Tuesday, October 31, 2006 3:40 AM CST

ADDED 11/12/06 - For those of you who do not know of Richie Shannon, he is 15 years old, and he and his family live in Nevada. He has been battling rhabdomyosarcoma for 6 long years. He is currently at home with his family on hospice, as all treatment options have been exhausted. Please visit his site here: Richie's site, and offer him and his family some words of encouragement. And then, PLEASE say a prayer for them all. No one should have to go through what he is now going through, and NO PARENT should ever have to watch their child suffer so..... Thank you all!

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HAPPY 12th BIRTHDAY, CONNOR--10/31/06! Oh, how we wish you were here to celebrate. Yet, we know there must be the greatest of celebrations planned for you today in Heaven! Thank you for all of the signs you have been sending lately, some of them are VERY OBVIOUS! You brought us so much joy in the time that we had here with you, Connor. There will never be a child loved more than you. We send you all of our love today, and every day! We miss you terribly! Save our place right next to you. Only God knows when we will be reunited. But we know that once we are, we will NEVER have to part again! We love you more than anything in the entire universe, Connor. You are now, and will forever be, Mommy's Sunshine Boy! We'll see you soon, sweetheart, until then, HAPPY, HAPPY BIRTHDAY! And tomorrow, November 1st, as we mark the 2nd anniversary of you making your journey to Heaven, you continue to celebrate with all of your friends and family who are there with you!

All our love, NOW AND FOREVER,
Mommy and Daddy
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Thank you all for continuing to check in on us, through Connor's website. For those of you who are able, we ask that today, October 31st, Connor's 12th birthday, you release a balloon to him. We will be doing that throughout the day. And just remember Connor, whether you ever had the pleasure of meeting him or not, for the vibrant, wonderful, carefree, loving, compassionate, witty young man that he was. We know he will never be forgotten. We appreciate all of the kind words in the guestbook, especially over the past several days, as THIS day has approached. I will do an update soon, but today, we honor CONNOR JORDAN HUNLEY. We honor him, our memories with him, our happy times with him.....everything that was, and is, Connor. Thank you for remembering, along with us. We appreciate you, and we need you, and your prayers, as we continue on without Connor.

Happy Halloween everyone. And the HAPPIEST of birthdays to our precious son, CONNOR!

With love and gratitude,

Rhonda and Eddie Hunley, Forever Mommy and Daddy to Connor, our "Bravest Little Trooper"!

Thursday, August 3, 2006 9:21 AM CDT

Finally, an update!

Hello family and friends, thanks for checking in, and thank you for your patience in waiting for an update.

Wow, much has happened since my last update in APRIL! I think I’ll just back up, and go from there.

