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gosha03 <gosha03>
TQgkgEIpBPTR, jMpZCJVGpP zBConVvbx - Friday, February 13, 2009 0:54 AM CST
You probably are not even reading this anymore because your life has become so busy. You were just here for Aunt Amy's funeral and it was so great to see all of you. Just wanted you to know how much we enjoyed your visit and just know we really miss seeing all of you. The boys have grown so much! Athena, you are amazing! You are doing a great job with everything that is on your plate! Keep up the good work....Love always, Chris
Chris Sarantinos <sarantinos@sbcglobal.net>
San Jose, Ca USA - Wednesday, August 22, 2007 11:01 PM CDT

Paulina and Andrew
Paulina Jump <caljump@msn.com >
Sparta, Ky USA - Tuesday, May 15, 2007 7:59 AM CDT
Congrats on your 1 yr. studies, the removal of the central line, and only 1 med. HOORAY!!!
I am still here in Durham with my son Cooper who is 6 months post transplant. I can totally relate to your journal entries as Cooper is the youngest of my 3 boys too! I also believe 'the brothers' have been the best medicine for Cooper and am so proud of how well he is doing. I needed a little boost from someone who has so recently been there of how close we are. I am getting anxious for more of our limitations to be lifted. Big brothers Connor and Cayden are also excited to share a bath or jump into the pool with their waterbaby brother!
Keep up all the good work...you are such a terrific role model for us!
Shannon...Cooper's MOM
caringbridge/visit/cooperrieg.com
shannon rieg <shannon.rieg@hotmail.com>
- Thursday, August 31, 2006 2:24 AM CDT

THE JELLY BEAN PRAYER
Red is for the blood He gave.
Yellow is for His son so bright.
Black is for the sins we made.
Purple is for His hours of sorrow.
Green is for the grass He made.
Orange is for the moon at night.
White is for the grace He gave.
Pink is for our new tomorrow.
A bag full of jellybeans,
Colorful & sweet,
Is a prayer, Is a promise, Is a small treat.
Remember Jesus when you eat the jellybeans.

Praying for you,
Barb, John, Shawn,
Shannon, & Colleen
www.caringbridge.org/page/shannon
Barb
- Wednesday, April 5, 2006 2:47 PM CDT

PRAYER BEARS WEBSITE
Alicia, John, Ciara, Hunter & ^^Angel^^ Tommy - BENNETT CHILDREN'S JOURNAL <mps3mom@hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, March 14, 2006 1:17 PM CST


Alicia, John, Ciara, Hunter & ^^Angel^^ Tommy BENNETT CHILDREN'S JOURNAL <mps3mom@hotmail.com>
- Sunday, February 12, 2006 8:55 PM CST
Happy Birthday Luke!!!!

Dana Sanford
^i^Angels on Earth^i^ <Aunty.Dana@Gmail.com>
Spring Arbor, MI - Wednesday, January 11, 2006 0:37 AM CST
Happy Birthday Luke!! Hope it's GREAT!! God bless and *warm hugs* ><><><

*Jennifer C* from Angels on Earth <coopsie78@gmail.com>
Eugene, OR USA - Tuesday, January 10, 2006 2:39 PM CST

Angela -Heather's site
- Monday, January 9, 2006 5:48 PM CST


Alicia, John, Ciara, Hunter & ^^Angel^^ Tommy BENNETT CHILDREN'S JOURNAL <mps3mom@hotmail.com>
- Sunday, January 1, 2006 8:17 PM CST

Alicia, John, Ciara, Hunter & ^^Angel^^ Tommy BENNETT CHILDREN'S JOURNAL <mps3mom@hotmail.com>
- Thursday, November 24, 2005 1:13 AM CST

Alicia, John, Ciara, Hunter & ^^Angel^^ Tommy BENNETT CHILDREN'S JOURNAL <mps3mom@hotmail.com>
- Monday, October 10, 2005 10:10 AM CDT
HELLO! HOPE EVERYONE IS DOING FINE. HOPING THAT SOON YOU WILL GIVE US N UPDATE ON LUKE. I LOOK INTO HIS JOURNAL ONCE A MONTH.
MY DAUGHTER WAS THE 13TH SANFILLIPO KID TRANSPLANTED BUT IN FLORIDA
TAKE CARE
CARMEN M. CAMACHO <MARGIEAPPLE@YAHOO.COM>
INTERLACHEN, FL - Tuesday, October 4, 2005 3:05 PM CDT
I'm just stopping by to say hi and let you know that I'm thinking of you! God bless and *warm hugs* ><><><

*Jennifer C* from Angels on Earth <jenniferc@ilovetocolor.com>
Eugene, OR USA - Tuesday, September 27, 2005 10:06 PM CDT
www.postpals.co.uk
Love
Sue
xxxxx
Sue <orangejammies@hotmail.co.uk>
Colchester, Essex, England - Saturday, September 3, 2005 9:37 AM CDT

Alicia, John, Ciara, Hunter, & ^^Angel^^ Tommy BENNETT CHILDREN'S JOURNAL <mps3mom@hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, August 9, 2005 10:58 AM CDT


Love Viks
viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Monday, August 8, 2005 11:06 AM CDT
Hi Luke

Love
Sue
xxxxxx







www.postpals.co.uk
Sue <orangejammies@hotmail.co.uk>
Colchester, Essex, England - Monday, May 30, 2005 7:01 PM CDT

Alicia , Ciara, Hunter & ^^Angel^^ Tommy www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys <Lumberhead@twinwolf.net>
- Saturday, March 26, 2005 12:12 AM CST

HAPPY EASTER!!!!
ANDREW'S WORLD
Paulina and Andrew Jump MPS III B <caljump@msn.com>
Sparta, Ky USA - Saturday, March 26, 2005 8:31 AM CST
HAPPY EASTER LOVE WWW.POSTPALS.CO.UK

Post Pals <info@postpals.co.uk>
- Friday, March 25, 2005 9:20 AM CST

Blessedly Peaceful Easter to you! from, www.caringbridge.org/page/shannon

Barb
- Wednesday, March 23, 2005 2:47 PM CST
Hi Sarantino Family!
How's Luke doing these days?
Thinking about you...
The Nicoll's
Doug, Tracie, Angel Douglas and Cam <tracienicoll@adelhpia.net>
Colorado Springs, CO USA - Tuesday, March 22, 2005 8:57 PM CST

Always LOVE
Dave's Site <brurka@shaw.ca>
Edmonton,Alberta Canada, - Saturday, March 12, 2005 2:44 AM CST

Sending some Irish Luck & lots of (((((hugs))))),too!
God Bless,
www.caringbridge.org/page/shannon
Barb
- Monday, March 7, 2005 3:25 PM CST
HAPPY VALENTINES DAY I hope that your day will be really funfilled. Jesus loves you,Monica
Monica Martin <monie48m@lycos.com>
Livingston, Louisiana USA - Monday, February 14, 2005 10:38 AM CST

I just figured out how to do this!
God Bless,
www.caringbridge.org/page/shannon
Barb
- Thursday, February 10, 2005 4:54 PM CST

Always remember, Angel Jen loves you and will continue to pray for God's blessing for you!
Pray for me too!!!
Angel Jen
angel jen <angel.jen@mymacs.org>
Burns, TN USA - Monday, January 31, 2005 5:25 PM CST

~ Happiness is something that is never far away
It's as close as the things we do and say.
So start out the day with a smile on your face,
And make this world a happier place.~
By...~Anonymous~
IF YOU'RE HAPPY, CLICK HERE

God bless you, 
angel jen
Care Mail Group Website and KIDS and TEENS/TWEENS and Sites #1 and #2
Angel Jen's niece, Harley & friend, Barrett GIRLS and finally meet ANGEL JEN

Angel Jen < caremailnews@yahoo.com>
Burns, TN USA - Thursday, January 13, 2005 6:15 PM CST
Happy Birthday Luke!!!!


Dana Sanford ♥.:*จจ*:.Friends of Allie .:*จจ*:.♥ <Aunty.Dana@Gmail.com>
Spring Arbor, Mi - Monday, January 10, 2005 10:42 PM CST
Happy Birthday, Luke...
Have a wonderful day!
Love, hugs, and forever moving FORWARD...
Eva and Rodney <KWfan4ever@yahoo.com>
www.caringbridge.org/mi/rodneyreeves, - Sunday, January 9, 2005 4:56 PM CST
Merry Christmas to you all!
Harmen, Jan and Jacomien <jacomienwichers@planet.nl>
Haren, The Netherlands - Saturday, December 25, 2004 3:44 AM CST

Love
Viks
viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Saturday, November 13, 2004 9:26 PM CST
Hello athena it's been a long time it's Aida Adelina's mom i am checking up on the web-sites and writing a little something for everyone i'm soooo happy to hear that Luke is still doing so good GOD BLESS and that is so great to hear what almost 2 years after, how's everything with you and the boys and hubby tell the family i say hi well as for me just working trying to keep in there i opened a store in memory of Adelina it's a kids clothing store and the name is Adelina's Boutique and i'm working it hard also my daughter is 1year and 4 months already she looks soooo much like her sister but the only thing is that she has dirty blonde hair and this one is a tough tough cookie with attitude and all i love her sooo much even though there is no comparison because you know how much i love Adelina she is the love of my life, well girly the holidays are coming around hope u have a Merry one and please keep in touch.
Love Aida And Luis (oh yhea he says hi)
Aida <adelinadelis@aol.com>
meriden, ct New haven - Saturday, November 6, 2004 11:03 AM CST
HEY! MY DAUGHTER IS ZULIEKA MORA AND SHE JUST GOT TRANSPLANTED ON 10/27/04. SHE IS THE FIRST ONE TRANSPLANTED IN FLORIDA. ZULI CAME RIGHT AFTER ANNABELLE WHICH WAS IN NORTH CAROLINA. I WOULD LIKE TO READ AN UPDATE ON YOUR JOURNAL REGARDING LUKE. HOPE ALL IS WELL GOD BLESS!
CARMEN M. CAMACHO <MARGIEAPPLE@YAHOO.COM>
INTERLACHEN, FL PUTNAM - Monday, November 1, 2004 12:38 AM CST
George and Athena, I would love to read an update on Luke's progress. I hope he is doing well. Your story is such an encouragement to me. I have a 3 year old granddaughter with Sanfilippo. Lauren is at Duke now, preparing for her stem cell transplant. Thank you for helping to pioneer this promising treatment. I wish you the best. You are in my prayers.
Donna Reed <lauren@azdonna.com>
Mesa, AZ - Friday, October 8, 2004 3:09 PM CDT
Hi Luke & Family,
It is great to hear you are doing so good. We are grandparents of a little girl Lauren who is 3 1/2 and has sanflippo A. We plan to take her to Duke. We know the Lord was with you and your family, and he will be there for Lauren. Good luck with your school.
Bonnie Shockley <bonshockley@aol.com>
Gilbert, Az USA - Monday, September 13, 2004 7:56 PM CDT
Hello luke and Family
My name is Jenna and I came across your website. You are an inspiration and a Fighter. I go to UNC Hospital in Chaple Hill North Carolina, and we stay in Durham when we go down to see my doctor. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
www.caringbridge.org/canada/jenna
Jenna <hockeykid@telus.net>
Kamloops, BC Canada - Sunday, August 29, 2004 0:11 AM CDT
Great news Luke,
Keep up the good work, grow strong and bright. Prove that the transplant is going to work.
Jeanne and "Taylor" Blair <jbbbtbbb@cox.net or caringbridge.org/va/taylor_blair>
Va Beach, Va USA - Tuesday, August 24, 2004 3:16 PM CDT

Alicia , Ciara, Hunter & ^^Angel^^ Tommy www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys <Lumberhead@twinwolf.net>
- Sunday, August 22, 2004 12:56 AM CDT
Dear Luke,
We hope you are doing well, very well and that you are busy enjoying life! You must have grown a lot since the last time we saw you at Duke with your mother. We think of you often and hope we will see eachother again one day. Love and big hugs from all of us!
Harmen, Jan and Jacomien <jacomienwichers@planet.nl>
Haren, Groningen The Netherlands - Friday, August 6, 2004 2:15 AM CDT


Alicia & ^^Angel^^ Tommy www.caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys <Lumberhead@twinwolf.net>
- Sunday, July 4, 2004 10:34 AM CDT

Ivy & Cameron <ivyjivy@yahoo.com>
lynnwood, wa usa - Saturday, May 8, 2004 2:31 PM CDT
Mothers Day Prayer
I Pray for you that on this special Mothers day,
God fills your heart in a truley beautiful way.
And may, He in His reach from heaven above,
Flow the wonderful family spirit, of His love.
I pray He grant, truley sweet and Angelic care,
That you may know, He is, always there.
I pray within God's great vast Love for you
In life, daily onward, In all that you may do,
You feel His love, His strength, His peace,
This Mothers Day blesses a spiritual release.
Have a Blessed Mothers Day
Chris Ullrich - Bella's Grammy <c_ullrich@msn.com, caringbridge.com/page/isabellaledesma>
- Thursday, May 6, 2004 7:35 PM CDT
Happy Easter Love Everyone at Post Pals

viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Saturday, April 10, 2004 1:39 PM CDT
Sending prayers & blessed Easter wishes to you!
God Bless,
www.caringbridge.org/page/shannon
Barb
- Saturday, April 10, 2004 11:28 AM CDT
Hi to Athena, George, and Luke and Family. Annabell, Jennifer (Annabelle's mother) and Christine (Annabelle's grandmother) are at Duke for the cord blood transplant. Annnabelle will be admited 4/11 or 4/12 04 at Duke. Annabelle's workup is completed. We are waiting for my cold and Annabelle's cold to go away to began the transplant. I will keep a journal for updates about Annabelle's progress. www.caringbridge.org/id/annabellegree or www.saveannabelle.org I would like to meet you when you come to Duke for Luke's check up. Please write, my E-Mail is barrietua@velocitus.net Have a great Easter Christine Barrietua
Christine Barrietua <barrietua@velocitus.net>
Boise, ID Ada - Saturday, April 3, 2004 9:13 PM CST
Hi to Athena, George, and Luke and Family. Annabell, Jennifer (Annabelle's mother) and Christine (Annabelle's grandmother) are at Duke for the cord blood transplant. Annnabelle will be admited 4/11 or 4/12 04 at Duke. Annabelle's workup is completed. We are waiting for my cold and Annabelle's cold to go away to began the transplant. I will keep a journal for updates about Annabelle's progress. www.caringbridge.org/id/annabellegree or www.saveannabelle.org I would like to meet you when you come to Duke for Luke's check up. Please write, my E-Mail is barrietua@velocitus.net Have a great Easter Christine Barrietua
Christine Barrietua <barrietua@velocitus.net>
Boise, ID Ada - Saturday, April 3, 2004 9:13 PM CST
Hello, Some jokes for you today,
What's a teddy bears favourite pasta ?
Tagliateddy !
Why shouldn't you take a bear to the zoo ?
Because they'd rather go to the cinema !
What is a bear's favourite drink ?
Koka-Koala !
Love Viks

viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Monday, March 15, 2004 6:17 AM CST
Happy Valentines Day from Christine And Annabelle. Annabelle has Type A Sanfilippio. We are fundrasing for Annabelle's cord blood transplant at Duke. $35.000.00 so far. I tried to Email you but failed. Annabelle' is 25 months and has only a few more months left until it will be too late for transplant. Annabelle's Web sight www.saveannabelle.org or www.cota.org or www.caringbridge.org/id/annabellegreen. Please leave me a line. I will try to call or Email again Christine Barrietua 208-343-7322
Christine Barrietua <barrietua@velocitus.net>
Boise, ID Ada - Tuesday, February 17, 2004 0:45 AM CST

Happy Valentines Day, From Everyone at Post Pals
Emma <emma_hoole@hotmail.com>
London, - Sunday, February 15, 2004 9:09 AM CST
I haven't signed in here for quite some time, but that does not mean I have forgotten you. As of your last update, it sounds like things are going very well. I hope that continues to be the case and that your holidays were wonderful. I pray for wonderful blessings for you in this new year.
Khalita My Caringbridge Site Duke Peds BMT Aplastic Anemia <khalita@hecaresonline.org>
Lexington, NC - Tuesday, January 20, 2004 12:45 AM CST
Hope you have a great day!!
Patty-mom to Joey <lucky43560@aol.com>
Long Island, NY USA - Saturday, January 10, 2004 9:26 AM CST
Ahem................
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU,
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU,
HAPPY BIRTHDAY SUPER LUKE,
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
~*~*~*Here's to the most wonderful birthday EVER! May you have a wonderful day filled with laughter, love and presents.*~*~*~
Sending lots and lots of BIG 'Happy Birthday' hugs and MUCH love your way!!!
~*~*~*My Little Monkey*~*~*~
Shannon <humphity319@aol.com>
- Saturday, January 10, 2004 1:10 AM CST
Athena, George, Georgie, Evan and Luke-
Happy New Year! I just got in from my mailbox to find a Christmas card from you all. I'm sure I don't need to tell you, but the difference in Luke is simply unbelievable. He looks so happy and healthy; it brought tears to my eyes to see him looking so wonderful. I hope all is going well with you all and that 2004 brings you continued happiness and health.
Take care!
Lauren
Lauren McQueen <lam15@duke.edu>
Durham, NC USA - Friday, January 2, 2004 2:35 PM CST
Dear Athena ,George and Family
Savvas and i would like to send to you our warmest wishes for the New Year. May 2004 bring health and happiness to all of you!
Love, Marianna.
Savvas-Marianna Koumpouras <ermiskub@yahoo.gr>
Lamia, Greece - Thursday, January 1, 2004 7:45 AM CST
Athena: I enjoyed talking to you. I am Annabelle Green's grandmother. Annabelle's tests are being sent to Duke right now and we will wait for Duke's evulation for the cord blood transplant (Dr. K. so far thinks Annabelle is ok for transplant). Annabelle is at age level and is using 2-3 words sentences. Her birthday is 12/27/03 and she will be two. We began fund rasing through COTA November 2, 2003. To date we have 10,000.00 raised. We have to raise 600.000.00 to begin transplant and another 400.ooo.00 I hope and pray we can do it. We have a long ways to go. Annabelle's web sight is www.cota.org go to current campains, than Annabelle Green. COTA said this is one of the bigest amounts they have seen. My web is cbarrietua@yahoo.com Send me your EMail and I will send you a flyer about Annabelle. You can call me anytime 208-343-7322. Thanks christine
Christine Barrietua <cbarrietua@yahoo.com>
Boise, ID Ada - Friday, December 26, 2003 3:21 AM CST
Merry Christmas and a happy 2004!
We hope the new year will bring you all good health.
Love
Harmen, Jan and Jacomien <janprakken@aol.com>
Durham, - Wednesday, December 24, 2003 11:19 PM CST
Merry Christmas you guys, hoping 2004 brings much love and happiness and health!
Chris ~ Gooch's Site ~
- Wednesday, December 24, 2003 10:46 PM CST
Luke and Family!
We're stopping by to let you know that we think of you often. We pray that this Christmas will bring you laughter and smiles.
Merry Christmas,
The Bowman's
www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewshope <Ahope4drew@aol.com>
- Wednesday, December 24, 2003 9:57 AM CST

Love everyone at Post Pals
Cori <info@postpals.co.uk>
- Tuesday, December 23, 2003 2:57 AM CST
Dearest Luke
I gently wrap warm thoughts of you
in my little christmas prayers
For Heaven to smile on you
For Angels to watch over you
and the love of Jesus to fill your heart
Have A Merry Christmas
God Bless You And Your Family This Holiday
Chris Ullrich - Grand daughter dx with AML M5 <c_ullrich@msn.com, www.caringbridge.com/page/isabellaledesma>
Hemingford, Ne USA - Wednesday, December 17, 2003 10:40 AM CST
Hey guys!
WOW I cannot believe it has been so long since you all were here! I am sorry I missed you the last time you were in Durham- things have been crazy with me and this medical school process! I did have my first interview last week though, and it went well (or so I think!). Anyway, YEAH LUKE! I am so happy to hear the good news- if anyone deserves it, it's you.
A big hello and Georgie and Evan of course! Luke, keep up the good work- you are such an awesome little guy!
Love, Lauren
Lauren McQueen <lam15@duke.edu>
Durham, NC - Thursday, October 30, 2003 7:52 AM CST
How exciting that his immune studies came back at 100% - and he doesn't need a line or a port!!! There is light at the end of the tunnel! Hooray for your family and Luke that you can get back into normal life!!
Thank you for the dinner and gift when Douglas died. It meant a lot to hear from you!! Take care.
Way to go Luke!! Keep up the good work little buddy!!
Doug, Tracie, Angel Douglas, Cam and Mama Jane <trc871@aol.com>
Colorado Springs, CO USA - Monday, October 27, 2003 3:27 PM CST
Glad to read that Luke is progressing well and your family is doing fun things. I do not sign in often but follow your journal as often as I can.
Ivy www.caringbridge.org/wa/cameronboyd
ivy <poisenivj@aol.com>
lynnwood, wa usa - Saturday, September 20, 2003 3:25 AM CDT
I am so happy to see an update. I miss you and will call soon. There just never seems to be enough hours in the day. I am so happy for Luke and continue to pray for his great progress.
Angie
Sumner, WA - Thursday, September 11, 2003 1:31 PM CDT
George and Athena- Great news on Luke! All well here in Beantown. Thinking about you guys. Dave/Lyn/Will/Jordan
Dave McCarthy <lynjmac@aol.com>
wellesley, ma - Saturday, August 30, 2003 5:34 PM CDT
Hello,
YEAH!!! No more lines!!! How exciting, Luke gets to go to school, he is going to have a wonderful time with all of the kids. Keep up the good work Buddy!
Alicia & Tommy Bennett http://caringbridge.org/ca/bennettboys/ and www.helpachild.net <Lumberhead@twinwolf.net>
- Thursday, August 28, 2003 8:44 PM CDT
It is so wonderful to hear such good progress for Luke! We think of you often & always keep you all in our most special prayers! God Bless All!
www.caringbridge.org/page/shannon
Barb
- Monday, August 25, 2003 12:52 AM CDT

Dana Sanford <pooh_n_tigger2002@yahoo.com>
Jackson, MI - Sunday, August 17, 2003 11:22 PM CDT
Hi George, Athena, and family ,
I read some of your recent history about Luke. It was uplifting to read about Luke's progress and how you are enjoying all your boys. Wondferful news. Someday, George will be coaching his sons in Little League, and that will be "icing on the cake". 7/27/03
Dan and Jan Karsh <kjanndann@cox.net>
San Diego, California USA - Sunday, July 27, 2003 4:00 PM CDT
Just checking in on Luke. I'm sure he's doing wonderful. I hope your visit to Duke is pleasant.
Take Care,
Ellen
www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewshope
- Wednesday, July 23, 2003 9:29 AM CDT
Hi Luke & family, I am glad to see things are going well for you! I just wanted to drop in and see if you were interested in visiting Smile Quilts for an online quilt made just for you. You can click on the picture below to visit the site.

Angel Chris and all your friends at Smile Quilts
chrisrusso_@hotmail.com
- Tuesday, July 22, 2003 9:15 PM CDT
Athena and Luke:
Glad to hear you are doing so well big guy!
I no longer work in the pediatric bone marrow transplant unit, I took a Monday through Friday job, normal business hours with Holidays off. I am working in the Outpatient Surgical Urology clinic. I really enjoy the people I work with. I miss the little ones- we don't see Pediatric patients.
Hope you continue to do well this year. Time flies after you get out of here. You and your parents are very brave.
With love, Janet
Janet Vanlone, RN <vanlo001@mc.duke.edu>
Carrboro, NC - Tuesday, July 1, 2003 10:55 AM CDT
Athena: It was so nice to talk with you the other day and I appreciate all your encouragement and support. One year ago we began our journey with you right next door on 5200 and at Alexan Place. I miss our talks, and I will try and be better about staying in touch.
I am so happy to hear Luke is doing so well! This gives our Sanfilippo Children Hope, and that is so exciting.
We love you all, Give the boys hugs for us.
The Cottey's (Tom, Angie, Casey & "Angel" Kyle) <cottey@gte.net>
Sumner, WA USA - Sunday, June 29, 2003 2:48 AM CDT
Lukie and Family,
We were thinking about Luke's transplant last year, thinking that it was on June 28th. We are so glad that Luke has done so well, and he has survived all the storms of transplant. There has been so much loss and pain for us and many other parents, it blesses our heart so to see how well Luke has done. As a transplant family, we know what all you have overcome, Praise God. I know for sure that Lukie has one little angel way up high watching over him.. and from Amanda's cheerleader frame of mind, I can her saying "GO LUKIE". I know that Amanda is happy surrounded by all the other Duke kids who also began angels. I would like to thankyou for all your words of encouragment and remembrance of our precious angel.
We actually have a video that has Luke and his grandmother and Amanda's boyfriend outside Amanda's door on Amanda's transplant day passing ball. Luke is so cute the way he raises his little leg when he throws the ball.
May you have blessing upon blessing this year, Love, Gary,Kathy and our Angel Amanda
- Thursday, June 26, 2003 10:37 PM CDT
Hey Luke,
Glad to hear you are doing sooooo well!!! Have a fun summer!
Kathy Haws
Thousand Oaks, CA - Tuesday, June 24, 2003 3:45 PM CDT
Hey ya'll!
GREAT to hear such wonderful news about Lukie. But then again, not surprising, cause he is one strong, smart cookie! I hope everything is continuing to go well for you all out there in Seattle- it's felt like Seattle here in Durham lately with all this rain we've been having! You all would have felt right at home :)
I'm praying for Luke's continued success and for strength and happiness for your entire family. You are such an inspiration- all of you!
Love, your Best Buddy,
Lauren
Lauren McQueen <lam15@duke.edu>
Durham, NC - Monday, June 23, 2003 9:24 PM CDT
Way to GO Luke! It is so very GOOD to hear such healthy news! Maybe we will see you in clinic also for Shannon's one year check-up 7-21
God Bless You & Yours,
www.caringbridge.org/page/shannon
Barb
- Tuesday, June 17, 2003 12:21 AM CDT
Hello my name is jenna and I was born with a rare bone disease. Luke story gives me encouragement. I know he is a very brave boy. Luke is in my prayers.
My webpage is: http://www.matmice.com/home/fighterandchampion
Jenna <hockeykid@telus.net>
Kamloops, BC Canada - Friday, May 16, 2003 1:02 AM CDT
Hey there, I am glad to see that you are doing well. I hope that what Amie & I set out to do with the Adopt A Kids Site is working, and you have more people praying for you and visiting your site. I just wanted to take this opportunity to wish you a Happy & Healthy & Blessed Easter/Passover/spring time, whatever you prefer!!

