanksgiving. Will call you some day.
Lorri Barry <grainbabe@yahoo.com>
- Monday, December 10, 2007 12:03 AM CST

Oh yeah and I forgot to say, I know im not chach, madz, or ash but I will be over during the holidays. dont you worry! lol I'll bring the gang and we'll have a great time. Love you julie!!
xoxo
liz shay <Lshay90@aol.com>
mpls, mn usa - Thursday, November 29, 2007 4:10 PM CST

Hey im just stoping by to say hi and i love u all and im sending my love this holidays. maddie i love u and miss u....<3
steph moore
Stephanie Moore <princess015@comcast.net>
- Wednesday, November 28, 2007 10:16 PM CST

Mommy,

Another unbelieveably insightful journal entry. Not going to lie, it eased my conscience a bit. But, so truthful: venturing to new and distant lands is so much easier knowing that within me I bring all of your love everywhere I go. I miss you all, but feel confident knowing that your values and morals are deeply embedded in my very level head and, also, I feel a sense of safety and security knowing that Maddie's able to look over me know matter where in the world I may be. I'm excited to be reunited, but even more anxious to finally unload all the gifts I've collected from all my travels. Let me know when the big 5-year-old finally gets his package.

Love to all, no matter where you may be.
xoxo
Ashley <paguy002@umn.edu>
- Monday, November 26, 2007 3:31 PM CST

This Thanksgiving, I had many things to be thankful for. I have a great family, great friends and some extraordinary people in my life. Since being lost & found, I know how many people really care, and I mean really care about me.I am thankful for all my opportunities and truly realize how lucky I am to have had them. My friendship with Maddie is one I am forever grateful for, yet some days I have to be reminded to be thankful for that friendship rather than be angry that it cannot physically continue. Mads I know your always shinning and will always be there for me. And I LOVE that.
I cannot believe how time goes by so fast. My last soccer season is over, the second quarter of my SENIOR year is already half over. College apps are being sent in and basketball season has yet again started. Oh & I will be 18 in a couple months. Yikes.

Maddie- I do not know how I can be doing ANY of these things without you here. I do know however that I am thinking you constantly as I jump from one thing to another. It's usually a thought that you could be doing this so much better or a slight nudge that if you could do what she did, I can do this nonsence that seems undoable. As always, thinking of you makes me go the extra step. Your family has been something that I have been continously thankful for. I know that you know how special they are, but wow they continue to blow me away. Seeing them share your story with so many makes me know your lessons will never be forgotten. Your mom is one of the strongest people I know and to be honest she is pretty much where I get MY strength from. I try to deal with everything as best I can, mostly mirroring your mom. Talking about things when I need to, crying when I need to, Sharing when I need to and laughing when I need to. These are the things that I try everyday to do. Its hard, but I try. I always say thanks to you Madz but I really cannot say it enough. Thanks for everything you've taught me and everyone else. Thanks for having such an AMAZING family, and thanks for being you.
I better go seeing as I have to finish a book tonight ( dosen't look so good) and my mother is on the phone behind me calling my brother who was skating tonight and apparently knocked part of his tooth out and cut up his face pretty bad. Oh geez....

I LOVE YOU MADDIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Liz Shay <Lshay90@aol.com>
Minneapolis, MN USA - Sunday, November 25, 2007 10:33 PM CST

Well said Julie. Sending blessings to you and yours on this Thanksgiving weekend and throughout the year. You are a wonderful, caring and loving mother and it shows in the most important places of all...your children. I feel the same way...it is better for them to experience different adventures and trips...even if it means being away from us...I have learned it is so much better to count on the bond of love and let go so they can truly live life and as you say, come back to tell the stories of all their experiences...thinking of you all...
Blessings,
Kathy
caringbridge.org/fl/david
kathy <joy2jak@comcast.net>
boynton beach, fl usa - Sunday, November 25, 2007 3:43 PM CST

Dear Julie and kids,

Just wanted to wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving. I know I am defintely thankful for meeting you! As we have talked about this frequently, God definitely had a plan for the two of us to meet.

I look forward to seeing you next week!

Love,
Joelle
Joelle Syverson <jwsyverson@comcast.net>
Minnetonka, MN - Wednesday, November 21, 2007 7:32 PM CST

Hey everyone,
I just wanted to say Happy Thanksgiving. I hope that you all have a great holiday. I will be thinking of you this weekend because I know the holidays are very difficult for you guys.
Hope to see you guys soon!
Much Love,

Brittany Dahlen <b.dahlen@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Wednesday, November 21, 2007 12:37 AM CST

Hi Julie - Just wanted to let you know that I still check on you and your family, and I appreciate your sweet words in my guestbook. You are truly a kindred spirit, and it helps to know that we are sharing a similar journey. It's a tough one at times, as you well know, but it's made lighter by doing for others like you did with your speech and support at the event you attended. How wonderful that even the youngest member of your family, Keegan, does his part in honouring Maddie's memory!

There is a song I put on Cameryn's page that I think you would relate to called "Carry You Home." It's a James Blunt song, and one that touched a real chord with me. I found it especially meaningful hearing this song for the very first time on the anniversary of Cameryn's passing. What a wonderful gift we were given, really, to be able to "carry our children home."

Carry You Home

Trouble is her only friend and he's back again.
Makes her body older than it really is.
She says it's high time she went away,
No one's got much to say in this town.
Trouble is the only way is down.
Down, down.

As strong as you were, tender you go.
I'm watching you breathing for the last time.
A song for your heart, but when it is quiet,
I know what it means and I'll carry you home.
I'll carry you home.

If she had wings she would fly away,
And another day God will give her some.
Trouble is the only way is down.

As strong as you were, tender you go.
I'm watching you breathing for the last time.
A song for your heart, but when it is quiet,
I know what it means and I'll carry you home.
I'll carry you home.

And they were all born pretty in New York City tonight,
And someone's little girl was taken from the world tonight,
Under the Stars and Stripes.

As strong as you were, tender you go.
I'm watching you breathing for the last time.
A song for your heart, but when it is quiet,
I know what it means and I'll carry you home.
I'll carry you home.

((HUGS))
shayleen, mom to Brooke, Cameryn and angel Cameryn. http://www.caringbridge.org/canada/cameryn/
Campbell River, BC Canada - Tuesday, November 20, 2007 7:51 PM CST

Just stopped by to say hi and see how your family is doing. Keegan sounds like such an "old soul". He definitly has insight beyond his years. The girls sound like they are having exciting experiences. Love and hugs to your family!
Lynn moore <mlaws@comcast.net>
st paul, - Tuesday, November 13, 2007 2:55 PM CST

Just stopping by to say hi and thinking about you guys.
Toni <tbrooks4176@yahoo.com>
Abingdon, MD - Monday, November 12, 2007 9:57 PM CST

I was thinking of your family today. I can't believe the "baby" is 5. I'm glad the girls are doing so many amazing things and enjoying life. You are such a wonderful Mom. I'm glad the event was such a success. Lyn www.caringbridge.org/nj/justinw
lyn Wyatt <glwyatt@gmail.com>
stratford, nj usa - Sunday, November 4, 2007 8:22 PM CST

Hey guys,
I cannot believe I havn't seen any of you since Humor to Fight the Tumor. The volunteers that attended reall enjoyed the event. They were so amazed at the amount of support. At the meeting that we had following the event, the girls who volunteered shared their experience (as we try to do for each volunteer opportunity). One girl said, "I never really understood how this disease changed people and their families. I feel I really get it now! I saw 500 people they said at the event. All of them were gathered together to help people who were suffering."
I each girl what their favorite part of the event was, one said "The exciting live auction, I got to collect so many pledge forms it was so great!" Another said, "the auction part was scary, like really I am way to shy to do that again. But I loved hearing the guest speakers." (they were all sitting in back of the event space watching for most of the event if they weren't sitting at Maddie's tables).
One girl said, "I loved hearing from Maddie's mom. I never realized how real the stories about Maddie and her family were."
You really did an amazing ob Julie, and so did you Keegan, great job supporting you Baboo and your mom. I was telling all of the volunteers around me that you are Maddie's mom and that you are pretty amazing (you are).
Overall, the whole event was great, and I hope the funds that were raised help a lot of people.

On another note, I have been very busy applying to colleges. Well, actually, I am applying to one college so far. I have decided to apply to St. Olaf early decision. I have met with my admissions counselor and it looks promising! I will find out if I am in or not by Dec 15th, cross your fingers!

Julie, my application is due on the 1st of November, bu after that I am going to stop by and see what is going on.

I was going to say some other stuff about Monarch but I have already written ENOUGH I think. I will just tell you about other things later.
Again, thank you for just being there for all of us, and including us in so many moments of your lives. You are all truly amazing individuals and a crazy and hilarious family.

Much Love,

Brittany Dahlen <monarch_president@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Wednesday, October 24, 2007 5:17 PM CDT

Thinking about maddie everyday, just stopping by to say Hi.
Hope all is well!

Rachel Holmes <rlholmes@uwm.edu>
- Wednesday, October 24, 2007 11:41 AM CDT

Hello!!!
I havent signed a guestbook in such a long time. I am so glad to hear about the event. I will have to plan to be there next year. I have been going through crazy days - not believing that Cameron is gone. It stinks.
I promise to call this week! I miss chatting with you. I wish I didn't go back to work.

Carla
Cameron's mom www.caringbridge.com/ct/cameron
Carla Brooks <cmfbrooks66@yahoo.com>
CT - Monday, October 22, 2007 3:38 PM CDT

Dear Julie,
How wonderful for Ashley that she has this amazing experience to learn and travel. Fabulous. And Chachi the Princess!! You must have been so proud...she sounds like a social butterfly...rather reminds me of my Michael.....and Keegan 5 days a week in school!!! They are all very lucky to have you as their Mom. So happy the event was a success, I'm not surprised..we all know Maddie was the overseer! As always, keeping you and the children in my thoughts and prayers.
Kathy
caringbridge.org/fl/david

ps-so happy for Susan and Mark!!! It's awesome news!
kathy <joy2jak@comcast.net>
boynton beach, fl usa - Thursday, October 18, 2007 7:11 PM CDT

Missing your updates. How are the girls? Keegan?