As most of you know by now from the guest book, my biological Daddy (NOT POPPY) passed away on May 8th. His throat cancer was beyond treatable by the time it was found. His body was too weak to withstand any treatment. Thank you for all of the prayers for me, my brother, and the rest of Daddy’s family.

~~~~~~Loyd Neal Akins-----Sept. 17, 1947 to May 8, 2006~~~~~~

The Hendersonville Relay For Life was held on May 12-13. Eddie and I were on the committee, so we stayed the entire night. During opening ceremonies, Eddie read a speech that I had written regarding Connor’s diagnosis and subsequent treatment. As he read, I was standing with him, looking out at the audience, and there were definitely a lot of tears shed for Connor. Countless people came up to us afterwards, letting us know how Connor’s story had inspired them in their own lives. That means the world to us. It shows that Connor’s legacy lives on, and his battle was not in vain. I KNOW that he was “with” us that night, smiling down from Heaven and cheering us on. This year’s Relay beat all prior records for Sumner County, raising more than $207,000!!! Go Relay teams!

The following Sunday was Mother’s Day, my second without my Sunshine Boy by my side. I left that morning for about 30 minutes, and when I returned, I noticed flowers had been planted in front of our house. I went inside and asked Eddie who had planted them. It was Linda and her children. Ryan and Jeci had actually thought of doing it, and as soon as I left, Eddie called and they came right away and planted them. Was that not the sweetest thing?!? Here they are, in their own grief, but wanted to make sure my Mother’s Day was special….Thank you Martin7! I know our “boys” were proud of you, as well!

May 18th marked the second annual award given in Connor’s Memory at his school, Goodlettsville Elementary. I was able to attend. The award was given to a third grade girl this year, for her outstanding performance throughout the year. As I stated last year, the award will be given each year to a third grader (as Connor was in 3rd grade when he passed away), until the year when Connor would have graduated High School. We are so honored and grateful to have the school do this for Connor. THANK YOU Mr. Westveer, and the entire faculty, staff and students of Goodlettsville Elementary!

Father’s Day was Eddie’s second without Connor, and the Martin7 made it special for him, as they had for me on Mother’s Day. They took us out to breakfast at Cracker Barrel. Of course, it was their first without Kevin, so it was certainly a difficult day for them, but they chose to start it out by doing something nice for Eddie. Once, again, THANK YOU!

I am now officially a Real Estate agent! My license was activated the first week in July. I enrolled in a fantastic class in June, to try to give me a jump start on my new career, called ‘Learn To Win’. It is a 10 week course, and has given a TON of great information. I am ready for business, so if anyone out there is thinking of buying or selling, PLEASE email me, and I will do all I can to help make your Real Estate need a reality. My email address is rshunley@comcast.net. Anyone living out of this area, I can find you a wonderful agent in your own area, through our contacts at Century 21. Just let me know what you need!

Colette, dear Colette, you are such a reliable “constant” in so many Caring Bridge guest books. You have been there for us for so long now, and I just want to express my appreciation for your unwavering devotion. THANK YOU! And I will address a question you posted in Connor’s guest book, as I’m sure there are probably others who are wondering, as well. How do I describe Ginny to all of Connor’s faithful CaringBridge friends? We first met Ginny at Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital. She, at that time, was a Child Life Specialist there, and would come to Connor’s room to help keep him entertained and occupied while undergoing chemotherapy. Plus, during the many stays when he was inpatient for a fever, and unable to leave his room, Ginny was always there for him. They developed a bond like no other. Ginny became a part of our family, and I do mean that. In the summer of 2003, she embarked on an new journey in her life, and re-enrolled in college to become a Nurse Practitioner. This took her away from Vanderbilt, and away from Nashville. But, NOT away from Connor. She would always come to see him when she would come into town. She would sometimes come into town JUST to see Connor. Ginny was, to Connor and to all who knew them together, Connor’s “girlfriend”. She would come to our house and Connor’s friends would come over. They would ask, “Are you REALLY Connor’s girlfriend?”, to which she would always reply “YES!”. Connor would smile from ear to ear. This is very difficult for me to write, as I am typing through tears. But, for the most part, they are Happy Tears, as I think back on all the joy Ginny brought to Connor’s life. I can see them now, in Connor’s go-cart, zipping around our neighborhood, or, with Connor’s Potato Gun, (YES, you read correctly, POTATO GUN!) that Ginny MADE for him. It was made from PVC piping, and would shoot out potatoes, QUITE a distance, I might add. It was the funniest thing. Ginny was there for Connor, coming to see him in the last couple of weeks of his life, spending “special time” with him, as he lay on the hospital bed, unable to get up. She was also there for us at the funeral home and at Connor’s funeral. She actually showed up at this year’s Relay. We had no idea she was coming, but she did come, along with her fiance`, Steven, around midnight. They had driven from Knoxville to be there for us, and for Connor. I can’t describe with words how special Ginny is to our family. She recently got married, CONGRATULATIONS GINNY AND STEVEN! We will always think of Ginny as Connor’s first “True Love”, because that is definitely what she was to Connor. Thank you, Colette, for asking about Ginny, and giving me the opportunity to share that with you all…..

Tomorrow, August 4th is Nana’s birthday. Happy Birthday Nana! Nana and Poppy are so special to me. Poppy was, for sure, Connor’s best buddy in the whole world. Please continue to keep them in your prayers, as they continue on without Connor, their ONLY grandchild. I have asked Connor to please send Nana a special birthday wish from Heaven.

Kevin and Linda’s oldest son, Ryan, has had two major surgeries this summer. He carries the same gene as his Dad for colon cancer, so he has had these procedures to try to solve the problem before it ever is able to start. He just came home from the hospital last night from his latest surgery and is doing GREAT! Way to go, Ryan! Please keep those prayers going up for him, and for Linda, the kids, and for Kevin’s parents, Kent and Marilyn, and his sister, Krista, as well. I stopped by the hospital yesterday to see Ryan. He was asleep, but I was able to visit with Marilyn for a while, as she was sitting with him while Linda ran some errands. Marilyn, I enjoyed talking with you, and I DO understand where you are in your grief…..hang in there, we’ll see our boys again!

The dog days of summer are here! As most of you are also experiencing, we have been in the upper 90’s for a week now, with heat indexes at or around 105 degrees. I hope everyone is finding a way to stay cool!

Before I close, I want to ask for prayers for my cousin, Tabitha. You may have read her posts in the guest book. I know she kept you informed during Daddy’s illness. Tabitha’s Dad and my Daddy are brothers. She suffered a stroke about 3 weeks ago. She is only 33 years old, with two young daughters. She is at home and doing O.K., but needs our prayers for a full recovery. Please keep her, her husband, Donnie, and daughters, Chelsea and Carlee, in your prayers.

Thank you all for continuing to check in on us. Yes, it is difficult to write, without Connor here with us. I have thought about shutting down the site, but then I go to the guest book, and see that you are all out there, and that you do care, and that you will ALWAYS remember Connor, and I just can’t do it. So, I will continue to update, when I can. Thank you for sharing this journey with us. Everyday without Connor is so very difficult, yet it brings us one day closer to being reunited with him! What a day that will be! August 1st marked 1 year, and 9 months since I last held my son in my arms. It seems impossible that I have been able to BREATHE all this time……without my reason for being here with me…….

Peace to all, and may God bless us all!

Rhonda and Eddie, Forever Mommy and Daddy to Connor, the “Bravest Little Trooper” EVER!

Monday, July 24, 2006 7:08 AM CDT

***New journal entry coming soon**

There are new photos in the Photo Album.

Thanks!
Rhonda, Forever Connor's Mommy

Sunday, April 9, 2006 10:21 AM CDT

Yes, FINALLY an update! I know many of you have been wondering about the tornados hitting our area. Fortunately, we were spared. Although there is widespread damage all over the area. We are thankful, very thankful, especially after driving around on Saturday and viewing the damage. Entire neighborhoods have been completely devastated. Linda and her children are all O.K., although their house did sustain some damage. Gallatin, about 10 minutes up the road, seems to be the hardest hit. The area looks like a war zone, cars crumpled, homes COMPLETELY gone. There are, I believe, 9 confirmed deaths in Sumner county. After seeing the damage, it is utterly amazing that there aren't more. Thank you all for the prayers for us, and our families and friends, and for your concern.

Now, to update on the past 3 months---

I started Real Estate school in January. I just had my finals on Monday of this past week. I should find out my grades tomorrow. Once you pass the course, you then go for the BIG exam. It is a 2 part exam, state and national. Once you pass that (and from what I've heard, it may take more than once to pass!), you have to take 30 more hours of school before you can apply for your license. I will study ALOT before going to sit for my exam, so I'm not sure when I will go. Hopefully, I will have my license within a couple of months, and will be ready to sell real estate. I'm very excited about this. Most of you know that I have been working as a Personal Assistant to a real estate agent for the past year, since shortly after Connor passed away. I have learned alot, and I am anxious to get started on my own.

Thank you, Tabitha, for letting the visitors to the web page know about Daddy. My biological father, Neal Akins, has terminal throat cancer, and was diagnosed a couple of months ago. He and my Mom divorced when I was 6 years old. THIS IS NOT POPPY. Anyway, he is now in the nursing home in Westmoreland. He really needs prayers. He has a trach, but is having a very difficult time, and is on oxygen 24/7. Thank you all for the prayers that you have already been sending up for him. If anyone out there would like to send him a card of encouragement, it could be sent to:

Lloyd Neal Akins
c/o Westmoreland Care and Rehab
1559 New Hwy. 52
Westmoreland, TN 37186

The Relay for Life in Hendersonville is quickly approaching. It will be held on May 12, 2006. Eddie and I were chosen to be the Honorary Chairpersons in Connor's Memory. You can read about it by clicking here, or here. Anyone wishing to donate, just email me and I'll supply you with all of the info. The money raised goes to the American Cancer Society. Anyone living in this area, there is a rumor circulating that Eddie may enter the Womanless Dessert Auction at midnight that night. Now that will be something to see.......
Also, on that same night, May 12, Lu will be having her second annual fundraising event for Gabe's My Heart. It will be held at the Old Natchez Country Club in Franklin, Tn, from 7:00 until 11:00 p.m. It will include a silent auction, as well as a wine tasting, and she has lined up some very special guests. Any of you who are able, please go and support Lu, and help her raise funds to help with the many children's programs she is involved in with Vanderbilt Children's Hospital. And please keep Gabe, and all of the childhood cancer survivor's, in your prayers, that they may grow up and live a long, HEALTHY, happy life, CANCER-FREE!

I know there are so many things I am leaving out. It is my fault for not updating in SO long. I have tried many times, but the words would not come to me. Grief is a life-long process. Yes, it has been more that 17 months since I have had my baby here with me, which seems unreal. Do the days get easier? Possibly a little more bearable, but never mistakenly think it gets "easier" with time. Any of you who have ever experienced great loss, I know you understand what I mean when I say that. There was a program on towards the end of January. It was an hourlong show on Vanderbilt Children's Hospital. A couple of friends let us know beforehand that there would be a clip of Connor in the program. The show was centered on "success stories" of children who have been treated at Vanderbilt. Eddie and I sat through that hour, and I must tell you that was one of the most intense hours of my life. Not knowing when or where we would catch a glimpse of Connor, a glimpse that we had never seen before. A clip that we had never seen before. We sat in silence throughout that emotionally charged hour. We did get our glimpse. It was a day we well-remembered. Connor and Mike--the food tray delivery guy, Connor's buddy. They had shot the clip for a tape they put together for the NEW Children's Hospital that opened in early 2004. We had never been able to see the tape. Yet, there was Connor on this program some 2 years later. I can't possibly describe all of the emotions we experienced as we viewed the program. We held out hope for another glimpse of Connor, we never took our eyes off the screen. Thankfully a friend of Nana's taped the program, and gave us a copy. We thought we were taping it, but it didn't work. Anyway, that night set us both back in the grief process. It was the emotional surge that trying to catch sight of Connor on TV created. That may not make sense, and I know I'm rambling. Very few of you, thankfully, probably understand completely what I am saying. The only way to understand is if you yourself have lost a child or grandchild. I pray that no one else EVER has to experience this pain. Yet, I also know that some will......

Thank you for standing by us. Thank you for your patience with us. I know that, for some of you, your patience has probably worn very thin by now. I am so sorry for any hurts I have caused by lack of communication, etc. Sometimes I distance myself, for whatever reasons, from some of those who I care about the most. I just get to a point when I CAN'T TALK ABOUT IT ANY MORE. I know that is not right, and also not good, but it is the only way I can "deal" sometimes. I will never be the same person I was before Connor was diagnosed. I will also never be the person I was before Connor passed away. I am trying to adjust to the "new normal". I know that I sometimes do a poor job making that adjustment. Just please, please do NOT take it personally. I am no expert, by any means, on going through this process, I am learning as I go. Again, I apologize to anyone I have hurt. Please bear with me.
Have a good week everyone, Peace to all, and may God bless us all!

~~Rhonda and Eddie, Forever Mommy and Daddy to Connor, our "Bravest Little Trooper!"

Sunday, January 8, 2006 10:36 PM CST

Hello family and friends, thanks for checking in. Yes, I know an update is L-O-N-G overdue! I'm so sorry. This one may be kind of long, so let's get started......

The Toy Drive was a huge success! Thank you to everyone who donated toys, helped with the Drive, collected toys, etc. Two different schools collected for the Drive in memory of Connor. They are Gene Brown Elementary, thank you to Mrs. Holdren's kindergarten class, Mrs. Robinson's kindergarten class, and Ms. Jones and Ms. Lee's fifth grade classes, for all the toys you donated! Also, Madison Creek Elementary School--thank you to the fifth grade classes for all the donations, and to Mrs. Mitchell for organizing the toy drop-off! Also, thank you to Albany International in Portland (Nana's work) and Nashville Wraps here in Hendersonville for collecting so many toys! Eddie's coworkers all brought toys to their December sales meeting for the Drive, as well. So many people helped, all of you are very much appreciated!

I have to share something special that happened at Madison Creek Elementary. I went to pick up the toys they had collected one morning before school let out for the Christmas holiday. I went into the office and had them page Mrs. Mitchell to let her know I was there. She sent probably 8-10 children up with boxes and boxes full of toys. They went outside with me to help me load them into my vehicle. When we were finished, I was talking to them, and thanking them for helping with the Toy Drive. I asked if I could have a hug. One of the boys in the back of the group yelled "YES!" and ran towards me. He nearly dove into me and wrapped his arms around me and gave me a wonderful hug. In the midst of that, as I was taking it in, a girl who was out there in the group said "Not so hard, CONNOR!" I was completely stunned. First of all, that a boy of 11 would voluntarily hug me in front of his friends. Secondly, that the hugs was SO SIMILAR to the way my Connor always hugged me. And thirdly, HIS NAME WAS CONNOR! I considered that my Christmas hug straight from Connor in Heaven!