Chris
~ Gooch's Site ~ * * ~ Adopt A Kid's site ~
- Friday, April 18, 2003 11:41 AM CDT
We're hoping everything went splendidly in Durham! Give us a call when you get settled and back to West Coast time. Love ~ Mel, Steve, Jake, & Matt
The Irish's <www.caringbridge.org/wa/jacobirish>
Marysville, WA USA - Sunday, April 6, 2003 11:52 AM CDT
Hi, Luke!
It was soooo nice to meet you at Duke this past week. You look awesome! You are doing so well, and we are very proud of you! Hugs to you and your family... and best wishes for a safe, germ-free, trip back to Seattle and lots of progress in Luke's future. Keep in touch!
With love,
The Birminghams (Jenny, John, TJ and Molly) <www.missmollyb.com>
- Friday, April 4, 2003 11:28 AM CST
Athena & Luke - good luck with the round of testing back at Duke! Sounds like all should go very well.
BTW - I've decided to join the oncology practice at Overlake, maybe I'll see George there when he's back on his feet!
Tanya Wahl <twahl_suh@yahoo.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Tuesday, April 1, 2003 2:49 PM CST
Hi Athena and George,
This is Maria (Cormier) Provencher from San Diego. I think of your family often and have kept you all in our prayers. George's Dad just recently gave me the website information so now I can pass on our best wishes to you directly. I'm so glad to see you have so much wonderful support. Please know that you have our love and prayers as well. Take care and God bless!
Maria Provencher <mjprov@cox.net>
San Diego, CA - Monday, March 31, 2003 3:24 PM CST
Hi!
I met to post a note to you yesterday but maybe you took your laptop and will get this while you're at Duke. Anyhow, we want you to know that we are praying for a safe and HEALTHY trip back to Durham for Lukey! Take care and CALL ME if you get a chance (you know what I'm talking about!)!
Love ~ Mel, Steve, Jakie, & Matt-man
P.S. Jake wants me to tell Luke to give Miss Molly a big kiss and hug for him if you guys run in to the Birmingham's! XOXOXOXO
The Irish's <www.caringbridge.org/wa/jacobirish>
Marysville, WA USA - Sunday, March 30, 2003 11:29 PM CST
Just wanted to let you know we are thinking about you all. I hope you have a safe trip back to Durham. I know it will be a busy week, but Luke is such a trooper I know he will do great. Good Luck with all the studies and I look forward to when you get home to hear the results. You know I am always here if you ever need me!
Angie Cottey "Angel Kyle's Mom" < cottey@gte.net>
Sumner, WA - Friday, March 28, 2003 8:46 PM CST
HI, Luke!
Molly will be at Duke the same week as you, undergoing tests for 2 years post- transplant anniversary for MPS1. We would love to meet you! Hopefully, we'll run into you at clinic or around the hospital. Best of luck!
Jenny, John, TJ and Molly Birmingham <brmnghmj@aol.com>
- Friday, March 28, 2003 2:53 PM CST
Luke,
I'm glad to see you doing so well. Sending you lots of huggsss.
The Bowman's
www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewshope
- Sunday, March 16, 2003 8:21 AM CST
This is Neena. I would like to call and talk with you. I can give you my number, but I don't mind calling you if it is ok. You can e-mail me your number. My number is 757-484-6898. Thanks, Neena
Neena <Neena04@aol.com>
Portsmouth, VA - Friday, March 7, 2003 5:38 PM CST
Hi Luke and family!
We are thinking about you and praying for you and your family everyday. (We adopted you from Gooch's site.)
Our daughter Olivia is 4, and she prays for you all of the time and makes pictures for you to make you feel better.
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers--we will check on you everyday and will email alot!
Karen A
St Peters, MO - Thursday, March 6, 2003 1:06 AM CST
I hope this finds you doing well and feeling good.
Lots of people are thinking of you.
Hugs and prayers,
Chris
~ Gooch's Site ~ * * ~ Adopt A Kid's site ~
- Wednesday, March 5, 2003 7:19 PM CST
Athena - sorry to hear about the delay in immune function results, but thank goodness for Flagyl (or oral Vanco) for C. diff!!! Glad to see that everything is going relatively well! Now that the weather is getting better, maybe we'll be able to get our San Filippo boys together soon!
Tanya Wahl <twahl_suh@yahoo.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Monday, March 3, 2003 5:00 PM CST
Yeah Luke!
GREAT news about the platelets and finally getting an answer as to what was making you feel crummy! I've been thinking about you all and am very glad to hear things continue to go well. Again, be glad you aren't here in Durham- not only have we had lots of snow, but there was a tornado last week! No major damage, but still very strange. I hope I'll get to see you all when you come back to Duke...be sure and keep us posted!
Lots of Love,
Lauren
Lauren McQueen <lam15@duke.edu>
Durham, NC - Thursday, February 27, 2003 8:47 PM CST
Hello again from Virginia. Taylor and me were just looking at websites and she wanted to look at Lukes. She wanted to tell him hello and she hopes to see him in April. Take care and keep making those platelets.
Neena <www.caringbridge.com/va/taylor>
Portsmouth, VA - Wednesday, February 26, 2003 10:52 PM CST
That's the way to go Lukie boy. Keep those platelets
growing. Any chance your precious blood can be
found? Tell those numbskulls error is not acceptable.
You & the family are always in our prayers.
Your Auntie Maria is in her 27th week of pregnancy.
Her blood sugar was high but further tests showed
no diabetic tendancy. She still needs bedrest for
occasional contractions are occuring. Like the Yiayia's
in our family I am there to help. At least Wed. thru Fri.
Andrew enjoys Daycare & Preschool several days
a week. You all keep up that stiff upper lip. STAY COOL
Love , hugs & kisses. Aunt Kay &bunch.
The Armatas Family <karmatas@tacomaclick.net>
Tacoma, WA USA - Tuesday, February 25, 2003 8:58 PM CST
That's the way to go Lukie boy. Keep those platelets
growing. Any chance your precious blood can be
found? Tell those numbskulls error is not acceptable.
You & the family are always in our prayers.
Your Auntie Maria is in her 27th week of pregnancy.
Her blood sugar was high but further tests showed
no diabetic tendancy. She still needs bedrest for
occasional contractions are occuring. Like the Yiayia's
in our family I am there to help. At least Wed. thru Fri.
Andrew enjoys Daycare & Preschool several days
a week. You all keep up that stiff upper lip. STAY COOL
Love , hugs & kisses. Aunt Kay &bunch.
The Armatas Family <karmatas@tacomaclick.net>
Tacoma, WA USA - Tuesday, February 25, 2003 8:58 PM CST
Great news, and sorry about the lab losing your sample. I guess it is okay that they have to do it again, but I have had my share of blood draws, and have been low before so it sorta ticks me off that they are careless. Still talking to the ONE and asking for healing for all my little buddies, and for their families.
Love is the best medicine!
Ivy
ivy <poisenivj@aol.com>
lynnwood, wa usa - Tuesday, February 25, 2003 3:25 AM CST
Hello Athena, this is Neena. I have not keep up to date lately. I just read your website about Luke holding platelets in the 40's. Taylor was actually 141 today and has been as high as 188. She has not had platelets in over a month. Who would have ever thought she would be ahead with the platelets after the way she was at Duke. Taylor has been blessed with such a miracle. I guess you might have read that after her relapse she actually grew back 100% donor cells. That is nothing less than a Miracle. Ask any of the doctors. She is doing so great. We go down in March for 2 1/2 weeks of radiation. Let me know when you go we would love to go down and see you. Please keep in touch and know that we have not forgotten you and your sweet little Luke. Love, Taylor, Layne and Neena
Neena <www.caringbridge.com/va/taylor>
Portsmouth, VA - Wednesday, February 19, 2003 10:14 PM CST
Hi guys, and thanks for the lovely surprise visit. It was so great to see your wonderful and inspirational family today. Lukey's progress is so heartening to see.
Today is my first visit to the website and I spent an hour or so reading the history of your Duke adventure. What an amazing experience--a little like an emotional roller coaster ride. All five of you and your extended family have shown such courage through all this--it makes us proud to know you.
Gayle & Dan Odell <odelldaniel@hotmail.com>
Bainbridge Island, WA USA - Monday, February 17, 2003 4:36 PM CST
Well I tried to adopt Luke at the adopt a kid site, but for some reason the submission slip did not go through, so I will just continue to follow your web pages and wish you and your family well. I am not sure how often you update the pages now that the nightmare is fading some, lets hope it continues this way and becomes a complete fade-out. Prayer are yours for this to go positively. Glad the boys are starting baseball, my grandchildren are all starting it soon as well. I just love baseball season.
Love is the best medicine!
Ivy
ivy <poisenivj@aol.com>
lynnwood, wa usa - Monday, February 17, 2003 5:50 AM CST
Happy Valentine's Day tomorrow!
Blessings,
Bonnie <www.caringbridge.com/page/jamiebowman>
Columbus, Ohio - Thursday, February 13, 2003 11:02 AM CST
Hey Athena - I'm not sure if you're checking here much anymore, but wanted to thank you for coming over with Angie last week. It meant the world to me! Let's keep in touch!
Hoping that Luke's tests come back indicating good immune function so that you can get out of the house more!
Tanya Wahl <twahl_suh@yahoo.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Wednesday, February 5, 2003 2:17 PM CST
I check your pages regularly and do not sign often but when I noticed your family had not been adopted on the Adopt A Kid site I figured I might as well put my name on it and let you know that I did. I am glad you are back home and that Luke is progressing well. I will say prayers that things continue in a positive direction. Visit my web pages if you want at www.caringbridge.org/wa/cameronboyd. He is being treated at Children's of Seattle for a brain tumor he had removed in June 2002. Love,
Ivy
ivy <poisenivj@aol.com>
lynnwood, wa usa - Friday, January 31, 2003 at 02:16 AM (CST)
Dear Athena and George,
Just checking in. Our family will continue to pray for Luke's continuous improvement. We head to Duke for Julia's two-year post transplant evaluations!! Keep in mind that it does get easier with time.
Best wishes for a healthy and peaceful 2003.
Bernadette
Bernadette Gray <bgray@na.ko.com>
Atlanta, GA USA - Thursday, January 30, 2003 at 07:52 AM (CST)
Hi Everyone!
I thought I would sign your guestbook to let you know I am thinking about you all. I've got your Christmas card up on my bulletin board and it never ceases to make me smile to see all three Sarantinos boys looking so happy together! I am so thankful that Luke continues to do well. Luke, you are such an amazing little kid- one day you'll know how truly special you are for being a messenger of strength, hope, and happiness. And, you'll fully realize what absolutely amazing parents and loving brothers you have. How lucky I am to have gotten to know you all for the time you were in Durham! I continue to pray that you all say happy and healthy- have a WONDERFUL February (Georgie and Evan- who are your Valentines this year? Awww, come on....I know you've got at least one....)
Take care,
Lauren
Lauren McQueen <lam15@duke.edu>
Durham, NC - Wednesday, January 29, 2003 at 10:03 PM (CST)
We missed you at Clinic today Lukey (you too Athena)!!! Hope you're doing OK. Talk to you soon! Love ~ Mel & Jake (www.caringbridge.org/wa/jacobirish)
The Irish's <mairish@hotmail.com>
Marysville, WA USA - Friday, January 24, 2003 at 11:23 PM (CST)
Hi Sarantinos family- Athena, I am happy that Luke seems to be doing well. Sounds like you had quite a scare with the hospitalization and car accident. Good sign that Luke's body was able to fight off an infection?!?! Your X-Mas card picture was adorable.
I was so saddened to read about Kyle. I remember his story well. I felt compelled to visit their web site and post a message, even though I don't know them. I have spent the last hour sobbing. I can't begin to imagine what you have all been through. These little kids are so very precious! It has helped to remind me of the fragility of life and the importance of treasuring every moment. You moms are so inspirational for your strength and love. Hang in there. Hope to talk to you soon! Kisses to the boys.
Amy Gray <graytac@attbi.com>
West Linn, OR - Monday, January 20, 2003 at 10:51 PM (CST)
Thanks for the update on Luke. I'm glad the "bump" is over and he is doing well. Hope the New Year brings your family joy and good health for all of you.
Mariann Petersen
Seattle, - Monday, January 20, 2003 at 03:38 PM (CST)
I'm making my weekly stops to see how everyone is doing. I'm glad to see Luke doing so well without any issues.
God Bless,
Ellen
www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewshope
- Monday, January 20, 2003 at 11:12 AM (CST)
Luke, we dont know each other, but my friend Amie & I are trying to raise awareness and generate more support and prayers for more kids' sites. If you havent already, soon you will be getting guestbook messages from someone who has "adopted" you and your site (that is, if you want to participate). My son has leukemia, so we have the common bond of having our lives turned upside down, and I know encouragement from others is important. We hope you are doing well and will be praying for you .
Chris ~ Gooch's Site
Adopt a Kid's site Here
- Saturday, January 18, 2003 at 08:08 AM (CST)
Gee, sorry about Luke's holiday woes and then the car accident! My goodness! I hope things are going better now.
I was so deeply saddened over the holidays because of Kyle's loss and a few others at Duke. It really makes you realize that we just never know what each day will bring and we need to appreciate, enjoy, and validate every moment we spend with our loved ones. I'm glad you are such good friends for the Cottey's. You are a blessing to them I'm sure.
Prayers continue.
Love, Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net>
- Wednesday, January 15, 2003 at 08:00 PM (CST)
I'm checking in before we break free for the day. I'm glad to see that ALL is well with Luke.
Huggs,
Ellen
www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewshope
- Tuesday, January 14, 2003 at 07:35 AM (CST)
Your love, support and friendship over these past few months have come to mean so much to us. I am so glad that your mom and you were able to come to Kyle's Service and to also come up to the house afterwards. Please don't hestitate to call if you ever need anything. All our love,
Tom, Angie, Casey & "Angel Kyle" Cottey <cottey@gte.net>
Sumner, WA - Monday, January 13, 2003 at 12:40 AM (CST)
Luke:
You are growing up SO BIG! The boys look great Athena! I bet the holiday fever bacterium was a scare but he looks wondrful. I'm glad you guys are doing well (with the except with your run in with another vehicle). I'll continue to check out your webpage. Take care.
Your nurse Janet.
- Sunday, January 12, 2003 at 03:34 PM (CST)
HAPPY 3RD BIRTHDAY, LUKEY!!! I hope you're feeling better after your AWFUL Pentamadine today. Kind of a yucky way to spend your b-day but I'm sure your Mommy & Daddy and your brothers made sure you had fun after Clinic! You are a big adorable boy now...wishing you tons and tons of birthday joy! Love ~ Jacob and his Mommy & Daddy & brother :-)
The Irish's <www.caringbridge.org/wa/jacobirish>
Marysville, WA USA - Friday, January 10, 2003 at 11:29 PM (CST)
Windy but sunny greetings from the midwest!
Master Luke...love your rosey-colored cheeks! If only I could reach through the monitor and hug you!!
May God bless and embrace ALL OF YOU! Doxa si o theos.
Sonia Pagonakis <spagonakis@hotmail.com>
Chicago, IL USA - Friday, January 10, 2003 at 12:23 PM (CST)
Athena,
I wanted to leave a note with a big THANKYOU. I loved the picture of Luke and his two brothers. They are so precious and handsome. It made Gary and I both smile. I know that his brothers are spoiling him rotten, and he deserves EVERY BITof it. I know if Amanda could see the picture, she would love it to see that Luke is happy, and looking so well. The other transplants kids that we went through Amanda's transplant with will forever be in our hearts. We are praying and pulling for your Luke and the others everyday. These children are truly champions, and huge inspirations. Gary and I will never look at a ball when we don't think of Lukie. We have him on video passing ball to Amanda's boyfriend just outside Amanda's door on Amanda's transplant day (June 25, 2002, just three days from Lukes). I remember the day we went to the shops downtown there after we got permission of course from Dr. K because of crowds. We would only go in the stores where there wasn't hardly any people. Amanda saw the "Duke" balls and said mom, we have got to get Luke one of these, he loves balls so much. So years down the road from now when he's a teenager, and probably won't remember Amanda then, you will have to tell him this story.
May that ball remind him of the journey that he conquered with such will, strength and love from so many.
You guys have really hung in there and are great parents. George, Athena, and two brothers, you are Luke's angels. He is a very lucky little young man. THANK YOU GOD FOR LUKES CONSTANT RECOVERY, AND WE KNOW THAT AMANDA AND KYLE ARE WATCHING OVER LITTLE LUKIE TOO.
P.S. PLEASE KEEP ON US YOUR PICTURE LIST, AND WE TOO WILL CELEBRATE IN OUR HEARTS WITH YOU FOR MANY YEARS TOO COME. THANK YOU FOR THE BLESSING.
Wishing you a year of complete health and happiness, Gary and Kathy Massey
- Thursday, January 09, 2003 at 06:19 PM (CST)
Dear Athena, George, Georgie, Evan, and....wait, there's one more.....hang on, almost got it, oh yeah....LUKE!
Just kidding, of course! I got back to Durham after Christmas break to be greeted by a card bearing the faces of three very adorable Sarantinos kids in their pj's! What a wonderful holiday it must have been for you all. I am very glad to hear that Luke is doing well, despite his little bump in the road, and I am also very thankful that no one was hurt in that car accident! Y'all have had your fair share of excitement for January, ok? Things are good out here in NC- it is a beautiful day today, about 65 degrees and sunny! Georgie and Evan- this would be a fun day for the swimming pool, that's for sure!
I hope all continues to go well for you all. You are constantly in my thoughts and prayers!
Love, The Infamous Best Buddy,
Lauren
Lauren McQueen <lam15@duke.edu>
Durham, NC - Thursday, January 09, 2003 at 01:07 PM (CST)
Dear Athena and family,
We are so glad to hear that no one was hurt in the accident. We have had similar expierences with Elijah getting a fever or a rash for no apparent reason, but then it goes away. You are right in saying that his body will heal in his own time, but be assured he will be healed. That is the faith we have in Elijah! All our prayers,
Vange, Shawn, and Elijah Austin <eaustin@midmaine.com www.caringbridge.org/me/elijah>
Augusta, ME USA - Wednesday, January 08, 2003 at 11:28 PM (CST)
Dear loved ones.May God bless you with His strength
protection & love this new year. Happiness, Health &
Serenity for you are in our prayers. Love, Hugs and
kisses from Aunt Katheren & family.
Katheren Armatas <karmatas@tacomaclick.net>
Tacoma, Wa Pierce - Friday, January 03, 2003 at 01:20 PM (CST)
Hi George, Athena and Luke, it was a pleasure meeting you at Children's. I wish you all love, health and happiness in this New Year! I hope our families can get together someday soon. I think my Vinny and your Luke would have a blast at the ballfield or park in the village. Kate's neighbor, Traci. www.prayingforvinny.org
Traci Speziale <vinceandtraci@msn.com >
Seattle, Wa - Friday, January 03, 2003 at 03:27 AM (CST)
Hi! Just want to let you know that we're checking in on you and hoping Lukey gets better very soon! We figure Luke just wanted to stir things up a little. Athena - I'm sure you're busy right now keeping up with everything so when you get a chance give us a jingle. We want to know how Jake's best buddy is doing! Love to you all ~ Melanie, Steve, Jake, & Matt
The Irish's <mairish@hotmail.com>
Marysville, WA USA - Tuesday, December 31, 2002 at 12:49 AM (CST)
Checking in on you guys.
God Bless,
Ellen
www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewshope
- Monday, December 30, 2002 at 07:47 PM (CST)
Hi to all! Just checking in. Good to see the photos of Lukie with hair. He looks really great! We are settling into our new home, and now that the holidays are over (WHEW!), we're hoping we will get to enjoy it. Sounds like you are all doing well. Talk soon...Thinking of you always!
Oiimy, Tim, Colby, Skylar, and Wrigley Gray
West Linn, OR - Sunday, December 29, 2002 at 06:01 PM (CST)
Merry Christmas! I hope you all have a wonderful day tomorrow. Georgie, Evan, and Luke- I hope you don't forget to put out cookies for Santa! I am so glad that everything continues to go well. Take care.
Love, Lauren
Lauren McQueen <lam15@duke.edu>
Edmond, OK - Wednesday, December 25, 2002 at 12:02 AM (CST)
We are glad to hear Luke is doing well. Merry Christmas to you and your family.
Keith Kathy Kristen Brandon and Alyssa Proctor <proctorkbkak@aol.com>
- Tuesday, December 24, 2002 at 06:35 PM (CST)
Just checking in on Luke and wishing your family a great Christmas.
Love, Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net>
- Friday, December 20, 2002 at 05:56 PM (CST)
Merry Christmas to you all! I just looked at the photo album. You're right, Luke is looking very handsome. More and more like his brothers. I saw Evan today at school and it's always so nice to see his joyous face and have him waving at me down the hall. It made my day!
Enjoy the slower pace of the holidays this year -- next year I am sure you'll look back and say "how did I do that?"
Many more blessings to you and your family in the new year!
Joyce, Bill, Zachary and Brady Ehrlich
Seattle, WA USA - Thursday, December 19, 2002 at 08:17 PM (CST)
I check Luke's website often, although I don't think I have ever posted to the guestbook! I just wanted to let you know that my son, Bailey, has had a very difficult time recovering his platelet count, but he has otherwise done well! His platelets at last check were only 55,000. That was done October 9, 2002, and he had his transplant August 17, 2001! Even with a platelet count of only 55,000, he does rather well and we are just a little more cautious about his activities!
May you have a happy, healthy holiday season and my prayers will remain with Luke and your family
Kelly www.caringbridge.org/nv/baileyaustinjohnson <BAJ31199@aol.com>
Lake Tahoe, NV USA - Tuesday, December 17, 2002 at 07:48 PM (CST)
What Beautiful boys!!! I know you are thrilled to be home and I enjoy hearing about Luke's great progress. Love, Anne (friend of Jackie and Jennifer)
Anne Himes <www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewh>
Boonsboro, md USA - Tuesday, December 10, 2002 at 10:36 AM (CST)
Glad to see some new pictures. Luke looks great. We think of you often and hope all is still going well. I hope you have a very wonderful holiday season and a most blessed New Year. Love, Neena, Taylor, Layne, and the rest of the gang
Neena <Neena04@aol.com>
Portsmouth, VA - Monday, December 09, 2002 at 11:21 PM (CST)
The pictures looks GREAT! I like those smiles!
God Bless,
Ellen Bowman
(Andrew's Mom)
www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewshope
- Monday, December 09, 2002 at 03:09 PM (CST)
Love the new pictures. The boys all look so good! Thanks for all your support these past few weeks Athena, it has meant so much! Although we have not had a chance to talk verbally, the emails and posts have meant so much!
Tom, Angie, Casey & Kyle Cottey (www.caringbrige.com/wa/kyle) <cottey@gte.net>
Sumner, WA/Durham, NC, - Sunday, December 08, 2002 at 01:33 AM (CST)
Adorable pictures!!! We missed seeing you guys today so it was so nice to get some photos of ALL the boys! Hope all is well with Luke ---- Jake's appointment went well this afternoon (but traffic was not fun at that time of day). Talk to you soon! Love ~ Mel, Steve, Jakie, & Mattie
The Irish's <www.caringbridge.org/wa/jacobirish>
Marysville, WA USA - Saturday, December 07, 2002 at 12:35 AM (CST)
Yaaaaay! I check the website *in hopes* for a quick update, and I get some new photos! Lukie's hair is AWESOME! You boys look like you are having so much fun together. I am so happy to see pictures of the brothers reunited. What an awesome family you are!
Be glad that you guys got out of Durham when you did- I just got power back on in my house after 2 days without! It's been a cold couple of days- wish I was visiting Seattle! Take care-
With Love, Lauren
p.s. to George- I take the MCAT in April (ouch). I'll let you all know how that one turns out ;)
Lauren McQueen <lam15@duke.edu>
Durham, NC - Friday, December 06, 2002 at 11:40 PM (CST)
Hi Guys! I am sorry I haven't been in touch for a few weeks. Me moved on the 30th and are in our new home. Of course, I'm psycho unpack-woman now!! I'm so happy to hear Lukie is doing well. Athena, I remember talking about the two kids who were going to be transplanted again - I am keeping both of them in my thoughts and heart. Miss you guys and can't wait to get together when Luke can have visitors. Tim and I will be up in Woodinville, WA at the Willows Lodge this weekend for our 10th anniversary. I'll try to give you a quick call to say helloooo.
Amy, Tim, Colby and Skylar Gray
West Linn, OR - Wednesday, December 04, 2002 at 11:08 PM (CST)
Checking in on you guys. I'm glad to see Luke doing so well!
Hugs,
Ellen Bowman
(Andrew's mom)
www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewshope
- Tuesday, December 03, 2002 at 12:20 PM (CST)
Sounds like a nice Thanksgiving except for the knee-cap incident. I hope it heals quickly for Yiaya! Good to hear Luke continues to do well and handle the steriod taper without problems. He continues in my thoughts and prayers as well as all the kids and especially Kyle right now.
Love, Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net>
South Windsor , CT - Sunday, December 01, 2002 at 08:14 AM (CST)
Hello George and Athena. George, so glad you told me to watch KIRO last Monday. It was a wonderful segment although too short, but at least some info for public awareness of this rare disease. Luke looked great! Will definitely include Taylor and Kyle in prayers in addition to Luke. Much love,
Mary Lou and Roger Barton <barzar1@attbi.com>
Covington, WA - Friday, November 29, 2002 at 06:40 PM (CST)
Hey Sarantinos Gang!
I just wannted to wish you all a very happy Thanksgiving- this year I am thankful for so very much, one of which being that Lukie is doing so well and is back home where he (and you too, Athena!) belong for this holiday. I hope you are all stuffed right now! I know I have eaten too much- it's off to bed for my tryptophan-induced nap! Take care and keep in touch.
Lots of Love,
Lauren
Lauren McQueen <lam15@duke.edu>
Oklahoma City, OK USA - Thursday, November 28, 2002 at 10:26 PM (CST)
Hello, this is Neena. Thank you so much for your request for prayers for Taylor. I do believe with all my heart prayer can and will make a difference. Right now there is no leukemia showing in her blood. Next week we will look at her Bone Marrow again. Dr. K says there is a slim chance the gleevec and remaining donor cells can beat this. This has to happen because I could not live without Taylor. Thanks again for your support and it is great to hear that Luke is doing great. Please give us some new pictures of him. I would love to see his sweet little face. Love, Neena and the rest of the Hancock family
