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Hip hop, hippety hop
My “Easter Bunny” went off to the shop,
He bought me an egg and lots of chocs
And packed them into a cardboard box.
Then he wrapped it with paper and shiny string
It really was such a pretty thing.
Disaster struck when I opened the door-
He slid across the parquet floor,
He went round the corner and past the stairs
And finished up in a pile of chairs.
Of the Easter goodies not a trace,
he’d thrown them into my fireplace!
So a warning before you go opening doors
Make sure your “Bunny” has non-slip paws!





Happy Easter

With lots of love,

Everyone at Post Pals

Hi Emily! I'm just stopping by to say hi and let you know that I'm thinking of you! I hope you have a happy holiday season! God bless and *warm hugs* ><>†<><

Just wanted to stop by to let you know I was thinking about you:) So, you are 11 now? Wow, it has been a while since I have been by. Please know you are in our thoughts though:) Love, Tracy and
Katia (a.k.a. "The Ladybug")
Fighting leukemia AML with a vengence!
Sharing Hope on the Wings of a Ladybug

www.postpals.co.uk

Happy 11th Birthday Emily!!!!

Nightowl
USA - Tuesday, August 16, 2005 8:01 AM CDT

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Hi Emily,
I know I'm a little early, but I'm away next week and didnt' want to miss your birthday,
Hope its a good one..


www.postpals.co.uk

Sue
Colchester, Essex, England - Saturday, August 13, 2005 8:10 AM CDT

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Hi guys, glad to hear things are going well there!
You guys enjoy the summer
Chris Gooch's mom
- Saturday, July 9, 2005 10:05 AM CDT

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Hi Emily,
Thinking of you today

Love
Sue
xxxxx

www.postpals.co.uk

Sue <orangejammies@hotmail.co.uk>
Colchester, Essex, England - Thursday, May 19, 2005 9:35 AM CDT

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Happy Mother's Day Kathleen!

Hi to Emily, Jack and John
Love, Liz
Liz Joslin <lizjoslin@mac.com>
Chevy Chase, MD - Monday, May 9, 2005 1:46 PM CDT

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Emily,
Just wanted to say "hi" and I'm glad to hear that you are doing so well.

Kathleen,
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

Kathy H.
T.O., CA - Sunday, May 8, 2005 11:30 PM CDT

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Chul Soo, It's been a long time. I come to your site every once in a while to check on Emily's status. She looks good and happy. I have wanted to contact you for so long yet I was afraid..if you can understand that. I just wanted to let you know that I keep Emily in my thoughts and hope to be able to see all of you one day soon. Please contact me if you have a moment and please tell Kathleen hi for me.
Lucy
Chantilly, VA - Wednesday, April 20, 2005 12:58 AM CDT

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HAPPY EASTER LOVE WWW.POSTPALS.CO.UK

Post Pals <info@postpals.co.uk>
- Tuesday, March 22, 2005 1:00 PM CST

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Hiya, sending some hugs and love to a wonderful Princess



Lots of love

Post Pals




Post Pals <info@postpals.co.uk>
- Thursday, March 10, 2005 12:39 AM CST

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JUST WANTED YOU TO KNOW THAT YOUR FAMILY IS IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS.


CARINGBRIDGE.ORG/WV/FREDAFOX
RUTH <BLUEEYED_FEMALE@MSN.COM>
HINTON, WV - Thursday, February 24, 2005 11:15 AM CST

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know im early, but

Happy Valentines Day



Love Viks from Post Pals
viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Thursday, February 3, 2005 6:47 AM CST

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JUST WANTED YOU TO KNOW THAT WE ARE PRAYING FOR YOUR FAMILY.