My dear friend, Christian, her husband Bill, and their son, Will came over on December 23 to help me get all of the toys that we collected to the Monroe Carroll-Vanderbilt Children's Hospital. THANK YOU GUYS! We had two SUV's packed as full as we could possibly get them. I know there were lots of smiles on Christmas morning to some very deserving children!

I want to thank Wayne and Melanie Gordon for a wonderful Christmas gift they put together for us. They met me at the mausoleum one day before Christmas to deliver it. It is a collage of "Connor pictures". It took my breath away when I saw it.......



........see what I mean??? THANK YOU "MR." WAYNE AND MELANIE FOR DOING THIS FOR US! It is something that we will treasure for a lifetime!

I would like to request prayers for Kevin Martin's dear family. Kevin finished his job here on earth and made his heavenly journey on New Year's Day morning around 11:25 a.m. He battled long and hard. I do believe that he was in complete control of WHEN he would be "going home". His determination was absolutely amazing. His family is and always has been so very important to him, and he held on throughout the holidays, for them, I'm certain. We have been fortunate to be able to spend this time with Linda, Jeci, Ryan, Brandon, Tyler, Karissa, Kent and Marilyn, Krista and Wayne, and all of the Martin's family and friends. They have a support system that is OUT OF THIS WORLD! Kevin's motto was "Party On", and I know he was so proud of his family for surrounding themselves with friends and loved ones from all over, all week long. Linda and Kevin's closest friends, Alex and Alicia, Doug and Gayle, Matthew and Linda L., and Terry and Sonia, have been constantly by their sides, helping them and encouraging them in every way imaginable. I know that Linda appreciates all that EVERYONE has done for her and the children over the past week. The weeks and months ahead, it will be crucial that they continue to feel the love that surrounds them., as they start into the next chapter of their lives. We, as Linda and Kevin's friends, feel honored that Linda chose Kevin's resting place to be in the mausoleum where Connor's resting place is. He is two "places" down from Connor. Linda had taken the kids there many times to "visit" Connor, so going there is not something that is brand new to them. As Linda said to me yesterday outside of the mausoleum, who would've thought on that day almost 3 years ago when we met, that Kevin and Connor would both be gone on to Heaven now. Again, please keep the Martin's in your prayers, THANK YOU! And please remember Kevin's parents, too, as we know all too well the pain that they are going through, and will continue to go through.

A big 'ole HAPPY BIRTHDAY to our buddy, Gabe (Gabe's My Heart), who celebrated his 4th birthday on January 1! Gabe is more than two years in remission now, WAY TO GO, GABE!

Thank you all for being here with us. Thank you to those of you who still sign Connor's guestbook! We read all of the entries and they mean so much to us! Thank you to everyone who sent us Christmas cards this year. A special thank you to Kathy M., and Terre for my Christmas packages! I am horribly, embarrassingly (is that a word???) behind on returning phone calls, emails, getting out thank-you's, etc. I'm not going to make excuses, just keep in mind that I am quite dysfunctional these days. (STOP LAUGHING LU AND CHRISTIAN! You KNOW how bad I am about returning calls!) My rudeness in that department is certainly not intentional. Please, please, please forgive me if you are one of those people I have not gotten back with.:)

As we enter another year, we are reminded of the many blessings in our lives. Our greatest blessing is our salvation. Without that, we have nothing. We are also extremely grateful for the blessing of Connor Jordan Hunley! God blessed us with 10 wonderful years with Connor. And, we know that we WILL be reunited someday, OH WHAT A DAY! As much as we miss Connor, it brings us great peace to know that we will, someday, hold him in our arms again.


We are blessed with a fantastic support system. We could not have made it without you all! Let 2006 be the year that you spend more QUALITY TIME WITH YOUR FAMILY! Do that in Connor's Memory. Be thankful if you have healthy children. Show them everyday how thankful you are. I think it is a common misconception among some people that Connor, and all of the other children who have, or have had, cancer or leukemia, were always "sickly" children. Quite the contrary. Connor's worst malady before his diagnosis was chronic earaches his first year and having tubes put in around his 1st birthday. He was ALWAYS perfectly healthy. My reason for saying that is to make you realize that it CAN and sometimes DOES happen to "you". So, make the best of the time you are given. Never take a single moment for granted. Oh, to be able to hold Connor, to see Connor, to touch Connor, to hear his laughter......just one more time.....

***********Connor*********

Oh sweetheart, how I miss you! Happy New Year!!! I know that Kevin arrived there with you on New Year's Day! What a party that must've been! Mrs. Linda and I have been seeing all of your go-cart tracks in the sky. You help take care of Kevin, and I know Kevin will help take care of you until we are all reunited again. I hope you can feel the love that I send to you each and everyday, Connor. Thank you for all of the signs you continue to send. You keep us going from day to day. Nana and Poppy appreciate their signs, as well. They also miss you so much, Christmas will never be the same without you here with us all. You are our guiding light now, Connor. We can't wait to see you, save our place, O.K.??

All Our Love, Now and for Eternity!
Mommy and Daddy

***********~***********

Have a wonderful week, everyone. I'll try not to go so long between updates next time. Peace to all, and may God bless us all!

We love you!
Rhonda and Eddie, Forever Mommy and Daddy to Connor, our "Bravest Little Trooper!"

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Sunday, December 25, 2005 8:58 AM CST

I couldn't let Christmas pass without wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year! Hoping today brings you and your family lots of smiles, hugs, love, celebration, reflecting on Christ's birth, joy, thankfulness, forgiveness, and happiness!

We are thankful for each of you reading this. Thank you for continuing to check in on us, and for loving our son!

I will do a complete update over the next couple of days, just wanted to say "MERRY CHRISTMAS!"


***********Connor***********

Oh, sweetheart, Mommy could write a book on our emotions today! Merry Christmas, my Sunshine Boy! Mommy and Daddy miss you so very much, today more than ever! Our Christmas magic is missing, due to the fact that you are no longer physically here with us. We know you are joining in the most wonderful celebration in Heaven, and for that, we are so thankful. We can't wait until that glorious day when we get to join you, AND BE WITH YOU FOREVER! Please let us know that you are "with" us today, Angel-cake, that really helps us so very much! Feel all of the love that is flowing from our hearts to yours in Heaven, not only today, but every moment that we live. Tell everyone we said "Hi", and enjoy being with your family and friends who have already received their reward. We will see you soon, sweetheart. MERRY CHRISTMAS!

We love you more that anything in the whole universe!
~~Mommy and Daddy.....Zoe and Doris, too! (Yes, Connor, I know how you always made sure Santa came to see your pets, so this year is no exception, they are enjoying their surprises as I type!)

***********^i^***********

We love you all....Merry Christmas!
~~Rhonda and Eddie, Forever Mommy and Daddy to Connor, our "Bravest Little Trooper!"

---

Monday, December 5, 2005 8:14 AM CST

ADDED TUESDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2005--NANNY MAYBELLE (GRAVES) PASSED AWAY LAST NIGHT. SHE HAS NOW JOINED CONNOR, AND ALL OF HER LOVED ONES, IN HEAVEN. THANK YOU FOR ALL OF THE PRAYERS FOR HER AND FOR OUR FAMILY. Visitation will be all day on Wednesday at Anderson and Woodard Funeral Home in Westmoreland. Visitation will continue on Thursday at the funeral home, with the funeral following at 2:00 pm.


Hello everyone, thanks for checking in. I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving, full of good food, prayers of Thanksgiving, and the love of family and friends.

Thank you for all the prayers for Nanny Maybelle. Please pray for a peaceful passing for her at this time. As I told you in my previous post, her brain scan showed little activity following her stroke. She is still in the hospital, but, thanks to a new program at Sumner Regional Medical Center, she is under Hospice care, there at the hospital.

Please also continue to keep Kevin and his family in your prayers. That Kevin is something else, giving it all he has, against all odds. Thankfully, he now has a warm, compassionate Hospice nurse. You can see all of the ways God continues to bless this wonderful family by reading Linda's entries each day. Please stop by their page and offer them some words of support, they really need it at this time.

The Toy Drive is moving right along. I made a pickup on Friday at Nashville Wraps here in Hendersonville. My wonderful friend, Elizabeth, works there, and rallied her co-workers to help with the Drive. Then, Saturday night Elizabeth's (and her husband Tommy!) church had a spaghetti supper and singing that we attended. They donated lots of toys for the drive, as well! THANK YOU to all of you who have donated toys! And thank you to all of you who are collecting for the drive! We are meeting Tuesday night at Gilda's Club in Nashville to wrap the first group of toys collected. Kudos to Lu for doing an outstanding job implementing and organizing the Toy Drive for the second year! The Toy Drive continues, so it is not too late to donate a toy or gift card for the children at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital. Thank you to Jeci, Kevin and Linda's daughter, for rallying the students at Western Kentucky University, and getting them involved! If you need info on the Drive, please email me (rshunley@comcast.net) and I will fill you in on the details. It would be a great project to get your office, school or business involved in! Just one toy per person would help tremendously!

We also still have "Connor's Courage" wristbands available. Ann, thank you, your wristbands are on their way to California! The wristbands are $3 each. You can read about them, and see a photo, if you go to Journal History, and read the Oct. 25, 2005 entry. Thank you to everyone who has purchased the wristbands!

***********Connor***********

Hi sweetheart! Mommy and Daddy love you and miss you so very much! Christmas will never be the same again, without you here with us. We try to put on a "happy face" for everyone, but inside, we are not so joyful. Thank you for continuing to help us and for watching over us! We long for the day when we will get to see you again, that day WILL come! Lots and lots of people are donating toys for the children at Vanderbilt, Connor, because of what you mean to them! Please keep a watch out for Nanny Maybelle, she will be there soon, and I know she will be looking for your smiling face to greet her!

All our love, my Sunshine Boy, now and forever,
We'll see you soon,
Mommy and Daddy

***********^***********


Have a wonderful week, everyone. Try not to focus on the commercialism of Christmas. Do something nice for someone. Say "Hi" to a stranger. Let the other car have that "perfect" parking space. Spend QUALITY time with your children. Tell your family how much they mean to you. SHOW your family how much they mean to you. Do it TODAY, tomorrow may never come. Thank you for being our friends. Thank you for standing by us. Thank you for remembering Connor. Thank you for loving Connor. We are thankful. We are blessed. We appreciate you all.....

We love you all!
Rhonda and Eddie, Forever Mommy and Daddy to Connor, our "Bravest Little Trooper!"

---

Thursday, November 24, 2005 5:44 AM CST

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! Thanks for checking in. We wish you all a wonderful day, filled with many happy moments, lots of good food, the love of family and friends, and feelings of thankfulness for all you have been blessed with. Don't get so caught up in the chaos of the day that you forget to thank God for all you have been given. If you are able to see the sunrise this morning, you are blessed. If you are able to hear the laughter of children, you are blessed. If you are able to taste the wonderful food prepared for your Thanksgiving feast, you are blessed. If you are able to smell the aromas of pies in the oven, you are blessed. If you are able to feel the hugs circulating among family today, you are blessed. If you are able to worship God openly, without fear of persecution, you are blessed. Give thanks today for all of the ways you have been blessed. May God bless you all abundantly, as you have blessed our family.

An update on "Nanny" Maybelle: she is declining daily. She had a brain scan last week, and it came back showing little brain activity. She had seemed to be responding slightly when she had her eyes open, but that has stopped over the past several days. Poppy, his brother, Kenneth, and sister, Diane, were meeting last night with Hospice while I was on the phone with Nana. We will be going by the hospital this morning before we go to Nana and Poppy's house. At this point, it will be a blessing when God calls her home. She is 85 years old, and has lived a full life. Saying "goodbye" is never easy, but knowing she is ready to meet her Maker is the most important thing. Thank you for keeping our family in your prayers. The following picture was taken when Connor was only 2 years old. It is Poppy, Connor, and Nanny Maybelle:




Please continue to remember Kevin and his family in your prayers. The man is utterly amazing, giving everything 200 percent, as he continues to battle his cancer. Please keep him and his entire family in your prayers, especially today: Kevin, Linda, Jeci, Ryan, Brandon, Tyler, Karissa, Kevin's Mom and Dad, his sister, nieces and nephews, in-laws, and all of the extended family. God does work miracles, as is apparent in Kevin's case. No, I don't mean he has been "healed" physically, but if you take a look at his web page, and all of the love that comes from so many people touched by his story, and the vigorousness of his "fight", you will see the miracle that God is working. No matter the outcome, nothing can change the fact that Kevin has altered the lives of many. Many will long remember the love of a man for his family, a man named Kevin Martin.

Thank you for those of you who continue to order the "Connor's Courage" wristbands. For those of you who don't know about them, you can go back to the journal history to see a photo, and read about them. They are $3 each. You can email me to place an order if you do not live locally, and I will mail them to you. My cousin, Tabitha, is selling them in Westmoreland (THANK YOU TABITHA!) and Nana is selling them in Portland (THANK YOU NANA!).

The Toy Drive is in full force! Some of our drop off locations are: Gene Brown Elementary (Hendersonville), in care of Melissa Holdren (Thanks, Melissa!), the office of Dr. Angela Templeton (Hendersonville-Pediatric Dentist), Albany International (Portland-Nana's Work), Kathy's Country Cupboard (Westmoreland), several banks around the Westmoreland area (Thanks, Tabitha!), and of course, we will take toy donations at our house (140 Vintage Circle, Hendersonville, TN 37075). The main thing to remember for the Toy Drive is NO STUFFED ANIMALS. The children at Vanderbilt have very compromised immune systems, and stuffed animals carry LOTS of germs. For a listing of "ideas" for needed toys, email me and I'll get a list to you. The first pickup will be by December 5, as the Christmas party for the children able to come (40 have signed up so far), will be held on December 8th, hosted by Lu and Gabe's My Heart. Lu has other drop off locations listed on Gabe's web site. Toys collected after December 5th will be distributed to children who are inpatient on Christmas, and also will serve to replenish the Oncology (cancer) Clinic at Vanderbilt, for children going through treatment. Thank you to those of you who have helped so far, and those of you who plan to donate in the near future! With your help, we can put a smile on the faces of some very deserving children this Christmas. Most of you have never walked the floors of a children's cancer ward (Thank the good Lord for that!). But if you have, you know they are some of the bravest, unselfish, caring and compassionate children you will ever meet. Thank you, Lu, for the wonderful job you do with the Toy Drive!