Neena Hancock <Neena04@aol.com>
Portsmouth, VA - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 07:22 PM (CST)
Hi Athena and George: Thinking of you and the boys often. May you enjoy your Thanksgiving Celebration this week knowing you are in our thoughts and prayers always. Look forward to when we can all vist together sometime soon.
Love from Georgia, Alv, Stephanie and Hannah
Georgia and Alv Eriksen <eriksenfam@shaw.ca>
Edmonton, AB Canada - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 11:53 AM (CST)
Hi Athena, It was a couple of weeks ago but I still think back at how great it was to run into you and Luke. You looked great and Luke was glowing there in the back seat with his big smile and warm hands. Glad to read about his positive progress. And I heard from Erin Reetz, who's daughter Molly was over at our house last week playing with Vivika, Erin said she saw you jogging with Luke. Where do you get the energy? Good for you! The Christmas ships will be coming to our neighborhood again, I remember last year there was a schedule conflict, but if you or George want to bring George and Evan we'd love to have you over. The date is Saturday, December 14. I'll be in touch with you or Diana. Love to All, Vicky
Vicky Stamolis <gvstamolis@aol.com>
Seattle, WA usa - Monday, November 18, 2002 at 11:41 PM (CST)
Hi guys!
Just a note to let you know that you're in my thoughts and prayers!
Take care,
Lauren
Lauren McQueen <lam15@duke.edu>
Durham, NC - Saturday, November 16, 2002 at 10:26 AM (CST)
Hi. I'm just signing in to let you know I was here. Please know that even though I don't always sign in, you guys are never far from my thoughts and continue to be in my prayers. God bless!
Khalita www.caringbridge.com/nc/khalita Duke Peds BMT aplastic anemia <khalita@hecaresonline.org>
Lexington, NC - Thursday, November 14, 2002 at 02:44 AM (CST)
Hi Athena,
I was so surprised to run into you at the salon the other day. You look great and I am so happy to hear that Luke is home and on the right track. I look forward to hearing your story on KIRO tomorrow night.
Love,
Christina Michaelidis-Smith
Christina Michaelidis Smith <lovedogz@attbi.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Wednesday, November 13, 2002 at 09:27 PM (CST)
Hello, this is Neena. How are you doing? We really miss seeing you and Luke at Durham. We are still haning in there. Taylor is doing much better than me. You need to update with some new pictures of Luke. We would love to see his hair coming in. I hope all continues to go well for you and we will keep Luke in our prayers always. Love ya, Neena, Layne, and Taylor
Neena <Neena04@aol.com>
Portsmouth, VA - Tuesday, November 12, 2002 at 08:31 PM (CST)
Hi Athena, Luke, Georgie, Evan, George, and Doo-doo (do you still have him?)- I'm happy to hear Luke is healthy and you are all back together! We should move into our new home in about 3 weeks if all goes as planned. Getting exciting. The sale of our current house failed. UGH! May be renting that. Oh well. Talk soon...XOXOXO
Amy, Tim, Colby and Skylar Gray
West Linn, OR - Tuesday, November 12, 2002 at 01:30 PM (CST)
Hi Athena and Family- So glad to hear all is going well back home. We think of you often and hope everything continues to go well. Tim and I finally saw My Big Fat Greek Wedding, and thought of you and your families! If you haven't seen it yet, it is a must!
Take care - Love Lisa and Family!
Lisa Mitrovich <tljmitro@comcast.net>
Arlington, VA US - Tuesday, November 12, 2002 at 09:26 AM (CST)
Hi Luke - I love playing with you on Fridays too! I wore my red socks just for you! When we get back from my 6 month evaluation at Duke, Mommy says I can maybe come to your house and play longer on Friday. Wouldn't that be fun!?! I think my Mommy likes to talk to your Mommy too...I guess they have a lot in common or something... See ya - Jake
Jacob Irish <www.caringbridge.org/wa/jacobirish>
Marysville, WA USA - Sunday, November 10, 2002 at 02:09 PM (CST)
Hi. I just wanted you guys to know that even though I haven't signed in every time I visit, I am very much keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. Blessings!
Khalita www.caringbridge.com/nc/khalita Duke Peds BMT aplastic anemia <khalita@hecaresonline.org>
Lexington, NC - Saturday, November 09, 2002 at 08:17 PM (CST)
Hello Sarantinos Family, we just learned of your website and wish that we had been following all along. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family and we will be reading your website regularly. Nurse Athena, your positive energy shines through in the midst of hard times!
Julie Fiero <jjfiero@hotmail.com>
Orinda, CA USA - Friday, November 01, 2002 at 08:15 PM (CST)
I found your web page on the Irish's site. Sounds like it is going well, hopefully things will continue. I will be watching out for the airing of the television show, to learn more about what your luke has gone through. God Bless and prayers coming you way. http://www.caringbridge.org/wa/cameronboyd
Ivy <poisenivj@aol.com>
lynnwood, wa usa - Thursday, October 31, 2002 at 10:28 AM (CST)
I just had to check in to your site and see what is going on even though you live just a couple of blocks away. It's hard to break old habits and I so loved reading your entries and getting that warm fuzzy feeling from all of your words of strength and love. It was so awesome to run into you in the Village, Athena. That hug from me was a long time coming. You are one awesome Chick that all of Mom's can only aspire to be. We'll keep up the prayers and you keep up your positive awesome attitude. XO to Luke! Hope to see Georgie and Evan on Halloween!!
Joyce Ehrlich
Seattle, WA USA - Tuesday, October 29, 2002 at 09:26 PM (CST)
Hi Athena and family- Just checking in. Glad to know that you are busy and back in the chaos that is motherhood with your 3 boys (oh, I mean 4 including the big G). Thinking of you, your family, and your friends who have lost their beautiful daughter. Tim and I are off to Ft. Worth, Texas for 4 days for a company getaway!
OIMY (Amy and family)
West Linn, OR USA - Tuesday, October 29, 2002 at 09:04 PM (CST)
So good to hear that everything continues to go well! Give my best wishes to everyone. Athena, don't forget to update us as to when "your" episode of 60 Minutes II will air...we'll have to set our VCR's! Take care.
Lauren McQueen <lam15@duke.edu>
Durham, NC - Sunday, October 27, 2002 at 08:12 PM (CST)
Hello, this is Neena. It is great to be home. Alot of cleaning up after being gone 4 months, but I guess leaving 3 men home alone that was to be expected. You are lucky your 3 men at home were not all so big and messy. We sure miss you and Luke. Please keep in touch and we will keep Luke and your family in our prayers. We have to go back to Duke on Wednesday for CT Scan and Thursday for a check up with the doctors. Just can't seem to get away from that place. Love, Taylor, Layne, and Neena
Neena <Neena04@aol.com>
Portsmouth, VA - Saturday, October 26, 2002 at 10:47 PM (CDT)
Be it everrr so hummmble, there's nooooo place like hommmme. I thought I would sing for you all....you're all pretty fortunate to be on the opposite end of the continent! I am a pretty lousy singer. Anyway, we are all so happy for you and Luke to be home. And ever so grateful that he has progressed to the point of being able to go home. I will keep him in my prayers everyday.
Jo <jvon557@aol.com>
Crestview, FL - Thursday, October 24, 2002 at 08:52 PM (CDT)
stopping by to say hi and let you know i'm thinking about you and praying for you. yes, it saddens my heart too about amanda. i got to know her a little from when we were in outpatient clinic together and then when she first went back in...anyways, no that you're cared for, loved and prayed for. I'll keep checking back!
Khalita www.caringbridge.com/nc/khalita Duke Peds BMT aplastic anemia <khalita@hecaresonline.org>
Lexington, NC - Thursday, October 24, 2002 at 07:37 PM (CDT)
Hello, this is Neena. We are so excited for you to be home and happy with your family. We are excited ourselves about leaving Friday. Taylor is doing well and hopefully the CT Scan next week will be normal. I guess I wouldn't know how to act if I did not always have something to worry about. Take care and please keep in contact. Our prayers will stay with Luke and his continued recovery. Love, Taylor, Layne, and Neena
Neena Hancock <Neena04@aol.com>
Portsmouth, VA - Wednesday, October 23, 2002 at 09:20 PM (CDT)
Hi All...it's so great to see you are all together again in Seattle. For all the time spent in Durham, it's hard to believe that phase of the process is over. I bet the boys are ecstatic to be together at home and Luke must be getting reacquainted with his old digs again. Keep us up to date with Luke as he continues to progress.
Thinking of you always...
Your Cousin,
Jim
Jim Neforos
- Tuesday, October 22, 2002 at 02:14 PM (CDT)
Athena, Luke and family:
Glad to hear you made it home. I am also glad that I got that last hug goodbye. I have a feeling you will do very well. I have 7 glorious days off now and am enjoying every minute. I look forward to keeping myself updated on your webpage and in seeing you in January was it? Take care and God Bless! Keep on Sluggin' big guy!
Your friend Janet <vanlo001@mc.duke.edu>
- Sunday, October 20, 2002 at 11:49 AM (CDT)
Luke and Family,
We are so excited to hear you made it HOME. It brings much happiness to my heart when I read about All our little buddies returning home to their families. We know how it feels. Hope God continues to bless you all. We'll continue to keep in touch and you're always in our prayers.
The Lewis Family
Kayla, Kyle, Johnnie & Donna Lewis <caringbridge.org/ks/kaylalewis>
Inman, SC - Friday, October 18, 2002 at 09:02 PM (CDT)
Athena: I have been checking and waiting to hear you made it "HOME" safely. You brang tears to my eye's telling about the boys welcoming their brother home. I am so happy for you all and wish you a blessed weekend with your family. Thank you for everything you have done for us and all of your continued support and strength. Hugs to you all!
Angie Cottey "Kyle's Mom" <cotteyfamily@aol.com>
Sumner, WA/Durham, NC, - Friday, October 18, 2002 at 12:41 PM (CDT)
Loved Ones,
So delighted to hear you are together again. How wonderful for your little family! Although your physical location has changed, your place in our hearts has not. We continue to pray for you and look forward to any updates you may be posting.
As always,
Mary Anne
Mary Anne Langley <langley@gloryworks.com>
Novato, CA USA - Friday, October 18, 2002 at 12:24 PM (CDT)
Athena and Luke,
It is GREAT to read that you are home!! Yippee! Enjoy!
Prayers continue for you and everyone back at Duke as well as our transplant friends in MN and their homes!
Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net>
- Friday, October 18, 2002 at 11:58 AM (CDT)
Dear Athena, George and Family,
So HAPPY to hear the news that Athena and Luke are home safe and sound. I had been thinking of you all week with high hopes that you would be soon reunited! Enjoy your time together!
Love, Lisa
Lisa Mitrovich <tljmitro@comcast.net>
Arlington, VA - Friday, October 18, 2002 at 07:11 AM (CDT)
YIPPEEEEE!!! Home sweet home! Isn't it wonderful!?! Look forward to talking to you on our 'home turf' very soon. Enjoy your homecoming and your "laying low" time!
Love ~ The Irish's
Steve, Melanie, Jacob, Matthew <www.caringbridge.org/wa/jacobirish>
Marysville, WA USA - Friday, October 18, 2002 at 01:14 AM (CDT)
Dear Luke, Athena, George, Georgie, and Evan,
I hope that you all have had a wonderful reunion and that all continues to go well back on the West Coast. I am getting a little something together to send out to you (Georgie and Evan, be sure to be checking the mail for something with your names on it!!), but for now I just wanted to check in and say hello. Lukie, I miss your laugh, kiddo! But I am SO HAPPY that your dad and your brothers get to hear it every day now. You are ONE AMAZING kid, and when you get older, you will be able to fully realize how blessed you are to have a family that takes such good care of you and loves you as much as they do. Athena and George, I can only hope that I'll one day be as loving of a parent as you two are to your children. Georgie and Evan, you two are awesome brothers! Hopefully one day I will make it to the Seattle area and be able to come say hi. Take care, all of you, and have lots of fun now that you are reunited at last!!
Always the Sarantinos' "Best Buddy",
Lauren
Lauren McQueen <lam15@duke.edu>
Durham, NC - Thursday, October 17, 2002 at 10:14 PM (CDT)
Jacob (and his family) are anxiously awaiting your arrival home! Give us a jingle when you get settled!!! Hope you have a safe trip home (I'm assuming you were released to come home and are doing so today)! Love ~ Melanie, Steve, Jacob, & Matthew
The Irish Family <www.caringbridge.org/wa/jacobirish>
Marysville, WA USA - Wednesday, October 16, 2002 at 01:08 PM (CDT)
Hope all goes well and you are able to come home soon.I am continuing to pray for your family. Luke is an amazing child ,you must be so proud.
Love,
Mariann
Mariann Petersen <mariannpetersen@attbi.com>
Seattle, Wa USA - Tuesday, October 15, 2002 at 05:30 PM (CDT)
Tweester and Lukie - the whole city is abuzz in anticipation for your trip home (at least thats what it seems like to me!) Hang in there on the packing and travelling part. I'm so excited to have you home and I know your boys are on a high preparing for their mommy's and brother's return. I love you and will be with you on your journey home as I have been on your journey thus far. YOU ARE AN AWESOME INDIVIDUAL!!! God Bless both of you! xoxoxox -weester. PS don't wear a surgical mask on the flight!
Diana
Seattle, - Tuesday, October 15, 2002 at 03:41 PM (CDT)
Athena.....Hopefully you are busy packing and won't read this until you are back home in Seattle. It looks like you will be home in time for your BIRTHDAY!! Your Libra friends are waiting to celebrate with you and to toast you & Luke for the remarkable job you have done these past months. Which do you prefer: a morning pajama party with lattes and pastries, or an evening of good food and a glass or two of red? OK, so you've got a lot of things to do....we can wait - you just name the date! Seriously, (actually I was serious about all that), have a safe and swift journey back home. I wish I could be there to see Luke's face when he explores all his old familiar spaces....I bet that will be one precious moment! God Bless you ALL! Love, Erin.
Erin Reetz <cuthbertq@attbi.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Tuesday, October 15, 2002 at 12:30 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena- I'm thinking about you and hoping for the green light for a safe and speedy return to Seattle. Good luck. Talk to you soon.
OOOiiimy
West Linn, OR USA - Monday, October 14, 2002 at 11:28 PM (CDT)
Hi, Luke and Athena....We just heard the good news about you coming home".....We can hardly wait to walk by and wave to you .....we have missed you and you are in our prayers as always. Love Susan and Gene
Susan and Gene Hoglund <Genensusan@attbi.com>
Seattle, WA - Monday, October 14, 2002 at 09:13 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena,
Thanks for letting me talk your ear off yesterday. I'm crossing my fingers (double) in hopes that it is all good news at the doctor's appointment. If you get the green light, then don't feel you have to call, just finish your packing, and get going!!!! You've done a great job out there this summer. I wish I was that strong!
Love, Marguerite
Seattle, - Monday, October 14, 2002 at 06:38 PM (CDT)
Dear Athena & Lukie The storm has passed. The
sun's rays careen off light showers. The beautiful
rainbow encompases the horizon. There is God.
There is hope. There is salvation. There is Love.
Your guardian angel will be always at your side Lukie.
Athena , George, Georgie,Evan & all of your support
group , relatives, friends & followers YOUR THE BEST
Love, hugs & kisses, Aunt Katheren & family.
Katheren Armatas <karmatas@tacomaclick.net>
Tacoma, Wa USA - Monday, October 14, 2002 at 02:38 PM (CDT)
athena-
we're all so hopeful that you'll be coming home. hard but happy to believe that this part of the journey might be ending soon!
eric and i saw big fat greek wedding last night. we thought of you guys throughout the whole movie. you and geo must see it on your first date nite.
gearing up for the kid's bdays this month - 6 and 3!
that's about it!
kris <kristinpsmith@attbi.com>
bellevue, wa - Sunday, October 13, 2002 at 12:00 PM (CDT)
Gosh, I am so happy for Luke and your whole family. It will be wonderful to have a healthy and adorable little boy and have your family together again. God has blessed you all in so many ways.
Jo <jvon557@aol.com>
Crestview, FL - Saturday, October 12, 2002 at 06:53 AM (CDT)
Hi Athena,
Just read Friday's update. You are amazing. Your heart is so big. I hope you get home as planned, but man, if you don't, your attitude is a true gift for Luke.
Talked to your mom today. I am bringing dinner over Thursday - will still do it George if Athena and Luke need to prolong their stay - so you don't have to worry about food, cooking, etc. after the long haul across the country.
Brian Jr had strep and had to miss the meeting at your house. Brian Sr said, after he dropped some stuff off, that George had the fire going - inside and out. Word has it that the meeting was a success! Did you hear they are the Chinook tribe? I am so glad Georgie and Brian will have that connection.
Keep care you! I wonder how you do it! Love for you splish splashing straight to Durham.
Love, Leslie R
Leslie Reynoldss <reynoldsrule@msn.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Friday, October 11, 2002 at 10:33 PM (CDT)
Dear Athena,
I am friends with Jacob Irish and Kyle mommies. My son Andrew has Hurlers and was transplanted last Aug. This is my first time on your page although I have been hearing about you on the floor. Boy did I pick a good day to check in. It doesn't get much better than news like that!!! Congratulations. I will be enjoying checking in. Please feel free to do the same. Anne
Anne Himes <arhimes@yahoo.com, www.caringbridge.com/page/andrewh>
Boonsboro, Md USA - Friday, October 11, 2002 at 08:16 AM (CDT)
Dear Athena,
Continue the rest of your Durham journey as you have the last several days...positively, optimistically, and day to day. We can't wait to have you home and we will make your return to Seattle a gentle one.
Love,
George
George Sarantinos
- Thursday, October 10, 2002 at 01:03 PM (CDT)
Hi Luke and Athena- I am so happy to hear that your trip home is just a few days away. Do you know yet about the corporate jet option, or is a wait and see deal? I'll be thinking of your family on the 16th and I'm sure I'll shed a tear or two thinking of the Sarantinos clan reuniting!! Good luck until then. Lots of big hugs and kisses to Lukie.
Amy, Tim, Colby and Skylar Gray
West Linn, OR USA - Thursday, October 10, 2002 at 12:52 PM (CDT)
G&A--Great to hear such good news! Hope the Lear jet thing works out as well. My sister is about to pop, maybe even as soon as this weekend. Will you be coming to SD anytime over the holidays? Opa!
Joe Stagg <jstagg@ucsd.edu>
San Diego, CA - Wednesday, October 09, 2002 at 06:26 PM (CDT)
Athena and Luke -- Magnolia is awaiting you! Hey, maybe we should plan a parade!? It has been incredible to read about your journey and you are truly an inspiration. You have reminded us all that we shouldn't sweat the small stuff and that we should treasure every day! Thank you!
Travel safely and we'll see you soon!
Joyce Ehrlich
Seattle, WA USA - Wednesday, October 09, 2002 at 02:55 PM (CDT)
Hey Athena and Luke,
We are so happy with the great news of Luke's progress and of course with the fact you will be home soon. Knowing everything you have been through I don't think God can throw anything more difficult your way. So it is all up hill from here. Because of knowing what you have endured problems that come our way just don't seem so bad anymore. I know alot of people that have kept up with your life in the last few months probably feel the same and use you as role model as I do. We miss you and hope we can see you all very soon.....Love Chris
Christine Sarantinos <sarantinos@gtcinternet.com>
San Jose, Ca USA - Wednesday, October 09, 2002 at 02:18 PM (CDT)
Hi, I just ran into George doing the preschool drop. Evan was smiling as always. We noted only 8 more days! We're having a nice foggy day. Get's me in the mood for Halloween. I'm going as a pregnant lady this year. (Kind of a repeat of 3 years ago). Get your packing done! It is time to come home.
Marguerite
- Tuesday, October 08, 2002 at 12:38 PM (CDT)
There is alot of chatter about the 60 Minutes II crew filming you all at Duke. I look forward to seeing the show so I can see all these wonderful families I have been praying for! I'm sure you did a great job and I can't wait to see footage of Luke!
Love, Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net>
- Tuesday, October 08, 2002 at 09:46 AM (CDT)
Hi Athena,
Just checking in to see if all is on track for next week. We think of you often and have high hopes for a joyful reunion with your family next week!
Take care-
Lisa, Tim, Jessica and Juliette
Lisa Mitrovich <tljmitro@comcast.net>
Arlington, VA - Tuesday, October 08, 2002 at 07:00 AM (CDT)
Hi Athena,
Autumn is here is Seattle, leaves are falling and days are rapidly getting shorter. The dock workers are on strike and Elliot bay is filled with container ships waiting to be unloaded. The school routine is in full swing. Now we just need you back. Soon, so soon.
Marguerite
Seattle, - Sunday, October 06, 2002 at 10:44 PM (CDT)
You continue to be the focus of our prayers and best wishes. Add to this our admiration for the way you are meeting this challenge. You are so right when you acknowledge that prayer and medical knowledge are important in seeking help in your hours of need. With love,
Uncle Chuck and Aunt Amy
Greenbrae, CA Marin - Sunday, October 06, 2002 at 09:44 PM (CDT)
Dear Athena,
I have not signed in for a while, but I have been reading and following Luke's progress. I am sure that you did all of us, with children with rare genetic disorders and have been throught the transplant process, proud with your interview.
I will continue to pray for you and all of your family. I hope that all goes well for a safe journey home in mid-October.
Bernadette, Julia, and Dorsey Gray
Bernadette Gray <bgray@na.ko.com>
Atlanta, GA USA - Sunday, October 06, 2002 at 07:44 AM (CDT)
Hello Athena and Luke -- So happy to hear Luke's progress is on target. Looking forward to seeing you on TV! and the whole family in church soon. Much love
Mary Lou Barton <barzar1@worldnet.att.net>
Covington, WA - Saturday, October 05, 2002 at 04:34 PM (CDT)
hi athena-
just got updated on everything happening there through your journal (eric is on the phone with george right now). sounds like everything is going so well - the countdown begins... i hope you get the private jet (i got sick from my recent flight to calif for my brother david's wedding). i'm sure the masks protect you from everything. i just hate that recycled air though. we'll look forward to the 60 minutes report. i hope you and luke will be starring.
all is well here. slater is liking kindergarten - so great to see her brain being challenged - although she is not so crazy about the bus (so i'm driving her). parker likes his preschool but mostly likes to hit and spit on slater when she is home. the outside world has no idea what a pain he is. he saves it all for his family!
we're thinking of you and counting down with you!
love, kris <kristinpsmith@attbi.com>
bellevue, wa - Saturday, October 05, 2002 at 12:53 AM (CDT)
hi athena-
just got updated on everything happening there through your journal (eric is on the phone with george right now). sounds like everything is going so well - the countdown begins... i hope you get the private jet (i got sick from my recent flight to calif for my brother david's wedding). i'm sure the masks protect you from everything. i just hate that recycled air though. we'll look forward to the 60 minutes report. i hope you and luke will be starring.
all is well here. slater is liking kindergarten - so great to see her brain being challenged - although she is not so crazy about the bus (so i'm driving her). parker likes his preschool but mostly likes to hit and spit on slater when she is home. the outside world has no idea what a pain he is. he saves it all for his family!
we're thinking of you and counting down with you!
love, kris <kristinpsmith@attbi.com>
bellevue, wa - Saturday, October 05, 2002 at 12:43 AM (CDT)
Hey Athena,
Less than 2 weeks until home. Your bed awaits.
Jorge
Jorge
- Friday, October 04, 2002 at 04:18 PM (CDT)
Hi Lukie - We miss you! We can't wait until you and Auntie Athena come home. I get to go to music class with Evan today - we get to pick him up from his school - I love doing that! Are you having fun in NorthCarolina? We love you very much!
Sofia and Paulette
Seattle, Wa - Friday, October 04, 2002 at 01:48 PM (CDT)
Athena,
We got the notes in the mail from our playdate with Evan. Hopefully you will get those before your mail stops. Evan also said he misses Luke and worries about him. When I asked about you, he wanted me to know that you would be fine and not to worry about you. I thought that was cute.. Obviously even Evan believes you are incredibly strong. Only 12 more days!
Marguerite
Seattle, - Friday, October 04, 2002 at 12:46 PM (CDT)
Atheeeeeena -
I have been going crazy as our computer has had a virus and I could not get online to 'visit'. I just read all the past entries and am feeling caught up now about Luke and you. I am praying vigilantly for a return in a couple of weeks. What a thing to look forward to - I get to see your face again! I think of you all the time. Your vanity statements had me cracking up. I am just sitting here waiting to walk with you. Plus, I just started Weight Watchers . . . . again! It isn't that bad, but then again it has only been three days! I can't believe I am friends with a television star! What an awesome way to get PR for Luke's disease and become famous at the same time. What's next the cover of PEOPLE magazine?! Come home, soon. You are amazing. Love flying fast your way, Leslie R
Leslie Reynolds <reynoldsrule@msn.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Thursday, October 03, 2002 at 12:12 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena and Luke, You must be so excited getting ready to come home, I'm glad to hear everything's on schedule and Luke is holding his strength enduring it all. 60 minutes, WOW! Your love for Luke will shine through in your bright spirit to the cameras and world, good luck! May your journey back home be safe and well, missing you in Seattle, Love Vicky
Vicky Stamolis <GVStamolis@aol.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 11:35 PM (CDT)
Hi Lukie and Atheners- I loved seeing you both in good 'ole Durham, NC over the weekend. Lukie - you crack me up. I am telling everyone about how you fake a burp and then say "Mooo Meee" for "excuse me". Too cute! I am so glad that I got to see in person where you two have been hanging out for the past few months. Athena, you are an amazing, focused mom with unlimited love and dedication to your child. What a lucky boy to have a mom such as you! Love you. Hugs and kisses to you both. Break a leg on 60 Min.!