CARINGBRIDGE.ORG/WV/FREDAFOX
RUTH <BLUEEYED_FEMALE@MSN.COM>
HINTON, WV - Sunday, January 16, 2005 9:47 PM CST

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Merry Christmas Kim Family!
Just stopping by to wish you all a happy holiday season!
The kids look great!! So CUTE and So BIG now! WOW!
Hope Santa brings lots of goodies for you all tomorrow morning!!
Love,
Stacey and Chad
Stacey & Chad Wada <SLW6204@aol.com>
Las Vegas, NV USA - Friday, December 24, 2004 11:52 PM CST

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A PRAYER FOR CHRISTMAS


God Give Us eyes this Christmas
To see the Christmas Star.
And give us ears to hear the song
of angels from afar

And, with our eyes and ears attuned
for a message from above,
Let "Christmas Angels" speak to us
of hope and faith and love

Hope to light our pathway
When the way ahead is dark,
Hope to sing through stormy days,
with the sweetness of the lark

Faith to trust in things unseen
and know beyond all seeing
That it is in our Fathers love
We live and have our being

And love to break down barriers
of color, race and creed,
Love to see and understand
and help all those in need.

Lord, bless those we love this Christmas Day,be they near or far away Bless those good friends who mean so much and those with whom we're out of touch. We bring them all to You in prayer, and ask You to keep them in Your care.

Please know that you are thought of, in a very special way, not just this beautiful season but every day.
Chris Ullrich - Bella's Grammy <c_ullrich@msn.com, caringbridge.com/page/isabellaledesma>
- Friday, December 24, 2004 10:48 PM CST

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Merry Christmas to you. I hope things are going well. Blessings to you.
Khalita My Caringbridge Site <khalita@hecaresonline.org>
Lexington, NC - Sunday, December 19, 2004 1:12 PM CST

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Haven't read the journal for a while. Loved reading John's comments. I'm impressed how he maintains his good sense of humor throughout these trials. A positive attitude must be hard to muster some days. You all are doing a great job!! Your vacations sounded fun. I haven't made the journey to Disney World yet but have heard the same things from my sisters....their children also loved the hotel pool better than the lines at Disney. Have a Merry Christmas!
Melanie Sanchez-Jones <sanchemr@airproducts.com>
Center Valley, PA USA - Wednesday, December 8, 2004 1:38 PM CST

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Love

Viks

viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Friday, November 12, 2004 3:18 PM CST

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I just stopped in to see if anything was new. I love the smiling pictures and John's journal entry. Our kids continue to pray for "Daddy's friend Emily" every night, and we think of your whole family often. God Bless you.
Mike McAuliffe <mjm@eqmrh.com>
Rockville, Md USA - Wednesday, November 10, 2004 4:53 PM CST

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Hi, I am sorry I haven't checked in awhile but I don't usualy find an update. I am glad everything is going well med. I am sorry she is still having other problems. I am glad that you continue to plug away to find her good help. We just got back from Duke Nov 3rd. Glad to have that over with. All went fine. It was funny to hear that Emily hasn't grown much. Andrew has hardly grown at all but they say it is the steroids. I hope Andrew will make a jump like Emily soon!! He is so tiny. He is in Kindergarten now! Does that seem possible?? Check in on us. He needs to have ear tubes and a hip MRI. Any advice on good hospitals with good ped. anesthesiologists? I am really nervous. It will be the first thing we have had done since transplant. Hope to hear from you. Love, Anne
Anne Himes <arhimes@msn.com www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewh>
Boonsboro, md USA - Monday, November 8, 2004 2:47 PM CST

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stopping by to say hello. Laura
.org/ca/coltonmeyer <l@yahoo.com >
- Friday, November 5, 2004 5:29 PM CST

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Check out Million Card Campaign and sign up.
MCC
- Friday, October 15, 2004 11:40 PM CDT

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I think of you often and am so happy that Emily is doing so well.