I think of Maddie often.
KP <kmlindberg@yahoo.com>
Toledo, OH - Sunday, October 14, 2007 7:01 PM CDT

Hi, Today we were at the hem/onc clinic at Minneapolis Children's and my son picked out a pink tube from a basket full of stuff for his sister and it had this caringbridge page on it so we thought we would visit and see who Maddie was. I did not realize that your daughter had passed until reading her page. I'm sorry for your loss. You seem to be a very strong mother. Well anyways I wanted to stop by and say thank you for thinking of the kids and families who are still dealing with illness. Thank you, it really feels good to know that there is someone out there thinking of us all.

www.caringbridge.com/visit/tylerstolp
The Stolp Family
- Saturday, October 13, 2007 0:28 AM CDT

hey julie
i'm sorry it's taken me this long to write but i can't thank you enough, or Mrs. Dahlen, for allowing me to have a seat at the benefit. what a fabulous night we all had. a great memory. Thanks so much.
with love,
kristina <crystalina2315@yahoo.com>
mpls, mn usa - Sunday, October 7, 2007 3:05 PM CDT

Julie-
I go to the U and have met Ashley a couple of times, but my roommate was the one who told me of this site. I just wanted to say how touched I am by Maddie. The letter she wrote to you made me cry. I cannot believe the maturity and grace she had for such a young girl. I am so sorry that Maddie is not physically with you anymore but (as you know) her spirit and love for life are still touching the lives of so many!
Brittany Juhlmann <juhlm014@umn.edu>
Minneapolis, MN - Tuesday, October 2, 2007 10:55 PM CDT

I know that all went well with the event today and that Maddie was there with you all day. Tell the girls we say hello and hug your little one for us.

Roy and Donna
Cheyenne's Mom and Dad
www.caringbridge.org/tx/cheyenne5
Roy Fiveash <rfiveash@wcc.net>
San Angelo, Texas - Saturday, September 29, 2007 9:51 PM CDT

Julie, I just checked your site and so appreciated your story of those beautiful moments with Maddie. I echo the sentiments of another guestbook signer: you should be writing a book. You could start with your journal entries, and go from there. The Loft has great classes, should you ever have time to check them out.
Ann Sundberg <annmurt@aol.com>
Edina, MN United States - Wednesday, September 26, 2007 6:56 PM CDT

Hi Julie,

As I was updating Cheyenne's site I see that you visited and left a message. Our girls were sure there with us yesterday!!!! The prints were such a sought after item!!!! Until we can thank you and your dad in person, Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, especially for allowing me to share Maddie and her story with the audience prior to the auction.

Will talk to you and tell you all about it.

Roy
Roy Fiveash <rfiveash@wcc.net>
San Angelo, Texas - Sunday, September 23, 2007 9:18 PM CDT

Julie, thank-you for sharing that story it's beautiful.Thinking of you and your family.Someone who cares in Hemet.Sherry
Sherry <cowpies5@aol.com>
Hemet, ca - Sunday, September 23, 2007 3:04 PM CDT

Missin' you more and more everyday.
Liz shay <lshay90@aol.com>
mpls, mn usa - Saturday, September 22, 2007 7:15 PM CDT

Dearest Julie,
Keeping you and your beautiful babies in my prayers and thoughts. Remembering Maddie always.
Kathy
caringbridge.org/fl/david
kathy <joy2jak@comcast.net>
boynton beach, florida usa - Monday, September 17, 2007 2:38 PM CDT

hello Julie and family, another GREAT entry!!! I remember some of the "special" moments before Jeffery went HOME, and some moments just after he left. When they came to get him, as they took him out the door they stopped at the end of the ramp and the gray sky opened and a ray of light came right onto Jeffery's face and body, and left as quickly as it came. That, will live with me 4/EVER! It was just like a movie, even the gentlemen that moved him were in awe. God is great, he knew that would keep most of us grounded and close to him! It was beautiful, and so needed after watching Jeffery leave this world. I hope Keegan is keeping you so busy, The beautiful comb story will keep me crying for years!!!
Peace and Prayers to your family, from ours,
4/j's * 4/ever

Julie, Jeffery and Joseph's mom www.caringbridge.org/fl/jeffery <www.jsample2@comcast.net>
jacksonville, fl usa - Thursday, September 13, 2007 11:07 AM CDT

Hi Julie,
I haven't checked in or written for such a long time. I still have the picture of Maddie and Keegan on my fridge in my daycare kitchen. The kids and I used to pray for Maddie's healing each day. Some days the kids ask who the picture is of. I tell them about your beautiful Maddie and what a special girl she was and is. We talk about how she was sick and died and is in heaven. My daughter Kari ( we went to Maddie's last birthday) is now a Senior in high school. She is very special girl and makes me very proud. My neice Julie who also has a Maddie in heaven has another baby ( about 18 months) She is doing okay but still misses her Maddie so much. My grand-daughter who has a rare gentic disease and has tumors in her brain is doing okay. She is delayed and still battles daily seizures, but is amazing. I'm sure Maddie would have loved her. Sorry to ramble on but I wanted to know that I will never forget your amazing daughter or your family.
Karen Ueland www.caringbridge.org/mn/kylie
Karen Ueland <klpu@aol.com>
- Friday, September 7, 2007 2:36 PM CDT

Hi Julie...
Sounds like you're pretty busy..Its been a busy, hot and long summer. I am glad its over...that is not something I usually say. I have been working non stop, and ignoring my children the best I can. Now that they are all back in school, I feel a little more normal. Rylee is in 9th grade (yikes) she is attending Visitation (more yikes) And Cree decided to do the PSEO and is at MCTC full time. That is turning out to be a great fit for her. Soccer is in full swing, and Washburn beat South last night!! Next week they play Southwest, and I will get to see Cha Chi. And most likely YOU! I hope Ashley is loving Spain..and I know Cha Chi must be loving school, soph year is the best. It's scary how quickly Keegan has grown up...how is he liking high-5?? Well...off to playing taxi...Cree has soccer. She takes her lic test in Oct...very very scary!!
xoxoxo
Julie Cameron <rjac63@aol.com>
- Wednesday, September 5, 2007 3:39 PM CDT

Hey guys,
It has been a while since I have written in the guestbook. I has been a good summer, and I am glad I was able to see everyone when Charley was in town. Julie, my godmother, her mother, my mom and I went out to breakfast and I told them about your event (or the event you are working on), they were all very excited that something like this was happening. Joann Kuhns, my godmother's mother, has been very supportive of Monarch and wishes she could show her support on this very important night. Unfortunately, she lives in Monatana. However, I hope that you were able to contact My godmother Chris who wanted to help out as well. They lost their husband/father to cancer (and the type escapes me) about a year before Maddie died. My godmother often reminds me of you because of her outlook on life nd how she handled her grief.
I know Ashley must already be in Spain, HOW EXCITING! She will have such a great experience. Please let us (my mom and me) know if you need anything during the stressful next month of getting all of this stuff together.
P.S. My mom and I are figuring out the seating, we will call you with a details towards that.

Much love,
Brittany Dahlen <monarch_president@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Monday, September 3, 2007 5:14 PM CDT

Julie, You really need to write a book. Your writing is amazing. Sending my thoughts and prayers. Hope to see you soon.
Forever Cameron's Aunt Toni <tbrooks4176@yahoo.com>
Abindon, MD - Monday, August 27, 2007 10:52 PM CDT

ChaChi..hope soccPer tryouts go well. I still hae that sweet letter you wrote me a few yeas ago/ Hugs
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/pam2007
pam
- Monday, August 27, 2007 0:35 AM CDT

ChaChi, I hope your HS soccer tryouts went well. My daughter, who is a junior, is still injured but was on varsity last year and is on varsity again, if she can just get well.

Julie, what a moving entry. I can just visualize in my head Maddie having her hair combed by her sweet brother and can feel and see the glow Maddie gave off, even in her last days.

Peace, love and joy to you, Julie and your whole family
Laura <lreifel@comcast.net>
Seattle, WA - Saturday, August 25, 2007 9:51 PM CDT

Thank you for the wonderful update.......
Terri
Russellville, AR - Thursday, August 23, 2007 1:30 PM CDT

I hope we are able to meet up on our way through Minneapolis. I know the delay doesn't allow for a long visit, but hopefully it will all work out. I am excited and can't wait! Hope to see you soon! Love and Hugs!
Andrea Brown Angel Ryan <andrea_brown03@yahoo.com>
Oak Grove, Ky USA - Tuesday, August 21, 2007 4:52 PM CDT

Julie,
Both Ashley and Charlotte have contacted me through Facebook. I was so happy they wanted to keep in touch. I immediately thought of Maddie and your whole family. I have Ashley's senior pictures up on my refrigerator (with all of the pictures of people I pray for every day as I'm in the kitchen) and everyone that comes over always asks , "Who is that?" (Because NONE of our relatives are that beautiful!) and I tell them the story of your whole family, including Maddie. She will never be forgotten and your writings will always touch our lives. Love you guys! Sorry I'm not very good at "keeping in touch." Hopefully, with Facebook I'll be better...
Laurie Hanzal <lmhanzal@usfamily.net>
Richfield, MN USA - Monday, August 20, 2007 3:57 PM CDT

You need to write a book.
KP <kmlindberg@yahoo.com>
Toledo, OH - Monday, August 20, 2007 12:48 AM CDT

Dear Julie,
As my eyes are filled with tears after reading your entry, I am so blessed by your friendship and your ability to articulate so beautifully what really matters in life. Your words are inspiring to me and so many others. I look forward to the day I meet Maddie in heaven, what a celebration that will be!

It was so fun to paint with you yesterday, thanks for meeting us there. I can't wait to see the finished product for the auction. I might have to rob my kids' piggy banks so I can bid on it, since we have already committed our financial donation!

I am also so grateful for your time and commitment to the event this year, I know you have blessed the committee immensely with your love and passion!

Enjoy the rest of your day (even though it appears it will rain all day...ugh!!)

Love and blessings,
Joelle

Joelle Syverson <jwsyverson@comcast.net>
Minnetonak, MN - Sunday, August 19, 2007 8:50 AM CDT

Hi Julie, Once again, a beautiful story about Maddie. When I read your writings, I can feel the true love you have for her and for your other children. How blessed they are to have a mom like you!! It's wonderful that you keep Maddie's memory alive in such a beautiful way. That's what helps to remember her and to get you through the rough times, I'm sure. Be reminded that you will see her again in all her beauty in heaven with our heavenly Father!! On a side note...my daughter studied abroad last year in her junior year in college and is leaving in two weeks to study in France for another semester. I, too, can relate to how you are feeling (the nervousness) having experienced it already. However, it is a wonderful experience for them and she will have a blessed time and come back with lots of memories! It goes fast! Take care and keep writing about Maddie! You're a beautiful writer!
Margie Fisher
Pittsburgh, PA USA - Friday, August 17, 2007 4:32 PM CDT

Thank you for another beautiful and inspirational entry. God's blessings on all of you and safe travels to Ashley.
With peace and love,
Katherine <lhallkhall@cox.net>
- Thursday, August 16, 2007 9:20 PM CDT

I wanted to let you know that I will be lighting a luminarie at the South St. Paul Relay Fro Lifei for Maddie. She will never be forgotten. Maryah will be with us, walking raising money for the American Cancer Society. As Maryah would say. FROG!
Dianne <dddanstu@aol.com>
Mendota Heights , MN - Thursday, August 9, 2007 8:00 PM CDT

Is it time for an update YET?? ; )
KP <kmlindberg@yahoo.com>
Toledo, OH - Saturday, August 4, 2007 4:31 PM CDT