Amy
West Linn, OR - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 10:28 PM (CDT)
Hey Athena and Luke,
Well did you enjoy our favorite show on Sunday? Alexis and I are hooked on that crazy thing...can't wait to see you on T.V. though...it will be much more exciting then "ALIAS" only because of the hoops you have been jumping through...and about your vanity...just do what Sidney does...get a wig!!! Ha, Ha....you know we love you guys...hope this made you laugh...Love Chris
Christine Sarantinos <sarantinos@gtcinternet.com>
San Jose, Ca USA - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 04:28 PM (CDT)
You and Luke will be smashing, gorgeous, fabulous and all those other superlative show-biz adjectives on camera. It will be great to share his story and the whole Sanfilippo transplant hope with the world. I hope the 100 day studies are going well and Lukie isn't too bothered by the poking and prodding. I'm sure all that time in clinic will make him miss King George and his noo-noos. (that sounds racy) I'm glad you had a fun stay with Oimee and Lisa - its always a treat to spend time with good long time friends. Good luck with keeping on track for mid-October return home - GO LUKIE - KEEP THOSE BLOOD CELLS GROWING!!! We love you very much - Pauletti especially has been talking a lot about Wukie, her wiend. She even picked out a book at the library called "Carolina Shout!" because that's 'where Wukie is!'. The Lord is keeping you in His watch and your loved ones are praying for you constantly!
Diana, Peter, Sofia & Pauletti
Seattle, wa - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 12:30 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena and Luke,
Just checking in. Corporate jet for the way home? Sounds pretty cool!!!
Love,
James and Patty
Elvis Presley <patty@pattyspizza.com>
Malibu, ca usa - Tuesday, October 01, 2002 at 10:44 AM (CDT)
Dear Family,
It has been so long since I saw you personally but you are always in my heart; particularly in this trying time you are in my prayers and I know that the Designer of little Luke loves him very, very much. Psalm 145:17-18 "The Lord is righteous in all His ways and loving toward all He has made. The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth."
With prayers and a hug,
Katherine Langley
Santa Clarita, CA USA - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 11:34 PM (CDT)
Hi guys,
We made it to Wisoncsin and back... fun but totally exhausting. We are all sick with colds. I don't know if it was the flight or something else, but I do hope you get the angel flight option just in case. Ellie is printing out Luke's pictures from the web site right now and will carry them around wiht her all day. She loves that!
Counting the days, Marguerite
Seattle, - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 12:15 PM (CDT)
Athena and Luke,
It was great spending time with you this weekend. It was so nice to see Luke and see how well he looks and how happy he is! You are an awesome mommy!!! Thanks so much for the driving tour! And the yummy southern biscuits! And tell Luke I'm ready to play catch with him next time I see him!
All of my love - Lisa
Lisa Mitrovich <tljmitro@comcast.net>
Arlington, VA - Monday, September 30, 2002 at 06:47 AM (CDT)
Dear Athena and Luke,
Just a note to let you know that you and George, and Georgie, Evan, and Yiayia Katy are always in our prayers. We look forward to your return to Seattle and a time when we will see you again.
So happy Luke is doing so well, and that you can look forward to coming home soon.
Sophia is becoming VERY spoiled. She LOVES to sit on my soft robe on my lap in the morning while I have coffee and read the paper. She is such a sweet dog. Yesterday she touched noses with the cat next door, and then licked his nose. Well, apparently that did it. We think he is in love with her. He was waiting on our porch for her to come out for pottie this morning. It's hilarious!
Uncle Nicky sends you his love, and I do too.
Nick Polechrones and Diana <Dstarrsal@aol.com>
Gresham, OR USA - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 01:55 AM (CDT)
Dear Luke and Athena,
I'm sure my little girl and you all had lots of hugs and kisses this week-end......and fun! If she didn't give you both hugs and kisses from me............here's a big one.....slurpy smack! So happy to hear you are both heading home (fingers crossed) to "our NW" soon. Can't wait to hug you both in person when you visit Amy and family in Portland.
Love, Grammy Betty
Betty Harris <guysish@attbi.com>
Portland, OR USA - Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 12:56 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena and Luke,
I can't tell you how amazed I am by all that you've been through and how riveted I am reading the journal updates! Athena, thought of putting it all together for a book, or movie of the week? Oct. 16th is almost here and wishing you both smooth sailing until then.
Love,
Christine, Perry and Cooper in Seattle
Christine Atkins <coopatkins1@attbi.com>
Seattle, wa usa - Saturday, September 28, 2002 at 01:47 AM (CDT)
Hi Athena and Luke,
Just a note to let you know that we check the Web site often and are amazed at how awesome the two of you are. I think of you when I sing, as you are one of my few true blue singing buddies. We look forward to seeing you all soon. Too much time has passed. Tonight I will sing "Climb Every Mountain" from "The Sound of Music" in yours and Luke's honor.
Love,
Lynn Karsh
- Friday, September 27, 2002 at 11:33 PM (CDT)
Dear Athena,
Just letting you know I've been checking in on Luke and keeping him in my prayers. It is so nice that you and Luke have such a great connection with Melanie and Jake and how wonderful that you are both from the same state and will be going home not too long from each other. It is so true that the connections and friends you make during the transplant process with your children become a definite "extended family". Certainly the silver lining on the cloud!
Keeping you close in thought and prayer.
Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net>
South Windsor, CT - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 09:18 AM (CDT)
Hi Athena,
Very fun catching up with you today. I'm really hoping Luke's progress stays on track and you are ready to come home in mid October! What an incredible experience you have gone through. Coming home will be such a milestone.
Hang in there.
Marguerite Roza
Seattle, - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 09:58 PM (CDT)
Okay Athena and Luke,
More questions for you and your next update...What happens if you don't get a seat on the private plane? Will you ever be going back to Duke and your doctor there for occational progress reports? What kind of connection do the Doctors in Washington have with the unit at Duke? What about the interviews? Any word? Keep us informed please and love all the pictures. By the way Alexis is now one out of seven on the freshman student council at her high school...we are very proud of her since she was up against 50 other kids for these positions...needless to say it took guts....I will call you over the weekend...love and hugs to you both....Love Chris
Christine Sarantinos <sarantinos@gtcinternet.com>
San Jose, Ca USA - Thursday, September 26, 2002 at 02:54 PM (CDT)
Hi Luke,
I had a really fun time playing today! I hope I can come share your toys with you again before I go home. Mommy says we might even be able to get together when we get home and play. That'd be cool!
See ya, Jake
Jacob Irish <mairish@hotmail.com>
Durham/Marysville, NC/WA USA - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 11:55 PM (CDT)
Athena and Lukie - What a tremendous experience it was for me to come spend time with you and get a small taste of what you have been going through. I am truly inspired by you and all those I met in the "5200" circle - everyone shows such positive strength in the presence of both adversity and a tedious existence. I am so thankful for the loving and capable staff at Duke who has given Lukie and you such good care. I wish I could be there to keep you company and "spoil" you some more, you deserve it! I already miss Lukie's good nature, mean baseball arm and insatiable desire for noo-noos! I won't miss King George and the Duckie for a while though. Hang in there tweester - just a couple more weeks and you'll be headed back here to the world of constant chaos and obligation. Enjoy your peace as much as it drives you nutty sometimes. I love you and your family very very very very very very much and you can call me ANYTIME - even if I'm groggy. Thank you for your hospitality! As those darned Teletubbies say.... BIG HUG!!!!
Diana (aka weester tweester seester <diana_olga@yahoo.com>
Seattle, WA - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 02:33 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena and Luke,
Sounds like things are going great. Keep up the good work.Since you give us such good up dates just for reading material...here is our up date....Alexis is giving a speech today for student council...I will let you know how she does. Eleni and Nikki have not won one soccer game and I am off to a luncheon for High School....so here I go...Love Chris.
Christine Sarantinos <sarantinos@gtcinternet.com>
San Jose, Ca USA - Wednesday, September 25, 2002 at 12:21 PM (CDT)
Hi, Cuz! I am just dropping by to check in and see how your precious family is doing. I so enjoy being able to see the pictures that you post...Makes me want to crawl through the screen and give you all a big squishy hug and tell you how much I think of, pray for, and empathize with your entire family.
Look at how far you have come and how much progress has been made. Hold fast and keep looking up. Check out Phillippians 4:6.7 and Isaiah 40:31. Be encouraged in the Lord.
I love each and every one of you.
Mary Anne Langley <Langley@gloryworks.com>
Novato, CA USA - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 09:34 PM (CDT)
Dear Athena and George: We were pleased to note the continuing progress regarding Luke. We can certainly appreciate your desire to hit the road for home because it's been a long, hard road. Wish there was something we could do to help, but pending that, we will keep you and your family uppermost in our prayers. With love, Aunt Amy and Unc Chuck.
Michals <CMichals@AOL.com>
Greenbrae, CA USA - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 05:02 PM (CDT)
Hello Sarantinos Gang. It was great to see George and the boys in church, but it will be even better when it's the whole family together again! We miss you and wish you God-speed.
Athena, you are truely an amazing woman!
Penny
Penny Peppes <ellinas1@msn.com>
Kirkland, WA USA - Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 04:51 PM (CDT)
Dear Athena,
Have a great week. Steady ahead.
I love you,
George
George Sarantinos <georgeathena@msn.com>
Seattle, wa usa - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 11:22 PM (CDT)
I am so glad to hear you and Luke are well. Keep up the good work and soon you and Luke will be home. Brandon asks about Luke often and is happy to hear he is doing well.
Kathy and Brandon Proctor <proctorkbkak@aol.com>
Kings Mountain, NC - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 10:15 PM (CDT)
Athena & Luke -
Just thought I'd let you know that I check a few websites every day including yours! :) Luke looks so wonderful. He was so cute in clinic last Thurs. I think you'd gone to get something and he was just patiently sitting on the bed waiting for you to come back. So many kids his age would have been off the bed, crying etc. But Luke was so patient and calm... just waiting. What an amazing kid!!
Just thought I'd let you know that you are both in my daily prayers.
Take care,
Emily (Taylor's best buddy)
Emily Bredthauer <emily.bredthauer@duke.edu>
Durham, NC - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 08:28 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena!
Haven't checked in in a while, so I'm just droppping a line to let you know that you're still in my thoughts daily. It really seems like Lukes progress is everything we could hope for! I know you can't wait until you and Luke are back home with the family, but it'll come soon enough. I hope to be able to see you and George and the boys when you return.
Give Lukie a big hug for me!
Cousin,
Jim
Jim Neforos
- Monday, September 23, 2002 at 06:01 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena and Luke! I'm very happy for Luke's progress. You're always in my thoughts and prayers... Hang in there!!!
Cecilia
Seatte, WA - Monday, September 23, 2002 at 03:31 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena,
When you get a copy of that article - I would love to see it! That is great to raise awareness and to share your knowledge to make the next families journey with this disease a little easier. Once again, I am impressed! It is going to be a beautiful weekend and, 'they' say, week here in Seattle. It has a chill in the air. No mistake, that summer is over and a change is imminent. I can't believe it has almost been a year since the fire. Time whooshes by, doesn't it? I would love to see you down trick or treating in the village this Halloween with Luke (and Georgie and Evan, too of course). What a happy Halloween that would be! Have fun with your sis - poor thing.
Love, love and more love to you,
Leslie
Leslie Reynoldss <reynoldsrule@msn.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Saturday, September 21, 2002 at 12:11 AM (CDT)
Dear Athena and Luke - Hello! Missing you both! Luckie is looking cute as ever. Love the photos.
That's great that Diana's on her way out --what a traveling adventure! Please give her our best.
And now that you will have a moment to get away, it's MASSAGE THERAPY TIME! Please send us that number so we can set it up for you!
Love,
Luckie's Nouna and Nouno
Kate Drakos <katedrakos@attbi.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 05:26 PM (CDT)
Dear Athena, George, Luke, Evan and Georgie:
Luke is so beautiful and so blessed with wonderful parents and two terrific brothers! Athena and George, together you're simply an incredible partnership. The love in your family beams through the journal entries and photos. We wanted to let you know that you have been in our thoughts and prayers. We hope you can go home soon! Give Luke a hug and kiss from us.
Love,
Madeleine, Minnie and Keith
Minnie and Keith Joung <joung@attbi.com>
Winchester, MA USA - Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 11:15 AM (CDT)
Hi Athena,
I am beat - I am sure never as beat as you are! Been thinking of you a lot today. Come home soon - I miss knowing your across Dravus!
Tons of love coming your way,
Leslie
Leslie Reynoldss <reynoldsrule@msn.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 09:33 PM (CDT)
Most women become a mother by accident, some by choice, a few by habit. Did you ever wonder how mothers of children with cancer are chosen?
Somehow, I visualize God hovering over the earth selecting his instruments for propagation with great care and deliberation. As he observes, he instructs his angels to make notes in a giant ledger...
"Armstrong, Beth, son, patron saint Matthew."
"Forrest, Marjorie, daughter, patron saint Cecilia"
"Rutledge, Carrie, twins, patron saint Gerard. He's used to profanity."
Finally, he passes a name to an angel and says, "Give her a child with cancer." The angel is curious. "Why this one, God? She's so happy."
"Exactly," smiles God. "Could I give a child with cancer a mother who does not know laughter? That would be cruel."
"But does she have patience?" asks the angel.
"I don't want her to have too much patience or she will drown in a sea of self-pity and despair. Once the shock and resentment wears off, she will handle it."
"I watched her today," said God. "She has that feeling of self-independence that is so rare and necessary in a mother. You see, the child I'm going to give her has it's own world. She has to make it live in her world and that's not going to be easy."
"But Lord, I don't think she believes in you," said the angel. "No matter. I can fix that. This one is perfect. She has just enough selfishness."
The angel gasps, "Selfishness? Is that a virtue?"
God nods, "If she can't separate herself from the child occasionally, she'll never survive. Yes, here is a woman I will bless with a child less than perfect. She doesn't realize it yet, but she is to be envied. She will never take anything her child does for granted. She will never consider a single step ordinary. I will permit her to see clearly the things I see...ignorance, cruelty, prejudice...and allow her to rise above them."
"And what about her patron saint?" asks the angel, his pen poised in mid-air.
God smiles and says,..."A mirror will suffice."
~author unknown
I came across this on the internet and wanted to share it with the other mothers who fight and care for our children.
God Bless You!
Kathy Massey
Durham, - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 07:43 PM (CDT)
I'm all packed for NC and everyone else is packed for Reno. See you tomorrow!!! I can't wait to give you and Lukie a big hug from all of Seattle!!!!! Your weester tweester seester.
Diana
Seattle, - Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 05:24 PM (CDT)
Hi to North Carolina,
I can't believe all those drugs Lukie is taking. But each report you give sounds like progress in the right direction. Slow but steady. That's what we want to hear. And we think it is a big deal for a check up and a shot!
No other news to report. Just a growing tummy.
As always, I and many others marvel at your strength. You are incredible. Hang in there.
Marguerite
Seattle, - Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 11:01 PM (CDT)
Hi Luke and Athena,
Hi! My name is Lisa Paradis and me and my family are friends with your Aunt Diana and Uncle Peter. We live in Reno, NV. "Big Luke", Molly and Mark and I are all praying for you and your family. It sounds like you are feeling better and doing so totally awesome. Your Aunt Diana told us she is coming to visit you really soon, she is so excited! We also met your daddy, he's funny and really nice. You and your mommy are so brave! Keep up the good work.God Bless you!
Love from Reno,
Lisa, Mark, Molly and Big Luke Paradis
Paradis Family <paradisfamily@sbcglobal.net>
Reno, NV USA - Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 02:45 PM (CDT)
Dearest Athena,
Keep up the excellent work. I love you for everything you do, and for everything you are.
Your Boyfriend
Hubba Bubba
Rhodes, Greece - Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 12:53 AM (CDT)
Dear Athena,
You don't know me but I am a web friend of many of the Hurler families (another MPS disease) there at Duke. I'm not sure if I got Luke's web address from Jake or Kyle's site, but I've been popping in and out of it for a couple weeks now and I thought it was about time I introduced myself and let you know that I've added your precious little boy to my prayer list. I love his pictures. May God continue His blessings on him!
Sincerely,
Lisa Post <ltjpost@cox.net>
South Windsor, CT - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 07:43 PM (CDT)
Athena and Lukey:
Glad to hear you are still doing so well...I love reading your webpage and hearing good news. We just received a picture of Henry Harten's baby sister Grace. I hope to get a chance to run over to the clinic this week on Tuesday. I will be precepting a new nurse and want to show her what it looks like over there. Hope to run into you.
Your nurse Janet
- Monday, September 16, 2002 at 12:14 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena and Luke; Thinking of you everyday and send lots of hugs and kisses from your Canadian cousins!! We are so happy to read of your excellent progress Luke. Have a fabulous visit with Diana. We will catch up when you both get home. Love always.Georgia
Georgia Eriksen <eriksenfam@shaw.ca>
Edmonton, AB Canada - Friday, September 13, 2002 at 01:21 PM (CDT)
Oh Athena please do the very best job you can not beating yourself up about the 'mistake' with Luke's medication. I know Luke forgives you.
Otherwise, you sound really good. I am so glad that you have had all of the visits from your family. I loved your note - I am awestruck that you sent me one. I am, once again, absolutely amazed at your steadfast, consistent, incredibly positive attitude. WOW!
I got a glimpse of George the other night. George and Georgie are joining the Indian Guide Tribe that Brian and Kevin Kennedy are starting. Brian said it was a great informational meeting turnout - it's going to be a big tribe. Campbell is in her third and final year of the girl's version - Indian Princesses - and has loved every minute of it. Basically, it is one monthly meeting, rotating at everyone's house, to meet and do an activity/craft. Then there are three campouts (fall, winter and spring) and the Pine Wood Derby race. Less structured and more relaxed than Cub Scouts/Girl Scouts. George volunteered to have the next meeting (10/7) at your house!
Still running around trying to pick out flooring, carpet, paint and the like. I think November 1st is more realistic - we'll see. Can hardly wait for you to see it. I miss you and think of you constantly.
Love, Leslie
Leslie Reynolds <reynoldsrule@msn.com>
Seattle, wa USA - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 07:45 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena and Lukie,
Just got back from an errie trip to Las Vegas...not many there due to 9/11...sounds like you had a great time with everyone there....what is next for you? Who is going to be visiting? What will Luke be going through in the next few weeks to ensure his release? What are the steps for you when you do go home? Lot's more questions..any answers out there? And love the pic's but we need more..the girls just love getting on the web to see the new pictures of their cousins! We are always thinking of you and praying for you. God Bless all of you...Love Chris
Christine Sarantinos <sarantinos@gtcinternet.com>
San Jose, Ca USA - Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 12:30 PM (CDT)
Weester and Lukie - wish you were here as mom asks for advice on her "kicky" outfits for her 50th reunion this weekend - too much! Pauletti had her very first musicgarten class and loved it - we look forward to the day she can take a class with Wukie!!!! We are excited to having a sleepover with the boys this weekend!! (and the minivan!) SO glad lukie is doing so well - hope you're not going too crazy! Just remember I'm coming soon!!! lots of love and squishes to both of you - your tweester.
Diana
Seattle, WA - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 03:36 PM (CDT)
Dear Luke and Athena,
I'm sending some love your way. Thanks for sharing this journey with us.
Courtney
Hendrick Marrow Program
Courtney Hurd <churd@hmsracing.com>
Charlotte, NC - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 08:47 AM (CDT)
So glad to hear all is going well for Luke! Just wanted you to know I check in from time to time and think of you all often. Thinking lots of positive thoughts for Luke on his recovery!!
Jacob's Grammie Cindy <thewellmans1@juno.com>
Everett, WA USA - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 11:22 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena and Luke, Thinking about you 2 today and glad to read and see everyone happy and smiling. What a special time for your family to be together. It must have been a big boost for your "motherly" soul. I hope the day comes with flying colors in October for your return. There's a void in Magnolia just waiting for you to fill. I send my love and prayers to you, Many Blessings, Vicky
Vicky Stamolis <GVStamolis@aol.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 11:18 PM (CDT)
Athena,
I just dropped off Anabel at preschool and she would not enter the classroom until her bud Evan had gotten there. I left her standing steadfast at the door with her eyes glued to the parking lot. Hopefully Evan got there soon after. Evan's return was big news among the others as well. Even Anita, the new teacher, had heard about the big return.
Anyway, just wanted to keep you posted, Marguerite
Seattle, - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 01:10 PM (CDT)
Cousins all,
Just had to drop by to tell you that you are never more than a heartbeat away. Keep on keeping on and know that your Northern California cheering section has not put down their pom-poms-----we are still cheering you on big time! God bless you all with His faithfulness and unending love.
As always,
your kin,
The Langleys four
Mary Anne <langley@gloryworks.com>
Novato, CA USA - Tuesday, September 10, 2002 at 10:45 AM (CDT)
Hi Guys! The tennis ball is today. Brenda and Joan Sobba are in full swing of preparations. I'll miss you there. I know you must be enjoying the boys. Anabel can't wait for Evan to be back so he can come to preschool. Their class seems great. Mostly an older group and limited at 20 kids. Rachel and the new teacher, Anita, are full of energy. The room looks great... I think it will be a good year for our two middle ones. I can pick up Evan each morning, but I'll call you once your boys leave to iron out the details.
I know we are not supposed to get hooked on the day 100 thing, but I'll still be hoping. You definitely have to be home by the world's most important holiday: Halloween! I look forward to hearing about the visit.
Marguerite <margroza@aol.com>
seattle, WA - Saturday, September 07, 2002 at 09:34 AM (CDT)
Chaotic bliss or blissful chaos....I love it. What a blessing it is to have your family together again. Glad to hear that Luke is doing so well each time I check in on him.
Jo <jvon557@aol.com>
Crestview, FL - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 06:57 PM (CDT)
To the Sarantinos family:
I am still thinking of you and praying for a full recovery for Luke. May God continue to give you strength to get through this. It sounds like things are going well and hopfully you all will be home soon.
Love Mariann
Mariann Petersen <mariannpetersen@attbi.com>
Seattle, Wa USA - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 04:54 PM (CDT)
Hi George and Athena:
We enjoyed the pictures of the children. Luke's baseball uniform photo looked great; except he has the build of a football linebacker . We wish you all well.
Dan and Jan Karsh
san diego, - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 01:29 AM (CDT)
Hi George and Athena; Know you're all happy to be together especially the brothers--the 3 musketeers! You are an awesome family.
Love
Mary Lou and Roger Barton <barzar1@worldnet.att.net>
Covington, W - Friday, September 06, 2002 at 12:46 AM (CDT)
Hi Sarantinos;
I'm glad to hear that Luke is coming along with his treatment. I was thinking the other day that if us adults had to go through what Luke has been going through I'm not so sure that we all could handle it as well. The innocence of childhood is wonderful.
I hope things continue to go well. Best Regards
Jeff Lippens <jeff@lippens.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 11:19 AM (CDT)
Dear Athena, Luke and Family,
We have been away for a few weeks and it was so nice to catch up on Luke's progress and hear that he is doing so well! Our thoughts are with you all!
With Love, The Mitrovich Family
Lisa Mitrovich <tljmitro@comcast.net>
Arlington, VA USA - Thursday, September 05, 2002 at 08:57 AM (CDT)