All my best.
Don Brannelly <dbrannelly@comcast.net>
Woburn, MA USA - Friday, October 15, 2004 6:55 AM CDT

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I'm so glad to hear that Emily is doing so well. Have a great week.
Kathy Haws
Thousand Oaks, CA - Tuesday, September 28, 2004 9:00 PM CDT

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Dear Emily, Jack, Kathleen and John,

Just checking in to say "hello." I enjoyed the pictures- especially of Emily smiling. I am glad to hear that Emily's medical condition is good- I'm sure the rest will come in time. Hang in there you guys. You are a marvelous family and a real inspiration to myself and others at PTO. Kathleen, we miss you!
Jerry Price <Jerry.Price@uspto.gov>
Arlington, VA USA - Friday, September 24, 2004 3:26 PM CDT

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Wow, it has been since November since I have been here? WOW!
I just wanted to come check on your progress. I hope this new doctor helps:) You look adorable as always! Love,
Tracy and Katia





Tracy and Katia <tmsol87@aol.com>
- Wednesday, September 15, 2004 1:27 PM CDT

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Hiya, just saying a hello, I have a few jokes for you today, this time about bears



Q: What do you get if you cross a skunk with a bear?
A: Winnie the Pooh!



Q: Why do bears have fur coats?
A: Because they'd look stupid in anoraks!







Lots of love and big…







Viks
viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Tuesday, August 31, 2004 4:25 AM CDT

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Happy Birthday to you, Im sorry im late

Lots of love

Viks


viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Friday, August 20, 2004 9:33 PM CDT

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Knowing the Kim family has touched my life in wonderful ways. May they continue on the road of recovery.

Dale
Olney, MD - Friday, August 20, 2004 4:59 PM CDT

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Happy Belated Birthday Emily....hope you had a WONDERFUL day:):)
Teri
Nashville, TN - Tuesday, August 17, 2004 11:16 AM CDT

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY EMILY!!! have a great day and many many more healthy happy birthdays!! thoughts and prayers, angelique parker
www.caringbridge.org/oh/harleiparker
angelique parker <pfloyd326@yahoo.com>
ohio - Monday, August 16, 2004 5:48 PM CDT

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May God continue to bless the Kim family!
Take care,
Lisa & Kaitlin
Lisa Davis <Mojolisa@comcast.net>
Silver Spring, MD USA - Monday, July 19, 2004 12:07 AM CDT

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Why do bears have fur coats ?
Because they'd look stupid in anoraks !

What do you call a big white bear with a hole in his middle ?
A polo bear !



Love Post Pals
viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Sunday, July 4, 2004 1:16 PM CDT

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Hello Kim Family ~
Just stopping by to say hi and Happy 4th of July! Hope you all are having a fun summer!
Big hugs to Emily and Jack!
Love ~
Stacey & Chad
Stacey & Chad Wada <SLW6204@aol.com>
Las Vegas, NV USA - Sunday, July 4, 2004 0:06 AM CDT

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Emily: It was great to see you at the Roller Skating Rink. My girls ask all the time when you can come to play. God bless you. We will always keep you in our prayers.
Mike McAuliffe <mjm@eqmrh.com>
Rockville, Md USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 8:45 PM CDT

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Emily sweetie I hope that this finds you doing well.
I hope you all have a great summer and are enjoying yourselves
Chris ~ Gooch's Site ~
- Wednesday, June 16, 2004 6:53 PM CDT

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Hi Emily! I'm just stopping by to say hi and let you know that I'm thinking of you! Have a GREAT week! God bless and *warm hugs* ><>†<><


http://lightingchildrenslives.org
My website!!!
*Jennifer C* from Lighting Children's Lives <jenniferc@ilovetocolor.com>
Eugene, OR USA - Monday, May 24, 2004 1:35 PM CDT

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Hello, I thought I would stop by to leave some jokes for you, I hope they make you smile.

Love Viks and Everyone at Post Pals

Q: How do you know that cats are sensitive creatures?
A: They never cry over spilt milk!