Just watching the news and hoping that all of you Twin City friends are well and healthy. Not just Julie and the gang, but all of your friends and relatives. With love,
Laura <lreifel@comcast.net>
Seattle, WA - Wednesday, August 1, 2007 9:48 PM CDT

i miss this... <charlottepaguyo@yahoo.com>
- Friday, July 27, 2007 0:15 AM CDT

I love you, Maddie! I know you know this, but I'll say it anyway: On the "A Prairie Home Companion" Cruise to Norway I got the chance to spread your amazing words to a theater full of Garrison Keillor fans. It was quite the experience, and I want to thank you again for YOU and your writing. Keillor put on a lot of night shows during the trip, but he also woke up for coffee and conversation and he recited poetry with us. One of the events was called "Poetry Recitation with Garrison Keillor-- any poem you've memorized that you would like to share." I immediately thought of you because the only poems I know by heart are the ones you've written. I practiced "What If The Sun Didn't Shine Tomorrow" A LOT before I went up there, because I was afraid I would belt out into song. I love how Brittany made your poem into a song-- it is SO catchy. I love it. And it has the best message ever. So, after Garrison talked forever and my palms were officially sweating, I raised my hand high and began to tell your story...
For the rest of the day I sang your words (luckily I didn't break out in song while I was on stage-- even though I might've wanted to...lol). And throughout the day people kept coming up to me and complimenting me, well, YOU, on the poem. I told them you taught me so much and that I was very grateful to have such a good friend. Maddie Maddie Maddie, you never seize to amaze me! I miss you soo much! And love you, too! See ya lata ;)
Dannie Paskewitz <paskyloohoo@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN United States - Thursday, July 26, 2007 10:33 PM CDT

Julie - I just came upon Maddie's page via someone who came upon my son's page. What a beautiful daughter!!! She was blessed to have you for a mother. Her letter speaks volumes about your relationship and how loved she felt!!! I only hope my children feel that same way!!! Blessings - Pam www.caringbridge.org/mn/nolan
Pam Anderson <pam_anderson@roseau.k12.mn.us>
Roseau, MN USA - Wednesday, July 25, 2007 8:13 PM CDT

Wow, I love reading your updates! Thank you for still sharing with us all. I to remember the ER show where Dr. Green died. Jeffery actually watched them all with me, but that night, he said, " I know you'll understand if I leave the room". He never watched it again. From that point on I felt funny about watching it, so I taped and watched later.
You are right about the physical things that remind us of our babies, the smells, the dreams. They all keep us connected! I have just these last two weeks been dreaming of Jeffery as if he where never ill. Thank God, those dreams and thoughts of him in that hospital bed are unbearable. I still cry every day, but I'm getting used to that, I have almost mastered the skill of talking while crying like my grandmother used to do. I'll stop by again soon.

Peace and Prayers,
4/j's * 4/ever

Julie, Jeffery and Joseph's mom <jsample2@comcast.net>
www.caringbridge.org/fl/jeffery, fl usa - Tuesday, July 24, 2007 11:02 PM CDT

Hi Julie and all,
Thanks for the updated entry - I think music is one of those incredible "vehicles" in life which can transport us to a specific time, place, feeling and most importantly memories of a person instantly! I love that version of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" (on my iPod) and will now always think of Maddie when I hear it - thanks! The fundraiser sounds wonderful - it is so good of all of you to continue to support and inspire others! God's blessings to you all! Peace,
Katherine <lhallkhall@cox.net>
West Granby, CT - Monday, July 23, 2007 6:30 PM CDT

I miss this... <missinu@aol.com>
- Monday, July 23, 2007 0:02 AM CDT

I MISS U
liz shay <lshay9)@aol.com>
mpls, mn usa - Sunday, July 22, 2007 11:54 PM CDT

Hi Julie,
Thinking of you all and sending up a special prayer for each of you. Thinking of Maddie and how beautifully you express your thoughts and feelings...like Mother like daughter. Blessings to you...
Kathy
caringbridge.org/fl/david
kathy <joy2jak@comcast.net>
boynton beach, fl usa - Saturday, July 21, 2007 9:11 PM CDT

Hi Julie, We think of your family often but are terrible about staying in touch. I am walking in a Relay for Life next weekend and will be lighting a luminary for Maddie on Friday night. WE send you lots of love.
Lynn and the the Moores <mlaws@ comcast.net>
St Paul, MN - Saturday, July 21, 2007 8:11 PM CDT

Just thinking about you guys!!!
Forever Cameron's Aunt Toni <tbrooks4176@yahoo.com>
Abingdon, MD - Friday, July 20, 2007 8:41 PM CDT

Julie, I was very touched by your last entry. Mary O'Keefe, the author of Thin Places, is writing another book and is looking for people with stories like yours. Send me an email and I will give you her contact info. Take care. Ann Sundberg
Ann Sundberg <annmurt@aol.com>
Edina, MN United States - Friday, July 13, 2007 2:53 PM CDT

I never met Maddie, but came across her story when I worked for the Cancer Society. I read the whole journal in one morning and now check the page often to read updates and be inspired and moved by your entries. As I said, I never met Maddie, yet every time I see a Monarch butterfly or hear one of her favorite songs I'm reminded of a truly pure and beautiful soul.
Katie <katie.kelley@target.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Thursday, July 12, 2007 1:49 PM CDT

Dear Julie,

Thank you for still checking on our family. I enjoy visiting Maddie's site. I always feel so inspired when I read one of your updates. The Diana Ross version of "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" was always one of my favorites growing up...now I like the song even more.

Love,

Diana, Mohter of Angel Katherine
Diana Cross <diana@houston.rr.com>
Houston, TX - Wednesday, July 11, 2007 1:47 PM CDT

Hey there Julie...just ran across the caring bridge address in an old email file. I've spent the last 90 minutes readng your journals. So interesting, thought provoking, loving. thanks for the reminder to fill that dash with joy!
Amy elsen <elsenae@hotmail.com>
Bloomington, MN - Tuesday, July 10, 2007 11:25 PM CDT

Dear Julie,
I just stopped by to check on your website and what a wonderful update. Oh how I rememeber that episode of ER so well...Rainbows take on a whole new meaning. Thinking of you each and every day as we continue on this journey!
Cindy Hayden <chayden@ritetrack.com>
West Chester, OH USA - Tuesday, July 10, 2007 9:20 AM CDT

Thank you so much for your latest journal entry. I always think of Maddie when I hear "Aint no Mountain High enough" (a daily occurence). I always feel comforted when I hear that song, whether it leaves me in tears or singing and dancing, reenacting our memorable talent show performance. Although Maddie isn't physically with us, I will always feel connected to her through this song, and will always treasure the memories she created that left such an imprint on my own, and so many others' lives. Your family will always be in my heart and thoughts, and I hope that you're all enjoying your summer.
love, Maggie

Maggie Fransen <Wildmagg@aol.com>
- Thursday, July 5, 2007 3:51 PM CDT

Thinking of you as I often do. Love seeing Maddie's beautiful smile. Hope the kids are having a great summer and that you are finding some time for you. Keeping you in my prayers Julie,
Kathy
caringbridge.org/fl/david
kathy <joy2jak@comcast.net>
boynton beach, fl usa - Saturday, June 30, 2007 10:18 PM CDT

I check the guestbook often, many times I read the same entry many times over. They are always so full of love, insite and kindness, just like Maddie. Thank you.
Kriss M <twicemyburn@gmail.com>
Minneapolis, - Saturday, June 30, 2007 2:51 PM CDT

i just want to tell u that i love u.....I LOVE U!!!!!!!!!!! lol sooo much....( ;
Stephanie Moore <princess015@comcast.net>
st. paul, mn - Monday, June 25, 2007 10:33 PM CDT

Hello Julie! Just wanted to pop on to say hello, and let you know that I often think of you and your family. Thanks so much for taking the time to check in on Cameryn's page. You and I will meet in person some day - I will make sure of it! In the meantime, thank you for being such a source of inspiration and comfort to me. You are a kindred spirit, and it helps to know that there is another mom out there who can grieve their lost child and still find joy in life.

((HUGS))
Shayleen and Angel Cameryn <shayleen_harris@hotmail.com>
Campbell River, BC Canada - Wednesday, June 20, 2007 7:41 PM CDT

Hi to all, I believe your summer is officialy underway! Thinking of all of you, and remembering grand times swimming, the Mall of America and just hanging out. Good luck this weekend in Green Bay! Love you all, Auntie P
Paula <omahakillens@aol.com>
- Thursday, June 14, 2007 10:00 AM CDT

So it's been way to long since I've seen you all but just wanted to stop by and say hi. Baseball banquet is tonight so got that to look forward to and then school's almost out! Baseball and soccer will be keeping me busy over the summer but hopefully I'll get to stop by and hang out for a while soon. Take Care.
John Licht <gogrampaed72@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Wednesday, June 6, 2007 5:28 PM CDT

Ok.. time for a June entry. We miss you!
KP <kmlindberg@yahoo.com>
Toledo, OH - Monday, June 4, 2007 6:46 PM CDT

i love you

austin Kennedy <austinkennedy09@yahoo.com>
mpls, m usa - Saturday, June 2, 2007 7:39 PM CDT

Julie - I have been away from the computer for awhile, but wanted you to know that as always, your words inspire and comfort me. Maddie came by her way with words honestly! Several years out from losing Cameryn, I face the same challenges of honouring my family as it is now, while still finding a special place for her in my day-to-day life. We can never "move on", but must simply find a way to weave their existance into our presence. You do a wonderful job of honouring Maddie, while at the same time celebrating the special gifts of your other children. You are a great mom!

I'm sorry I missed writing something on Maddy's anniversary. Know that I am thinking of you. I look forward to the time when Maddie's words come to life in book form.

Shayleen and Angel Cameryn <shayleen_harris@hotmail.com>
Campbell River, BC Canada - Thursday, May 31, 2007 8:05 PM CDT

thinking of all of you. hope mothers day and the anniversary went well. hopefully i'll be able to see you all very soon.
with love,
kristina amrani <crystalina2315@yahoo.com>
mpls, MN usa - Monday, May 28, 2007 6:45 PM CDT

Thinking of you all this Memorial Day. Sending hugs from Florida and remembering not only our fallen soldiers and those still courageously fighting for our freedom...but remembering all of the courageous children from our CB sites. Those that are still fighting and those that have left their legacy for all of us to honor and remember. These are heroes as well. Remembering Maddie. Always.
Blessings,
Kathy
caringbridge.org/fl/david
kathy <joy2jak@comcast.net>
boynton beach, fl usa - Monday, May 28, 2007 11:48 AM CDT

Julie, you are the best writer! I will read the book when it is published. I was in the fog for years and you dont even know it until things start to clear up but eventually the fog burns off and the sun comes out.
Michael Westerheim <michael_westerheim@msn.com>
Minneapolis, MN USA - Monday, May 28, 2007 8:38 AM CDT

wish I could be getting ready with you today.