hola sarantinos's! we only speak spanish now that slater has started kindergarten in the spanish immersion. she seems to like it so far! mostly she just likes picking out her new outfit the night before. today she told me she sat by a kid that smelled really good, like he had just had a bath. oh brother! so glad you are all together tonite - it must have been a great reunion, and that luke is able to be outside more. there is definitely a change of weather taking place here. it coincided exactly with the first day of school. sounds like you have lots of new friends that know what your life is like, unlike all of your old friends wondering what it must be like for you. are the days so long? thank goodness for georgie and evan being able to entertain luke now. no bickering allowed!
hang in there. i know you'll be coming home soon....
kris
kris <kristinpsmith@attbi.com>
bellevue, wa usa - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 11:00 PM (CDT)
Greetings to all the Sarantinos'now in Durham! I'm so glad you have this great time together as a family. I love the photos - Lukie looks so good! Sofia went to Dr Schuette today for her 4 yr check up and both Jennifer and DrSchuette were so thrilled to hear of Lukie's incredible journey and progress as well as the family's. Everyone is so very proud of you all. Sofia also went to her 1st day of her new school-we'll tell you all about it tonight on the phone. Have the most wonderful time with each other!!
Sending lots of love from Seattle - Auntie Diana, Uncle Peter, your cousins and Yiayia.
Argeres clan <diana_olga@yahoo.com>
Seatt;e, WA usa - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 04:51 PM (CDT)
hi,
You now my mom, Jan Kamilaris, because she is a nurse at Duke, and i wanted to say i hope Luke gets better. I also hope he is able to go home in the begining of October.
Nikolas Kamilaris <Hazos316@aol.com>
Morrisville, NC USA - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 02:33 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena, Just returned from 10 days in Sun Valley...ah, just what I needed. We took the chairlift to the top, did some fishing, lots of swimming, and even saw an ice skating show with Sasha Cohen. It was very hard to return to real life and the first day of school (today). The pictures of Luke are great... you'd never know that he has spent the summer hooked to IV's in the hospital. He really looks healthy! If you want to see someone that has changed, you'll have to wait to see me (much much rounder by the moment!!!) Glad to hear the kids are coming to visit, but we were hoping to get some play dates in before they left. We got to see Georgie just before we left and he seems great. He came over with a big bouquet of beautiful flowers and was very chatty about life in general. What a cutie. I hope you guys have a great time together over the next two weeks. Enjoy the warmth as it seems to have turned to fall here. I miss you tons!
Love, Marguerite <MargRoza@aol.com>
Seattle, - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 03:38 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena and Luke- Love the new pictures! I'm so happy to hear that Luke continues to do well. Athena, I'm so sorry for the loss of your 2 dear little friends. It must break your heart. I'm tearing up not even knowing them!! Have a great time with the boys. I will call you and see you soon!
You are such an amazing mom. I LOVE YOU!
OIMY (Amy and family) <graytac@attbi.com>
West Linn, OR USA - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 12:54 AM (CDT)
Dear Athena and Luke,
Just a note to tell you we check in with you every day and we pray for you every day. We love the pictures. They are wonderful. I printed them out and they are on the 'frig in the kitchen where we can see them all the time.
We both send our love to you, and to George, Georgie and Evan too.
Uncle Nicky and "Auntie" Diana <Dstarrsal@aol.com>
Gresham, OR USA - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 11:37 PM (CDT)
Dear Athena,
Here's to Wednesday!
Love,
George and your two other trouble-makers
George Sarantinos <georgeathena@msn.com>
Seattle, wa usa - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 06:23 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena, Mom and Luke,
What progress you have made....we miss you and hope you can all come home soon....we are all back in school...and I am loving every minute of it. I know secretly everyone is glad to be back too. Great pics...keep them coming....Love Chris
Christine Sarantinos <sarantinos@gtcinternet.com>
San Jose, Ca USA - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 04:52 PM (CDT)
Hey loved ones.Life in the N.W goes on.Possabilty
of rain showers 2nd time since July (its been a great
summer) The Mariners have a game with the twins
The Huskies play SanJose next Sat. Randie & Brandon
will be coming when Laurie is off.I'm looking forward
to the football season(This makes at least 50 years
of attending) GO HUSKIES GO LUKIE GO SARANTINOS
FAMILY GO SUPPORT SYSTEM GO LUKIE'S GUARDIAN
ANGELS GO GOD LOVE & PRAYERS, ALWAYS
AUNT KATHEREN & FAMILY
Kay Armatas <karmatas@tacomaclick.net>
Tacoma, WA USA - Monday, September 02, 2002 at 02:16 PM (CDT)
Hi!
I just had to tell you...the photos of Luke are adorable!!! He is so cute...I showed Jake the picture of him wearing the mask...thought it might convince him to be more willing to wear his! I'm enjoying this weather as well...doesn't it kind of feel like home!?! See you Tuesday.
Love ~ Melanie & Jake
Melanie Irish <mairish@hotmail.com OR www.caringbridge.org/wa/jacobirish>
Durham & Marysville, NC & WA USA - Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 08:21 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena & Lukie!
Hang in there girl! We are all praying for you every day and are so amazed at your positive attitude. DARLING new pictures of Lukie and the boys! I'm so sorry about your friends' children. We love you.
Gretchen
Gretchen Brennan <s-gbrennan@msn.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Saturday, August 31, 2002 at 12:28 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena and Luke,
The Reynolds just got back from a week in Santa Cruz visiting my sister, Noel and her family. The weather was okay but being on the ocean was fabulous. Lots to down there - the boardwalk, Campbell and Brian did alitte horse camp (Campbell was in her element). It was fun to get away. The Bowen's are moving to Greenwich, Connecticut today. It is supposed to be a two year temporary move with his work. There is a big send off picnic in the park (like you had) tomorrow. It is sad to see them go but a huge opportunity for them. Athena, I can hardly wait to have you see our house - it is so different inside. It is going to be very nice, but it is so funny to have no furniture or anything to move in when it is ready. But a shopping we'll have to go! The weather is just as you would think at this time of year in Seattle - beautiful and mostly, except in the afternoon, cool and breezy. School starts Wednesday - I cannot believe it. Hope you are enjoying your mom-in-law. Praying for Luke always. So much love coming your way. Love, Leslie
Leslie Reynolds <reynoldsrule@msn.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Saturday, August 31, 2002 at 12:23 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena, Hi Lukie - I just read your latest entry, and Athena, I'm very sorry to hear about the passing of your two little friends. Continue to take good care of yourself and give Lukie a big hug from me. The pictures of Georgie and Evan are very cute, and I look forward to spending time with them soon.
As for news on this end, Maria Thomas will be visiting for the weekend, and Melanie's little one is having his first birthday Saturday.
Talk to you soon,
Love, Kate
Kate Drakos <katedrakos@attbi.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Friday, August 30, 2002 at 01:43 AM (CDT)
Hi Athena,
I am very happy to hear that Luke is improving and doing well.
My thoughts are with you.
michelle breman <michellebreman1@attbi.com>
mountain view, ca usa - Thursday, August 29, 2002 at 08:01 PM (CDT)
hi athena-
just checking in. i'm sorry about the children of your new friends. i can't imagine. so happy to hear luke is doing so well, and you have family coming to help. geo said you can't access your home email easily but i did want you to know how hysterical your husband was at the chris isaak concert. all is well here. we are 5 days away from starting kindergarten. such a milestone...
big hugs, kris
kris <kristinpsmith@attbi.com>
bellevue, wa usa - Thursday, August 29, 2002 at 01:44 PM (CDT)
Hello Athena and Luke! Glad to hear things are going well. Been thinking about you lots and praying for you. Luke, you be nice to Mommie and let her get her sleep and some exercise! Got to keep her sane! Athena, you hang in there it won't be long until you get more visitors! Yahoo! P.S. Heard Marguerite is looking like a very cute pregnant lady -- can't confirm as I haven't seen her all summer!! Hope she's sent you pics.
Joyce Ehrlich
Seattle, WA USA - Wednesday, August 28, 2002 at 07:36 PM (CDT)
Athena,
I just read your latest entry and cannot tell you how incredible I think you are to have the strength to cope with the wonderful news of Luke's progress and the sad news of your new found friends children's passing. I simply think you are an amazing woman. I saw Brenda's mom in *$'s today, and she thinks the exact same thing about you. I am so glad your mom-in-law is with you now. Know that not much time goes by that you and your incredible attitude, family and outlook don't cross my mind. Love straight to you, Leslie
Leslie Reynolds <reynoldsrule@msn.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Wednesday, August 28, 2002 at 01:48 PM (CDT)
Doug and I are so glad to hear that Luke is doing so well. I talked to Diana today and she gave me the web page address. Hang in there!
Carol Lyons
Poulsbo, WA USA - Wednesday, August 28, 2002 at 12:56 PM (CDT)
Athena and Luke:
So glad to hear you are doing well Luke! I thought of you guys yesterday...I came by the hospital and was up on the unit with Karrie and the pull to stop in at the clinic to see Luke was immense. But Karrie would not wear the yellow mask (I had it on her for a second when I convinced her to pretend to be a duck but she promptly pulled it off). With her just starting preschool, I was too scared that she would have contracted something unbeknownst to me (although she looks fine), and Luke would get a dreadful cold or virus and it would be all my fault. So anyway I was thinking of you and I knew you would be in clinic, and I know Karrie and Luke would have fun together, but there will be another time when they could play maybe outside and not in a confined setting and when you feel comfortable with it. Glad you updated your website and looking forward to seeing the pictures. It was a rough week on the unit Athena, but both M and A went peacefully surrounded by love. I know it brings no comfort especially from where you sit today. Does the rain remind you of home?
Your nurse Janet <vanlo001@mc.duke.edu>
- Wednesday, August 28, 2002 at 12:04 PM (CDT)
Athena and Luke,
I hope you remember me! Just kidding. I am finally back from home after some interesting experiences that resulted in a week's delay in returning to Durham. I am so very happy to hear that Luke is doing well, and I would love to come see you both! However, in the madness that has ensued in the past couple weeks, I seem to have misplaced your Durham phone number. So...when you read this, know that I am back in town and very willing to help in any capacity (or even just come play for a bit). Take care and I hope to see you all very very soon!
Hugs from your Best Buddy,
Lauren
Lauren McQueen <lam15@duke.edu>
Durham, NC - Wednesday, August 28, 2002 at 11:43 AM (CDT)
Hi, Family,
We are encouraged for you all and so enjoy being able to keep track of everyone. What a blessing to be able to keep connected in this way!
The Langleys are still maintaining the most important connection of all...interceding on Luke's behalf before His Creator. May the Lord continue to keep His hand upon you all.
Lovin' ya in Novato,
Mary Anne <langley@gloryworks.com>
Novato, CA USA - Tuesday, August 27, 2002 at 04:32 PM (CDT)
Hi "Yukie" (that's what the boys call Lukie)
How are you? I was praying for you. Are you feeling better? Did you get a "poke?" I was in the hospital and I got a "poke". I love you Yukie. I hope you come home soon! Love Jamey
Hi Yukie!
I love you Yukie. I like your picture Yukie. Are you going to come to our house? Come home soon Yukie! Love, Conor
Hi Athena!
The boys wanted to see Lukie on the internet and send him a message. I wrote what they wanted to say. We pray for Lukie at night and they often ask how Lukie is doing. They are especially concerned about him getting "pokes" in the hospital. Lukie has two big fans here in Seattle! We all love you and think and pray for you often.
Gretchen
Jamey & Conor Brennan <s-gbrennan@msn.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Tuesday, August 27, 2002 at 12:17 PM (CDT)
To Athena and family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. I have been hearing about Luke's progress from Diana and it sounds hopeful. Don, the girls and I send you all our best. We look forward to seeing you when you get back home.
Love, Debby
debby heath <debby.heath@lakesideschool.org>
seattle, wa usa - Monday, August 26, 2002 at 04:40 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena! I'm continuing to check in daily with this site and am so thrilled that Lukie is right on schedule. How are you holding up in your apartment all day long!!??!! OH MY GOD! What a challenge this whole experience must be for you. I am getting over pnuemonia, of all things. How did I possibly get this in the summer, you ask? I have no idea - family is fine, just me. It was no fun. But now I'm healthy, so I should be AOK by the time I visit in a month! Kisses and hugs to Luke.
Amy, Tim, Colby and Skylar Gray <graytac@attbi.com>
West Linn, OR USA - Sunday, August 25, 2002 at 09:57 PM (CDT)
Dear George and Athena:
My brother Bryan and your parents (George's parents) told me about your Website for Luke. I send you my best. Please let me know if there is anything we can do to help.
Your parents are cute - they are very proud of all three grandsons and had Lukes most current photos off the website in their kitchen.
Love
Caroline Lee
San Diego, CA USA - Sunday, August 25, 2002 at 04:46 AM (CDT)
Dear George and Athena: We had a lot of catching up to do as we had "lost contact" with your website. We are thrilled with the good reports and the progress which Lukey has made. We will continue our daily prayers for all of you. With love, Unc Chuck/Aunt Amy
Charles Michals
Greenbrae, CA Marin - Saturday, August 24, 2002 at 01:23 PM (CDT)
Dear Athena,
Hello!!!! I have been thinking of you and praying for you and Luke -- and Georgie, Evan and George -- constantly!!! I am so thrilled that Luke is doing so very well. God has his loving hand on Luke. He's performing a miracle right before your very eyes.
And Luke has been such an incredible champ. Wow! He's strong, just like you and George.
Hey, Diana tells me you're going bonkers over there today. I wish we could just zap ourselves over there to see you right now! Hey, you can always eat fritos and browse a ton magazines. That's what I'd do, and it's a fine thing to do in an air-conditioned apartment. I'm over at Diana's today with cute little Evan. He is such a doll! He told me today that his favorite flavor was cotton candy -- cute!!! He is very smart and articulate,and growing up so fast.
Okay, so here is Diana. She is waiting to type you a note....Helloooo weester - Lynn and baby Davis and friends were here today. All send their love. Baby Davis is so cute. Evan was such a good boy playing with Mia Nikki Sofia and Paulette. At one point he was overwhelmed with girliness and said "I must be dreaming! all they're talking about is dolls and barbies and girl things - Yuck! I want to talk about power rangers!" Debby thought it was hilarious. I bought my ticket today - I'll be there 9/19 in the morning until late afternoon on the 23rd! Love to you and Lukie!
Kim, Diana, Evan, Sofia, Paulette,
Seattle, wa - Friday, August 23, 2002 at 06:05 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena,
I lost and just found your web address. Sounds like you both are doing as well as you possibly can be. Good job Athena. Summer is winding down. I spent the whole week shopping for school clothes for the kids (white shirts and blue pants, how hard can it be).
We spent last week on the beach on Camano Island, the kids caught fish and went crabbing. Johnny really liked to dig clams, he would find one and exclaim, "look at this one its a beauty". It's hard to see summer end.
I've been thinking of you a lot. The updates on the web page are great.
Love,
Susie Arksey
Susan Arksey <susanarksey@attbi.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Friday, August 23, 2002 at 02:14 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena, Saw George and the boys at the Magnolia swimming pool yesterday. Hair is coming in fast! It was fun to see how they've turned into "water rats" ..Cooper was happy to see them and we're all glad to hear you'll be coming back in the not too distant future. Glad you and Luke are doing well.
Love,
Christine, Perry and Cooper atkins
christine atkins <coopatkins1@attbi.com>
seattle , wa usa - Friday, August 23, 2002 at 11:44 AM (CDT)
Dear Athena and Luke and big brother Evan,
You have been in our thoughts all summer and we have been wishing Luke a strong recovery so you can return to Seattle!
Hopefully you have seen "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" for some levity???
Looking forward to your return,
Marie, Sierra, Natalie and Scott Talcott
Marie Talcott
- Thursday, August 22, 2002 at 11:06 PM (CDT)
Dearest Weester, What a joy it was to see Georgie and Evan (looking so cute in their matching Duke shirts) holding on to Yiayia's hands as they walked out of the airport-I just melted when I saw them wave their arms and jump up and down and start running when they recognized me there to pick them up! Of course, the first question was "where's sofia?" We had lots of fun with them, though they couldn't wait for their Daddy to come and bring them home. We're thrilled to have them back and are so happy with how well you and Lukie are doing. I'm checking on flights today to come out and visit! All my love and prayers for you. My heart goes out to those in the unit who have sufferred losses..... Your tweester
Diana
Seattlee, WA - Thursday, August 22, 2002 at 12:36 PM (CDT)
Dear Luke,
Just a note to let you know that your friends from The Hendrick Marrow Program are thinking about you every day.
Love,
Courtney
Hendrick Marrow Program
Courtney Hurd <churd@hmsracing.com>
Charlotte, NC - Thursday, August 22, 2002 at 07:59 AM (CDT)
I am glad to hear that things are going well. Luke looked geat (as did you Athena), when you popped in to see me last weekend. Great to hear you will have visitors soon. One of the great things about toddlers is that out of sight is out of mind but he will be over joyed to see his family again. Take care. Love to you and yours and especially to Luke
Your nurse Janet <janetvanlone@hotmail.com>
- Thursday, August 22, 2002 at 07:04 AM (CDT)
Hi Athena and Luke, Your boys left today....Artie and I cried when we said good bye. They are very well behaved. You and George have done a great job. Last night, Christopher was trying to get Georgie's attention at the Spaghetti Factory. When everyone stopped talking to hear what he wanted to say, he yelled: "Georgie, I FARTED!!"It was so funny.
jodie delimitros
San Diego, CA USA - Wednesday, August 21, 2002 at 06:10 PM (CDT)
Luke & Athena -
It was great to meet you yesterday in the Fishtank Room. (I'm Taylor Hancock's Best Buddy - originally from So. Cal.) You look so good!! And you have such energy, Luke!
I know it can be harder to be here on your own so email me if I can help out in any way. I hope I run into you again soon!
Keep up the good work growing those cells!!
Emily Bredthauer <emily.bredthauer@duke.edu>
Durham, NC - Wednesday, August 21, 2002 at 10:42 AM (CDT)
Hi guys! Athena, it was great chatting with you today. The girls and I just got back from Tullys... they now have soft serve ice cream.... Just wanted to keep you posted on the big important things! We miss you.
Love, Marguerite and Holly <MargRoza@aol.com>
Seattle, WA - Tuesday, August 20, 2002 at 10:59 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena, just checking in on you and your family. You and Luke seems to be quite a team! I cannot tell you how impressed I am with your family! I don't know how I would ever do all that you are doing! You are such a strong, and uplifting family, and we are better for knowing you! You are still in our prayers, and we will continue to follow your journey through your web site! Keep up the good work, both you and Luke!!!
Connie, Roman and girls <rcjnwong@aol.com>
Seattle, wa - Tuesday, August 20, 2002 at 04:36 PM (CDT)
I'm back from Hawaii and trying to recover from keeping up with my son and grandchildren. Uncle Nicky got along well while I was gone. We are both glad to be back to our slow paced life. We keep praying for Lukey and are so happy to find that he is doing so well. We send our love to all of you..
Uncle Nicky and Diana <Dstarrsal@aol.com>
Gresham, OR - Monday, August 19, 2002 at 03:22 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena. I have been asking Diana how you guys are all doing and especially Luke. All of you have been in our thoughts and prayers since the day you left Seattle. I just wanted you to know we're thinking about you and everyone here at the Assumption wishes Luke well and can't wait until we see him again real soon! Every child has a guardian angel looking over them and I know Luke does too.
Niki and Chuck Thompson <Thetfamily@attbi.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Monday, August 19, 2002 at 12:07 AM (CDT)
Dearest Athena,
It was good talking with you today. My heart beats in time with yours.
Love,
George
George Sarantinos <georgeathena@msn.com>
Seattle, wa usa - Sunday, August 18, 2002 at 11:50 PM (CDT)
Our thoughts and good wishes are with you.
luke, keep up the good work. If we can help in anyway with the wonderful brothers staying in San D iego, please let us know. (We also are available for moral support) Although we can't exactly relate to Luke's situation, we have been through an experimental bone marrow transplant with miraculous resullts.
once again, our love and positive thoughts.
Toby Scherer and Dawn Scherer Daner (619)582-8017)
Toby Scherer and Dawn Scherer Daner <TobySOS@nethere.com>
San Diego, CA - Friday, August 16, 2002 at 01:39 AM (CDT)
Hi Athena, Hi Luke!
I just logged on for the first time in over a week and found myself lost in time while reading through past journal entries and everyone's powerful messages........all the love and strength found herein is so powerful! Athena my dear, you ARE truly awesome, your spirit can be felt and seen, even through the world wide web. Lukie, I am so glad that you are with mommy and doing so well, and can't wait for you to come home.
As other's have said, today is Panayia's, such a fitting day to recognize the power of a "mitera."
Much love to you Athena and Luke. Hope to talk with you soon.
Love, Kate
Kate Drakos <katedrakos@attbi.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Friday, August 16, 2002 at 01:28 AM (CDT)
Dear loved ones This blessed day of the Virgin Mary's
Assummption finds our prayers being answered.Lukies
guardian angel is doing a great job protecting him. Athena
George,Georgie & Evan,YOU ARE THE BEST I'm having a HOT time
in Corvallis OR 106 deg.Tues.Sitting the grandkids minus
Tara who are in MEXICO until Sun. I make a poor nurse.
The diabetic cat needs insulin 2 xday. I hate giving shots.
The dog is O.K.ROX & jesse are in England. Had a call, She
is in beautiful No.Lakes aea.cruising the rivers.Jesse's
grandparets live 100 yards off the sand junes beach.We all
send our LOVE TO No. Carolina, SEATTLE & SAN DIEGO. kAY
aunt Katheren <armatas7@attbi.com>
corvallis, OR USA - Thursday, August 15, 2002 at 05:45 PM (CDT)
Hey there Sarantinos gang,
Hronia Polla! You're all in my prayers and thoughts. VBS just wasn't the same with out the smiling faces of your three precious boys. Can't wait to have you back tearin' the place up. I'm glad Lukie's doing so well and Georgie and Evan have been such amazing big brothers. Athena, George, you're the greatest. Panagia, the great mother, is watching over you, especially on this most holy day.
Mari
Seattle, WA - Thursday, August 15, 2002 at 01:32 PM (CDT)
Athena,
Haven't had the pleasure to lay eyes on George yet, but Brian has. I am just thrilled at your wonderful news. You really are amazing. I cannot imagine how difficult this whole thing really is for you. I think of you often and am channeling good karma to you in North Carolina. Weather is hot (for Seattle) - heading to Santa Cruz to visit with my sister and her family. Looking forward to just hanging with my kids on the beach. Our house is getting installation tomorrow. It is taking sooooo long - to be expected though, I guess. Portia and Ted have been great about renting their house for so long and for such an uncertain length of time. I miss you. I am so impressed by you and soooo proud of you. Give Luke a squeeze from us all. Love, Leslie R
Leslie Reynolds <reynoldsrule@msn.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 11:22 PM (CDT)
Athena-Such exciting and thrilling news from you. You're getting closer and closer to bringing your family back home together again where all of Magnolia wants you! Possible "Mrs Doohan Day Camp" in the works for a couple of weeks in September. I'll keep you posted if anything pans out to see if you're interested.
Sending lots of prayers your way!
Love, Tracy
Tracy Smith
Seatte, WA - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 09:54 PM (CDT)
Athena, Luke and those who read the website: We are reporting live from San Diego with the Sarantinos boys!! They (Georgie and Evan) are having so much fun with Artie and Chris. Uncle Dino took them for a tour of the police station and Aunt Jodie has been feeding, bathing, wiping, and loving all the boys. They seem so well adjusted,accepting and flexible to the Delimitros life. We miss their Mom and Dad and want them to check their e-mail for pictures of Georgie doing "cannon balls" off the diving board, and all planted in the pepper tree!! Love from us in San Diego.
jodie <thejode1@juno.com>
San Diego, CA USA - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 06:46 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena, George and Boys,
We are back from vacation and Mom and Dad have kept us informed of Luke's unbeliveable progress...what great news...Mom and Dad left this morning looking forward to seeing the boys in San Diego...Athena, I had to laugh when Mom told me about the pack you had to wear for Lukes meds...and how he had you running all over the place with him...how did it feel to be that age again? Tiring I bet...Lots of love and kisses from all of us...it is back to reality for us....Love Chris
Christine Sarantinos <sarantinos@gtcinternet.com>
San Jose, Ca USA - Wednesday, August 14, 2002 at 12:07 PM (CDT)