Q: What do you get if you cross a cat and a gorilla?
A: An animal that puts you out a night!





viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Saturday, May 22, 2004 1:28 PM CDT

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Hello! Just wanting to send warm smiles and sunny sparkles... and of course gentle hugs!

Love poppy and all at postpals
xxx
poppu <info@postpals.co.uk>
milton keynes, england - Sunday, May 9, 2004 11:34 PM CDT

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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, www.caringbridge.com/page/isabellaledesma>
- Thursday, May 6, 2004 3:19 PM CDT

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Happy Easter and Happy Spring everyone! Things are good here. Audrey is growing so fast, she will be 6 months this weekend. I'll send some pitures. I think of you often and hope things are well. I bet dc is beautiful with all the flowers! I hope the Easter bunny finds you! Take Care!
Kim Montague <jpuncher@nc.rr.com>
Raleigh, NC USA - Wednesday, April 7, 2004 7:35 PM CDT

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HAPPY SPRING EMILY!!

We hope you and your family are all doing well and that you and Jack are still having lots of fun together! The photos of your smiling faces made us smile too!!
Thinking of you and sending lots of love and prayers ~

Stacey & Chad
Stacey & Chad Wada <SLW6204@aol.com>
Las Vegas, NV USA - Friday, March 26, 2004 10:12 AM CST

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Emily and you and your brother are both beatiful children. Emily I know how it feels to struggle in math. I still struggle with math and i am 21 years old. I have the confidence in you that if you keep working hard on it. You will evantually understand math.
Carla <missionfromgod2001@yahoo.com>
Newburgh, Indiana USA - Tuesday, March 23, 2004 9:51 PM CST

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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 7:15 AM CST

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Happy Valentines Day, From Everyone at Post Pals

Emma <emma_hoole@hotmail.com>
London, - Saturday, February 14, 2004 10:07 AM CST

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John and Kathleen: It has been some time since I heard from you. My children and I still pray for "Daddy's friend Emily" every night. I love the picture, and hope you are well.
Mike McAuliffe <mjm@eqmrh.com>
Rockville, Maryland USA - Thursday, February 5, 2004 8:47 PM CST

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What a beautiful picture!! we knew this day would come. God bless Emily and your family. We'll continue to pray for many many more beautiful pictures.


Your friends at Indianapolis Korean Catholic Church <jasmine@clsbenefits.com>
Indianapolis, IN - Wednesday, January 28, 2004 11:01 AM CST

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Hey Emily,
I know I've never actually met you but I feel like I know you. That's only because your daddy talks about you and Jack all the time. I hope Santa was good to you this year.

Love,
Jessica Wong <jnwong@bethesda.med.navy.mil>
Rockville , MD USA - Friday, January 9, 2004 10:41 AM CST

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Hi: Kathhleen, John and Emily

Dropped by to say Hi. Love Emily's picture with her brother.
She looks great.Have a happy healthy New Year!


Anne Pang
Anne Pang <anlwy@pacbell.net>
SF, CA - Sunday, January 4, 2004 10:39 PM CST

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Just want you to know that you are not forgotten. I hope this has been a season of joy for you. Blessings!
Khalita My Caringbridge Site Duke Peds BMT Aplastic Anemia <khalita@hecaresonline.org>
Lexington, NC - Monday, December 29, 2003 11:12 AM CST

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Hey Emily & family, just wanted to drop by real quick and wish you all a great holiday and a Healthy and Happy 2004!
PLEASE update us soon!!!!!!
Chris ~ Gooch's Site ~
- Wednesday, December 24, 2003 11:03 AM CST

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Love everyone at Post Pals
viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Monday, December 22, 2003 5:11 PM CST