I would be telling a story if I said that I'm looking forward to the holidays. Yes, it has been over a year, but never mistakenly think that time has "healed" our wounds. The constant pain of the loss of a child is something that never "heals". A huge part of us went with Connor when he made his Heavenly journey. The people we were prior to his diagnosis are gone, and will never be back. We have been changed. Our hearts are shattered, and will remain that way until the blessed day when we are reunited with Connor. Yet, our Faith is STRONG. We know, through the promises laid out in the Bible, that we WILL see Connor again. We have been told, over and over again, the people "can't imagine" how we feel. In a moment, after you read the rest of this paragraph, I would like to ask you to close your eyes. Then think about the love you have for your child/children. Think of the joy they bring to your lives. Think of their smiles, think of their laughter, think of their kisses, think of their mischievous ways, think of all the love they give, think of the precious gift God gave you the day they were born, think of how you felt the moment of their birth. Then, imagine they are gone from your sight, imagine the pain of not being able to grasp hold of them physically again, on this earth. Think of a quiet house, without the sounds of children present. Think of the utter emptiness of empty arms. Think of knowing that as long as you live, you will never physically see their face again.......

That gives you a small inkling to what if "feels" like. Although there is NO WAY for anyone to truly imagine unless they have experienced this loss. Now, before I get emails telling me that I am angry and bitter over the loss of my child, let me say this. I am NOT angry and bitter. The reason I am NOT is because I have a forgiving God. A God that has promised that, through his Son's death and resurrection, that I am forgiven for my sins, and that I will have a home in eternity with Him. That is what carries us day-by-day. As I have said before, many times, if I did not have that assurance, I would have no reason to go on. Yet, I do know that Jesus died for all of us, so that by declaring that He is the Son of God, and asking for forgiveness for my sins, I am forgiven. There is nothing more important than your salvation. We are all given a choice, have you made yours yet? Don't be "left behind". Loved ones await us in Heaven....... I am not trying to "preach". Please do not think that. I am far from perfect. I have sinned throughout my life. We ALL have. No one is perfect. But everyone can be forgiven, all they have to do is ask. Ask and you shall receive. No, I do not pretend to understand things like cancer, or innocent children suffering as Connor did. I can't imagine that there is a "plan" in that. But, I also know that it is not in my human psyche to understand that. When I get to Heaven, I will either ask God to please explain that to me, or, I will be so overcome with joy that all former things will no longer matter. I like to think it will be the latter.

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Connor,

Happy Thanksgiving, sweetheart! I will be thanking God, as I do every day, that He gave you to us for 10 wonderful years. You have forever changed my life. I have learned more from you than anyone can imagine. Isn't it supposed to be the other way around?? You, Connor Jordan Hunley, are my inspiration to keep going. I can't wait to hold you in my arms again, sweetheart! I know you are being taken care of by so many loved ones who have gone on. I also know that you have many wonderful friends with you, friends who have parents who are missing them terribly, as well. Know that we send our love to you constantly. Thank you for helping us through the days. Thank you for the signs you continue to send. Thank you for sending Nana a most OBVIOUS sign lately, she cherishes it, Connor. We miss you, we love you, we will see you soon!

All our love for eternity,
Mommy and Daddy

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Again, have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Enjoy what God has given to you. Thank you for being here for us. We couldn't travel this journey without each of you with us. Whether near or far, you are appreciated, and we thank God for you. Enjoy the special moments of the holiday season. Remember those less fortunate, have a charitable heart throughout the Christmas season. Christmas is not about gifts and shopping and commercialism, it is about family, about Faith, about creating special moments, moments to cherish, memories to last a lifetime. Make special memories with your loved ones. Be thankful if your loved ones are here with you. God has blessed you abundantly, be thankful.....

We love you all,
Rhonda and Eddie, Forever Connor's Mommy and Daddy

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Friday, November 11, 2005 11:06 PM CST

ADDED TUESDAY MORNING (11/15/05)--Thank you for all of the prayers for "Nanny" Maybelle. The stroke she suffered was massive, with a brain bleed. As of yesterday evening, a CT scan showed that the bleeding appears to have stopped. The doctor said that the next week will be a "wait and see" situation. She could have major damage from the stroke, time will tell. He also said that she could have more strokes, which, of course, would not be good. She was resting good last night when I last saw her. Again, thank you so much for the prayers, I know that her entire family appreciates them.

Also, please keep Kevin and his family in your prayers, as he continues to fight. Continue to pray for comfort and peace for all of them. Thank you!
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ADDED SUNDAY MORNING (11/13/05)--8:15 a.m.--PLEASE PRAY FOR POPPY'S MOTHER, CONNOR'S GREAT-GRANDMOTHER, MAYBELLE GRAVES OF WESTMORELAND. SHE HAD A MASSIVE STROKE OVERNIGHT AND IS IN SUMNER REGIONAL HOSPITAL IN GALLATIN. THE STROKE HAS DONE MAJOR DAMAGE, AND THE NEXT 24 HOURS ARE CRITICAL. I JUST FOUND OUT, AND I AM HEADED THERE NOW. PLEASE, PLEASE SAY A PRAYER FOR HER, AND ALL OF OUR FAMILY. THANK YOU!

Hello friends and family, thanks so much for checking in. Well, Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 have come and gone. I'm sorry it has taken me so long to update on Connor's birthday balloon release. I will start with that. What we had dreaded for so long, a birthday celebration WITHOUT the honoree, our precious son, turned out to be a wonderful tribute to what Connor means to so many people. We had a great turnout, we figured between 60 and 70 people. Everyone congregated in the mausoleum first, so that we could write messages to Connor on the balloons. People just KEPT coming in, I really didn't think that many would be able to come. Alot of people couldn't because of it being on Halloween, they had to get their little ones ready to trick-or-treat. So we were quite pleased with the number of family and friends who were able to come. I wouldn't dare start naming names, for fear of leaving someone out. We all gathered outside on a hillside in the cemetary. The sun was shining brightly as we all gathered in a circle. We joined hands, and our minister, Keith Parker, led us all in prayer. We then counted to "11" and released our balloons as we yelled "Happy Birthday" to Connor. Thank you to all of you who were able to gather with us to celebrate Connor's life. There are no words that I could type to make you aware of just what your presence there meant to us. A huge thank you, also, to those of you who were able to release balloons to Connor from wherever you may have been. I know that several of you emailed to let me know that you would be sending balloons up from your city. WOW is all I can say! I'm sure the view from Heaven of all the balloons coming his way really made Connor feel all of the love that went up with the balloons. Connor's birthday continued back at our house. We had some food and a birthday cake here for those who could come on over. We also had several people come later who were not able to attend the balloon release. I know that all of you could have been anywhere on October 31st. We are touched that you spent it with us and that you would want to help us honor Connor on his birthday. It was a full day, full of lots of hugs, memories, tears, laughter, sharing, love, warmth, prayer, comfort.....




Tuesday, November 1, 2005. One year to the day since Connor was called home to live eternally in Heaven. We made it past the 7:40 am mark. We then decided to take off to Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg. Connor always LOVED to go there, and we made many wonderful memories with him through the years. We would usually go at least once a year, sometimes twice. One of the funniest memories was of the year when Connor was either 3 or 4. We took him to this little kiddie park in Pigeon Forge. It was empty that day, so he was able to go from ride to ride, and ride for as long as he wanted. Then, he discovered that they had little go-carts for children his age. He got in one, and was the only child on the track. The poor attendant working the track was CONSTANTLY having to go pull Connor's go-cart away from the wall, because he kept driving it straight into the wall. We were laughing so hard that we were nearly crying. As soon as the guy would get off the track for Connor to take off again, Connor would be into the wall. It probably took 20 minutes for him to go half a lap, and we are talking short laps. That was his first "driving" experience, other than his motorized Jeep at Nana and Poppy's. Anyway, back to this year. We just stayed a couple of nights, but it was just what we needed. Nana and Poppy had actually gone there on Sunday, so we were able to meet up with them the second day for breakfast. When we went to Gatlinburg, our first stop was "Cooter's", from The Dukes of Hazzard fame. That was ALWAYS where Connor wanted to go first, and we always did. Everything up there reminds us of Connor, and that is a good thing. We decided that we will try to take a little retreat there every year around the 1st of November.

Friday night, November 4, was the 3rd annual Cowboy Ball, the fundraiser for AngelHeart Farm. We did not attend last year, as it was held just before Connor passed away. The year before, he was the official "Cowboy" of the Ball. This year, we were able to meet the artist, Shary Akers, who is working on the bronze of Connor and Basko, the horse. She had it with her, so we were able to get an idea of what it will be like. She still has quite a bit of work to do on the bronze (Jim, I know you were asking about it). She did mention that she hopes to have the finished product by next year's Ball. Alot of money was raised for AngelHeart that night, and I know Tracy was thrilled to find out that she will be getting a much-needed tractor with some of the money raised.




Today, Veteran's Day, a dedication was held at the new Memorial Park Plaza in Hendersonville. Eddie and I were able to attend. This is the new fountain we have here in Hendersonville with the brick pavers. Thank you, Connie and Bob, for Connor's paver! There were representatives there today from nearly all branches of the Military, Fire and Police. There were soldiers there who have just returned from Iraq. It was a very moving service. Thank you to all of those who fight for our FREEDOM, and to keep us safe! And thank you to the Rotary Club for making the Memorial Park a reality.

Thank you to all of you who have purchased the Connor's Courage wristbands. We do have our second order in now, so please email me if you would like to order one. They are $3 each. Details on the wristbands are in the last journal entry. Angel at First Place Trophy here in Hendersonville, still has some in her store, if you want to go by there to get one. If you have ordered one through me, I now have filled all of the orders, so if you haven't gotten your's yet, it is on it's way!

I also now have the posters and flyers regarding the Toy Drive for Vanderbilt Children's Hospital. It is being held by Lu, Gabe's Mom, of Gabe's My Heart. If you live locally, and your business or workplace is interested in being a drop-off location for the Toy Drive, please email me and let me know. We will get a box, a poster, and flyers detailing the types of toys needed to you ASAP. Let's help these children battling life threatening diseases at least have a very Merry Christmas.

Also, if you live in Hendersonville, and you would like to have a team for the Relay For Life in 2006, please email me, and I will get you all the information. We had a meeting last week regarding the Relay, and Eddie and I are on the Team Development Committee. You can have workplace teams, or maybe a team for someone you know who is battling or has battled cancer. The Relay will be held on May 19, 2006. The more teams we have, the more money that can be raised for the American Cancer Society! We need research, research, research to try to combat this disease.

Please remember to keep the Martin7 in your prayers. Kevin is now at home on Hospice care. Pray for God to provide the entire family with the peace they need, and pray for Kevin to be pain-free. This family is very dear to us. We are hurting with them, and for them.

God has promised never to leave us or forsake us, even in the darkest of times. We may not always "feel" Him with us, but rest assured that He is there. No matter what curve balls life throws at us, God's love to us is a constant presence, a presence that nothing can ever take from us. That is why when we are at the very end of our rope, and we are dangling from the cliff, we can trust that He will either hold us up, or be there to catch us if we slip and fall. That same God that I trust in each and every day, is right now, at this very moment, holding my child in His loving arms. Oh what joy that thought brings to mind. And, I know, through my faith in Him, that I will someday get to join them. God will wipe every tear from my eye, and grief and mourning will be a thing of the past, never to be thought of again.

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Connor,

Happy Birthday, Sunshine Boy! Your 11th birthday has now come and gone. We all hope that you were able to retrieve all of your balloons! We are certain that you had lots of help from all of your friends in Heaven. I wonder just how magnificent your party in Heaven was??? Can't wait until we get to celebrate with you, sweetheart.

Thank you SO MUCH for all of the obvious signs you have sent to us lately. Especially the one when Linda was here with us! Lots of family members and friends shared different personal stories with me over the past couple of weeks regarding your "visits" to them. Thank you, you always know just what everyone needs, Connor!

Give yourself a great big hug, and consider that from Mommy. We will see you soon, be sure and save our place right next to you!

All our love,
For Eternity,
Mommy and Daddy

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Thank you all for being here with us, in your hearts. We never forget to count our blessings, and we are very blessed. Please continue to remember those who have lost loved ones recently, especially as the holidays are quickly approaching. Please remember Tammy (Eddie's sister) and her family in your prayers, as Shelton (Tammy's husband)lost his Mother this week, Ms. Sylvia Draper. Thanksgiving and Christmas will be very difficult this year for lots of people, be thankful if you have not experienced any loss or tragedy in your life over the past year. Smile more, put others before yourself, do something nice for someone, without expecting anything in return. And always, always, thank God for the blessings He has given you....

We love you all,
Rhonda and Eddie, Forever Mommy and Daddy to Connor, our "Bravest Little Trooper!"

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Friday, November 11, 2005 6:42 AM CST

I will be adding an update by tonight. I worked on the new background and attempted to get a specific song to play last night on the web page, until I was too tired to finish the update. Sorry to make you think there was a new update. Please keep Kevin and his family in your prayers throughout today, and each day thereafter. And please check back tomorrow for an update on here, I will tell about Connor's birthday, and the one year "anniversary". Thanks for being here for us!

Love,
Rhonda, Forever Connor's Mommy

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Tuesday, October 25, 2005 11:02 PM CDT

Hello friends and family, thanks for checking in. Yes, it is almost here. Connor's 11th birthday on Halloween, and then the one year anniversary of his passing on November 1, 2005. One year.....it seems impossible that we have been without our Sunshine Boy for an entire year. Yet, we have. One year without his laughter. One year without his kisses. One year without his hugs. One year without hearing "I love you Mommy". One year without hearing his footsteps in the house. One year without his sweet notes and pictures. One year of grocery shopping without getting any of Connor's favorites. One year of watching the school bus go up and down the street. One year of firsts.....first Thanksgiving without Connor, first Christmas without Connor, etc., etc., etc. One year of the loud "quietness" of a house without a child. It is deafeningly LOUD. One year of empty arms. One year of the reality of the sometimes outcome of cancer. One year of daily "visits" to my child at the mausoleum. One year of family "get-togethers" without Connor. One year of life going on around us. One year of NOT getting to tuck my baby in at night. One year of not hearing "Now I lay me down to sleep....." One year of toys and bicycles collecting dust. One year of smiling on the outside, when I feel as though I am dying on the inside.