♥
Liz <lshay90@aol.com>
- Saturday, May 19, 2007 3:22 PM CDT

Happy Mothers day! You really are an amazing mother. It was good seeing you the other day, I hope to see you again soon. Hope everything is going well with all of you.
klassy kernan <kernan_6_6_91@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, May 16, 2007 2:08 PM CDT

Happy Mothers Day to one amazing mom!!

I love you!
Liz SHay <lshay90@aol.com>
mpls, mn usa - Monday, May 14, 2007 1:46 AM CDT

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY, JULIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You are the most amazing mom to Ashley, Maddie, Charlotte, and Keegan. You are also a fabulous mom to all of their friends! Thank you for being you! Today, and everyday, you get the award for BEST MOMMA! We are all so thankful to have you! We love you Julie!
Dannie <paskyloohoo@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN USA - Sunday, May 13, 2007 5:12 PM CDT

Julie,
Happy Mother's Day to one of the world's greatest mothers!
Much peace and love
Katherine <lhallkhall@cox.net>
West Granby, CT - Sunday, May 13, 2007 12:23 AM CDT

Dear Paguyo's.
i miss you guys.
This past month i'v been thinking about
the times i had spent with you guys during my 7th grde year and how they've made me stronger.
I hope things are going good for you guys.
Your all amazing.
I hope to also see you soon.
Love you guys :]
Britney Paddock <britgirl764@aol.com>
Fridley, MN usa - Saturday, May 12, 2007 6:49 PM CDT

Julie and family; I'm speechless after reading Maddie's letter on the homepage. I've been thinking about your family and Maddie this week. In the forefront of my thoughts were several e-mails Maddie sent Sara during the last several months of their lives. I don't remember the specific words but the spirit and kindless she displayed in the e-mails was unforgetable. Two of the few positive things that came to me through the aweful process our loved ones went through were the remarkable kindness of others and the amazing strength, wisdom, and spirit displayed by Maddie. She was truly a special person.
I hope you are able to embrace Maddie's last request. It was so beautifully expressed and so insightful. Best wishes to you all...Luke

Luke Johnson <ljohnson9@mn.rr.com>
minneapolis, mn United States - Thursday, May 10, 2007 11:21 AM CDT

When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, "I used everything you gave me."
-Erma Bombeck

I am positive Maddie was able to tell god she had used everything she could. Thinking of you all today, and checking in on the site often. Lots of love, stay strong.

Mary Sievert <Msievert15@hotmail.com>
Mpls, MN - Tuesday, May 8, 2007 11:15 PM CDT

It was so great to see you all on Sunday. I love being with you all, and I hate that I don't do it that often. Running around with Keegan and sitting around talking (okay, listening) with you, Linda, Brittany, Dannie, and Chach and her friends, is great. Maddie's presence is so strong in your house and with that group of people. I could feel her beeming when we (Dannie, Brittany and I) walked in the door.

I enjoyed every minute of my visit and I miss you all and Maddie, so much.

Luv you!!

oh, yeah. In one of the essays tht we read, there was a line from a movie in it... The one tear. Definitely from a movie I saw. Just wanted to share that.

Luv ya!
Cree <Beepers023@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Tuesday, May 8, 2007 6:18 PM CDT

Remembering Maddie.
Katie <katie.kelley@target.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Monday, May 7, 2007 4:17 PM CDT

Thinking of you all and Amazing Maddie.
Love Tracey xoxo HAB <traceyhewison@shaw.ca>
Calgary, Ab, - Monday, May 7, 2007 11:07 AM CDT

Maddie-

Yours was a spectacular dash, but I think that the dates would be better written 01/16/1990-05/06/2004...
because I realized that you live on in all or our hearts, your writings and the impact or your spirit and love of life on all of us.

Your presence is intensely felt here on earth by those who knew and love you and is experienced by many who never met you through your poems, essays and journal entries.

Your fearless approach to both life and death becomes more and more awesome in my mind as I work each day to be just a little bit nicer and less critical of myself and others.

The ease in which you took each day as an opportunity to make the most out of it and be the best that you could be is even more amazing to me as I see so many of us struggle to appreciate what we have.

Three years missing your dash, but loving the dot, dot, dot that your memories and love provide.

I love you!

Auntie Sara <sdornisch@gmail.com>
- Sunday, May 6, 2007 10:48 PM CDT

You have been on my mind the whole day today.
Admira <ak301285@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, May 6, 2007 9:04 PM CDT

Thinking of you and your children today, Julie, and of Sara and the other aunties,
and off Maddie's dear friends such as Liz and the whole group. Sending you all big hugs.
Christine <cgpurvisfamily@earthlink.net>
Portland, - Sunday, May 6, 2007 6:30 PM CDT

Thinking about you today. Remembering how special Maddie was and still is.... I'm still waiting to see the video. I can't help but get a smile on my face thinking about the "cat" on the fence phone call. I hope today like every other day you are honoring your sweet angel. She will never be forgotten.
Forever Cameron’s Aunt Toni <tbrooks4176@yahoo.com>
Abingdon, MD - Sunday, May 6, 2007 5:51 PM CDT

Thinking of your family as you celebrate Maddie's Anniversary.
Jenn Hartley <ronjenn696@prodigy.net>
- Sunday, May 6, 2007 5:39 PM CDT

Julie,

I just needed to write and say that you have been on my heart all day....thinking of you!

My love,
Joelle
Joelle Syverson <jwsyverson@comcast.net>
Minnetonka, MN - Sunday, May 6, 2007 4:48 PM CDT

Chachi I hope the games are going well, you havee always been so athletic, yet girly and social at the same time... I love you guys, hope things are relaxed and going alright today. You know us girls are only a phone call away. Thinking of you, and missing her.
Brittany Dahlen <monarch_president@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Sunday, May 6, 2007 12:11 AM CDT

I love all of you!! I just wanted to say that. I woke up and saw the clock and the date immediately popped into my mind and I needed to tell you all that I love you. So, again, I LOVE YOU ALL!
Cree <Beepers023@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, May 6, 2007 2:37 AM CDT

we're friends of paul (from los angeles) now living in europe. even though we don't sign this guestbook too often, we always remember about maddie (specially on this day). We knew so much about her from paul and from this website that we both felt like we knew her.
Marta&Armen <schnitzella5@hotmail.com>
Warsaw, Poland - Saturday, May 5, 2007 11:32 AM CDT

Hey to all, Thinking of you guys as we celebrate the lives of 2 important people! My thoughts, prayers and love remain with each of you this weekend especially. I can feel the warmth of Maddie's smile and laughter as we all celebrate! Miss you guys, and would love to see you if not for graduation then soon!
Paula <omahakillens@aol.com>
- Saturday, May 5, 2007 7:51 AM CDT

I hold in my prayers knowing the gnawing sadness that grips our heart as we relive those dreadful days that led to our children's Homegoing. May our Lord bless you with His comfort, peace and hope in a very special way.
Yolanda Rogers, Mom to Anna <weloveanna@earthlink.net>
Alt Springs, FL USA - Friday, May 4, 2007 6:58 PM CDT

Dear Julie,

Thanks for a wondering time this morning (and the ride home). I am so grateful to call you friend and thank God for crossing our paths. I will be praying for all of you this weekend as it is a special time to remember Maddie (although ALL times to remember Maddie are special....I think you know what I mean).

I googled what you and I were talking abou this morning and just had to share that Tammi Terrell passed away from a brain tumor. She was the singer duetist with Marvin Gaye singing "Ain't No Mountain High Enough". I also meant to tell you this morning that that has sort of become my song as well. The kids just love it :)

I hope your lunch goes well...you will have to fill me in on the details when you have time.

Love and blessings,
Joelle
Joelle Syverson <jwsyverson@comcast.net>
Minnetonka, MN - Friday, May 4, 2007 11:53 AM CDT

Hi Julie, Chachi,Keegan,Ashleigh -
I didn't include Maddie because I hope she helping Cameron with his homework somewhere.

This is our weekend and I wish we were together sipping cosmos or something. I don't know what they would celebrate more - entering this world or that world, either way we miss them here.
I have a busy house day, but will plan to call you to chat later.

Carla
Carla Brooks <cmfbrooks66@yahoo.com>
West Hartford, CT - Friday, May 4, 2007 7:43 AM CDT

I love you, Liz (you too, family, but especially Liz).
Ashley Paguyo <paguy002@umn.edu>
- Thursday, May 3, 2007 11:51 PM CDT

Dear Julie and family,
Another beautiful entry, Julie and wonderful to hear the updates on the kids. I remember the day Ashley was born and am amazed that she is 20!
I think of you so often, but especially this week every year. Know that we will be lifting you all up in prayers and loving thoughts on May 6.
With peace and love,
Katherine <lhallkhall@cox.net>
West Granby, CT - Wednesday, May 2, 2007 6:53 PM CDT

Just letting you know I'm thinking of you all. I know this must be a very difficult week..date of diagnosis and Maddie's passing. Please know my prayers and heart go out to you all. Sending warmth and hugs from your friends in Florida and letting you know I care.
Kathy
caringbridge.org/fl/david
kathy <joy2jak@adelphia.net>
Boynton Beach, FL USA - Tuesday, May 1, 2007 6:09 PM CDT

The Phone Call That Changed Everything

As I sat comfortably slouched on my couch, I grabbed the remote and flipped it to my favorite show, “The Simpsons”. As I sat there on April 28th, without a care in the world, I heard the phone ring. I ran to the computer room and excitedly answered the phone, not knowing that this call would change my life forever.
I picked it up and said “Hello”, just like any other call. Then my best friend’s mom calmly asked how I was doing and if my mom was home. I replied with telling her I was good and that my mom was out of town for the week. The voice on the other line seemed to fade. She began to say that Maddie (my best friend since kindergarten) was at the hospital earlier that day. Not thinking it was serious, I plainly asked “why?” Her voice tried to get some words out, but she just started crying. My friend’s mom, who was like a second mother to me, was on the phone crying. A million questions started flowing out of my head. What was wrong? I could hear the uneasiness in her voice, as she somehow managed to say that my friend was having headaches and they had found out she had a brain tumor. These two words haunted my thoughts. A brain tumor? My best friend? No, it couldn’t be. I could feel my stomach drop past my feet. She went on to say that they couldn’t operate because of the location and she also mentioned the words chemo and radiation. Her words seemed to run together. I remember being quiet, trying my best to comprehend what she was saying.
As I hung up the phone, I looked at my Dad, who had that “What’s wrong, tell me now!” look written all over his face. I spat out the few words I could and began crying. As I ran up to my room I was hysterical. I was so confused. I began throwing questions at my Dad and got furious when he didn’t have the answers. I got “I don’t know, and I’m not sure”, when all I wanted was “Everything is going to be okay” and “She’ll be fine.”
The horrible feeling of helplessness went through me. Many thoughts ran through my head as I tried desperately to go to bed to escape the nightmare.
Before that night, Brain tumors and cancers were something I knew about but never really thought a lot of. My daily worries changed from what I was going to do that weekend, to what I could do if anything, to be there for my friend. I no longer cared that much about the little things like clothes, shoes and the everyday drama that happened in Jr. High. They seemed in no way comparable to my friend’s life. It also made me question a lot of things. I constantly found myself asking why her? The most amazing, talented, gifted, smart and loving girl I knew, out of everyone in this whole world, why her? I began looking at people, who did drugs and drank heavily, with disgust. Why ruin your body, when there are people out there who would give anything to be 100% healthy? I couldn’t understand. My friends amazing attitude and unbelievable courage helped me through the next year. I learned a lot the second I hung up that phone, and I was right, nothing has been the same.