Athena, After the many inquiries to Diana about your family, she shared with me this incredible web site to visit you and Luke. Wow I have to say you have alot of love and prayers for Luke. I'm so happy to hear you're out of the hospital and progressing to a more normal existence. It's hard for me to find words to convey my heartfelt concern, other than there's nothing in the world greater to fight for than your child's well-being, and what your family has demonstrated is truly remarkable and inspirational. My sincere wishes to your family, Vicky Stamolis
Vicky Stamolis <GVStamolis@aol.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Tuesday, August 13, 2002 at 12:41 AM (CDT)
Hellooo weester! Great to chat with you today - you sound like an expert with your "nursing duties" and Lukie is doing AWESOME! How did the air matress go? P brought his laptop to the canal tonight so I could finally see the new photos and updated entries! I am so touched by all the prayers and well wishes from family and friends and especially with the new family and friends from this Duke experience - what a supportive and loving group! We are glad to hear the boys are having such a blast with Uncle Dino, Auntie Jodie, Artie and Chris. We can't wait to come out to the canal with them. I can't wait till Lukie is well enough to come play in the "galoon" with the kids as it fills up. Everyone here at Milwood sends lots and lots of love and good wishes to you all. Your family is greatly missed here. They are so happy to hear you all and especially that incredible boy Lukie, are all doing so well through this. Talk to you tomorrow! Lots of love from your tweester, and Peter, Sofia & Pauletti too!
The Argeres family
Royal Oak, Milwood, Belfair, WA - Tuesday, August 13, 2002 at 12:35 AM (CDT)
Hi Athena and Lukie, My kids' jaws dropped when George drove by... they are convinced Georgie, Evan and Lukie must be back as well. Oh well. But having George back in Magnolia does seem like a big step closer to the whole sarantinos clan being back. We can't wait. We're thrilled Lukie is doing so well. I remember all the planning you went through knowing that there could be so many complications or unknown factors... You've made it this far mostly on schedule. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that good health will prevail and the plan will stay solid. I miss you! We all do.
Love, Marguerite and the rest of the Roza's <Margroza@aol.com>
Seattle, - Monday, August 12, 2002 at 11:04 PM (CDT)
Wow! I just read your "history" section and am in awe of you all. It is so fantastic to hear how well that sweet boy is doing - and he looks GREAT as do you all! Thank you for taking the time to share so much of this journey through this website. I mailed you a letter 2 weeks ago as we left on vacation (to Boston and Cape Cod) only to find it returned to me because I forgot to put a stamp on it - duh! Anyway, I'll update the thing and send it off in the next couple of days. I can even throw in a vacation picture or two now! Until then, I send you and your beautiful family lots of love and hugs. Way to go Luke!! xoxo Erin.
Erin Reetz <cuthbertq@attbi.com>
- Monday, August 12, 2002 at 05:09 PM (CDT)
What a little trooper! And you're not so shabby either, Athena! You go girl!
Smiling along with ya'all. ; -)
Delighted that Luke is progressing so well.
Love you,
Cousin Mary Anne
P.S. Hugs to George and the boys when you talk with them. Thanx!
Mary Anne Langley <langley@gloryworks.com>
Novato, CA USA - Monday, August 12, 2002 at 11:51 AM (CDT)
So glad to hear that Luke is enjoying his time out of the hospital. I know that's what did the trick for Jacob, too! If you need anything now that the family has all gone home, please don't hesitate to give us a call! Our number is on Jake's website (www.caringbridge.com/wa/jacobirish). We'll see you two on Tuesday...bring snacks & videos!!! :-) Love ~ Melanie, Steve, Jacob, & Matthew
The Irish Family <mairish@hotmail.com>
Marysville & Durham, WA & NC USA - Sunday, August 11, 2002 at 10:51 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena and Luke! Sounds like Lukie is pulling through with flying colors. I'm sure it was sad to say goodbye to Georgie and Evan, but it just means you are closer to getting back to Seattle! I love reading your journal entries, Athena. You are such an inspiration to us all. Your family ordeal reminds me constantly of what really matters in this life.
Love to you all!
Amy, Tim, Colby and Skylar Gray
West Linn, OR USA - Sunday, August 11, 2002 at 09:23 PM (CDT)
Hello girlie i am so happy to hear that Luke is doing great Are you trying to keep him occupied now that dad and his brothers left "Luke keep mom busy ok".
"GOD BLESS"
Aida <avazquez1023@yahoo.com>
meriden, - Sunday, August 11, 2002 at 09:21 PM (CDT)
EVERYTHING SOUNDS GOOD!!!!!!!!
Sending our HUGS from Alabama!!
The Bowman's
www.caringbridge.com/page/andrewshope <AHope4Drew@aol.com>
- Sunday, August 11, 2002 at 08:34 PM (CDT)
Way to go Lukie!! Enjoy these summer days and freedom! Miss you and love you all.........Diane
Diane Steinke <dmsteino@aol.com>
Seattle, WA - Saturday, August 10, 2002 at 07:39 PM (CDT)
ALRIGHT! The news of Lukey getting out of the hospital (and his amazing mom) just made all of the Reynolds jump for joy! That is just fantastic. Enjoy the new found freedom! Love to you - tons and tons of it - coming your way. Leslie R.
Leslie Reynolds <reynoldsrule@msn.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Saturday, August 10, 2002 at 10:31 AM (CDT)
Hi Beautiful Sarantinos Family!
WOW -- Lukie is doing soo great! Congratulations on getting out of the hospital. Today is our first visit to the site. What a huge blessing for us to see such incredible pictures of your family and especially darling Luke and Athena. You are all in our prayers. Jamey and Conor have been saying special "God Bless Lukie" prayers. We will continue in ernest. Tomorrow we head out to Hood Canal for a week to stay with Sean's parents. You will be in our thoughts -- as you always are when we are there! George -- come visit!
Much love to you all,
Gretchen, Sean, Jamey & Conor
Gretchen, Sean, Jamey & Conor Brennan <s-gbrennan@msn.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Saturday, August 10, 2002 at 12:07 AM (CDT)
Hi Everyone!
It's been a whirlwind last couple of days for me (ever get your purse stolen and have to replace everything? Especially when all your identification is from another state? Oh, and you are supposed to go on vacation in two days?) It's been crazy for me, but I can't even imagine how joyous, but crazy these past two days must have been for you, Athena! But I am sure you are doing a magnificent job as Luke's new primary nurse. I wanted to say a little "Adios" for about a week- don't worry, when I get back, I will be ready and willing to give you a little break time (if needed)! To Georgie and Evan- From Power Rangers to pool piggyback rides, I had so much fun with you two, you boys are awesome and I hope I will see you again soon! Have a safe trip to California! And I sure enjoyed meeting you, Yiaya Katie, as well! You all are such an amazing family. Well, enough from me. I'll see you in a week or so!
Hugs to you all,
Lauren
Lauren McQueen <lam15@duke.edu>
Durham, NC - Friday, August 09, 2002 at 09:20 PM (CDT)
I am so glad for you guys!! We drove in from W. VA this morning at 1am, after 3 hours on horse back, so couple 3 hours on a horse through canyons up and down hills then a 5 hour car ride and I am pretty sore, but it is well worth it. I am so happy to see your photos. The Cottey's were so nice to put those up there, what great pic's. It must be especially nice for George...so I look forward to seeing y'all back the unit for visits but no more inpatient stays. God bless y'all. You were the best primary patient Luke. I love your wind up and I will miss you. I am glad I am being replaced by the best nurse you could possibly have your Mommy...
Your nurse Janet <janetvanlone@hotmail.com>
- Friday, August 09, 2002 at 12:32 PM (CDT)
hip hip hooray! we're so excited lukey is out of the hospital. what does he think of the big wide world?
our thoughts are with you in this new stage. we're looking forward to catching up w/ george this wkend. we wish you were coming to chris isaak w/ us. big hugs to you guys!
kris and family
kristin smith <kristinpsmith@attbi.com>
bellevue, wa usa - Thursday, August 08, 2002 at 08:22 PM (CDT)
Dear All,
How wonderful to be making such incredible progress... We are all thinking of you and including you in our prayers. I admire your amazing strength. I had just a glimpse of how hard it can be when Christian had his open heart surgery. Please let me know if there is any thing that we can do to help! With our love, Randie, Laurie and the family
Armata <armatas7@attbi.com>
Corvallis, OR USA - Thursday, August 08, 2002 at 06:26 PM (CDT)
Hello Sarantinos Family: So glad to hear that Luke is doing well enough to leave the hospital--that's great news! The pictures of you all together are fabulous. I have one hanging on my office wall, and think of you often. What an inspiration Luke and all of you are! I hope the next two months go by quickly for you, as Luke continues to progress. We are rooting for him here. Best, Marisa
Marisa DiGiacomo
Seattle, WA USA - Thursday, August 08, 2002 at 04:51 PM (CDT)
Hi Dear Family, We are so happy to hear Luke gets to go home. He is one beautiful boy.....what a joy he is....how much love he has received and all the prayers from all his friends. We pray for Luke and all your family every day. We look forward to the day Gene and I walk by your house and you're all there. Love ya all lots.......Susan and Gene
Gene &Susan Hoglund <Genensusan@attbi.com>
Seattle, , WA - Thursday, August 08, 2002 at 04:05 PM (CDT)
Hi Luke,
I'm sorry I didn't get to say bye to you today, but I know you're so happy to be home! I'll miss playing catch with you (even though I'm sure you don't miss playing with me since I don't have very good aim!), but I'm sure mommy will get in lots of playing time! Good luck in the clinic...I hope the next 70 or so days fly by!
Andria Kokoszka
5200, - Wednesday, August 07, 2002 at 11:31 PM (CDT)
Congratulations to all the Sarantinos!!!! Good job Luke! We are so happy to hear Luke will be leaving the hospital. The first big step in coming home to Seattle. Cooper, Perry and I think of you guys often and how the power of positive thinking and a lot of love can truly work wonders. Can't wait to hear the rest of the reports!
Best wishes.
The Atkins, Magnolia
Christine Atkins <coopatkins1@attbi.com>
seattle, wa usa - Wednesday, August 07, 2002 at 11:17 PM (CDT)
Athena & Lukie- We are so excited to hear about Lukie going home to the apartment! We know you will do a fabulous job and be the perfect doctor. Maybe you should change your profession when you get back - George might want to stay home with the kids! Love you lots and MISS you. Brenda, Jeff, the kids, Karol & Bruce.
Brenda LaSorella
Mayberry, WA USA - Wednesday, August 07, 2002 at 05:14 PM (CDT)
Congrats Luke! I've been keeping up with you since I moved away! I'm so very glad that you are doing SO great! Good luck to you and your family in the days to come! Take care and practice that fast pitch, little one.. You may be the best baseball player I've seen yet! :-) Much love and good wishes
Latane Hurdle (5200) <lataneh@bellsouth.net>
Charlotte, NC - Wednesday, August 07, 2002 at 04:40 PM (CDT)
Athena, My kids attended VBS this week, and I discovered that I can send you a greeting. It sounds like you and Luke are doing great. I'm so happy to hear of his progress. We are thinking about you and praying for you! Keep up the good work.
Lots of Love!
Kenny, Kris, Paul, Peter, and Caroline Dudunakis <kris.dudunakis@verizon.net>
Bellevue, WA US - Wednesday, August 07, 2002 at 04:35 PM (CDT)
Hi all. I am so glad we got to know you all better these past few months, just wish is was under better circumstances. Who would have thought in January when we first talked that we would all end of here.
Thank you for your words of encouragement when I was having a bad day and telling me that this to shall pass. I can't wait till were outta here also, but until then, stop by and say hi and if you need anything please call.
PS. I sent the pictures to your email, they are so cute!
The Cottey's "www.caringbridge.com/wa/kyle <cotteyfamily@aol.com>
Sumner, WA/Durham, NC, USA - Wednesday, August 07, 2002 at 04:18 PM (CDT)
What a go you guys. You are all amazing.We all think about you often up here in Vancouver.
Lots of love
Cynthia Matt John Cicci
xoxo
Cynthia CIcci <Cynthiacicci@shaw.ca>
Vancouver , Canada - Wednesday, August 07, 2002 at 04:04 PM (CDT)
Athena,
You are an incredible woman!! It sounds like you've got the hang of all you need to know, thanks to a fantastic staff at the hospital. Luke's progress is outstanding! I'm sure he's past ready to play in the yard with Georgie and Evan. The day will come soon enough!
Looking forward to the day you all come home!
Jim
Jim Neforos <j.neforos@gte.net>
Long Beach, CA - Wednesday, August 07, 2002 at 02:26 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena, George was just here for dinner and he showed us how to sign on to the website! I am so thrilled I finally found a way to communicate with you! We are thrilled to hear about how well Luke is doing, and will keep you in our thoughts and prayers for the "at home" adventure. I'm sure everything will go just fine! George looks good and is missing you already, but he is really busy tomorrow at Ballard so that is good! He and Roman had a good time talking! Give the boys a hug from us, and keep them close to your heart, as I know that you do. You are in my thoughts daily, and I am only wishing the speediest and best outcome for you, your son, and family! Love to you, Connie
Connie, Roman and Girls <rcjnwong@aol.com>
Seattle, Wa USA - Tuesday, August 06, 2002 at 11:37 PM (CDT)
Back in Seattle and back in the saddle. I'm just so thrilled to be clued in to Lukey's daily progress now that I've logged on! What an awesome fan club you have, Luke!!Keep sending us good news.................love, Diane
Diane Steinke
Seattle, WA - Tuesday, August 06, 2002 at 10:51 PM (CDT)
Go! Go! Go! Yahoo Luke! Athena, I bet you'll be teaching the next family the tricks of IVs and the like. What a gal! Thinking . . . and praying. Thinking . . . and praying about Luke and my good friend Athena. :) Love, Leslie R.
Leslie Reynolds <reynoldsrule@msn.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Tuesday, August 06, 2002 at 07:59 PM (CDT)
Dear Family Sarantinos, and Katie
Hooray for Luke from Honolulu! We are elated to learn of his extraordinary progress and especially for his outing.
Athena, you are an inspiration to us.
You are all in our thoughts for the best.
Warmest Aloha
Mike and Elaine Michaelidis and Family
Mike and Elaine Michaelidis <arista@hawaii.rr.com>
Honolulu, Hawaii usa - Tuesday, August 06, 2002 at 07:15 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena, I know you'll be a quick study with the IV's and meds. In fact, if those slow poke anesthesiologists take too long with my epidural this delivery, I'll just call you and have you do it. I'm getting rounder by the day!
Love, Marguerite <margroza@aol.com>
seattle, wa - Tuesday, August 06, 2002 at 01:20 PM (CDT)
Good news on the counts...fingers, eyes, toes all crossed, as directed.
Melanie and Nick
Melanie Curtright
- Tuesday, August 06, 2002 at 12:51 PM (CDT)
Yeah, Luke! I love reading all of the good news about you. We're checking in on you everyday. Next time we visit you will probably be in your apartment. Congrats!
Love,
Courtney
Hendrick Marrow Program
Courtney Hurd <churd@hmsracing.com>
Charlotte, NC - Tuesday, August 06, 2002 at 08:15 AM (CDT)
Slept with a couple blankets last night. How was your sleep my angel?
Love,
Jorge
George Sarantinos <georgeathena@msn.com>
Seattle, wa usa - Monday, August 05, 2002 at 11:21 PM (CDT)
Hi from Virginia Beach...wish you guys were here. Glad to hear about Lukes outing...look forward to more happy stories. Here with YiaYia and PaPou, Alex and Demitri. Loved the pictures of Luke and the gang. He looks great!!! Nick sends his love and wishes Luke was better. And Kiki says..."Dear Lukie, I wish you'll be better soon, love Kiki". YiaYia says..."loved your singing to me on the telephone. Happy your doing well and love and pray you will be home soon." Julie hopes we can see Athena and Lukie soon. She wishes everyone the very best. Love, prayers, and kisses!
The Paras Family
Julie, Chris, Nick and Kiki Paras & (Bud) <jparas@sinclairstations.com>
Virginia Beach, VA - Monday, August 05, 2002 at 08:41 PM (CDT)
Hi Sarantinos,
I just wanted to say hi. I cannot wait to see all of you come back 'cause you are practically another part of my family that I really like. I hope everyone is doing fine. Luke is a great kid and I just hope he gets better. I don't know what else to say, it is just not popping out because there is so much good stuff happening. I will talk to you later. Your friend, Campbell Reynolds (typed by secretary mom) p.s. THRILLED with the news. Come home Athena!!!!
Campbell Reynolds <reynoldsrule@msn.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Monday, August 05, 2002 at 08:41 PM (CDT)
YAHOO! So thrilled with the update on Luke. What awesome news! I'm sure you are all taking a deep breath and are looking forward to getting the @#**&!! out of that hospital room and out of humid, hot NC! Lisa and I are excited to visit you in September. I am so happy for the entire Sarantinos clan. Way to go, Lukie!
OIMY (Amy and family) <graytac@attbi.com>
West Linn, OR USA - Monday, August 05, 2002 at 08:28 PM (CDT)
Athena and family,
Amy told us about your website and I finally got on. What an inspiration! Luke and your entire family are in our thoughts and prayers... You are amazing -- keep up the good work!! Hope to see you on your next trip to Portland!
love, carol, craig, natalie, brooke and griffin harris
carolyn and craig harris <cgcharris@aol.com>
west linn, or - Monday, August 05, 2002 at 07:39 PM (CDT)
Hey Athena and Boys, we are sooooooooo glad to hear Luke's progress...he is doing great....and I can't imagine what you, Athena ,are having to learn and do...again, you are the strongest woman I know. Keep up the good work and give everyone a big kiss for us.....P.S. Yiayia and Papou are here in San Jose and we are very excited to have them...they will keep tabs from here for the week...we saw the segment on the TODAY show....your Doctor was great...I wish they would do more on it...to get the word out...Big hugs and Kisses...Love Chris and the Gang
Christine Sarantinos <s>
San Jose, Ca USA - Monday, August 05, 2002 at 07:36 PM (CDT)
CONGRATULATIONS LUKE!! We've been checking the website everyday. You know what those passes mean??? Not long till discharge!! YEAH!! Well we are praying that those cells keep GROWING & GROWING and we miss seeing Luke and the baseball in the hall :)
LOVE - Amanda, Gary, & Kathy Massey
www.caringbridge.com/nc/amanda <star21021@aol.com>
5200 UNIT, - Monday, August 05, 2002 at 05:15 PM (CDT)
Athena and Luke:
Just a quick note to let you know how proud I am of you both! This weekend was wrought with challenges! You guys did great. Your friends and family would be in awe of all you are doing Athena in caring for Luke... the dressings and cap changes you did wonderful, the more you do it the easier it gets and I had you doing it a lot this weekend. Thanks again for your warm farwell on Sunday, I hope you liked the Barney card we really did agonize over Barney or Teletubbies...anyway we are packing up for our camping trip and getting the directions off the internet so I wanted to say a goodbye.. if I get a chance I will drop in at the clinic in a couple of weeks or maybe you will pop in on the unit. Take care slugger.
Your nurse Janet <janetvanlone@hotmail.com>
- Monday, August 05, 2002 at 02:56 PM (CDT)
We finally found you!!!Now I don't have to rely on Marguerite for updates and will check in on you myself. We are so so happy for the wonderful news and miss you all terribly. Phillip talks about Lukey all of the time and we'll meet up with George in Seattle. Love to all of you from all of us---Dan, Diane, olivia and Phillip
Dan and Diane Steinke
Chilton, Wi - Monday, August 05, 2002 at 01:38 PM (CDT)
Loved Ones,
Yipee Skippy! What an awesome update to receive upon our returning from being away! We are totally thrilled for you all and are praising God for His incredible love and faithfulness!
Hang in there, and know that you are in our hearts and prayers.
Love,
Mary Anne & Co.
Mary Anne Langley <langley@gloryworks.com>
Novato, CA USA - Monday, August 05, 2002 at 12:15 PM (CDT)
Dear Athena, Mom, Lukie, Georgie and Evan:
We are waiting with open arms for you in San Diego!! Dori, Mark and Ryan just left today and we are cleaning up for round two. (The pool is a little green, but that's O.K.)
So happy to hear about Lukie's engraftment with few setbacks thus far. We look forward to the day when all of us can be together. Love the Delimitros'
jodie delimitros <thejode1@juno.com>
San Diego, CA united states - Monday, August 05, 2002 at 12:01 PM (CDT)
Hello Athena and family,
Great news to read on a Monday morning! so glad to see Luke is doing well. You are in our hearts and minds! Looking forward to seeing you in September when Amy is in town.
Love, The Mitrovich Family (Tim, Lisa, Jessica and Juliette!)
Lisa Mitrovich <tljmitro@comcast.net>
Arlington, VA USA - Monday, August 05, 2002 at 06:27 AM (CDT)
We were delighted to hear the good news related to Luke's progress. We pray for his continued improvement and that day when you can return to your home. And, thank heaven for little girls because the good one's become yiayias and are a special blessing. With regards to Yiayia Katie.
Love, Unc Chuck & Aunt Amy
Charles Michals <CMichals@AOL.com>
- Sunday, August 04, 2002 at 08:30 PM (CDT)
The house is still standing.
Love,
Your Husband
George Sarantinos <georgeathena@msn.com>
Seattle, wa usa - Sunday, August 04, 2002 at 05:38 PM (CDT)
WOW - Lukie has engrafted as of today I hear! YIPEE!! George looks great, its good to have him back and be able to give him a hug - the girls were really excited to see Uncle George. We can't wait 'till everyone is back for a great big family hug. It's been a few days since I've been online and I LOVE the new pics - you all look so good! Luke is too cute.
Dtoo Dtoo went home with George today after church. We are going to miss him (not the cat hair though). The Blue Angels have been in town this week and we've gotten daily shows here at the house, today in the church parking loth 4 came by really low and gave us quite a show! The other night at the Mariner's game the girls each got an Edgar Martinez piggy bank. They want to give one to the boys so GeorgieEvanLukie can have one just like them! Yesterday when we were on the way to the airport I told the girls we will get an update on how Lukie is from Uncle George, Paulette immeadiately said "wookie!" and did her stavro and put her hands together for a prayer.
We will take good care of George for you weester. We'll think of the boys this week at VBS and at Sofia's bday - it wont be the same without them. I miss you terribly and even more so now that George is home, but you're not. Keep going with that positive attitude you have - you are all so incredible and it makes me very proud. I am also really proud of Mom for driving the suburban and taking good care of Lukie and you guys. As always - LOTS OF LOVE AND SMOOCHES from Diana Peter Sofia & Paulettie
The Argeres'
Seattle, WA - Sunday, August 04, 2002 at 05:33 PM (CDT)
Athena,
Great news on Luke's health! I'm thrilled. For me, the transition means you're one step closer to being back home. I can't wait! With temps in the low 60's today, it is probably a 30 degree difference from NC. We did the Magnolia parade and Ellie had to hand select a piece of candy for each child that she saw... it took us about an hour to walk through. Cute though. Soak up some heat for me and I'll talk to you soon.
Love, Marguerite and the rest of the Roza's <Margroza@aol.com>
Seattle, WA - Sunday, August 04, 2002 at 04:44 PM (CDT)
Hi everyone!
I am so excited about the wonderful counts! Athena, if you need a minute or two off, I would be happy to come by tomorrow and stay with Luke or Georgie and Evan. I'll call tomorrow to see what your thoughts are for the week. Way to go Luke! Keep up the good work!
Your Best Buddy,
Lauren
Lauren McQueen <lam15@duke.edu>
Durham, NC - Sunday, August 04, 2002 at 04:22 PM (CDT)
Hi guys, We're so glad Luke is doing so well!! I'm sure your wonderful attitude and having his family around helps keep "good energy" around for Luke. Cooper says hi to the boys and we all look forward to more good reports and your return to Seattle. Christine, Perry & Cooper Atkins
Christine Atkins
Seattle, wa usa - Sunday, August 04, 2002 at 12:26 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena, I just got the goose bumps reading about Luke's engraftment. Wow - what a guy - that is the best news possible. I bet it is hard to have George gone, but what a positive way to look at it - if Luke wasn't doing well he'd still be with you. You are truly amazing. I miss seeing you on the tennis court. The parade was yesterday. No police motorcycles this year, but it was pretty long. Weather held up and the kids will have tons of cavities, I am sure, after all of the candy they ate. Saw Marguerite- the cute, pregnant lady. Played tennis with Brenda (she, Portia and Amy Medved are on a girls weekend) and she came and saw the house. It is still so far from being done and there is a distinct smoke smell in the basement which can't be because it freaks us all out. So we'll see what happens. Anyway, I miss you so much. I always think of you and Luke - all the Sarantinos for that matter. Hugs, hugs and more hugs. P.S. Brian wants Georgie to come over as soon as he gets home. Love, Leslie R
Leslie Reynolds <reynoldsrule@msn.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Sunday, August 04, 2002 at 12:12 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena, George, Luke, Evan,and Georgie....
Luke, you are pulling through, Buddie. Keep up the good work. Athena, you are really keeping things together out there...you truly are a strong women....I hope we can get down to San Diego to see the boys when they are there...we are going to try very hard....we are always checking in....love to all of you...Chris and family
Christine Sarantinos <sarantinos@gtcinternet.com>
San Jose, Ca USA - Sunday, August 04, 2002 at 10:30 AM (CDT)
Dear Athena, Luke and family, this is Kathy from Antwerpen. I was supposed to be in Greece on 23 July-5 Aug for business -- but contracted salmonella food poison and was stuck here. Now am trying to get to Atlanta on 10 Aug to see the family. I will then fly to DC on the 17th and then also visit Va Beach -- and if there is a possibility to visit you at Duke then I will come right away. I am still praying for Lukes recovery and love ya all .... kisses from Antwerpen, Katerina
katerina paras <katerinaparas@hotmail.com>
Antwerpen, Belgium - Sunday, August 04, 2002 at 08:22 AM (CDT)
Dear George, Athena, Georgie, Evan, Luke and Katie:
Received the last update as of August 2nd and were so elated
that Luke is doing so well. Want you to know that our
thoughts and prayers are with you.
Ted,Kiki, Thom & Thalia
Ted,Kiki & Thom Dimitriou and Thalia Denos
Seattle, Wa USA - Saturday, August 03, 2002 at 07:55 PM (CDT)
We are so happy to hear about Luke's status and recovery. You are a wonderful mother Athena. Love to mom and kiss Luke for us. Uncle Jim and Aunt Penny.