Yes, one year. But, also, one year of "Connor moments". One year of family and friends holding us up. One year that Connor has been pain-free and cancer-free. One year that Connor has been able to bask in all the glory that is Heaven. One year of thanking God EVERY SINGLE DAY that he chose us to be Connor's parents. One year of thanking God every day that He gave us 10 wonderful years with Connor, here on earth. One year of eagerly anticipating the day when we will be reunited. One year of KNOWING that we will see Connor again. One year of "feeling" Connor all around us. One year of stopping to watch the sun set. One year of truly appreciating just how fragile life really is. One year.........

October 30, 1994 fell on a Sunday evening. I had worked the Friday before, and before I left work that day, I remember that some of my co-workers thought that I would go into labor that weekend. The weekend passed by, and Sunday night, we were relaxing in front of the T.V., catching those last moments of the weekend before Monday rolled around again. Around 9:00, my water broke. We took off to the hospital, and called the grandparents "in". I was in labor all night, and Connor Jordan Hunley came into the world on a bright Monday morning, which just happened to be Halloween, at 6:42 a.m., weighing 7 lbs and 12 ounces. He was 20 inches long. There has never been another moment in my life to compare to that moment of the doctor placing our son in my arms for the first time. For those of you out there fortunate enough to be parents, I know that you know just that feeling that I am referring to. I don't think my heart has ever felt a love just like that. Here is this little life that God has entrusted me with. Oh, nothing even comes close to that wondrous feeling. And I do thank God everyday for letting me experience the wonder of Mother-hood. I will forever be Connor's Mommy, and I have known no greater joy!

We are planning to meet at the mausoleum on Monday, October 31st, at 4:00 p.m. We will have balloons for anyone who can come, to release to Connor. We will have Sharpies, so that you can write a message to Connor, if you choose. We would like for anyone who is able to come, to be thinking of a "happy" memory of Connor that you would like to share. We do not want this to be a sad gathering, but rather a celebration of the life of Connor, and all that he was. We know that he continues to impact lives, even with his physical absence. After we release the balloons, everyone is invited to come over to our house for birthday cake. I know some of you reading this will probably think that we have truly "lost it" by having cake, but we will celebrate Connor's life, and his birthday is the perfect day to do just that. I know that Connor will be smiling down on us. So, YOU are invited. The mausoleum is located just behind the Hendersonville Funeral Home, adjacent to the Memory Gardens. The funeral home is across from Lowes in Hendersonville, just off Gallatin Road. We would love to see you on Monday! I know the time will be an issue for some of you, but if we make it any later, the mausoleum will be closed. Plus, with the time change this weekend, we wanted to make sure we still had some daylight to do the balloon release. Even if you can't make it by 4:00, feel free to stop by anyway. If you do not live locally, we would love to hear that you released a birthday balloon to Connor on Monday.

We have a new project that we have started. As I have told you before, our friend Lu, started a foundation in honor of Gabe, called Gabe's My Heart. She is putting together backpacks for newly diagnosed children at Vanderbilt Children's Hospital (aka Monroe Carroll Children's Hospital). We tried to think of something that we could include in the backpacks to memorialize Connor. We decided on the silicone wristbands. So, we ordered 500 of them. There are approximately 100-125 children diagnosed a year at Vanderbilt. So 250 of the wristbands will be put aside for this year (125) and next year (125). The remaining 250, we are currently selling for $3 each. Our goal is to get this first order sold, so that we can double our order next time. 100 percent of the proceeds from the sale of the wristbands will benefit children currently undergoing treatment for cancer or leukemia at Vanderbilt. I took a picture, so that you could see the wristbands:



One side has the words "Connor's Courage", the other side has the word, "INSPIRE". Connor's Courage is self-explanatory. INSPIRE is what all of the children battling cancer do for us, they INSPIRE us. Connor always inspired us, as did all of the other amazing children we have met. We want the children to be INSPIRED to FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT with all they have in them! The wristbands are royal blue, Connor's favorite color, of course. We considered yellow, his other favorite color, but with the LIVESTRONG wristbands, we wanted something to stand out on it's own. A sweet, wonderful friend by the name of Angel offered to put some of the wristbands in her shop, First Place Trophy, in Hendersonville, to sell. It is located off Walton Ferry Road, just off Gallatin Road, behind The Movie Gallery and Jersey Mike's. She is open Monday through Friday. You can also email me, if you would like one, and either stop by our house to get one, or I can bring them to you. If you do not live here in Hendersonville, I will be happy to mail them to you. My email is at the bottom of the page, but I'll include it here, rshunley@comcast.net. A HUGE THANK YOU to Angel, Nana, and Elizabeth for selling some for us, also to Tabitha, who will be selling them in Westmoreland. They are going quickly, but we do plan on placing another order very soon. Also, thank you to Tommy and Elizabeth for helping to fund the first order! It is our goal to see these blue wristbands on arms all over this area, and beyond!

We owe another big THANK YOU to Tony and Malissa, and all of our neighbors in our old neighborhood, Sumner Meadows, for the Tree Planting and Dedication that was held Sunday in Connor's Memory. Thank you to those of you who braved the cold, drizzly afternoon to help us honor Connor. For those of you familiar with Hendersonville and Sumner Meadows, the tree is planted in the front common area, close to the swing set. You can see it from New Shackle Island Road. We were especially pleased that Connor's friend, John Tyler, and his Mom, Gaye, his Grandmother, and his sister came. Thank you ALL so much!

Eddie and I attended Nikie's visitation on Sunday evening. As I stated in my last update, she passed away on October 20th, at the age of 19, after battling cancer for 3 years. She was always such a delight to be around, she was always smiling. Connor was inpatient at Vanderbilt MANY times when Nikie was also in for one reason or another. Her Mom, Cindy, and I became good friends. Please keep Cindy, Nikie's sister, Kayla, and the rest of her family in your prayers. They especially need prayers now, as much as ever.

Also, please continue to pray for Kevin Martin and Richie. Their web pages are updated often, so you can read the latest on them by clicking on their name, it will take you to their pages.

Please remember the Toy Drive that we plan to help Lu with. A couple of you have already volunteered your workplace as a drop-off site. THANK YOU SO MUCH! I will give more info in the next couple of weeks. Again, please email me if you are interested in helping with this project. You can read my last update if you missed the info on it before.

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Connor,

Oh my, we are a mere 6 days away from your 11th birthday! I wonder what kind of celebration is being planned for you in Heaven?!? I know it will be utterly amazing! Watch for your birthday balloons, we will be sending them up around 4:00 on Monday, Oct. 31. They will be blue and yellow, of course! I can't believe that we will be celebrating your birthday without you physically here with us. Oh, how I always thought we would be watching you grow up, graduate, go to college, get married, start a family, and live happily ever after. Life sure caught us off guard. We know that you just finished your job here on earth way ahead of the rest of us, so God rewarded you early. But, oh, how we ache to hold you, to hear you, to see you, to smell you. We look forward to the day when God decides it is time for us to be reunited! Thank you for continuing to "show" us that you are around! Please send Uncle Chad a special birthday wish tonight, Oct. 25, on his 25th birthday. He is sad that you are not here to celebrate with him, as we have always done in the past. We all love you and miss you so much. Happy birthday, sweetheart! Mommy and Daddy also plan on shooting some fireworks on your birthday, and on November 1st, since they were one of your most favorite things in the whole world! I know you will be celebrating with all of your friends up there, just know that we are also celebrating your life down here.

All of our love,
For eternity,
Mommy and Daddy, Zoe and Doris, too!

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Thank God for the blessings in your life. If you have children, read the first paragraph of my update again to remind you of some of the ways you are blessed everyday. We are thankful for you all. We are thankful that you continue to support us. Thank you for loving us, and most of all, for loving our special child, our Sunshine Boy, Connor Jordan Hunley.

Love,
Rhonda and Eddie, Forever Mommy and Daddy to Connor, our "Bravest Little Trooper"!

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Friday, October 7, 2005 8:45 AM CDT

ADDED THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2005 - Nikie has now joined Connor and all those who have gone before her, in Heaven. She passed away around 1:20 am this morning. Please visit her page, and let her family know that you are thinking of them. The most difficult days of their lives lie ahead. We'll miss you, sweet Nikie!

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Hello family and friends, thanks for checking in! We are blessed to have so many wonderful friends who continue to support us through this journey. By the way, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TODAY TO LINDA MARTIN!

It has been a while since my last update, so let me start by asking for special prayers for some of our friends:

Please keep the Martin family in your prayers, as Kevin continues his battle against cancer. The entire family needs our prayers, Kevin, Linda, Jeci, Ryan, Brandon, Tyler, Karissa, Kevin's parents, and extended family. They are all deeply feeling the toll that cancer takes on families. We were able to attend, last month, the baptism of Kevin, Linda, Jeci, Ryan and Brandon, at their church. What a day that was!

Also, Nikie continues to fight. She has been so strong throughout this, with such a positive outlook. Please keep her, her Mom Cindy, and sister Kayla in your prayers.

I found out yesterday, through Linda Martin that Richie in Nevada has had an apparent relapse of rhabdomyosarcoma. He battled it first back in, I think, 2001, the same year Connor was diagnosed. Then, he relapsed a couple of years ago, and had a stem cell transplant. He has been "cancer-free" for 2 years now. They have found a mass in his stomach, along with a questionable area on his lung. You can read all of the details on his page. His family and the Martin family have been friends since the Martin's lived in Nevada. Richie and Ryan Martin are very good friends. Please pray for Richie to beat the odds!

Since my last update, Eric passed away from rhabdo. He was just shy of his 10th birthday.Rhabdo is a relentless beast, but what people sometimes don't realize is that the cancer doesn't beat the kids, the kids ultimately beat the cancer! They receive their reward for "a job well done, good and faithful servant". I know that Eric has met up with Connor, Cheyenne, Jason, Ian, Chyanna, Felicia and all of the other children gone too soon. Our prayers continue for Eric's Mom and Dad, Kasey and Mike, and his sister, Katy, along with all of his extended family and friends.

The month of September seemed to pass by quickly. On September 16, Nana, Grandma and I took a weekend trip to Indianapolis. My Grandma's cousin, Emma, lived there for many years. She passed away a few years back, so we visited the mausoleum which is her resting place. We enjoyed our little "girl's getaway". On the way back through Louisville, we stopped to visit my great aunt Margot. She was married to my Grandma's brother, Hoyt. Uncle Hoyt passed away the same year Connor was born. She had battled heart problems and cancer for quite some time, and was in the hospital. We had a good visit with her. The following week, Grandma got the call that Aunt Margot had passed away. So, the following Friday, several of us went back up to Louisville for her Memorial service. We were so glad that we had been able to visit with her before she made her Heavenly journey. She leaves behind two daughters, Sylvia and Linda (Ronnie is Linda's husband), two granddaughters, Leslie and Amy, and a great granddaughter, Alyssa, along with many friends. Her sister, Helga, and her family, live in Virginia.

The past week has been filled with many visits, cards, phone calls and gifts from so many, as my birthday was Saturday, October 1st. I am truly blessed. You all made sure that my time was filled. I had dreaded my first birthday since Connor's passing. He always made his Mommy feel so special with his handmade notes, cards and special gifts, along with lots of hugs and kisses. There are a ba-jillion things I miss about Connor. I couldn't even begin to tell you. I did feel his presence throughout my birthday. I know he was sending his love my way. Special thank you's to Nana, Christian and Caitlyn, Lu, Tabitha, Kyla and Brett, Jordan, Elizabeth and Tommy, Susan and Kayli, Linda, Karissa and Jeci, Kathy, Terre and Ashley, Beverly and Victoria, Kathy M., Ann R., and all of you who sent well-wishes my way.

If any of you are in the Hendersonville area, there is a new Memorial Park Plaza adjacent to the Kid's Kingdom and tennis courts by the lake between Sanders Ferry Rd. and Cherokee Dr. You can see the fountain from Gallatin Rd. The circle surrounding the fountain has sections of special bricks purchased in memory or in honor of Military personnel, Policemen and Firemen. The Chief Deputy for Sumner County, Bob Barker, purchased a large brick in memory of Connor, as Connor was an Honorary Goodlettsville Fireman. We are so touched by this gesture of kindness. Thank you, Bob and Connie, for doing this for our precious child! This picture may not show up very well, but I'll add it anyway:

As I have told you before, Eddie and I are on the committee for the Hendersonville Relay For Life for 2006. We are also getting started on helping Gabe's Mom, Lu, on a couple of her projects that she spearheads for Gabe's foundation, Gabe's My Heart. One of those projects is her annual Toy Drive for the children of Vanderbilt Children's Hospital. The toys will be distributed at a Christmas party held at Pump It Up, for kids at the clinic, and for the children who are inpatient on Christmas. If you own a business, or know of someone who does, or if your workplace is willing to participate, and you (or they) are willing to let us put a poster up detailing the toy drive, along with a toy drop-off box, please email me and let me know. Lu has done an outstanding job with this project in the past, and we want to make sure that it is bigger and better than ever this year! There were a couple of Toy Drives held last year in Connor's Memory. Any that may be held this year, we would love to be able to include, In Connor's Memory, in the Gabe's My Heart toy drive. The one thing that needs to be stressed about the toy drive is that NO STUFFED ANIMALS can be accepted, because of the germ factor, and the weakened immune systems of the children in the hospital. The posters will explain all of that. Again, for more info, please email me or Lu (her contact info is on Gabe's page), and we will get back with you. THANK YOU!

Happy Anniversary next week on October 13th to Nana and Poppy!

We are quickly approaching what would be Connor's 11th birthday on October 31st (Halloween). Also, November 1, 2005 will mark ONE YEAR since Connor was called home to Heaven. Yes, we are hurting worse than ever. It is unfathomable to think that he has been gone from our sight for almost a year. I can't bear to even think about it. Each day is getting more difficult as we approach the end of October. Please keep us, along with our family and friends, in your prayers. Please also pray for Connor's friends, as I know they miss him, too. Thank you, Jordan, for my birthday phone call, you have no idea how much that meant to me! I will update before the end of the month with details regarding our plans for honoring Connor on his birthday.

I know there are so many things that I am leaving out. We have been so busy lately, and it seems like so much has happened. I will add things as I think of them.