That day 4 years ago, fresh in my mind as yesterday.

I love you all.
Missin you always n 4ever mads
Liz SHay <lshay90@aol.com>
mpls, mn usa - Saturday, April 28, 2007 3:51 PM CDT

♥I LOVE YOU ALL♥
liz shay <lshay90@aol.com>
mplsm, mn usa - Saturday, April 28, 2007 11:50 AM CDT

Happy belated b-day Ashley! And congratulations on all you have accomplished. Madrid sounds positively awesome! And Cha-Chi good luck in Iowa this weekend! You are the soccer star! Ah, I remember David's first stitches, hurling himself from one sofa to the next and bam...8 stitches...Keegan I hope your head is feeling much better buddy!
Julie just letting you know you are always in my thoughts and prayers. You are such a wonderful Mom. I'am so glad you found someone to get this book started. Maddie should be shared...she remains an incredible spirit and your writings are so eloquent. Hugs to you and yours.
Kathy
caringbridge.org/fl/david
kathy <joy2jak@adelphia.net>
Boynton Beach, FL USA - Thursday, April 26, 2007 4:47 PM CDT

Part of your special angel will always be with you until the day you are reunited forever.

www.caringbridge.org/al/mamieadams
Mamie's Daddy <george.f.adams@us.army.mil>
Huntsville, AL USA - Tuesday, April 24, 2007 10:17 PM CDT

Ashley, I hope your B-day has been amazing. You are one of the coolest twenty-year-olds I know (I would say THE coolest but my sister Kelsey is 20... you can have the title to yourself in a few months, haha).
Julie, it was so great talking with you on Saturday. You have shared with me some of the best perspectives and future goals and not to mention the hilarious stories of your family. The party was really fun, hanging out with most of my closest friends, really just relaxing. Dannie and I had our own dance party in the hotel, Ain't no Mountain High enough was of course our favorite. Liz came out to breakfast and then to play in the arcade, I felt I was turning 10 not 17 when I was playing whack-a-mole, until the guys who worked there started hitting on us.

I am just preparing the final stuff for tomorrow, I am a little nervous, or a lot.

I hope to either see some of you there or at least fairly soon. Thank you for being so supportive.

Much Love,
Brittany Dahlen <monarch_president@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Monday, April 23, 2007 8:32 PM CDT

Happy Birthday Ashly!20 years old. Thinking of you all someone who cares in Hemet.Sherry
Sherry <cowpies5@aol.com>
Hemet, ca - Monday, April 23, 2007 2:02 PM CDT

I'm glad to hear things are going well. I hope you had a great time on your trip. I really do hope to see all of you soon! HAppy Birthday Ashly!!!
klassy kernan <kernan_6_6_91@hotmail.com>
- Sunday, April 22, 2007 5:32 PM CDT

Julie and family, it was so nice to read your latest entry I am still so amazed by Maddie and the many gifts she has brightened our lives with. She definately wrote with wisdom beyond her years, I'm so happy to hear that progress is being made for a book. I will pray that any obstacles will be removed and just like butterflies her words will be free to touch others. Pam
Pam Coakley <pcoakley2@yahoo.com>
Camarillo, CA - Friday, April 20, 2007 8:12 PM CDT

Just stopping by and I was so glad to see an update. Glad everyone is doing great. I hope we get to hang out again soon.
Forever Cameron’s Aunt Toni <tbrooks4176@yahoo.com>
Abingdon, - Tuesday, April 17, 2007 9:33 PM CDT

Thank you Julie for coming by and signing Jeffery's web page. It does me good to read the entries, my husband and Joseph (Jeffery's brother) are now reading them too, they each email me and let me know that someone has signed in. They never would read it when Jeffery was with us. Isn't that funny. They have both changed so much, I guess we all have, to some degree. You write very well, your entries are so specific. My memory must be really bad now. Seems I can't remember much these days. Jeffery's short term memory was kinda funny to us. We would sometimes even have to laugh out loud about it, he would to, then remember that he had already done it or said it, whatever IT was. God I miss my baby. I can still hear his laughter in my head. It's been a month now, the saddness is kickin in. I still haven't rearranged the living room back to its old self. I can hardly go in there. All Jeffery's posters are still up, all his models, well we moved his whole room in there. OK, I'm just rambling now. God bless you and your babies. If it wasn't for Joseph, I don't think that we would make it through this horrible time. I feel awful for Joe, now he's and only child.

Peace and Prayers to you all,
4/j's
Julie, Jeffery and Joseph's mom <jsample2@comcast.net>
www.caringbridge.org/fl/jeffery, fl usa - Tuesday, April 17, 2007 2:22 AM CDT

julie, I sat here with tears streaming down my face. your entry was beautifully written. You really should write a book. I struggle with why I still cry over some special girl named maddie that I never met! why is it hard for me to come to her site?? and I just come up with maddies spirit. she was amazing.... a child full of so much love! So wise beyond her years. always comforting others. I learned so much from a young teenager. I cant ever forget her... she was a great friend to everyone. the messages i would see her leave in others guestbooks where so special. I think I was nieve to think she would survive. But I thought Love could and would pull her through this. I still dont know why it happened to maddie. But I know that she was needed for greater things than this world. God has a specific plan for maddie, and I think about her when Im just driving my car... or in the shower.. I think of how much she loved you all and brother keegan! My he must be getting so big now! thank you for sharing maddie with all of us. I still feel so sad you lost her.. but I know its only for now as God promised you will be together again! Your so strong I admire you so much! God be with you!!
Kim <dakk2222@netnitco.net>
IN - Monday, April 16, 2007 10:25 PM CDT

i've been thinking about you all day maddz. i miss you

KEEP SHINING
AUSTIN Kennedy <austinkennedy09@yahoo.com>
mpls, - Monday, April 16, 2007 5:49 PM CDT

I always have you all on my mind at some part of everyday. But today, during a church potluck thing for confirmation, all I could think about was you all and Maddie. The leader of our potluck thing asked us to make a poster of things that shows how God is reflected. We put down things like love, sunny days... and then my mom put down a butterfly and I put down MTP. She is the embodiment of what they teach us in church. She loves so deeply, and she isn't afraid to show it. She is brave in everything and her faith couldn't be dettered, even in the most difficult times, when I know mine would've. For the rest of the potluck, and the ride home, Maddie was all I could think about. Later, I was lost in my thoughts, when something almost hit me in the face and, obviously, cai=ught my attention. I looked at it and it flew away. I was sad, but then I heard a harsh flutter near my ear, so I looked over and there the butterfly was on my shoulder. It sat, facing me, for just a few seconds, before it flew away again and disappeared into the sky.

The presence of the butterfly, for those brief moments, were so Maddie. An open demand to be seen, and gentle way of comforting and reassuring.

I miss her, and you all, everyday. I love you all.
Cree <Beepers023@yahoo.com>
- Sunday, April 15, 2007 8:49 PM CDT

Just thinking about you all. Hope you are all well and able to enjoy this upcoming week of sunshine.
Lynn Moore <mlaws@comcast.net>
St Paul, - Sunday, April 15, 2007 12:18 AM CDT

I LOVE ALL OF U!!!!
Liz shayy <lshay90@aol.com>
mpls, mn usa - Saturday, April 14, 2007 2:32 PM CDT

Thinking of you and your family as always... hoping for an update??? :)

Lots of love,
Katie (mom to Hayley, Hunter, and Taylor) <dugan2b@yahoo.com>
Franklin, MA - Friday, April 13, 2007 8:57 PM CDT

To my favorite second family,
As you know my other grandmother (mom's mom) just recently passed. My mom and her two sisters have been struggling through their first part of the grieving proccess.I have reminded all three of them, numerous times to visit Maddie's site insearch of comfort and strength.I know my mom especially finds inner strength when needed just from the rememberence of Maddie's story.I love and miss you all, i'm sure i will be seeing you all sooner or later.

Suzie
mpls., MN usa - Wednesday, April 11, 2007 10:41 PM CDT

Hello to Maddie's family. I haven't signed the guestbook in forever. But you're family has not left my thoughts and prayers. I hope that the weather is treating all of you well.
Admira <ak301285@yahoo.com>
Mpls, Mn - Monday, April 9, 2007 12:55 AM CDT

Thinking of you all and hoping your visit is filled with fun and laughter and everyone has a fabulous time.
Blessings,
Kathy
caringbridge.org/fl/david
kathy <joy2jak@adelphia.net>
Boynton Beach, FL USA - Wednesday, April 4, 2007 2:02 PM CDT

i hope that you have a fun and safe trip to florida!
klassy kernan <kernan_6_6_91@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, March 28, 2007 10:22 PM CDT

Julie,

Thank you for sharing the story about Maddie and the love she knew in her lifetime. You captured the moment so well I feel as if I was there.

You and Maddie share such a strong bond. Katherine was only two when she earned her wings. However, your story makes me believe she felt the same way...just couldn't express it.

Love,

Diana, Mother of Angel Katherine
Diana Cross, http://www.caringbridge.org/tx/katherinecross/ <diana@houston.rr.com>
Houston, TX - Monday, March 26, 2007 8:35 PM CDT

I've visited Maddie's site many times, but I'm not sure if I've ever signed the guestbook - I am awful about remembering to sign in all the sites that I visit. But as I sit here tonight, with tears streaming down my face, I wanted to thank you for this most recent entry... my family is struggling right now as a close cousin is in her last days of a fight against a brain tumor, and the doctors tell us that she cannot hear or see much of anything anymore. I was in tears earlier tonight wondering if she knew we were there and afraid that she couldn't feel our love anymore. Your words were an enormous reassurance that I needed more than anything else in the world tonight. Thank you so very much - cancer is so terrible, it takes away so many things, but it cannot take away love.
Lauren <dramauknow@yahoo.com>
Clemmons, NC USA - Friday, March 23, 2007 10:10 PM CDT

Julie it was so wonderful speaking to you the other evening. I was thinking...even if it would be difficult time wise to see one another while you are here...maybe I could run up to the airport and while you are waiting for your luggage just say HI and give you a big HUG. We'll talk...thank-you for the latest update...as always, your eloquence epitomizes Maddie's grace and courage, her incredible spirit...
Kathy
caringbridge.org/fl/david
kathy <joy2jak@adelphia.net>
Boynton Beach, fl usa - Friday, March 23, 2007 6:57 AM CDT

Yes....you are very fortuante to be Maddie's Momma.