Jim and Penny Paras
- Saturday, August 03, 2002 at 07:12 PM (CDT)
Athena,George and Boys - Loved the pictures! What a bunch of troopers! Madeleine has a joke for the boys, "Why did the chicken cross the playground?" To get to the other slide! Hope you got to relax for a minute and enjoy your big date. (Aren't mothers the best!) Take care of yourselves! You're in our thoughts and prayers!
Kristine, Paul, Will, Jack & Madeleine Smithers <kplayersmithers@yahoo.com>
Poway, CA - Friday, August 02, 2002 at 02:31 PM (CDT)
Hi everyone, we are sending our thoughts and good wished to you and the boys!
Bess, Mariana and Anthea
- Friday, August 02, 2002 at 01:29 PM (CDT)
Athena and George,
Just in case you read this before you come in, Luke's WBC is.......0.9 with an ANC of 666! He's had a great night (so far, knock on wood!). Hope you guys had a nice night too.
Andria
5200, - Friday, August 02, 2002 at 04:10 AM (CDT)
Hi Guys -- Love the photos!! Lukie you look great my dear. You all look great!! So glad to hear those numbers are increasing. Lots of love and continued prayers.
Nouna
kate drakos
seattle, wa usa - Friday, August 02, 2002 at 01:41 AM (CDT)
Athena&George/family - hello from Mayberry! Glad to hear Luke is doing better tonight. We would like to hear the details of the date night... Make sure to post those tomorrow. Magnolia Summer Festival starts tomorrow - Brenda is leaving on a girls weekend (wont't post that!) Love you lots - Marguerite & Brenda.
Brenda LaSorella
Mayberry, WA USA - Thursday, August 01, 2002 at 10:25 PM (CDT)
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Katie & Dennis O'Neil
Mercer Island , WA USA - Thursday, August 01, 2002 at 06:14 PM (CDT)
We think about you often and love the photos of Luke and all.You all are truly and inspiration.Thank you for sharing with us.
Lots of love
Cynthia Matt John and Baby???(c-section on Aug 15th)
Cynthia Cicci
Vancouver, Canada - Thursday, August 01, 2002 at 05:07 PM (CDT)
Hi Luke and family,
Saw, My Big Fat Greek Wedding a few weeks ago, and of course we thought of your family.......and mine......anyone with an eastern european background......when the grandma spit on them, I almost cracked up......my grandmother used to do the "poo, poo (spit) thingy"........did yours?
So glad to hear Luke is getting better and better.....go cells, go.
Hurry, home.......this time when you visit Colby and Skylar, I'll make sure we're home!
Love,
Grammy Betty and Poppops Alan Harris
Portland, OR USA - Thursday, August 01, 2002 at 01:22 PM (CDT)
Great to come into work each day and find good news...Grow cells grow! Hello to Katie! Keep on rockin' in the free world, you Greek beauties!
Joe Stagg
San Diego, CA - Thursday, August 01, 2002 at 09:54 AM (CDT)
What precious photos! Thanks for sharing this journey with us. We're thinking about you every day.
Courtney
Hendrick Marrow Program
Courtney Hurd
Charlotte, NC - Thursday, August 01, 2002 at 08:15 AM (CDT)
We love the pictures, we love the updates, and we really love the good news! We are thinking about you!
The Schrocks
Emily and Jeff Schrock
Seattle, wa usa - Thursday, August 01, 2002 at 01:09 AM (CDT)
Way to go Luke! What wonderful news. Grow cells grow!! You guys really are on a fast track and it sounds like Luke is doing marvelous. Enjoy your dates Mom and Dad. Prayers and best wishes from Jakie's Grammie Cindy.
Cindy Wellman
Everett, WA USA - Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 07:22 PM (CDT)
Congratulations on the cell count Luke... your body is hard at work. I am glad to hear it!!! I am also glad to hear you have some a special visitor coming. Look forward to seeing you this Friday. Take care.
Your nurse Janet
- Wednesday, July 31, 2002 at 02:44 PM (CDT)
Hey guys...love the pics and what a wonderful diary of events. It is great to go back and read what has happened and what is happening....looks like the chant is working...I guess God is really listening! We can't wait for more good news...GROW CELLS GROW...love you, miss you, God Bless you...Chris
Christine Sarantinos
San Jose, Ca USA - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 11:52 PM (CDT)
Hey. I am so glad to hear the cells are growing. Before you know it we will see you in clinic. Brandon is doing well. I am glad Luke is well. See you soon.
Kathy,Keith,and Brandon
Kings Mtn, NC - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 09:36 PM (CDT)
Hey. I am so glad to hear the cells are growing. Before you know it we will see you in clinic. Brandon is doing well. I am glad Luke is well. See you soon.
Kathy,Keith,and Brandon
Kings Mtn, NC - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 09:35 PM (CDT)
Hey Guys, We just wanted to let you know we have been keeping you in our prayers. We have missed getting to watch Luke with his baseball. He is such a cool kid. We are doing O.K. since discharge. You will do fine with the home care, but it is a little overwhelming at first. Great News On The Cells!!! We will stay in touch.
Tell Luke Amanda says hi.
Gary Massey (Amanda's Dad)
Durham, NC - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 08:34 PM (CDT)
Hi Luke and family. We are praying for Luke daily, and hope all is well. Stefi says hi to Georgie. We'll miss you guys at VBS next week, but will send you surprises when the week is over!!!
Penny, George, Stefi and Kassiani
Kirkland, WA USA - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 05:26 PM (CDT)
Just want to say HI and I love you. Lukie you are doing GREAT and Auntie Diana gives you a great big hug. Uncle Peter is so happy your blood cell count is creeping up and your spirits remain high! Paulettie and Sofia miss you so and pray a lot for their cousin Lukie. Thanks for the great updates.
Love, Peter, Diana, Sofia & Paulettie
Seattle, WA - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 04:00 PM (CDT)
Hello Athena, Geoge, Georgie, Evan, and the Great Luke,
How happy we are to hear that Lukie is doing well and that all of you are hanging in there. Our prayers and thoughts are with you daily.
Tammy, Pat, Kristine and Kathleen Kelly
Reno, NV USA - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 12:37 PM (CDT)
slater and i prayed for an extra big miracle for luke tonite. we drove right past your hood canal place this weekend. it looked very inviting. we caught a zillion crabs, eels, etc although it was mostly cloudy out there. thinking of you guys and looking forward to seeing george when he gets home. grow cells grow! kris and family
kristin smith
bellevue, wa usa - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 11:36 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena, George and boys, We are so glad to see photos of Lukie and thrilled he looks so good. We all miss you and say a prayer for Luke every night. Tell the boys thier friends Isabella and Mia send them all kisses and hugs!
George, Bill has some important info. to share with you regarding the Swedish group and Providance. You may want to call him when you get a chance. Good night to you all and God Bless. Love, Sherry,Bill and the girls
Sherry Portuese
seattle, wa usa - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 10:34 PM (CDT)
Athena - I miss you!!!!!!!!!!! Love, Leslie R.
Leslie Reynolds
Seattle, WA USA - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 08:58 PM (CDT)
Hi Lukey,
Your two-year old friends are missing you dearly!
Love, Ellie
Ellie Roza
Seattle, WA USA - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 08:37 PM (CDT)
Dear Sarantinos Family,
Thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
God bless you,
Paula Charuhas and family
Paula Charuhas
Seattle, WA USA - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 05:51 PM (CDT)
George & Athena-
It was so great to hear from you, our thoughts have been with all of you so much this summer! The latest news is great to hear. Tell Georgie Rachel misses him. We'll check in with you soon.
tracy smith
seattle, wa usa - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 04:10 PM (CDT)
George, Athena, Georgie, Evan, and Luke!!! Hello from Portland! What a wonderful way to track your progress and wish you well.. Have been thinking of you all and know what a difficult time this must be. Lukie looks like a real fighter and has a great team to help him recover! Your in our thoughts and prayers. Mark, Dori, and Ryan Olmsted
Dori Olmsted
Portland, OR USA - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 09:54 AM (CDT)
Sending Prayers your way!!!
HUGS,
The Bowman's
.4 THAT'S AWESOME LUKE!!!
www.caringbridge.com/page/andrewshope
- Monday, July 29, 2002 at 09:10 AM (CDT)
Hi Sarantinos clan!! I have been checking out the website daily and am so happy to see he's up to 0.4! Yahoo! Colby and Skylar enjoy seeing pictures of their Seattle buddies - they keep asking for new ones! GROW CELLS GROW!
00000IIIIIMMMMYYY (Amy Gray and family)
West Linn, OR USA - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 01:06 AM (CDT)
WOW 0.4 . Keep those babies growing. We are
praying & singing the chant GROW CELLS GROW
Our greatest wish is that all of us be reunited back
home in N.W. as soon as possible & Luke will be
granted a clean bill of health. GOD BLESS YOU ALL
THE ARMATAS FAMILY:KayRoxDanMariaJesseAndreew
Tacoma, WA USA - Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 06:49 PM (CDT)
Dear George, Athena, Georgie, Evan, Luke, Al, Angela and Katie,
I've just read your website and am literally in tears over everything you must be going through. The family support and love is overwhelming. Throughout it all, I am struck by the incredibly positive attitudes and optimism, that I am caught up in it, too. Grow cells grow! Luke is an inspiration, but no wonder, because he comes from a such a loving family who is there for him every step of the way. May the Lord be with you.
Love,
The Karshes
Alan, Lynn, Trevor & Wyatt
Lynn Karsh
Alpine, CA USA - Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 05:39 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena and George,
We've been thinking about you and Luke and hope that you are doing well and settled in Durham. The summer has been lovely in Magnolia but I miss running into you Athena and seeing your smiling face.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all everyday.
Love,
Susie (Conroy) Arksey
Susan Arksey
Seattle, WA USA - Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 03:47 PM (CDT)
Hi Luke, bro's, Athena and George,
Amy has kept us up to date on Lukie's progress and she just showed us the website.....what a wonderful way to keep in touch with all your friends and family. We send our love to all your family and our prayers to Lukie.
Grammy Betty and Poppops Alan Harris
Portland, OR USA - Sunday, July 28, 2002 at 03:34 PM (CDT)
Thanks weester for the informative and emotional story to bring everyone up to date to the start of the website. The girls love seeing Lukie and the boys often in these photos. I need to listen to a CD of Sister Hazel - how fun the boys got to take a photo with them! Lots of love, prayers and chants from the Argeres household. xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxooxo
Diana, Sofia, Paulette (Peter is on a boy's weekend)
Seattle, WA - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 10:43 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena,
I check on Luke's progress everyday. I appreciate the history prior to the website start date. It's a beautiful day in Seattle - not too hot. Been doing some swimming with the kids. Just thinking of you and all your clan. Love, Leslie R.
Leslie Reynolds
Seattle, WA USA - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 09:41 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena and George,
Uncle Nicky and I check in each morning to the web site. We talk about you all and pray for you and Lukie each day. We keep good thoughts for Lukie's recovery and know God will keep giving you the strength and courage to endure.
Tears are okay, you know, cause they cleanse the heart and refresh you to continue. With Lukie's wonderful attitude you really have a good balance of laughter we're sure.
Remember that we love you!!!!!!!
Uncle Nicky and Diana
Nick and Diana
Gresham, OR - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 02:36 PM (CDT)
Hi guys,
We miss you sooooooooo much. We pray for you every night and tonight Kate broke into tears about you all. The kids sure do miss you. Cole really misses HoHo, and is waiting to see his smiling face. We rocked out to Dave Mathews and even missed you more . P.S. Your yard looks great, don't worry about a thing. We love you and think about you every day. Call if you need anything.
Love,
The Mills(your neighbors)
Tonya Miller
Seattle, WA USA - Saturday, July 27, 2002 at 12:00 AM (CDT)
Hi everyone!
Just thought I would drop a quick note to say hi and thank you for allowing me to watch Luke tonight. He is such a fun kid- it really was a privilege! Luke never ceases to amaze me with his vocabulary and throwing ability. He kept me on my toes tonight with that baseball. Not to mention the Barney tapes! I'm gone on a quick day trip tomorrow, but I will call Sunday to see how things are.
Grow cells grow!!
Lauren
Lauren McQueen
Durham, NC - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 11:17 PM (CDT)
Hi guys,
I can't believe you saw Sister Hazel - I have two of their CD's because I just love them. What great fun for all! So excited to hear about Luke and how well things are going. Relax and enjoy your swim and dinner tonight. You deserve it, Athena! Portia, her mom, Leslie Bowen and I went to dinner and the Mariners Game last night because Portia turned a whopping 32! Brought Logan - she was awesome. Still have those pics to give you holding her. Our house is coming along. Maybe we'll be in October 1st. It has been a long time coming that's for sure. Well I miss you up to the sky and back down again a million zillion times, as I say to Campbell and Brian Jr. We'll talk to you soon. Not much time goes by that I don't think of you and keep you all in that special place in my heart. Keep care. I love the website. Love to you, Leslie Reynolds
Leslie Reynolds
Seattle, WA USA - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 02:59 PM (CDT)
Dear George and Athena;
Did you guys play with the Band, a little jam, I've heard of these guys. It sounds like things are progressing well and Lukie is rebounding:) Elizabeth and I did a little chant this morning, we'll make it our Friday morning ritual before our meetings.
Wishing good cell growth, Jeff
Jeff Lippens
Seattle, WA USA - Friday, July 26, 2002 at 10:06 AM (CDT)
Hi Luke!
I'm checking up on you from home! I'm glad to see those numbers coming up some. Hopefully they'll stay up this time! Keep running up and down those halls! I'll see you this weekend.
your nurse Andria
Raleigh, NC - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 06:55 PM (CDT)
Hello! We have been pretty out of touch with all the Magnolia friends this summer so haven't gotten an update until now. But, that doesn't mean that we haven't been thinking about you often! Today we stopped by Discovery Montessori and Marguerite was kind enough to leave your website address for everyone. You are doing such a great job keeping up your journal! We just wanted to send our love, prayers and best wishes! P.S. Zach sends a high-five to Georgie, Evan and Luke. Let us know if you need any help with anything back at home.
Joyce, Bill, Zachary and Brady Ehrlich
Seattle, WA USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 04:50 PM (CDT)
Ellie misses Lukie! but the photos do help. When he comes home she plans to play with him and his baseball (in the photo). Can't wait! Love, the Roza's
The Roza's
Seattle, WA USA - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 12:25 PM (CDT)
I guess the chant "GROW CELLS GROW" is working!! We are so happy Lukie is doing so great and is such a happy child during this tough time. He is such a blessing and an example for us all. Sofia is thrilled to see the new pictures (paulette is still sleeping!!!) she loves looking at Lukie in his Mariner's pj's ("mommy, lukie is SOOOO cute" is what she says every time she sees the pics) She also likes the silly face Evan is making. As you know, we think about you every second of the day and are sending all our good vibes to your room at Duke. Even dtoo dtoo is sending you good kitty wishes - we all miss you and can't wait to hear the next good update - you go Lukie!!!
love from the Argeres household
Seattle, wa - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 11:36 AM (CDT)
Dear Ones,
I am thrilled to finally be able to access your website! I was not given the precise address but was determined to figure it out by trial and error. Eureka!
What an incredible blessing to be able to go back and read the "history." I am grateful to be in the loop now. Nevertheless; know that all along, we have continued to bring little Luke and your entire family before the Lord...asking Him to uphold you, give you wisdom, give you patience and peace, provide you with periods of joy amidst your trial and bring healing to Luke through this process and/or any way that He, in His perfect will, deems appropriate.
We thank God for each one of you. We love you and we are so very proud of you. We rejoice with you on the good days and weep with you on the difficult ones.
Always,
Your cousins,
Mary Anne & Co.
Mary Anne Langley
Novato, CA USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 04:44 PM (CDT)
George and Athena,
Love the new pics. Looks like Luke is in good spirits and ready to take on the world. He's in good company with two "strong" brothers!
"Grow Cells Grow, Grow Cells Grow!!!"
Jim
Jim Neforos
Long Beach, CA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 11:06 AM (CDT)
Hi Athena and George,
We come to the web site every day. Uncle Nicky and Diana are always praying for you and Lukie, and are encouraged that others have been able to leave. We know that this will happen for Lukie too.
We send our love to you and Evan and Georgie too, and will keep in touch.
Uncle Nicky and Diana
Nicholas G. Polechrones and Diana Starr-Salnave
Gresham, OR USA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 10:38 AM (CDT)
We miss you guys and the safety of our '5200 Family' too! But...it is wonderful on the outside --- we just know Lukie will be joining Jakie very soon at Clinic. They can impress everyone with their little Mariners jerseys. Grow Cells Grow!!! Love ~ Melanie, Steve, Jacob, & Matthew
The Irish Family (www.caringbridge.com/wa/jacobirish)
Marysville & Durham, WA & NC USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 10:09 PM (CDT)
Hello,
I am a friend of Kate's and she has told me so many wonderful things about Lukie....Wanted you to know that Luke/your family are in my prayers.
Lynn Tsoflias
Seattle, WA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 06:29 PM (CDT)
Dear George, Athena, Luke, Georgie & Evan:
We are so glad to hear Luke is happy and up!! Artie and Chris love to see the pictures of the boys with their masks on! They are counting the days until they can see their cousins. Keep the faith. We love you and miss you.
Jode and the "3" boys.
San Diego, CA USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 06:04 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena, George and boys; We sign on to Luke's webb page eveyday to see how you are all doing, especially Luke! We are so inspired by your strength,courage and love. We think of you everyday wish you to know that we are pulling for those cells to grow! Love you all!Georgia, Alv, Stephanie and Hannah
Georgia Eriksen
Edmonton, AB Canada - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 02:20 PM (CDT)
OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH LUKE. WE ARE PLEASED
TO HEAR OF HIS INITIAL PROGRESS. WE WILL KEEP ABREAST OF HIS PROGRESS AND HOPE FOR MORE IMPROVEMENT. OUR THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU GEORGE AND YOUR FAMILY, AS WITH ALL THE REST OF YOUR FAMILY. GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
JOHN AND PIA GAGLIANI AMD FAMILY
SAN DIEGO, CA USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 12:41 AM (CDT)
Hey Sarantinos! What a great way to keep in touch and follow Luke's progress! We're saying our prayers for you and working on the chant (grow cells grow grow cells grow..) while we try to think of some alternates to Barney marathon...101 dalmatians, perhaps? Love to all, Stef,Dave and Max Becker
Stefanie Becker
Portland, OR USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 03:55 PM (CDT)
Luke, you rock! George and Athena, our prayers are with you. We're looking forward to the news that everything worked and you're coming home. Keep up the good work.
Cousin Tom and Family
Lake Forest, CA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 03:19 PM (CDT)
Hi George, Athena and boys! Thanks to my Mom, I found about about Luke and his therapy. Wow, what a stud! Allison and I send our best wishes and want you to know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Hope to see you soon. All our Love --
Marni Getchell & daughter, Allison Welp
Bothell, WA USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 12:09 PM (CDT)
So happy at Luke's progress!! Grow Cells Grow!
Love from us both.
Mary Lou and Roger Barton
Covington, WA USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 12:03 PM (CDT)
"GROW CELLS GROW" From San Jose California....we are chanting the chant.......more pics please...we love them..and all of you.....Love to all Chris
Christine Sarantinos
San Jose, Ca USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 11:39 AM (CDT)
.2 SOUNDS GREAT!!! Lukie Boy You're on your way OUT. It won't be long now!!! GROW CELLS GROW!!!
Cheering you on from Alabama!!
Hugs,
The Bowman's
www.caringbridge.com/page/andrewshope
- Monday, July 22, 2002 at 08:57 AM (CDT)
Hi Luke and family- It was so good to talk to Athena a few days ago. I was excited to see that Luke's blood count went up since then!! We think about you every day and hope that Luke continues to do well. What a strong little boy (and the parents are pretty awesome and strong as well!) Miss you. Athena- do you want a visitor?? Now or when Luke gets out of the hospital?? Let me know. I'd love to come.
Amy, Tim, Colby and Skylar Gray
Portland, OR USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 10:31 PM (CDT)
hello Athena and George and of course Luke,Georgie and Evan.
we are certainly elated at Luke's progress. It was great to see George and the boys. Chris and Julie were here for Julie's 20th high school reunion. They told us again how happy they were to have George and the boys visit them even for an overnight. Hopefully, you can come also Athena. Love and kisses to you all, and a big kiss and hug to Luke. We pray for him and know he will be all right.
Uncle Jim and Aunt Penny
- Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 04:31 PM (CDT)
Dear Luke and family, it is fantastic to be able to follow your progress from Antwerpen Belgium! I am still praying, however, I see that Saint Gerasimos in Kefalonia from last summer is working his miracle. I hope that the progress continues and that I will be able to come visit you at Duke in the very near future (maybe I'll get to the states in Aug and come by). I love you all and keep up the fantastic family effort. Luke is lucky to have been born into such a fantastic family. Lots of love -- Kathy Paras from Antwerpen.
Katerina Paras
Antwerpen, Belgium - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 07:49 AM (CDT)
We just got to uncle schnicky's and Diana's pad in Vancouver-and they have a computer so we showed them this and they will visi the site and write soon. We are all so thrilled to hear lukie doing so well. I want to hear the details of the paras outing too! Lots of love!!!
Diana tweester, Uncle Nicky and Diana
Portland, Or - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 01:00 AM (CDT)
Hi Athena, George and all the boys,
Have just read Luke's good news. What a star! I am praying for him here in DC.
George, I also want to assure you that not everyone back east has a large plantation...only those wealthy virginians.
from sticky and square plot DC,
maria t
maria thomas
washington, dc usa - Friday, July 19, 2002 at 10:19 PM (CDT)
Hi Sarantinos family, I just learned about the web site. I guess I'm a little slow (especially when it comes to computers!) So glad to hear Luke is hanging in there and you alll are as well. We love to hear from you. George we miss you here in d.s.. How do you like the east coast heat! Arline is here watching me type but is afraid to touch the computer. Arline is so happy that you are doing great and she is looking forward to your return. Susan Walker is glad to hear the news and is also looking forward to your return. My prayers are with you. Take care. Terry Thompson
Terry Thompson
seattle, wa - Friday, July 19, 2002 at 01:39 PM (CDT)
Dear George, Athena, Georgie, Evan, and Lukie,
Checking in to say hello again. I just brought myself up to speed on your journal entries from the last few days and am very, very glad to hear how well things are going. Lukie, my dear, se agapo!! Keep up the good work. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Love, Kate
Kate Drakos
Seattle, WA USA - Friday, July 19, 2002 at 01:56 AM (CDT)
Athena, George and boys,
I think of you all the time. Everyone asks how you are, even Mary Jean at Bartell wanted to know the update and made me promise I'd send her well wishes since she doesn't have a computer! I love the pictures. You all look so good. I can hardly wait to hear your voice, Athena. I'll call you soon. Nothing too new around here. No Magnolia News to report. I'll be on the ball if there is any :) Nothing but love and well wishes coming your way.
Leslie and Brian, Campbell, brian and Bradley
Leslie Reynolds
Seattle, WA USA - Thursday, July 18, 2002 at 08:44 PM (CDT)
Auntie Athena, Paulette and I love seeing the photos! We especially love the one of Cool Luke. We are so happy to see the Tigger we gave him in the picture too-we're glad he likes it.
Love, Sofia
Seatte, wa - Thursday, July 18, 2002 at 10:51 AM (CDT)
Weester and Lulalu - great to hear things are going well! Go Lukie!!! I hope the boys have a ball at Virginia Beach. Sofia has been asking for "bouncy eggs" every morning - tell Evan. dtoo dtoo is getting much bolder here, we've found him on the dining room table and playing with the fish food up on the island. He keeps sneaking up on Peter and pouncing on him :) As always, we send all our love and encouragement and prayers.
Weester Argeres
Seattle, - Thursday, July 18, 2002 at 10:47 AM (CDT)
Hi Athena, et al.. I just caught wind of this website. I am so glad to be able to send you messages and see the updates from you guys. I have thought about you guys a lot since you have been gone. My prayers are with you and I can't wait to see you and hug you and welcome you back. Love and kisses xoxox
Portia
Seattle, WA USA - Wednesday, July 17, 2002 at 11:36 PM (CDT)
Dear George,
The crew just showed me this page & the photos. I have been wondering about you & your family...
It is good to hear & see that things are going well & the results are there for Luke.
My best wishes go with you all & I hope to see you soon. Miss you, not the same place without you...
Best Regards, Bob
Bob Wallace
East Wenatchee, WA - Wednesday, July 17, 2002 at 04:27 PM (CDT)