~~~~~~~~~~CONNOR~~~~~~~~~~

Hi sweetheart, Mommy and Daddy miss you so very much! You have been so busy lately, making sure we notice all of the wonderful signs you send to us. Thank you for letting me, Nana and Grandma know that you were with us in Indianapolis. There was no denying that you were there! Thank you, also, for taking care of Mommy on my birthday. You are the most special Sunshine Boy ever! We love you more than all of the stars in the sky, more than all of the drops of water in the sea. We can't wait to see you! Your birthday is coming up! We are sad that you will not be "here" with us on your birthday, but we can only imagine the celebration that you will enjoy in Heaven, with all of your family and friends who are there with you! Be sure to watch for all of the balloons coming your way on October 31st! Thank you for being the best son ever! We all miss and love you so very much! We'll see you soon, Angel-cake!

All our love for eternity,
Mommy and Daddy (Zoe and Doris, too!)

~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~

Thank you all, once again, for being here. Thank you for all you do for us. Thank you to all of the faithful guestbook signers! Enjoy your weekend! Fall is here, it has always been my favorite season. Get outside with your family and enjoy the cooler temps. Our time here is so short, make the most of every second. As we have learned, there is nothing more precious than time spent with loved ones. Make that special effort to do just that, spend time with those you love. Do that in memory of Connor. We know that Connor continues to impact lives here. I hope he has impacted yours.....

We love you all,
Rhonda and Eddie, Forever Mommy and Daddy to Connor, our "Bravest Little Trooper!"

---

Friday, October 7, 2005 8:45 AM CDT

Hello family and friends, thanks for checking in! We are blessed to have so many wonderful friends who continue to support us through this journey. By the way, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TODAY TO LINDA MARTIN!

It has been a while since my last update, so let me start by asking for special prayers for some of our friends:

Please keep the Martin family in your prayers, as Kevin continues his battle against cancer. The entire family needs our prayers, Kevin, Linda, Jeci, Ryan, Brandon, Tyler, Karissa, Kevin's parents, and extended family. They are all deeply feeling the toll that cancer takes on families. We were able to attend, last month, the baptism of Kevin, Linda, Jeci, Ryan and Brandon, at their church. What a day that was!

Also, Nikie continues to fight. She has been so strong throughout this, with such a positive outlook. Please keep her, her Mom Cindy, and sister Kayla in your prayers.

I found out yesterday, through Linda Martin that Richie in Nevada has had an apparent relapse of rhabdomyosarcoma. He battled it first back in, I think, 2001, the same year Connor was diagnosed. Then, he relapsed a couple of years ago, and had a stem cell transplant. He has been "cancer-free" for 2 years now. They have found a mass in his stomach, along with a questionable area on his lung. You can read all of the details on his page. His family and the Martin family have been friends since the Martin's lived in Nevada. Richie and Ryan Martin are very good friends. Please pray for Richie to beat the odds!

Since my last update, Eric passed away from rhabdo. He was just shy of his 10th birthday.Rhabdo is a relentless beast, but what people sometimes don't realize is that the cancer doesn't beat the kids, the kids ultimately beat the cancer! They receive their reward for "a job well done, good and faithful servant". I know that Eric has met up with Connor, Cheyenne, Jason, Ian, Chyanna, Felicia and all of the other children gone too soon. Our prayers continue for Eric's Mom and Dad, Kasey and Mike, and his sister, Katy, along with all of his extended family and friends.

The month of September seemed to pass by quickly. On September 16, Nana, Grandma and I took a weekend trip to Indianapolis. My Grandma's cousin, Emma, lived there for many years. She passed away a few years back, so we visited the mausoleum which is her resting place. We enjoyed our little "girl's getaway". On the way back through Louisville, we stopped to visit my great aunt Margot. She was married to my Grandma's brother, Hoyt. Uncle Hoyt passed away the same year Connor was born. She had battled heart problems and cancer for quite some time, and was in the hospital. We had a good visit with her. The following week, Grandma got the call that Aunt Margot had passed away. So, the following Friday, several of us went back up to Louisville for her Memorial service. We were so glad that we had been able to visit with her before she made her Heavenly journey. She leaves behind two daughters, Sylvia and Linda (Ronnie is Linda's husband), two granddaughters, Leslie and Amy, and a great granddaughter, Alyssa, along with many friends. Her sister, Helga, and her family, live in Virginia.