And us in cyberspace are very fortuante to have known about Maddie.
Jenn Hartley <ronjenn696@prodigy.net>
- Wednesday, March 21, 2007 4:12 PM CDT

What a beautiful story. I was talking with Rich last eve and he mentioned your writing so I stopped by to check it out. Glad you were able to make the trip. Nicole and I had a similar trip to Palm Springs. Take care Julie
Michael Westerheim <michael_westerheim@msn.com>
Minneapolis, Minnesota USA - Tuesday, March 20, 2007 11:14 AM CDT

Julie,Your words are truly beautiful just like Maddie!Thinking of you all today and always someone who cares in Hemet.Sherry
Sherry <cowpies5@aol.com>
Hemet, ca - Monday, March 19, 2007 1:19 PM CDT

Ok... Once again your words bring me to tears. Thanks for continuing to update. I'm always thinking of you guys.

Toni <tbrooks4176@yahoo.com>
Abingdon, MD - Sunday, March 18, 2007 12:22 AM CDT

I wish you knew how powerful your words are and how many people change every time you write. My life changes with every word.

Thank you.

Please keep writing.
KP <kmlindberg@yahoo.com>
Toledo, OH - Friday, March 16, 2007 7:23 PM CDT

Just sending some

________XXXXXXXXX_______ XXXXXXXXX_________
______XXXXXXXXXXXX____XXXXXXXXXXXXX ________
_____XXXXXXXXXXXXXX__XXXXXXXXXXXXXX ______
______XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX _______
_______XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX________
________XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX_________
__________XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX __________
____________XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX _____________
______________XXXXXXXXXXXXX ______________
________________XXXXXXXXX ________________
__________________XXXXX __________________
___________________ XX ____________________
______________________________________________

To you,

From Everyone at Post Pals
www.postpals.co.uk

viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Friday, March 16, 2007 6:46 PM CDT

Dear Julie, You don't know me but I found you from another Caringbridge child. I don't know what to say!! Your writing is so inspiring but most of all, such a beautiful tribute to Maddie! What an awesome mom you are! You keep Maddie's memory alive and just write the most beautiful and important things about Maddie and about life. It's a wonderful reminder of how we should take each day as a blessing from the Lord and thank Him for all He does for us and for all He gives us. God bless you and your family. Your children will (and have, I'm sure) learn so much from you and especially, so much about love. Thank you for your beautiful words. P.S. Are you a writer? If not, you should consider it :o) Sincerely and with God's love, Margie Fisher
Margie Fisher
Pittsburgh, PA USA - Friday, March 16, 2007 1:48 PM CDT

Thank you so much for that story. My own dad died of a brain tumor and had similar short-term memory loss at the end. I've always wondered how much he really knew when he was so sick, and I've always hoped he knew how much he was loved. Now I have a good feeling that he did.

With much love,
Katie (mom to Hayley, Hunter, and Taylor) <dugan2b@yahoo.com>
Franklin, MA - Thursday, March 15, 2007 8:35 PM CDT

Thank you for continuing to share Maddie's story. I take away something new everytime you share a personal memory of that beautiful soul.
Katie <katie.kelley@target.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Wednesday, March 14, 2007 4:02 PM CDT

Julie,
Oh gosh ... I love your writing (I feel as if I were in Las Vegas with you) ... I love your Maddie and your family ... I love you ... Thank you for always staying in touch.

Wishing you peace,
Nadine (Troy's mommy forever)

Nadine Paulmeno <angeltroy23@yahoo.com>
Hoover, AL USA - Wednesday, March 14, 2007 10:44 AM CDT

Julie,
I enjoyed meeting you tonight at the HTFT meeting. Thank you for sharing your story and this website.
Brenda Dolan
Eden Prairie, MN USA - Tuesday, March 13, 2007 9:16 PM CDT

i miss you maddie and i have been thinking about you a lot lately and i need you to be there for me! please. I LOVE YOU

KEEP SHINING MADDZ
Austin Kennedy <austinkennedy09@yahoo.com>
mpls, mn usa - Tuesday, March 13, 2007 7:27 PM CDT

Your entry is beautiful. Thank you for sharing Maddie with all of us, she has inspired many, one of them is me.
kriss m <twicemyburn@gmail.com>
- Tuesday, March 13, 2007 1:19 PM CDT

Hello Julie - just wanted to pop on and let you know I'm thinking of you. I keep your beautiful Maddie angel card by my computer. It reminds me to continue to believe in the amazing power of a love that we cannot see, yet it has the ability to lift us up and make us stronger every day.

Big ((HUGS)) to you and your family,
Shayleen and Angel Cameryn
Campbell River, BC Canada - Sunday, March 11, 2007 12:18 AM CDT

thinking of all of you!
klassy kernan <kernan_6_6_91@hotmail.com>
- Saturday, March 10, 2007 3:29 PM CST

me too!!!!!!
liz Shay <Lshay90@aol.com>
mpls, mn usa - Saturday, March 10, 2007 0:48 AM CST

I MISS YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
DANNIE <paskyloohoo@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, March 8, 2007 8:59 PM CST

Maddie,
I think of you in random places, or at random times, and your memory just brings an instant glow to my life
like, i'll be cleaning my room, and rememeber the time we cleaned it for about 4 hours, just to do something. Or i'll stumble across the James and the giant peach play we did at kenny video, and watch it- Or find the t-shirt you and liz made for your birthday parties one year and put it on. Then I feel you, that's the glow and it makes everything warm and bright, and then it fades.
But I know you will come visit me again sometime soon. And youre presence will brighten my day.
I miss you.

Rachel Holmes <rachelholmes2007@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, March 6, 2007 1:06 PM CST

Hi Julie, I was watching HGTV today and started to think of Maddie, so then of course Cheyenne. I can't believehow long it has been, I was reading how much older your other kids and Maddies friends are now, and hope it helps a little to know so many people care and always will remember just what an amazing girl she was and so strong wise and brave. All of your kids are special and i can't believe how old Bear is. I just now read about the Angel picture and when I looked at it is gave me chills, what a special card that must have been. Well we are doing ok, Justin will be 19 soon and is in his first year of college, lucky for me he is at the local community one so i get to spend and extra year or 2 w/ him home. he is having a little 9we hope) problem w/ his heart again already, (his surgery was 2 years ago in may) but beside that, life is pretty good. I'm glad everyone is doing as well as they are. I know yu must be so proud. I'll try to be better about visiting, Lyn and Justin www.caringbridge.org/nj/justinw
Lyn Wyatt <glwyatt@gmail.com>
stratford, nj USA - Saturday, March 3, 2007 10:14 PM CST

Hi Julie,
Just stopping by to say hi and let you know you're on my mind. Prayers and hugs. Always get a good feeling whenever I come to Maddie's page. She's a beacon of light.
Kathy
caringbridge.org/fl/david
kathy <joy2jak@adelphia.net>
Boynton Beach, fl usa - Saturday, March 3, 2007 7:18 PM CST

hey
i hvent been here in along time....but im always thinking of u...i love u

stephanie moore <princess015@comcast.net>
- Thursday, March 1, 2007 3:52 PM CST

Dear Maddie,

Every year at this time I always find myself writing your name in the number one spot on my birthday party list. I really wish you could be here to celebrate with me. I continue to think about you, pray to you for help and guidance, and miss you every single day. I love you, Maddie! I think the girls should get together and have Maddie storytime soon. I miss that!
Kisses and Hugs and Lotsa Lotsa LOVE,
Dannie <paskyloohoo@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN USA - Tuesday, February 27, 2007 8:47 PM CST

I wish we lived closer!!! I think about all the stories you guys told us about Maddie and just start to giggle. I wish I met her and our families were neighbors!

I promise I'll call today or tomorrow.

Luv Ya & Miss You.

Cameron's mom (www.caringbridge.com/ct/cameron)
Carla Brooks <cmfbrooks66@yahoo.com>
West Hartford, CT - Tuesday, February 27, 2007 8:19 AM CST

...Visiting From Cheyenne's Site

I am thinking of you early on this Lenten morning. May your memories of Maddie be sweet.

Grace and peace,

~Colette
Colette
Clifton Park, NY U.S.A. - Tuesday, February 27, 2007 3:16 AM CST

more and more everyday maddz, i love you

KEEP SHINING MADDZ!!
Austin Kennedy <austinkennedy09@yahoo.com>
mpls, mn usa - Tuesday, February 20, 2007 9:36 PM CST

Missin you like CRAZY!!!!!!!!

I love you!!!!

xoxo
Liz shay <lshay90@aol.com>
mpls, mn usa - Saturday, February 17, 2007 1:11 AM CST

missing you tonight Maddie...and every night that I watch the girls head out onto the floor for basketball. Oh....to have you there too...
susan Reynolds <selizreynolds@mn.rr.com>
minneapolis, mN - Wednesday, February 14, 2007 8:49 PM CST

Hey Girls...and lil keegs!! Happy Valentine's Day! I think of you all often and just wanted to wish you well!
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox
julie cameron <rjac63@netscape.com>
- Wednesday, February 14, 2007 11:34 AM CST

Just stopping by to let you know you are being thought of and kept in my prayers. Maddie you continue to shine and amaze...your Spirit is obviosly alive and well.
Kathy
caringbridge.org/fl/david
kathy <joy2jak@adelphia.net>
Boynton Beach, fl usa - Saturday, February 10, 2007 7:46 AM CST

baby i love you!!!
Austin Kennedy <Austinkennedy09@yahoo.com>
mpls, mn usa - Wednesday, February 7, 2007 9:03 PM CST

Hi Julie and the whole family!
Wow - I just read Liz's guestbook entry! Pretty amazing Liz. I hope guys are all doing well. You were on my mind - like always.

Carla
www.caringbridge.com/ct/cameron
Carla Brooks <cmfbrooks66@yahoo.com>
West Hartford, CT - Friday, February 2, 2007 8:10 AM CST

Mad dog-

Why hello there my 17 yr old angel. Hows it goin? excellent? I sure hope so. I've been thinkin about you a lot! You seem to be popping up everywhere.. and I LOVE IT! From the butterfly pin on my jacket (thanks Julie I love it) to the butterfly necklace I got for my birthday, to the everyday little Maddie moments, you are constantly on my mind.
Basketballs been a roller coaster for me, sometimes playing well and sometimes not so much (to say the least) but if you could imagine, after being sat the entire 2nd half of my last game, i was determined to play better. SO last night we went to a game out at Mayer Lutheran, a school about 45 min away, and i was thinking about the game and trying to figure out what I can do to play well. I noticed some letters in the middle of the court, but didnt pay much attention to them, and after the freshmen and jv game, I got ready to play. The game was intense, and we were neck and neck most of the game. We ended up losing but we played better than we have for a while & worked together! :) I had one of my better games, and even played some defense! I know.. imagine that... but it was fun! I realized that those big letters M L in the middle of the court meant more than just Mayer Lutheran... you are everywhere!!