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Kathleen, John, Emily and Jack: September and back to school surely can be a Wonderful Time of Year. But having just checked your website after a long lapse, I can barely say how thrilled I am to hear how well Emily and her Lil' Bro are doing! I do not know if I could ever have the strength that you all have shown these many years, but I congratulate you all and I thank God that the theme for this December may now be "It's a Wonderful Life" because Emily is still here and doing well. By her example and that of your whole family, the world has been made a better place for us all. God Bless You and Keep You All Close to His Heart this Christmas and for hundreds more to come!
Barbara Loughran (Kathleen's "across the hall neighbor" in the Old NT 10th Floor ) <barbara.loughran@uspto.gov>
- Friday, December 19, 2003 3:17 AM CST

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Dearest Emily

I gently wrap warm thoughts of you
in my 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 - Sunday, December 14, 2003 9:05 AM CST

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~~KATIA'S PAGE~~

TRACY AND KATIA <TMSOL87@AOL.COM>
- Saturday, November 22, 2003 7:29 PM CST

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Hey Emily,
Hope you are having a great school year and making lots of friends!
Kathy Haws
1000 Oaks, CA - Tuesday, November 11, 2003 7:26 PM CST

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Happy belated "second birthday" Emily! :) You are SOOOOO special and I know God has great things planned for you! Continued blessings upon you and your family ....
stephanie
- Tuesday, October 7, 2003 0:28 AM CDT

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Hi my name is Jenna and I came across Emilys page. She is a real inspiration and is in my prayers.
Here is my site, about my story against an illness.
http://www.matmice.com/home/fighterandchampion
Jenna <hockeys_life@hotmail.com>
Kamloops, BC Canada - Sunday, October 5, 2003 3:47 PM CDT

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Happy second anniversay Emily. I am sorry I am a day late. I can always remember the date of your transplant becuase we got out on Oct 1st and I missed being there for it by one day. We stay at home mom's never know what date it is. I hope you had a wonderful day and that this will be your best year yet, filled with all the things it should be filled with. All of our love, The Himes'
Anne Himes <www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewh>
Boonsboro, md USA - Saturday, October 4, 2003 6:59 AM CDT

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Hi Emily,

Thinking of you on your 2nd. "second birthday." Hope that you have been having lots of fun.

Please say hi to Mom, Dad and Jack for us.
Herb and Lani <herblee9999@yahoo.com>
- Saturday, October 4, 2003 6:50 AM CDT

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Hi Kathleen, John, Emily, and Jack - Just wanted to drop you a note and let you know that we think of you all so often and pray for you and hope you have lots and lots of good days!
Love,
the Washko's (Ken, Nancy, sam, and Matt)
Salisbury, NC - Wednesday, October 1, 2003 11:23 AM CDT

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Hi: Emily:

Your are such a big girl now. Happy big 9th! Stay happy and healthy. Say Hi to Mom and Dad and Dr. K when you visit her the next time.

Love from San Francisco,
Anne
Joanne's Mom
Anne Pang <anlwy@pacbell.net>
San Francisco, Ca USA - Sunday, September 21, 2003 4:34 PM CDT

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I'm so glad to hear Emily is doing well. Have a great weekend!
Kathy Haws
Thousand Oaks, CA - Saturday, September 13, 2003 12:07 AM CDT

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So glad things are going well. My little girls (Shoshana and Nina) have been asking about Emily's progress. We checked, and are grateful for your recent update.
Vivian First, TM Office Attorney
Harrisburg, PA USA - Sunday, September 7, 2003 6:45 PM CDT

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So how is school? I just wanted to come say hello to you and check on you. Love, Tracy
~~Katia's Site~~
Tracy and Katia
- Wednesday, September 3, 2003 11:53 AM CDT

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Happy Belated Birthday Emily!
So happy to hear that things are going well and you are back in school again too. The water park there sounds fun!
We think about your family often, and always send prayers and well wishes for you. Can't wait to see new photos of Emily and Jack!!
Happy New School Year!
Love from your friends ~
Stacey and Chad (will be OT in 2.5 mos!!!)
Stacey & Chad Wada <SLW6204@aol.com>
Las Vegas, NV USA - Tuesday, September 2, 2003 8:22 AM CDT

