Leila, every one of your words deeply moves me. I admire your courage to write and keep us updated. I have a lump in my throat every time I read an entry from you. If it is this emotional for me, it must be unbearable for you. I don’t know Carter, and only met you briefly at an MTNA conference, yet your story touches me, as it has so many others around the globe. It is heart warming to see so many people praying for Carter. All of this support is not from nothing - you have been a great person contributing positively and wholeheartedly to the lives of many others, your students, your community, and of course your fellow music teachers. Carter has been a great person. You have been a great mom. As I celebrate this holiday season with my daughter (she is 4), I am reminded, because of your story, how precious every moment is. Thank you for teaching us the most important lesson in life. I will continue to keep you in my prayers. ❤️

Carter’s story and your family (esp sweet Mom/ Leila) have been on my mind 24/7 since I read about it on Daily Mail. No doubt good things are to come. Praying nonstop . The World is lifting you in prayer 💗

Carter’s story and your family (esp sweet Mom/ Leila) have been on my mind 24/7 since I read about it on Daily Mail. No doubt good things are to come. Praying nonstop . The World is lifting you in prayer 💗

Just wanting to let you know we are praying for Carter and for all who love him. Sometimes it is harder for the family that is sitting by his side worried to death than it is for the one with the injuries. A year ago I sat at my brothers bed side in ICU for seven days not knowing if he was going to wake up and be the same brother I knew and if so what kind of life he would have. Only by Gods grace he survived and is doing very well, that being said none of us will ever be the same. After going through such a stressful time and seeing so much pain, fear and beeping machines your life will forever be changed. You will be surprised as time passes you will look back at all the blessings you will see and experience while on the journey. My heart and prayers go out to you and may GOD give each of you all you need.
Debbie Veenstra
(Johns Veenstra’s wife)

Leila, our beloved friend and influencer of music to our family. You have taught Carter how to be the best person he can be and how to give and receive love. Allow yourselves to receive since you are are always the one giving and we will lift Carter up to be what is yet to be given by him. Being I almost died in a car accident and I am here today after all the hard work to overcome all my I injuries, I believe the strength Carter has will see him to the recovery he so deserves.

I am praying for Carter and all of you along with many friends from my church and my hometown here in Georgia. Praying for endurance, comfort, peace, and healing. Much love to you as you weather this storm.

Deep, deep prayers and positive thoughts to you all. I know you are an incredible mom and that your family means the world to you. Hugs to you during this challenging time.

Leila, you are all in my thoughts and prayers. As parents, we feel every pain our children suffer. We provide the strength our children need to rebound from every storm that life brings. Our strength and love gives them strength. When we feel that we have no more to give, we return to the verse, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Praying for strength enough to see you all through this storm. May the clouds part soon and send a ray of sun to warm you all.

Prayers are being lifted up from the NW corner of Washington state. I'm a cousin of your dad's and I have been following with interest your online piano pedagogy posts, Leila. I was so sorry and shocked to read of your son's horrific incident, and am praying for his healing, comfort and peace for Carter. May the Lord be very close to you and the rest of your family members as you wait, watch and pray through this very difficult journey. Mary

Prayers for your continued strength as you deal with each new step in Carters recovery. May God comfort you and Carter.