I wrote a paper about you {i think everyone has} this past quarter and my teach always picks a couple example papers to read. Before class I got the "Liz can you come here please" question from my teacher- i dont really like when teachers say that, it's kind of scary, lol he asked if he could read my paper outloud. I said sure and class started. He explained he was going to read a couple papers and began reading the stories outloud. He left mine for last... He then read the title "The cowardly lion wanted it... this girl had it" (the paper was on courage) and after a couple eye rolls from my classmates (I had bragged beforehand how amazing my title was) he began reading. The class got super quiet and listened, I could tell from the looks of the kids around me just that they were thinking hard... some of them knew ya mads and some of em didnt, but all the same they were listening. The paper was short & down to the point that you were my defintion of courage. I didn't have to use a lot of words to explain this. Mads you are my most courageous friend, one whom i've always looked up to.

Thanks for being there, and helping me share your story to others who need to have a little more courage in thier lives. I LOVE YOU SOOOOO MUCH

Liz SHay <lshay90@aol.com>
mpls, mn usa - Wednesday, January 31, 2007 8:09 PM CST

Oh yes, by the way happy birthday maddie :]
Britney Paddock <britgirl764@aol.com>
fridley, mn usa - Tuesday, January 23, 2007 4:26 PM CST

hey Julie.
How are things going?
I miss you guys a ton.
Well..
Today i had a state essay thingy to do and it was about someone you admired and wrote about the you and everyone.
You guys always put a big part in my life, and made me strong.
You guys were supportive when others wern't.
And i love how strong you guys are.
i will come visit you guys soon.

Love britney.
Britney Paddock <britgirl764@aol.com>
fridley, mn usa - Tuesday, January 23, 2007 4:23 PM CST

So I changed my mind about one of the questions that I had on Tuesday night. It was "What is your favorite memory of this house?" and I said something stupid. My favorite memory was one of the last times (if not the last) that I saw Maddie. She had lost her purse and was really bummed out. My mom had just won the Hockey State Tournament Pool in her office and decided to use the money to buy gift certificates and give them to Maddie. I was the one who got to give them to her and watch her open them. Her face lit up and I just remember the smile on her face and how happy she was. I miss those times the most. I also feel very blessed to have parents who care so much for others that they use their own money for good. Thanks for everything on Tuesday Julie and hope to see all of you soon!
John Licht <gogrampaed72@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Sunday, January 21, 2007 10:06 PM CST

Maddie MO.

SEVENTEEN?!!?

wowie.

I love u
Liz Shay <lshay90@aol.com>
mpls, mn usa - Saturday, January 20, 2007 6:13 PM CST

all I can say is WOW! I was missing Maddie tonight- funny that I never met her in person and just through Caringbridge and I still miss her- to be reminded she is truly an angel. It is not a fluke or a trick of lighting, it is a reminder that God and the spirit of love is much stronger than anything we as humans can understand on earth. Maddie was and is an inspiration of faith to me.
Courtney Hanneman <cahanneman@hotmail.com>
Eden Prairie, MN USA - Thursday, January 18, 2007 8:39 PM CST

Happy 17 Maddie..What a glorious day 17 days ago when you were born...I remember hearing an audio tape of you describing your entry into the world! Lucky us...to have you here for ANY time we could. We miss you Maddie...and think of you all the time. Your presence here is still so very strong and we are always so very grateful to have known you. Wait for us, watch for us and stay near to us. love, Susan
Susan Reynolds <selizreynolds@mn.rr.com>
minneapolis, - Thursday, January 18, 2007 7:12 PM CST

Maddie hope you had a great rocking good time on your 17th with all the angels.You are remembered today...Someone who cares in hemet.sherry
Sherry <cowpies5@aol.com>
Hemet, ca - Thursday, January 18, 2007 1:01 PM CST

Thinking of the great big P-Clan today on Maddie's birthday (wow, 17?), and hoping that you had a day full of wonderful memories :-)

Love,
Terry, Mary, Nicholas and Julianna Banana <tjosephson@shaw.ca>
Winnipeg, Canada - Wednesday, January 17, 2007 11:27 PM CST

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GIRL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bet it is not soooooo cold there with you and Chey!!!!! Missing you here in Texas.... Give my girl a hug, ok..

Cheyenne's Dad
www.caringbridge.org/tx/cheyenne5
Roy Fiveash <rfiveash@wcc.net>
San Angelo, tx - Wednesday, January 17, 2007 7:38 PM CST

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DARLING MADDIE!
WE LOVE YOU!
From all of us here in the back room!!!!!!

liz,dannie,brittany,dachi,kristina,cree,austin! <welovemaddie@madelinepaguyo.com>
mpls, mn usa - Wednesday, January 17, 2007 0:55 AM CST

Happy birthday Maddie! This house is full of your memories and spirit. Very much love from everyone here!
kristina <crystalina2315@yahoo.com>
mpls, mn us - Wednesday, January 17, 2007 0:10 AM CST

Happy Birthday Maddie!
You are still with us - always.
Sheri Blackwood <sblackwood@threeriversmontana.org>
Bozeman, MT - Tuesday, January 16, 2007 10:37 PM CST

Happy Birthday Maddie! From what I've heard I'm sure your're throwing a great party. (Theme included) I know Cameron is there. He sure loves a party!
Forever Cameron's Aunt Toni <tbrooks4176@yahoo.com>
Abingdon, MD - Tuesday, January 16, 2007 10:24 PM CST

Happy Birthday Maddie!
Ellen Groff <groffer730@hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, January 16, 2007 10:15 PM CST

Happy birthday!
Allioson <acseaburg@mn.rr.com>
- Tuesday, January 16, 2007 10:12 PM CST

Maddie~
Happy Birthday!!!!

Missing you more all of the time!!!!
Yet, finding new and wonderful ways to celebrate your life and love!!!!

Auntie Sara <sdornisch@gmail.com>
- Tuesday, January 16, 2007 9:50 PM CST

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADDIE!!!
i miss you so much and am constantly wishing you were here to make me laugh--but what am i saying, you still are! the other day, some people were singing feed the birds and i couldn't help smiling. you're amazing!
love you
P.S. they had nothing on us...

mayumi hara
mpls, mn usa - Tuesday, January 16, 2007 9:39 PM CST

As you release this butterfly in honor of me,
know that I'm with you and will always be.
Hold a hand, say a prayer,
close your eyes and see me there.
Although you may feel a bit torn apart,
please know that I'll be forever in your heart.
Now fly away butterfly as high as you can go,
I'm right there with you more than you know.
By Jill Haley
.
- Tuesday, January 16, 2007 9:28 PM CST

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADDIE!!!!
17 is a great year!! [its almost 18 :)]
maybe in our dreams we can go see some "rated r" movies now!! haha
love youuuuu and miss you ♥

maia <m_ariana_07@tmail.com>
mpls, mn usa - Tuesday, January 16, 2007 9:20 PM CST

Happy 17th birthday, MADDIE! Thanks for the beautiful memories. We love you, Paula,, Cam, Bren and Kiki
Auntie P <omahakillens@aol.com>
- Tuesday, January 16, 2007 4:25 PM CST

Happy birthday Maddie! wow 17, i hope you have a great birthday. I love you.
klassy kernan <kernan_6_6_91@hotmail.com>
mpls, mn - Tuesday, January 16, 2007 2:32 PM CST

Remembering that very 1st Birthday.
Grandpa & Grandma D <bigowl@alltel.net>
- Tuesday, January 16, 2007 9:03 AM CST

just wanted to be the first to say...
HAPPY BiRTHDAY LOVE!
I love you MORE than a fat kid loves cake!
♥;;

chach <charlottepaguyo@yahoo.com>
mpls, mn - Tuesday, January 16, 2007 0:03 AM CST

happy almost birthday madz!
love you very much! [[♥]]
dachi <charlottepaguyo@yahoo.com>
mpls, mn - Monday, January 15, 2007 11:42 PM CST

My Dear old friend Julie,

Great site and pictures I hope the days are getting brighter. She told you so in her note. she'll be waiting and in the time between watching.

Best Wishes Claude
Claude Dornisch <cdornisch@excite.com>
St. Marys, Pa United States - Monday, January 15, 2007 11:18 PM CST

praying and thinking about you... lots of love sent your way
Mary Sievert <MSievert15@hotmail.com>
Milwaukee, WI - Sunday, January 14, 2007 8:55 PM CST

Quilts of Love stopping by to let you know that we are thinking of you and your angel on her birthday. Keeping you and your family in our thoughts and Prayers.
Love and Prayers.
God Bless
Quilts of Love Angel
Trista

Trista Long <Chris-Trista@att.net>
Fairmont, Wv 26554 - Sunday, January 14, 2007 6:35 PM CST

"Thinking of you and your angel on her birthday - We wish you peace and will never forget Maddie"
Angel Tammi @ Quilts of Love <qol_angeltammi@yahoo.com>
Ky - Sunday, January 14, 2007 3:13 PM CST

Hi Guys. Hope you had a wonderful holiday. Haven't signed in a while and didn't want you to think I forgot about you:) I still come by a few times a week to check for updates. Take care and know that you and Maddie are always in my thoughts. Hope you see you this summer!

Forever Cameron’s Aunt Toni <tbrooks4176@yahoo.com>
Abingdon, MD - Saturday, January 13, 2007 10:58 PM CST

That is an amazing photo!

A true Angel among us.
Jenn Hartley <ronjenn696@prodigy.net>
- Thursday, January 11, 2007 1:37 PM CST

I miss you!
Dannie <paskyloohoo@yahoo.com>
Manchester, MI USA - Thursday, January 4, 2007 7:43 PM CST

Julie, Ashley, Charlotte, Keegan & Angel Maddie,

I received your Christmas card today... thank you so much!!! Like I said in my last post, the photo of Maddie is amazing... I keep staring at it in amazement. The family photo is beautiful too :) Wishing you guys a wonderful, happy and blessed new year as your guardian Angel Maddie watches over each of you.. take care!