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Finally got Gooch to sleep and I just wanted to stop by and see how you guys were doing. Emily I hope this finds you enjoying yourself and doing wonderfully!!! You deserve it sweetie!!!
Chris ~ Gooch's Site ~
- Friday, August 29, 2003 0:11 AM CDT

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Hi John and Kathlee:
Glad to see your update and to know that Emily continues to do well. We think of Emily and check the web site regularly. What has Jack been up to? He must be keeping you guys going.
Your kindness and caring will always be remembered.
Herb and Lani <herblee9999@yahoo.com>
- Wednesday, August 27, 2003 7:32 PM CDT

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Happy Birthday Emily!!! I am glad you could get your two year studies out of the way before school started and that they went so well. Hannah starts school today and I hope you both have a fabulous day filled with people who love you and fun things to learn. Take it easy, we love you so much. Andrew hasn't grown in two years either. Maybe you two will take off together. Look at Dr. K-good things come in small packages. Hannah calls her "small but mighty!" Non the less, I hope they can work on this for you and Andrew and you can do a little catch up. Love, Anne
Anne Himes <www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewh>
Boonsboro, md USA - Monday, August 25, 2003 8:14 AM CDT

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Emily, happy birthday! Are you excited you're going back to school? I like your hat; I have one just like it, except mine is green. Give Mommy, Daddy, and Jack a big hug and kiss for me. . .
Gi Hyun An <gihyunan@yahoo.com>
Washington, DC - Friday, August 22, 2003 3:53 PM CDT

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What a nice site. I hope the numbers stay good for you... Laura
www.caringbridge.org/ca/coltonmeyer
- Thursday, August 14, 2003 10:07 PM CDT

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HIYA Emily:)



Visit Katia's site
DX Leukemia AML M4 April 2002


Tracy and Katia
- Wednesday, August 6, 2003 6:18 PM CDT

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JUST DROPPING BY TO SAY HELLO:)

Visit Katia's Page and sign her guestbook:) (Leukemia AML M4)

TRACY AND KATIA
- Saturday, July 26, 2003 1:04 PM CDT

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http://www.caringbridge.org/sc/kaylynmei/

Emily is so pretty! I just found your site through someone elses caringbridge page. I'm so happy that she's doing well and I'll pray that God will continue to heal her totally. My sister Kaylyn had a brain tumor and had a Stem Cell Transplant in June. The link to her site is above. Anyway, I just thought I'd drop by and say hi! Wonderful days are ahead!!!
Erin (17) <ccbubbless17@yahoo.com>
Columbia, SC USA - Saturday, July 26, 2003 9:58 AM CDT

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I'm so glad to see that things are going well for you guys!
Chris ~ Gooch's Site ~
- Thursday, July 24, 2003 3:45 PM CDT

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Just checking in to say hi!!
Sharayah
- Monday, July 21, 2003 3:23 PM CDT

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Dear Kathleen,

Haven't visited this site for awhile and was very happy to see that Emily is doing so well! I am so glad to hear that she likes school as I know this will allow her to progress that much more. I know some of her problems are ongoing and serious, but with her immediate and extended families' support, she will continue to get better! Wish you were still here at PTO!

Jerry
Jerry Price <Jerry.Price@uspto.gov>
Arl, VA - Tuesday, July 8, 2003 11:38 AM CDT

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Hi everyone! Just wanted to let you know I was thinking about you. I am glad things are going well. I hope to see you in August when you come back. Give Emily a hug for me!!
Kim Montague
Raleigh, NC USA - Monday, July 7, 2003 10:28 PM CDT

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Hi Emily, I am glad to see things are going well for you sweetie.

Just wanted to drop in and see if you were interested in visiting Smile Quilts for an online quilt made just for you.
Just click on the graphic below!