Hi to everyone from Santa Cruz. We are thinking about you and so happy to read about Luke's progress. What a remarkable child! We look forward to seeing you at our next family reunion or perhaps even sooner. You are in our thoughts daily....
denise ward
aptos, ca usa - Wednesday, July 17, 2002 at 12:52 PM (CDT)
Hey Guys!
Lukie looks great but Big George? Athena, you are the perfect wife saying Big George looks like Agassi. I don't think Kris would be so kind. Seriously though the buzz cuts are awesome and what a great way to join in on making Luke feel like he is Cool Luke. I can't begin to imagine the difficulty of what is going on but you guys sound like you are doing great and the staff is wonderful. Good staff can and will make a huge difference for all of you, I hope it stays that way. As for Lukie our prayers are with him for a successfull transplant and our prayers are with all of you. Slater and Parker ask for Luke to get better every night and I ask the lord to be with you as well. If you need anything please do not hesitate to contact us.
Eric Smith
Bellevue, Wa - Wednesday, July 17, 2002 at 01:09 AM (CDT)
Hi George, Athena, Georgie, Evan, & Lukie-- Loved the photos. I think of you daily and Katie has been keeping me up to date as well as everyone at the beach. Athena I am so glad everything worked out for ya'll with the insurance, but what a completely awful thing to have to deal with the very week you are leaving. Give all the boys a hug and a kiss for me. We miss you at the beach. Take care. We love you. Barbara & Bob Giles
Barbara Giles
Woodinville, WA USA - Wednesday, July 17, 2002 at 12:43 AM (CDT)
Hi, George and Athena, And all the young men in your family, I am glad to see little Luke is still hanging in there,it cannot be easy for him,what a brave little boy he is:) What a great family he has to help him through all this. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Stay Strong:) Sara
Sara Johnston <Sarajj@nwlink.com>
LaConner, Wa Skagit - Tuesday, July 16, 2002 at 05:31 PM (CDT)
I'm thinking of you and your family George, and have enjoyed your web site. I just found out about it today. Josh turned one yesterday. Can't believe it.
You are missed at work.
Thoughts and prayers for you and your family.
Bobbie Barton <bcbarton@attbi.com>
Seattle, WA US - Tuesday, July 16, 2002 at 05:26 PM (CDT)
so glad things are going well for you and your family. We are thinking about you all the time. Please take care of yourselves. Best wishes from the Ballard O.R. staff.
Dee, Cec, Magna,Meredith, linda,Mike, Arnold,Bob, Judy,Donna,Staci,Dex,Marilou, Zita,Jason <aries4200@hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, July 16, 2002 at 04:50 PM (CDT)
This website is almost like being part of a support group! Through Luke, we are able to look at our own lives and see how lucky we are. We have a feeling those white cells are going to show up soon!! We love you all and can't wait to see George and Evan.
Dino, Jode, Artie & Chris. <thejode1@juno.com>
san diego, ca united states - Tuesday, July 16, 2002 at 04:36 PM (CDT)
Hi everyone! You are all in my thoughts and prayers everyday especially Luke. Best wishes and hang in there. Good things comes and happen to good people like you. The photos were great!
Cecilia Nallas <aries4200@hotmail.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Tuesday, July 16, 2002 at 04:33 PM (CDT)
George, Athena, and Luke:
Hope you are doing well up in 5205. I look forward to seeing you this Friday and hope both Luke and I will have regained some of our spunk. I know these are trying times, but just remember there will be a day when you will all be back in Washington splashing in the puddles remembering when you were back in North Carolina on the 5th floor of Duke Hospital. It seems long and drawn out now but it is just a drop in the bucket of Luke's life. I wish you all the best....see ya' soon.
Your nurse Janet <janetvanlone@hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, July 16, 2002 at 03:18 PM (CDT)
Ole, Ole, Ole, Luke, Georgie, Evan, Mommy Athena, and Daddy George, from Thea and Florence. We are so happy to be in touch and to have seen you all in the photo album. Luke
looks wonderful, considering all he's been thru, and we know he's going to continue to do great. Love you all!
Thea and Florence <ivankikakoli@yahoo.com >
mojacar, almeria spain - Tuesday, July 16, 2002 at 02:05 PM (CDT)
higuys-
it was great to talk to athena yesterday. she sounds so strong. love the website and the haircuts! we'll continue to watch for the white blood cell count to go up - and to pray for luke every nite since his diagnosis. love you all....
kris
kris, eric, slater and parker smith <kristinpsmith@attbi.com>
bellevue, wa usa - Tuesday, July 16, 2002 at 01:14 PM (CDT)
All of the employees at Northwest Medical Billing wish Luke a speedy recovery. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and the entire family. This website is awesome and we will be checking it daily for Luke's progress.
Take care and you will be hearing from us again in the near future.
The staff of Northwest Medical Billing <maryb@nwmed-billing.com>
Lakewood, WA USA - Tuesday, July 16, 2002 at 10:39 AM (CDT)
Dear Luke and family,
We got your website from another webpage and just want you to know that we are praying for all of you! Our family knows all to well about living in the strange, confined space that is 5200! Elijah is now over 100 days and is doing well! We will pray that this will soon be the case for your family as well!
Vange, Shawn, and Elijah Austin <eaustin@midmaine.com www.caringbridge.com/me/elijah>
Augusta, ME USA - Monday, July 15, 2002 at 08:00 PM (CDT)
George dude! Love your new hair!
Luke looks good and our prayers are with him.
Hope to see you all soon back in Seattle.
Jeff LaSorella & Bruce Lambson
Jeff LaSorella <jplman@qwest.net>
Seattle, WA USA - Monday, July 15, 2002 at 06:49 PM (CDT)
This website is a great way to keep everyone updated and connected. Since first visiting the website a few days ago, we have been thinking good thoughts about you all constantly. You are definitely in everyone's thoughts and prayers. Love,
Bryan & Meg Lee <MEGNBRY@juno.com>
San Diego, CA USA - Sunday, July 14, 2002 at 11:19 PM (CDT)
Hi,
Nice to get a chance to read a little bit of what you've been going through. Sounds like you all have been doing great despite the rigors of treatments, which is nice to hear. Thinking a few guys and praying that you all have good strength and Luke will be well soon.
With love and faith, Thomas
Thomas <tnotides@u.washington.edu>
seattle, wa - Sunday, July 14, 2002 at 10:19 PM (CDT)
Dear Luke and family,
You are in our thoughts and prayers every day. Many of our friends and family are praying for you too. The pictures are very sweet. We loved the haircuts. George, you should have kept the mohawk. Athena, are you next? Is there anything that you miss from Seattle that we can you? Give a special hello and hug to Evan from Nouno and Nouna. Love to all, Maria, Daniel and Andrew
Maria, Daniel, Andrew Armatas < darmatas@juno.com >
Auburn, WA USA - Sunday, July 14, 2002 at 06:47 PM (CDT)
HI GEORGE, ATHENA, GEORGIE, EVAN, AND LUKE
WE ARE GETTING NEWS FROM MOM AND DAD IN WASH. D.C. ABOUT LUKE. THIS WEB SITE IS A WONDERFULL THING. OUR PRAYERS ARE FOR YOU EVERY DAY! I'M SO GLAD TO HEAR THAT LUKE IS DOING WELL. THOXASI O THEOS!
LOVE,
GEORGE, LISA, DIMITRI, ALEX, ALESSANDRA, RACHEL, AND YANNI
GEORGE PARAS <georgeparas@aol.om>
Alpharetta, GA USA - Sunday, July 14, 2002 at 04:53 PM (CDT)
George, Athena, Luke, Georgie, and Evan:
Eventhough he is not able to say it, Luke knows that he has been blessed to have strong parents to make the difficult decisions you all have made for the betterment of his life...and I feel that he thanks you for these decisions even in his time of recovery through the pain he is experiencing. Keep thinking positive--this is all going to work out as expected.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all,
Brother James and family
James, Patty, and Devin <www.patty@pattyspizz.com>
L.A., CA USA - Sunday, July 14, 2002 at 04:29 PM (CDT)
Hi everyone
I am so pleased that things are going well.Diana sent me Lukies page. What a great idea.The pics are so cute.We think about you often and are in our thoughts and prayers.
Lots of love
your Canadian cousins
Cynthia Matt John and Baby?????(due Aug 22nd)
Cynthia Cicci <Cynthiacicci@shaw.ca>
Vancouver, Canada - Sunday, July 14, 2002 at 03:59 PM (CDT)
Hi All: I am so glad that Luke is doing well. I think of you often and wish the best for you.
Melanie Curtright <melacurt@microsoft.com>
- Sunday, July 14, 2002 at 02:56 PM (CDT)
Hi Luke and Family,
I'm so glad to hear that all is going so well for you! It was great getting acquainted with you when your Mom and Grandma were at Duke making a decision about your care. You might remember me, I'm Jakie's Grammie Cindy (Rm 5201) and I also just visited Durham and spent a couple of weeks with Jakie and Mattie. I got to meet your Daddy when you two were walking in the hall. It's so nice when the entire family can be together to support one another! Well, just wanted to check in on your progress, although Melanie keeps me posted from time to time, and say Hi! and keep up the great progress.
Cindy Wellman <thewellmans1@juno.com>
Everett, WA USA - Sunday, July 14, 2002 at 12:25 PM (CDT)
Hey Luke!!!
We're cheering you on from ALABAMA!!!
God Bless,
The Bowman's
Brian, Ellen, Simon and Andrew
www.caringbridge.com/page/andrewshope <AHope4Drew@aol.com>
Northport, AL ****Sweet Home Alabama!!!! - Sunday, July 14, 2002 at 07:45 AM (CDT)
Sofia and Paulette loved seeing the photos of the boys - Paulette thought Lukie was pointing at her in his cool picture. Peter loves George's new do - we say don't worry about hairloss, you look mahvelous. We hope Lukie had a good day and laughed and ate! Lots of love and prayers from the Argere's clan - looking forward to the next entries and photos!
Argeres family <diana_olga@yahoo.com>
Seattle, WA usa - Saturday, July 13, 2002 at 11:06 PM (CDT)
Athena, George, Georgie, Evan and Luke:
Great to here from Athena today and learn that Luke is doing well. This web link is wonderfull!
We miss you all....
Love Brian, Leslie, Campbell, Brian, & Bradley
Brian Reynolds <reynoldsrule@msn.com>
Seattle, wa usa - Saturday, July 13, 2002 at 06:34 PM (CDT)
hi george and anthena and all the boys,
you continue to be in my thoughts. i love the photos, especiallty seeing all the sarantinos' men with military cuts...great support for luke. he looks so cute. i am praying for him.
maria thomas in D.C.
maria thomas <mt_ree@hotmail.com>
washington, dc USA - Saturday, July 13, 2002 at 08:46 AM (CDT)
We are so touched by all the messages and photos of Lukie in the hospital. We wish we could be there. We are in spirit. We know you are in the best hands possible. We are sharing with Artie and Chris and Artie says he wants to take "the red eye" to Durham!! Love and prayers from your twister-in-law, brother (in-law) Artie and Chris!
Dino, Jode, Artie &Chris <thejode1@juno.com>
san diego, ca united states - Saturday, July 13, 2002 at 12:42 AM (CDT)
Have been keeping up with Luke's progress via telephone calls with Katheren. Having this web page and pictures is wonderful. You are in our prayers and thoughts always. The buzz cuts are perfect! Our love is with you always.
Mary, George and Stephanie <shastamax@Earthlink.net>
SeaTac, WA USA - Friday, July 12, 2002 at 11:52 PM (CDT)
We are all thinking of you and pulling for your speedy recovery. Love Uncle Ted, Auntie Zenia, Georgia, Alv, Stephanie, Hannah, Cynthia, Matt, John, Harry, Laura and Luisa. xoxox
Georgia Eriksen <eriksnefam@shaw.ca>
Edmonton, Ab Canada - Friday, July 12, 2002 at 09:12 PM (CDT)
Dear George and Athena, Another day has passed for you and you are all still hangin in there:0 We miss you all and wish the best for little Luke and the rest of such a terrific family! As parents, you are truly blessed to have such three fine boys. May God bless you and them. Sara
Sara Johnston <sarajj@nwlink.com>
LaConner, Wa Skagit - Friday, July 12, 2002 at 06:58 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena & George: I got the mail you sent--thanks for the nice note and your website! I have just spent the last good while viewing your journal entries and photos--what a fabulous system for your family and all the many folks who love you to stay connected during this challenging time for you! What did we do before the internet?? Kelly and I have been thinking about you, Luke and your family a lot. Sending our best wishes for these trying days to pass by quickly for all of you, with better days ahead. We'll keep Luke in our prayers and look forward to regular visits to your site. I admire your strength. TAKE CARE. Marisa
Marisa <marisa_digiacomo@keybank.com>
Seattle, WA US - Friday, July 12, 2002 at 05:41 PM (CDT)
Dear George and family- I see there have been many well wishers and I'll add mine as well. You have all been in my thoughts and prayers daily. Ther were many of us gathered around the computer at work the other day looking at the website and we are all hoping for the best.
Staci Olafson <roochie14@cs.com>
Kenmore, Wa king - Friday, July 12, 2002 at 04:32 PM (CDT)
HI GEORGE AND FAMILY....THE PICTURES ARE GREAT! THEY BROUGHT A SMILE TO MY FACE! YOU'RE ALL IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS. CHERYL
CHERYL <SQUIRREL191@ATTBI.COM>
SEATTLE, WA 98199 - Friday, July 12, 2002 at 11:51 AM (CDT)
Hi Guys!!!
What a great idea this website is. Thinking about you constantly..... you are all awesome. You are surrounded with so much love and best wishes - how could Luke's outcome be anything but favorable!! Lots of love....
"Auntie Helen" <elenistrat@aol.com>
Fairview, OR Multnomah - Friday, July 12, 2002 at 08:13 AM (CDT)
Lukie, I loved seeing the great pics of you in your Mariner's jersey - Go Mariners! Ichiro! Your brothers look great too as they peek over the masks. (Boy does that picture your reality) Sofia and Paulette talk about you and your brothers daily, we pray for you every night together and are so proud of your courage and strength! You keep smiling HoHo and know how much Auntie Diana, Uncle Peter and your cousins love you! You too Athena, George, Georgie and Evan - We wish we were there with you! (of course, we are in spirit) I'll pass the website on to others and I can't wait to see more photos!
Diana Argeres <diana_olga@yahoo.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Friday, July 12, 2002 at 01:07 AM (CDT)
We miss you all and love the visual update!
The Roza's <MargRoza@aol.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Thursday, July 11, 2002 at 10:04 PM (CDT)
Hi,George and Family, Just a short note to let you know you are in many hearts and prayers:)Sara
Sara Johnston <sarajj@nwlink.com>
LaConner, Wa Skagit - Thursday, July 11, 2002 at 05:44 PM (CDT)
Hi,
I am keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. We miss you George.
Mariann <mariannpetersen@attbi.com>
Seattle, wa king - Thursday, July 11, 2002 at 03:44 PM (CDT)
George and Athena,
Thanks for setting up this place to keep updated and in touch with you. Everyone here at Ballard was gathered around one computer yesterday while Sara showed us how to stay in touch with you. Take care and know you are in our thoughts and prayers
Donna Zion <iamazion@aol.com>
Everett, WA USA - Thursday, July 11, 2002 at 09:41 AM (CDT)
Dear George, Athena, Luke, Evan and Georgie ... the Three Darling Boys in whatever hairstyle! Katheren emailed this website and I'm so glad to be able to follow Luke's progress. Your strength in this experience is awesome, and as many others have said, Luke and all of you are in our prayers. Love, Mary Lou and Roger
Mary Lou Barton <barzar1@worldnet.att.net>
Covington, WA USA - Wednesday, July 10, 2002 at 11:20 PM (CDT)
Dear George and Athena,
Kelvyn told me about your web site today and will let the others know. We have all been thinking of Luke and your family. This is a great way to get updates. Please know that I have been praying for Luke every day. Take care.
Daria Rutledge <dsrbestmom@yahoo.com>
Seattle, Wa - Wednesday, July 10, 2002 at 06:33 PM (CDT)
Sarantinos family - love the pictures and the journal entries- it makes us feel like we're there with you. We really wish we could be there to hug you. The Seattle weather is finally getting nicer probably not as hot as Durham but for Seattle its wonderful. The kids are splashing at the POPS pool and Karol, Jeff and I are working in this terrible office! Bruce is in Portland - a cool 97 degrees. We miss you and keep you all in our thoughts and prayers daily. Pauli really misses Georgie, Evan and Luke (her boyfriends). Give Luke a really big kiss from Karol, Bruce, Brenda, Jeff and the LaSorella kids.
Brenda LaSorella <brendalas@qwest.net>
Magnolia - Mayberry, WA USA - Wednesday, July 10, 2002 at 05:11 PM (CDT)
G & A, Joe just sent us Luke's website info and I wanted you to know how touched I am by your love. You are truly blessed to have such a wonderful family and this difficult experience will just strengthen it even further (if that's possible). I hope you know our thoughts and prayers are with you all and that we will do anything we can to help. We'll keep checking up on Luke and you.
Love always, Abby and Steve (who is in El Salvador today).
Abby <abby_001@hotmail.com>
Caracas, Venezuela - Wednesday, July 10, 2002 at 04:14 PM (CDT)
Dearest Lukie and family,
glad we finally have access to your own special website! Although it sounds as if the last few days have been difficult, we know that with the love and prayers that surround you, you are well taken care of! Just by looking at the first picture, we can see by the smile on Lukes face that he has the heart and spirit to fight this all the way.
One problem though....what's he doing wearing a MARINERS t-shirt!!!!? I'll make sure I find a more appropriate YANKEES outfit for him!
Thank you for taking the time to keep us all posted on your progress.
Lovingly,
Ralph, Mo, GG, Nicholas and Christian Gagliani
Monita Gagliani <rmgncm11@aol.com>
San Diego, CA USA - Wednesday, July 10, 2002 at 04:03 PM (CDT)
Luke...Just a note to let you and your mommy and daddy know that Jesse, Jim and I lift you up in our prayers together everyday. You must be floating about on sea of prayers...so many people are thinking about you. Just by visiting this website I can feel the presence of God and the protection of His spirit that surrounds you and your family. I send my love to you and your family.
Roxanne
Roxanne Vallantine <rvallantine@wingsaloft.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Wednesday, July 10, 2002 at 02:01 PM (CDT)
Hey Sarantinos family -- our thoughts and love are with you. It's a family affair and Luke is going to pull a lot of strength from you all. You guys are doing a beautiful job.
Eric, Helen, Josh, Kelly and Claire <ebernd@us.ibm.com>
SD, - Wednesday, July 10, 2002 at 12:19 PM (CDT)
Hey, Y'all! We just got back from a x-country drive to Chicago, and found this website waiting upon our return. Glad to hear that Luke is doing well in the treatment! Say hello to all the boys! I'll tell Rachel to send along some "must-see/do" places around Duke....Shine on, you crazy diamonds!
Joe Stagg <jstagg@ucsd.edu>
San Diego, CA - Wednesday, July 10, 2002 at 11:34 AM (CDT)
Hey everyone! The Markopoulos family sends their love and wishes that God grant you all everything in your hearts! We extend our love to you and continue in prayer for Luke and all of you!
Dn. Jerry, Maria,Nicholas, Demetre, and Paras <jmarkop@aol.com>
- Wednesday, July 10, 2002 at 09:31 AM (CDT)
Aloha All,
Thank you for the taking the time to update on Luke's progress. This is a wonderful website for all us so far away. All of you are in our prayers and thoughts. Tons of love and well wishes being sent your way each day.
Marcia Sprague <champagnewillie@hawaii.rr.com>
Honolulu, HI USA - Wednesday, July 10, 2002 at 02:59 AM (CDT)
Dear Luke Prayers, love for you & your family.You
are a no. one sport & Daddy, Mommy, Georgie &
Evan make an all Star team. Your special Guardian
Angel & his angel team mates are always near
you to ward off any adversary. Love Thea Kay
Katheren Armatas <karmatas@tacomaclick.net>
Tacoma, WA USA - Wednesday, July 10, 2002 at 01:04 AM (CDT)
Dear Lukie There is love surrounding you & your
family. Thea Kay has special prayers for you . The
vigil candles are lite & reflecting Panagias & Baby
Jesus compassion & love, directly sent to you by
your special guardian Angel who is always near you
Grandauntie Katheren Armatas <karmatas@tacomaclick.net>
Tacoma, WA USA - Wednesday, July 10, 2002 at 12:44 AM (CDT)
George, Athena , Evan and George and of course Luke,
Just got the address and we are just thrilled to see Luke's progress and him looking so handsome in his pics. We are keeping tabs through Mom and Dad and now this...but we will still call....you know the offer still stands for the boys to come and spend time with us....let us know how we can help....love to all Les, Chris , Alexis , Eleni and Nikki
Christine Sarantinos <sarantinos@gtcinternet.com>
San Jose, Ca USA - Tuesday, July 09, 2002 at 04:24 PM (CDT)
Oh, Luke you are absolutely squeezable!! Georgie & Evan, will you squeeze Luke for me? Then, hug your mom & dad. Then, hug each other. Then, hug yourselves, because you guys are such good big brothers. I will pray that God gives you all strength, and guides the medical staff to help Luke recover quickly. Much love to you.
Sonia <spagonakis@hotmail.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Tuesday, July 09, 2002 at 02:26 PM (CDT)
Luke you hang in there buddy. God is with you, Mom and Dad every step of the way. Some days will be harder than others but in the end those prayers you pray everyday God will answer. Thinking and praying for you and your family.
Johnnie, Donna & Kayla Lewis <lewisfamily04@msn.com>
Durham, NC - Tuesday, July 09, 2002 at 11:02 AM (CDT)
Just wanted you to know that I was thinking of you and pray that things continue to go well for Luke. See you next week.
Angie Cottey <angela.l.cottey@boeing.com>
Sumner, WA USA - Tuesday, July 09, 2002 at 09:28 AM (CDT)
Luke! You stud!! Sounds like you've been a real major league player through the rough parts. My thoughts and prayers are with you daily. George and Athena, as always, you know I think of you often and look forward to seeing all of you again soon. Please give the boys a hug and high-five for me!
Jim
Jim Neforos <j.neforos@gte.net>
Long Beach, CA - Monday, July 08, 2002 at 11:31 PM (CDT)
Luke:
Love the picture! You look so adorable, I am so glad you were able to crack a grin and say Bye, Bye Danet before I left on Sunday-- It'll carry me through the week. You are doing everything I would expect a kid who has gone through a transplant would do, but your tough and I know you'll grow your new cells soon. Look forward to seeing you and the teletubbies soon.....
Your nurse Janet <janetvanlone@hotmail.com>
Carrboro, NC 27510 - Monday, July 08, 2002 at 04:43 PM (CDT)
Hi Athena and George,
Luke is looking great. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Sincerely, John Economus
John J. Economus <jeconomus@msn.com>
Bellevue, WA USA - Monday, July 08, 2002 at 11:13 AM (CDT)
LOVE the picture of Luke. Makes me want to reach through the computer and HUG him. He looks awesome with his new buzz cut!
Keep the updates and pitcures coming.
We love you all.
Todd, Cheryl, Ben and Abby!
Cheryl Weeks <ciweeks@aol.com>
Seattle, Wa USA - Monday, July 08, 2002 at 10:26 AM (CDT)
Sofia says Lukie looks really cute and that she misses him. Paulette says "mommy mommy mommy, wook gookie!! coot beebee" Peter and I are so excited to see Lukie looking so cool with his new 'do' and pray constantly for him. We sure miss you all and love talking to you. We are looking forward to seeing a photo of the rest of the boys and hearing good news about Luke's progress. We love you very much!
Peter, Diana, Sofia and Paulette Argeres <diana_olga@yahoo.com>
- Monday, July 08, 2002 at 12:49 AM (CDT)
Dear George, Athena, Georgie, Evan and Luke,
We have been keeping tabs on little Luke via the family grapevine, but this web site is so much better! We are continuing to pray for God's healing for Luke and for His peace and strenth to carry you through this time.
With much love,
Scott, Patricia, Adam and James
Patricia Pace <pace@gloryworks.com>
Sonoma, CA USA - Sunday, July 07, 2002 at 08:32 PM (CDT)
Dear George and Athene:
We have Luke in our thoughts, hearts and prayers, daily and we hope that the measures taken will produce good results.
With love, Unc Chuck and Aunt Amy
Charles Michalxs <CMichals@AOL.com>
Greebrae, CA USA - Sunday, July 07, 2002 at 06:38 PM (CDT)
HI GEORGE AND ANTHENA AND ALL THE BOYS,
SENDING YOU MY PRAYERS AND WELL WISHES FROM STEAMY DC.
MARIA
MARIA THOMAS <mt_ree@hotmail.com>
washington, dc usa - Sunday, July 07, 2002 at 05:06 PM (CDT)
Papou and Yiayia here, were simply ecstatic,to see our Lukie looking so good. we want to just lean over and give him a big kiss and a huggy. George and Athena you're doing a great job, our grnd parental love to all the boys, whatever you need were as close asyour cell phone.
A.&A. Sarantinos <lknsee@gtcintrnet.com>
SanDiego,, CA USA - Sunday, July 07, 2002 at 05:04 PM (CDT)
Hi George, Athena, Georgie, Evan and LUKE!! Thanks for your voice-mail. I just sent an e-mail out to several people letting them know of this website. What a wonderful way to stay connected.
And Lukie, what a trooper you are!! Nouna is so proud -- and at the moment, somewhat misty eyed (ok, very misty eyed). I wish I could be there to play catch with you. Seems you are developing quite the pitching arm!
Georgie and Evan - can't wait to see pictures of your new hair cuts. Bet you both look very handsome!
My love to all of you. Prayers, as always, continue to flow.
ME AGAPE - Nouna Kate
Kate Drakos <katedrakos@attbi.com>
Seattle, WA USA - Sunday, July 07, 2002 at 04:52 PM (CDT)
testing, athena. then i will write you a message leter.
jodie <thejode1@juno.com>
san diego, ca united states - Sunday, July 07, 2002 at 02:31 PM (CDT)
Hello, my name is Sheila George, I got your address from Ellen. I check on Andrew everyday, so I will be checking on Luke daily, also. I believe I met George at the stockyards in Arlington at the MPS Conference. I am glad you all got in touch with Dr. K and found your way to Duke. I am also glad to read that Luke is doing so good.
Take care,
Sheila George <sheila@houston.rr.com>
Soring (Houston) , TX USA - Thursday, July 04, 2002 at 02:22 PM (CDT)
Hi!
We heard about your new webpage tonight and had to send our good thoughts your way! Mattie had such fun looking at your brothers tonight at the Durham Bulls game and Jacob will try to come 'play' in the hall with you tomorrow, Lukie! We're so happy that things are going so smoothly for you so far. Keep up the good work Luke!
Love ~ Jakie, Mattie, Melanie, & Steve
The Irish's <mairish@hotmail.com OR www.caringbridge.com/wa/jacobirish>
Marysville & Durham, WA & NC USA - Wednesday, July 03, 2002 at 10:30 PM (CDT)
HEY, HEY, HEY!!! I like the web page!!! We're here cheering you guys on!
Hugs to you all,
"The Bowman's"
Ellen, Brian, Simon and Andrew
www.caringbridge.com/page/andrewshope <AHope4Drew@aol.com>
- Wednesday, July 03, 2002 at 07:52 PM (CDT)
I am so proud of you for getting online. I know Ellen will be also. I cannot believe all the boys shaved their heads. I can't wait to see them. Are prayers are with you.
Tom, Angie, Casey & Kyle Cottey <cottey@gte.net>
Sumner, WA/Durham, NC, - Tuesday, July 02, 2002 at 11:40 PM (CDT)
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