~*~*Girlie's Page*~*~

Love,
XOXOXOXOXOXO
Janice <janiceliew1981@yahoo.com>
Melbourne, Australia - Thursday, January 4, 2007 7:29 PM CST

AMAZING! What a photo and what an angel! (Although I do miss the picture of the three lovely girls and sweet brother bear.) I hope you had a joyous holiday.
Laura <lreifel@comcast.net>
Seattle, WA - Wednesday, January 3, 2007 10:33 PM CST

I love you all!
liz Shay <lshay90@aol.com>
mpls, mn usa - Tuesday, January 2, 2007 10:06 PM CST

That beautiful picture of Maddie took my breath away--thanks for posting it and continuing to share the wonders of Maddie.
Katie <kkelley@earthlink.net>
Minneapolis, MN - Monday, January 1, 2007 7:37 PM CST

Dearest Julie,
Wishing you a Happy New Year filled with peace and love. Thank-you so very much for the most extraordinarily beautiful Christmas card I have ever received. Maddie is so constant in her connections with so many people...she spands time and distance and touches people, like myself that only had the honor of knowing her through her battle with cancer on this webpage...I continue to be inspired by you, your wonderful daughters Ashley and Charlotte and I'm completely smitten with Keegan and his adorable smile. Thank-you for your updates and insight through this journey. You radiate what a Mother's love truly is. Blessings to You and yours...
Love,
Kathy
caringbridge.org/fl/david
kathy <joy2jak@adelphia.net>
Boynton Beach, fl usa - Sunday, December 31, 2006 7:29 PM CST

Beautiful, moving and as always an inspiring message. You are an angel to so many. Sending love and peace,
Katherine <lhallkhall@cox.net>
- Friday, December 29, 2006 6:50 PM CST

Thank you, Julie. What a great photo!
Wishing you all a wonderful new year.
Christine <cgpurvisfamily@earthlink.net>
Portland, OR United States - Friday, December 29, 2006 0:47 AM CST

i love love love the picture
klassy kernan <kernan_6_6_91@Hotmail.com>
- Thursday, December 28, 2006 11:05 PM CST

Julie,
That photo is just amazing! I love keeping up to date with your family by coming by to Maddie's site now and again.. I don't always sign in, but I'm always here reading. As you already know, you have an amazing family... I wish you all endless love, happiness, laughs and good health in the new year! Take care..

~*~*Girlie's Page*~*~

Love,
XOXOXOXOXO
Janice <janiceliew1981@yahoo.com>
Melbourne, Australia - Thursday, December 28, 2006 4:46 AM CST

I Loved the card! That was so hard. I might put my card up as well. I thought about you guys alot on while we were on our vacation. Your update was amazing as always.

www.caringbridge.com/ct/cameron
Carla Brooks <cmfbrooks66@yahoo.com>
West Hartford, CT - Wednesday, December 27, 2006 9:24 PM CST

Maddie's photo has been added to the photo page.
Julie <juliedornisch@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, December 27, 2006 2:02 PM CST

Would LOVE to see the photo.
KP <kmlindberg@yahoo.com>
Toledoi, OH - Tuesday, December 26, 2006 6:12 PM CST

Julie,I just read your latest update and I must say that I am deeply touched by everything you said about angels.Prior to Isaac being diagnosed,I never even gave it a second thought about the existance of angels here on earth.When Isaac was in hospital,I will never forget a conversation I had with one of the nurses in the pediactric ward.She told me of many different things that she observed there.She said that she observed childeren laughing and conversing with nobody else in the room.She also said that she would come into a room at night,and the child would ask her to turn the lights down because it was too bright.I suppose these things could be explained away by the non-believers as chemical reactions in the brains of dying childeren ect.,but I don't think so.I believe they were being visited by angels and being prepared for their earlier than normal return to where they came from.I believe that is why Isaac and I am sure many(if not all)of the childeren who pass are not afraid and astound us with their wisdom and courage.I truley believe this and always will.Our beautiful kids are in a better place and not suffering anymore and that's what keeps me going and believing.Thank you so much for sharing and writing.Your Friend,Gary
Gary Tropple <gtropple@hotmail.com>
Vancouver, Wa. USA - Tuesday, December 26, 2006 9:35 AM CST

Angels. I have many watching over me from stars and many around me here on earth.
Thank you Dornisch-Paguyo family for being my angels. Even when I haven't seen you guys in weeks or months, your support is still evident in cards, journal entries, or memories of mine.
Maddie was present at your celebration I am sure.
I don't know if I ever told you this story, it was somewhat shocking to me when it occurred. During a Monarch meeting we were discussing a few different types of childhood cancer that have effected our "Monarch Families" and that are most common. I had made overhead sheets for the meeting with the information for each type of cancer.
I had copied some photos of different tumors for Medulloblastoma, Neuroblastoma and Diffuse Ponine Glioma, and maybe some others. But anyways, when I got to the DPG page I just put it up and continued answering some questions from the pervious sheet. Then a girl raised her hand and asked, "How did you do that?" I was utterly confused. Of course my back was turned, when I looked behind me there was a large black butterfly shape printed ontop of my picture of DPG... it was so odd. I guess there are explainations, I put it in the file to quickly after printing it and it smeared... I maybe printed another image on top of it.... blah blah blah.
I know that it was a message from Maddie. I often felt guilty about starting Monarch, I felt that Maddie should really be doing this and I was wrong to do it instead. I have changed my mind. I know Mads is happy that these many people are trying to help kids with cancer. I know she doesn't care if they are doing it honor of her or someone else or just for something to do, it is the fact that these people are getting help.
I will continue to do things that make me happy, like helping others and just being random like we used to be with Maddie. I have stopped trying to just honor Maddie, she knows I think she is amazing, and that she changed me, I don't need to prove that.

I hope your Christmas is amazing and that your angels are all embracing the wonderful mother they have. Your family is so wonderful, and you guys deserve the merriest of Christmases.

Much love,

Brittany Dahlen <monarch_president@yahoo.com>
Minneapolis, MN - Monday, December 25, 2006 12:53 AM CST

MAddie Mo-
Its 245 AM, Christmas day. I dont feel like sleeping and can't really. Tonight was tough. I was in church and my mom points to a notice in the bulletin, it was a sheet that had all the names of people that the ponsetias were bought for/in honor of/in memory of. She pointed to the bottom of the list and it said Madeline Taylor Paguyo given by Elizabeth Shay. I smiled as she whispered, you owe me 20 bucks. As i held the paper in my hand I looked at your beautiful name, I couldnt help but feel happy because, it was christmas, and you maddie, are so amazing. I then unfolded the paper and those words hit me like a ton of bricks. In memory of... The tears came without warning. I hid them as best I could and belted out some carols for u madz. Not as amazing as you would have done, but I tried. Then the sermon came. God sure knows how to speak to me! it was about us being in the darkness until we find our light. Our light to lead us through the fog, and blizzards, our light that we can follow through anything. I know who my light is, and i know its always there, I just forget sometimes to look up instead of around at the darkness. Maddie you are my light today on Christmas, and every other day. I just wanted to stop by and tell you that, and really thank you for being there. I love you more than words can say, and always will. I truly mean that.

Merry Christmas Mads,
♥ ♥ ♥
Liz Shay <MerryChristmas@aol.com>
Mpls, Mn Usa - Monday, December 25, 2006 3:02 AM CST

Julie..truly amazing.Hope you can post it for us all.Continue to look for angels for they are everywhere just when you need them.Thanks for sharing.Thinking of you and Madddie too.Someone who cares in Hemet.sherry
Sherry <cowpies5@aol.com>
Hemet, ca - Sunday, December 24, 2006 4:27 PM CST

Merry Christmas to your beautiful family of angels.
Karen Ueland
www.caringbridge.org/mn/kylie
Karen Ueland <klpu@aol.com>
- Sunday, December 24, 2006 1:59 AM CST

Just saying hello before i leave town. I hope that all your holidays goes well. I know it must be hard. Hope to see you over break! xoxo
klassy kernan <kernan_6_6_91@hotmail.com>
- Saturday, December 23, 2006 12:22 AM CST

Good morning all,

It is really strange. It seems as if I always know when you update and wind up checking a few minutes after.. I guess our girls are working on that ... I loooove the photo!!!! When I told Donna the story yesterday she smiled... I sure don't understand how things work, but there is no doubt..

Merry Christmas from our household to yours.

Roy
Cheyenne's Daddy
www.caringbridge.org/tx/cheyenne5
Roy Fiveash <rfiveash@wcc.net>
San Angelo, tx - Saturday, December 23, 2006 11:18 AM CST

I'll try to get ChaChi to help me post the picture of Maddie on our photo page... I am technically challenged!

Julie
Julie Dornisch <juliedornisch@yahoo.com>
- Saturday, December 23, 2006 9:15 AM CST

A beautiful quote. Would be wonderful to see the angel picture of your beautiful angel.
Kelly Larson
Minneapolis, MN - Friday, December 22, 2006 8:56 PM CST

Merry Christmas, Julie, to you and your children, Auntie Sara and all the rest of your family. I'm so glad for the presence of angels in your life, and I daresay that there are MANY who would call you such an angel, too.

Any chance you might put the angel photo of Maddie on the photo page? It would be lovely to see. :-)

Christine <cgpurvisfamily@earthlink.net>
Portland, OR - Friday, December 22, 2006 5:59 PM CST

Dear Mr. Hallmark,

I am writing to you from heaven, and though it must appear,
A rather strange idea, I see everything from here,
I just popped in to visit, your stores to find a card,
A card of love for my parents, as this day for them is hard,
There must be some mistake I thought, every card you can imagine,
except I could not find a card, from a child that lives in heaven,
they are still a parent too, no matter where I reside,
I had to leave, they understand, but oh the tears they cried,
I thought that if I wrote to you, that you would come to know,
that though I live in heaven now, I still love my parents so,
they talk with me, and dreams with me, we still share laughter too,
memories are our way of speaking now, would you see what you can do?
my parents carry me in their heart, their tears they hide from sight,
they plants flowers in my garden, there my living memory dwells,
they writes to other grieving parents, trying to ease there pain as well,
so you see Mr. Hallmark, though I no longer live on earth,
I must find a way, to remind her of her wondrous worth,
they need to be honored, and be remembered too,
just as the children of the earth will do,
thank you Mr. Hallmark, I know you will do your best,
find a way to tell them, how much they mean to me,
until I can do it for myself, when she joins me in eternity.

I know Christmas must be so hard for you although I can't comprehend how difficult it must be.

All my love,

Viks

viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Friday, December 22, 2006 10:59 AM CST

Madz-
Although I stop by often and think of you always, I have fallen into the habit of sharing my thoughts with you while driving,waiting for an appointment, or when I am trying to fall asleep. It seems more conversational...less distance between us.

When I write things down, even here, I feel that I am sending my thoughts so far away...with the chance that there won't be a reply.

You are everywhere and always answering us in all sorts of Maddie-ways. Out of the blue I will think of you or see your smile on your sister's face or your twinkle in Keegan's eye. You are in every beat of our hearts and your name is spoken throughout the day...your spirit fills every corner of each room in our house...surrounding us to help us find our way through each day without you.

I laugh often thinking of you. I cry some too...but you know that. But most often you are deep inside quietly reminding me of what a gift life is and to live fully, love completely and forgive forever.

This time of year there is so much to say...I guess I will catch you on the road, waiting for meetings and most hopefully in my dreams.

Auntie Sara <sdornisch@gmail.com>
- Thursday, December 21, 2006 4:11 PM CST

Click here to sign the guestbook.

Click here to go back to the main page.

Click here to view older guestbook entries.