The past week has been filled with many visits, cards, phone calls and gifts from so many, as my birthday was Saturday, October 1st. I am truly blessed. You all made sure that my time was filled. I had dreaded my first birthday since Connor's passing. He always made his Mommy feel so special with his handmade notes, cards and special gifts, along with lots of hugs and kisses. There are a ba-jillion things I miss about Connor. I couldn't even begin to tell you. I did feel his presence throughout my birthday. I know he was sending his love my way. Special thank you's to Nana, Christian and Caitlyn, Lu, Tabitha, Kyla and Brett, Jordan, Elizabeth and Tommy, Susan and Kayli, Linda, Karissa and Jeci, Kathy, Terre and Ashley, Beverly and Victoria, Kathy M., Ann R., and all of you who sent well-wishes my way.

If any of you are in the Hendersonville area, there is a new Memorial Park Plaza adjacent to the Kid's Kingdom and tennis courts by the lake between Sanders Ferry Rd. and Cherokee Dr. You can see the fountain from Gallatin Rd. The circle surrounding the fountain has sections of special bricks purchased in memory or in honor of Military personnel, Policemen and Firemen. The Chief Deputy for Sumner County, Bob Barker, purchased a large brick in memory of Connor, as Connor was an Honorary Goodlettsville Fireman. We are so touched by this gesture of kindness. Thank you, Bob and Connie, for doing this for our precious child! This picture may not show up very well, but I'll add it anyway:

As I have told you before, Eddie and I are on the committee for the Hendersonville Relay For Life for 2006. We are also getting started on helping Gabe's Mom, Lu, on a couple of her projects that she spearheads for Gabe's foundation, Gabe's My Heart. One of those projects is her annual Toy Drive for the children of Vanderbilt Children's Hospital. The toys will be distributed at a Christmas party held at Pump It Up, for kids at the clinic, and for the children who are inpatient on Christmas. If you own a business, or know of someone who does, or if your workplace is willing to participate, and you (or they) are willing to let us put a poster up detailing the toy drive, along with a toy drop-off box, please email me and let me know. Lu has done an outstanding job with this project in the past, and we want to make sure that it is bigger and better than ever this year! There were a couple of Toy Drives held last year in Connor's Memory. Any that may be held this year, we would love to be able to include, In Connor's Memory, in the Gabe's My Heart toy drive. The one thing that needs to be stressed about the toy drive is that NO STUFFED ANIMALS can be accepted, because of the germ factor, and the weakened immune systems of the children in the hospital. The posters will explain all of that. Again, for more info, please email me or Lu (her contact info is on Gabe's page), and we will get back with you. THANK YOU!

Happy Anniversary next week on October 13th to Nana and Poppy!

We are quickly approaching what would be Connor's 11th birthday on October 31st (Halloween). Also, November 1, 2005 will mark ONE YEAR since Connor was called home to Heaven. Yes, we are hurting worse than ever. It is unfathomable to think that he has been gone from our sight for almost a year. I can't bear to even think about it. Each day is getting more difficult as we approach the end of October. Please keep us, along with our family and friends, in your prayers. Please also pray for Connor's friends, as I know they miss him, too. Thank you, Jordan, for my birthday phone call, you have no idea how much that meant to me! I will update before the end of the month with details regarding our plans for honoring Connor on his birthday.

I know there are so many things that I am leaving out. We have been so busy lately, and it seems like so much has happened. I will add things as I think of them.

~~~~~~~~~~CONNOR~~~~~~~~~~

Hi sweetheart, Mommy and Daddy miss you so very much! You have been so busy lately, making sure we notice all of the wonderful signs you send to us. Thank you for letting me, Nana and Grandma know that you were with us in Indianapolis. There was no denying that you were there! Thank you, also, for taking care of Mommy on my birthday. You are the most special Sunshine Boy ever! We love you more than all of the stars in the sky, more than all of the drops of water in the sea. We can't wait to see you! Your birthday is coming up! We are sad that you will not be "here" with us on your birthday, but we can only imagine the celebration that you will enjoy in Heaven, with all of your family and friends who are there with you! Be sure to watch for all of the balloons coming your way on October 31st! Thank you for being the best son ever! We all miss and love you so very much! We'll see you soon, Angel-cake!

All our love for eternity,
Mommy and Daddy (Zoe and Doris, too!)

~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~

Thank you all, once again, for being here. Thank you for all you do for us. Thank you to all of the faithful guestbook signers! Enjoy your weekend! Fall is here, it has always been my favorite season. Get outside with your family and enjoy the cooler temps. Our time here is so short, make the most of every second. As we have learned, there is nothing more precious than time spent with loved ones. Make that special effort to do just that, spend time with those you love. Do that in memory of Connor. We know that Connor continues to impact lives here. I hope he has impacted yours.....

We love you all,
Rhonda and Eddie, Forever Mommy and Daddy to Connor, our "Bravest Little Trooper!"

---

October 6, 2005 8:46 P.M.

I am working on an update. I will try to add it tomorrow.

Thanks for your patience!

We love you all,
Rhonda and Eddie,
Forever Mommy and Daddy To Connor, our "Bravest Little Trooper!"

---

Thursday, August 25, 2005 10:12 PM CDT

September 1, 2005--10 months today since we said goodbye to our Sunshine Boy.....please pray for us and our family. We miss Connor so very much! Thank you!

It is with the heaviest of hearts that I tell you that Jason Archer passed away this afternoon after battling rhabdo for almost 2 years. He, too, lives in Hendersonville. His family needs our prayers and support more than ever. His parents are David and Pam. Today was David's 50th birthday. I so DESPISE cancer, and what it does to families. To think that another family now has to go through this daily pain makes me physically ill. Jason makes the 3rd child, (yes, at 19, he is still a child to his parents)in Hendersonville to pass away to rhabdo in the past year. The first being 12 year old Felicia Dary in August, 2004, then Connor on November 1, 2004, and now Jason. It is so difficult for me to understand with rhabdo being so "rare", how is it that this keeps happening??? I'm not sure when Pam will feel up to posting, so if I hear of the arrangements (probably tomorrow), I will post them here.

Please also keep Kevin Martin and his family in your prayers. Kevin is having more difficulties and is in Vanderbilt. I spoke with Linda today, and he could possibly be there up to 12 more days. Remember, Kevin and Linda have 5 children. Linda is amazing, keeping up with everything. Please pray for Kevin to heal up, so that he can go back home and be with his entire family.

I went tonight to the first Relay For Life committee meeting here in Hendersonville. Eddie didn't get home from work in time to go, but we are both planning to get involved on the committee for the 2006 Relay. We are excited about it, and know that Connor will be right with us, guiding us along. He is our strength and inspiration. We also will be involved in the Portland Relay, with Nana's team from her work. They have always been so good to us!

I want to thank the person who left the beautiful note to Connor and the "Connor" charms for me at the mausoleum. It meant so much to me, I hope you know that. I just love it when Connor has visitors at his resting place. Also, a HUGE thank you to Kevin and Linda's son, Brandon. Linda, Brandon and Karissa came over on Tuesday night to hang out with us for a while. When they got ready to leave, they had planned to go by the mausoleum, but it was closed for the day. Brandon went out to the car and brought back his game ball from the state championship game that he played in a few weeks ago. He had written "To Connor, From Brandon" on it, and wanted us to take it and leave it at the mausoleum for Connor. How sweet is that??? He had to be so proud to get that ball after his game, yet he wants Connor to have it. It touched my heart beyond belief. THANK YOU, BRANDON! Connor is smiling down on you, for sure!

I know there is more that I need to write, but I am tired and ready for bed. I mainly needed to tell you about Jason and about Kevin. Please remember all of our friends in your prayers who are fighting their own battles with the relentless cancer beast. Nikie and Eric are both fighting so hard right now, as well. Please also remember those parents who no longer have their child here with them. Please never mistakenly think that time makes it all better, that is just not the case. My heart will never be whole again until I can hold my baby in my arms. Each day brings fresh pain. But, each day also brings beautiful memories and all the reminders Connor sends to us. Nothing can take those away!

~~~~~~~~~~

Connor,

Hey sweetheart! I know you have greeted Jason by now! I am so glad that the two of you met here a couple of different times. That way you already know each other there in Heaven. I know you are already having a blast together, I hear he is really good at the video games, so you may have met your match! We can't wait until the day when we get to join you, Connor. Please keep a watch out for us. I heard the "Creed" song yesterday and thought of you with the lyrics--"With arms wide open, under the sunlight--welcome to this place, I'll show you everything..." I can just imagine you standing there with your arms wide open, with that gorgeous smile on your face, meeting us at the gate, anxious to show us everything. Thoughts like that bring a smile to my face. We love you more than anything in the entire universe, angel-cake, and will FOREVER! We'll see you soon!

All our love,
Mommy and Daddy

Zoe and Doris miss you so much, keep a watch over them, as well!

~~~~~~~~~~

Enjoy your weekend everyone! Please remember the Archer family, and pray for the pain they are now experiencing. As I've said a thousand times before---do not take one single second for granted, as things can change in the blink of an eye. Do not wait to tell your loved ones how much they mean to you, you may not get the opportunity "tomorrow". Cherish your family and friends. Make sure that Christ is the center of your life. Without the hope of eternal life, we have nothing.

Peace to all, and may God bless us all!

We love you,
Rhonda and Eddie, Forever Mommy and Daddy to Connor, the "Bravest Little Trooper!"

---

Monday, August 1, 2005 7:05 PM CDT

Hello family and friends, thanks for checking in. It is with heavy heart that I relay the news to you that Sadie Grace passed away yesterday, Sunday, July 31, 2005. She has fought her entire life with seizures of unknown origin, and she has been through so much. It is so difficult to comprehend how this can happen to a child. Sadie Grace was only 2 years old, and had battled this since she was 7 weeks old. Connor was in the hospital the first time Sadie Grace was brought in. The connection between our families' is that my dear friend Christian's mom (Meme Jewel) is best friends with Sadie Grace's grandmother, Marsha. Please keep Sadie Grace's Mommy and Daddy, Cyndi and Scott, and her grandparents, Marsha and Jimmy, and the rest of the family in your prayers, especially in the coming days. Sadie Grace's Memorial Service will be held Wednesday, August 3rd, at 3:00 p.m. at Hendersonville First Baptist Church, with visitation 2 hours prior to the service. We are truly heartbroken for this precious family, as they now begin the journey of living without Sadie Grace with them. We know all too well the feelings they must be experiencing. As soon as Christian called me on Sunday to tell me the news, I went to the mausoleum and had a long talk with Connor. I am certain that he was waiting at Heaven's gates for Princess Sadie Grace, and is now showing her what it means to be a child, as they explore all the glory of Heaven! May God shelter them both, and all of the other Caring Bridge children, as we all await our reunions!

"Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted."
Matthew 5:4 KJV


Another urgent prayer request that I must make is for Patty, Chance's Mom. Most of you know what an inspiration Chance has been to so many children through Caring Bridge, including Connor. He has always been there, ready to offer up prayers and ask for prayer requests for everyone except himself. Now we must all step up to the plate and be there for them. Patty has been diagnosed with inoperable cancer, and is not doing well. Please, please pray for this family, and visit their page and send them some words of support. I know that Chance and his sister, Angel, are probably so scared right now, as Patty is a single parent. She has devoted EVERYTHING to these children.

Yes, today does mark 9 months since we last held Connor in our arms. It seems impossible that I am still able to breathe, and that my heart is still functioning without him here. I can't possibly imagine any worse pain than the pain of losing your child or grandchild. It is a pain that never ever goes away. It is with you every moment of every day. There is no way to explain the anguish of waking up to each new day and realizing that your child is no longer sleeping in his or her bedroom down the hall.

Following are a couple of poems included in a book entitled: Remembering With Love by Elizabeth Leang, Ph.D. and Sherokee Ilse.

~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~

We Remember Them--from Gates Of Prayer, Reform Judaism Prayerbook

In the rising of the sun, and in it's going down.....
We remember them.

In the blowing of the wind, and in the chill of winter....
We remember them.

In the opening of buds, and in the warmth of summer....
We remember them.

In the rustling of leaves, and the beauty of Autumn....
We remember them.

In the beginning of the year, and when it ends....
We remember them.

When we are weary and in need of strength....
We remember them.

When we are lost and sick at heart....
We remember them.

When we have joys we yearn to share....
We remember them.

So long as we live, they too shall live,
for they are now a part of us as....

We remember them.

~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~

I'm So Glad You Came
by: Jane Peterson
In memory of her daughter,
Colleen Kryder Murphy.

I'm so glad you came
For I will always know your light
In my hands;
Always.

And the power of your leaving
Was exquisite.
A kind of profound silence.
I will always be able to recall it
In a moment;
Always.

But I am so glad you came.
So incredibly honored
To have known you at all.
I will always know your light
In my hands,
And in a blink, I will see it;
Always.

~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~
O.K., to lighten things up a bit, I will share more picture stories. The main photo on Connor's journal page, directly underneath "Our Greatest Joy and Blessing!", was taken in November, 2002, outside The Old Mill Restaurant in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Those of you who have been to the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge area probably know how wonderful The Old Mill is. Connor loved it, and so did we. I think his smile says it all, as the picture was taken AFTER we had eaten. The picture of Connor on the surfboard was taken at Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure in Orlando, last May, 2004. Some of you probably recognize that very surfboard, as it is a favorite photo-op for tourists. Connor in the General Lee was taken at Cooter's Place in Gatlinburg, in November, 2002. Connor is a HUGE Duke's of Hazzard fan, so that was always our first stop as we drove into Gatlinburg. If Connor was still here, he would be so excited that Cooter has now opened a store in the Music Valley area around the Opryland Hotel, about 20 minutes from where we live. The family photo was taken at Meme Jewel's house in Hendersonville. Christian and Meme, with Caitlyn, Will and Nicole's help, hosted an end-of-treatment party for Connor after his first bout with rhabdo, back in September, 2002. I think it is apparent in all of our faces the joy we felt at having finished treatment, with the hope of a cancer-free future ahead. Don't get me wrong, we weren't ignorant to the chance of a recurrence, we just were elated at having finally gotten a year of hard treatment behind Connor. The Connor and Basko photo was taken at AngelHeart Farm (link below) back in the Spring of 2002, a few months into treatment. Tracy at AngelHeart uses this photo on her brochures, and is currently having a bronze statue made in the likeness of the photo. We have had more comments on that particular picture than any other. I think it conveys so many words about Connor's battle, without a word at all, if that makes sense. The Connor the Fireman photo was taken in February, 2003. That night was a Chamber of Commerce meeting and we were invited by the Goodlettsville Fire Department. That was the night they made Connor an Honorary Goodlettsville Fireman. We had just found out earlier in the day that Connor had relapsed (the first relapse). We are so thankful to the GFD for all they did for Connor, and for our family. Was Connor not the most handsome Fireman EVER in that picture?!? The last photo on the journal page is self-explanatory. Yes, Christmas, 2002, Connor was going on three months being cancer-free, life was just starting to return to some kind of "normal". He was so happy in that picture, it makes me happy to look at that smile.

I will close with that. Please remember our other friends (links in the last journal) in your prayers as well. Linda and Kevin Martin are hosting a fundraiser for the Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center tomorrow night, August 2, at Twelve Stones in Goodlettsville. We will be there, and I am hoping to meet some of you there, as well. Kevin really needs our prayers now, as does the entire family.

Have a good week, everyone. My Mom's (Connor's Nana) birthday is Thursday, August 4th. Happy, happy birthday Mom, you ARE the best Mom in the entire world! A happy 1st birthday to Colby! We were able to attend his birthday party over the weekend. His birthday is actually August 4th, as well.

Cherish each moment, savor the sunshine, enjoy the rain, count your blessings, thank God everyday FOR your blessings, say "I Love You" without hesitation, share a smile, help someone in need, be kind to everyone you encounter, be thankful, hug those children and make them KNOW they are loved beyond words, and live each day as if it is your last, make sure you are ready, just in case it is!

********** ********** **********
Connor,

It's Mommy again, I guess I wear your ear out, don't I buddy?? I miss you so very much! I know that you are going to take good care of Sadie Grace until her family gets there. Remember, she is a princess, no 4-wheeling in the go-cart. A ride is fine, just, please, not in the mud, O.K.? Sweetheart, I hope you know how very much I love you. I would have gladly taken your sickness from you in a heartbeat, if I could've. Yet, I know that doesn't concern you anymore, as you are free to do all you want to now, without any hinderances. Thank you for the hard wind for the "Connor" windchimes this afternoon as I was praying, I know you are always with me, my Sunshine Boy! Thanks for always sharing your strength with me, Mommy is nowhere near as strong as you! I love you sweetie-pie, Mommy will see you soon, save my place!

All my love,
Mommy

********** ********** **********

Peace to all, and may God bless us all!

We love you,
Rhonda and Eddie, Forever Mommy and Daddy to Connor, the "Bravest Little Trooper!"

---

Tuesday, July 26, 2005 10:50 PM CDT

Hello family and friends, thanks for checking in! Please continue to keep Ryan's family in your prayers, as they have had his funeral service, but are now preparing for a Memorial Service/Celebration of Life to be held in Clarksville on August 13th, 2005. We know, all too well, the road they are now travelling, and we KNOW they need prayers.

Someone had written in the guestbook awhile back that they wish they knew the details of the pictures of Connor that I used in his border, so I thought I would share that with you. The picture of Connor in the blue t-shirt was made in front of the house where we lived up until 3 months ago. It was made in June or July of 2004. It was just a care-free day for Connor, riding his bike in the neighborhood, when I stopped him long enough to snap the picture. The second picture is of Connor in his new go-cart, right after he got it. Some of you probably remember, Eddie's workplace, Kellogg's/Keebler, sent us on a 10 day trip to Florida as soon as they found out about Connor's second relapse. We arrived home on Saturday, May 29, 2004. Connor had always asked me if he could have a go-cart, and my usual response was "when you get older". When the guys at Eddie's work asked us, other than the trip, what was the one thing that Connor wanted more than anything?, of course, the first thing would be to NOT BE SICK ANYMORE. But since we knew that was in God's hands, the second thing was a go-cart. When you get the news that your child is now considered terminal, all you want to do is make every day happier than the one before, at all costs. So, we arrived home that evening, went into the house, then lured Connor into the garage, where the shiny new go-cart awaited him. The shock on his face was priceless, it is a glorious moment that I will never forget. Anyway, that smile in that photo was one of the most genuine smiles ever! Another big thank you to Kellogg's for helping make Connor's dreams come true! The third picture of a beautifully bald Connor was taken in the clinic. You can't really tell by the photo, but he was walking around the clinic with his backpack on backwards. He was always trying to make others laugh, and he was always successful. The fourth picture was taken on the deep-sea fishing adventure that we took on May 28, 2004, from Port Canaveral, next to Cocoa Beach. Connor (and us!) had so much fun that day. That is one trip that I am so thankful that we took together as a family. I actually zoomed in on the photo to get the close-up of Connor's smile, but if I had zoomed out, you would've been able to see that Connor was standing next to the Captain of the boat, and the Captain was holding the fish that Connor caught. I love that picture, because of the wonderful memories of that day, and how much fun we had. Connor never did anything half-way. I have learned so much from him!

July 13th was my Grandma "Cass"'s birthday. We all met at Cracker Barrel and had a wonderful meal together along with birthday cake and a homemade Oreo ice cream pie that my cousin, Kyla (Brett's Mommy) made. Yum, yum yum! Happy birthday, Grandma, we all love you very much!

July 16th was Eddie's 20 year high school class reunion. A couple of his friends and their spouses came to our house before hand to visit, then we all proceeded to the reunion together. It was actually at a country club about a 1/2 mile from our house, how convenient! We had a good time, Eddie enjoyed seeing all of his former classmates, and I made some new friends, as well.

As I had added to my last journal, please, please keep Sadie Grace and her family in your prayers. She has struggled since the age of 7 weeks, after having a major seizure. Connor was in the hospital when she was brought in for the first time. She is now home on Hospice care, and I believe she has Kiersten, Connor's wonderful hospice nurse. Thank you for the prayers for them, and I know they certainly appreciate them.

I want to keep the following links in here, so that you can visit the following sites to offer encouragement and prayers:

Kevin Martin--husband of my friend, Linda, and Father to 5 beautiful children. Please pray that this current chemo will work on destroying those cancer cells.

Nikie--Nikie and her Mom, Cindy, and sister, Kayla, are on a 2 week trip at this time. Nikie wanted to go the the Mall of America in Minneapolis, and also to New York City, as she has relatives there. Please pray for a pain-free trip, and a safe return home.

Jason--He continues to struggle with rhabdo, he really needs encouragement, as does his family.

Eric--another of our friends with rhabdo. Please pray for pain control, and a peace which surpasses all understanding for the entire family.

Also, a little girl by the name of Hannah, who goes to our church, has had a scare over the weekend, as she and her family were told that she has cancer in her arm. Hannah is 8 years old. After a biopsy yesterday, they are now thinking that it MAY NOT be cancer after all. They should know something more definite in a day or two. Please keep them in your prayers, as I know all the feelings they went through hearing the "C" word, and those are feelings that no child, or parent, should ever have to feel.

We want to wish our buddy, Gabe, a wonderful time on his trip to DisneyWorld and the Sea Lions! We wish you luck in finding Connor's star in the castle at Give Kids the World! Have a blast, little buddy, you deserve it! Tell Woody, Buzz, and Chip 'N Dale, "Hi" from Connor, they were his favorites!

Thank you all, once again, for being here for us. Thank you to those of you who still sign the guestbook. I know that some of you read faithfully, and can't think of the words to say, that is O.K., too. Just knowing you are here means so much to us. Please keep us in your prayers. The days are getting more difficult as time goes by. There are reminders of Connor everywhere. That is always a good thing, but the pain in our hearts never ceases, as we think of all the things that