Angel Chris and all your friends at Smile Quilts
chrisrusso_@hotmail.com
- Sunday, July 6, 2003 3:14 PM CDT

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Just came by to say HI

Visit Katia's Page and sign her guestbook:) (Leukemia AML M4)

Tracy and Katia
- Sunday, July 6, 2003 1:12 PM CDT

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JUST CAME BY TO SA HI:)

Visit Katia's Page and sign her guestbook:) (Leukemia AML M4)

TRACY
- Sunday, June 29, 2003 6:35 PM CDT

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Just checking in to see how Emily is doing!!!
Sharayah
- Friday, June 27, 2003 2:01 PM CDT

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HIYA

Visit Katia's Page and sign her guestbook:) (Leukemia AML M4)

TRACY AND KATIA
- Wednesday, June 25, 2003 2:41 PM CDT

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That is great! I am so glad everything came back good. Emily, school will be back so enjoy your summer. My daughters love school and were sad it ended. We just put them back in public school in January from homeschooling so the school year really seemed quick to them but I am glad you LIKE school:)

Visit Katia's Page and sign her guestbook:) (Leukemia AML M4)

Tracy and Katia
- Thursday, June 19, 2003 8:25 AM CDT

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I check Emily's site regularly and am glad to see that the lab results were all good.
I'm sure that, with a little encouragement from mom, Emily will be able get over the shopping thing and you won't be able to keep her away from the mall.
It seems that not too long ago Jack was a baby boy, now he's just all boy!
Hugs to all.
Herb <herblee9999@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, June 17, 2003 8:47 PM CDT

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Dear Kathleen,

Thank you for your thoughtful update on Emily. We enjoyed reading about her progress and your family's enjoyment with each other. It is such a pleasure to share your good news with our staff. And it is an encouragement for us validating our work and efforts.

With Best Wishes,
Sharon Sugiyama, Director
Asians for Miracle Marrow Matches (A3M)
Sharon Sugiyama (A3M) <ssugiyama@fc.ltsc.org>
Los Angeles, CA - Tuesday, June 17, 2003 8:24 PM CDT

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Dear Kathleen,
I do check your page every once in awhile but I was happy to find a new entry from you. I am so glad that all of her numbers good. I will pray that the new med for the OCD will work. It is so nice to hear about her wonderful school group. We all hope for such support for our children. Love, Anne
Anne Himes <www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewh>
Boonsboro, md USA - Tuesday, June 17, 2003 3:08 PM CDT

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Hi Emily. Hope everything is going ok with you. Hope you are having a nice summer!!
Sharayah
- Friday, June 13, 2003 2:01 PM CDT

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HIYA EMILY! PRAYING YOU ARE DOING WELL THIS SUMMER:)

Visit Katia's Page and sign her guestbook:) (Leukemia AML M4)

TRACY AND KATIA
- Friday, June 13, 2003 12:44 AM CDT

---

I hope things are going well there, and I hope you know we are all pulling for you and praying for you!
Chris
~ Gooch's Site ~ * * ~ Adopt A Kid's site ~
- Wednesday, June 11, 2003 9:10 PM CDT

---

Hey,just want to say have a good summer!
Tatiana
- Friday, June 6, 2003 5:04 PM CDT

---

Mrs. & Mr. Kim,
I'm so glad to hear Emily is progressing this far. I hadnt heard anything since the bone marrow transplant was planned in 2001, so this is good news to me.
Congratulations! and "may your tribe increase"!
Jim Ball <balljj@hotmail.com>
Arl., VA - Friday, June 6, 2003 4:42 PM CDT

---

Hello Emily!Hope your summer is going well.Please update your journal entries.I'd like to know how you are doing!!
Sharayah
- Friday, June 6, 2003 4:35 PM CDT

---

HIYA from the Solomons:)

Visit Katia's Page and sign her guestbook:) (Leukemia AML M4)

Tracy and Katia
- Sunday, June 1, 2003 6:23 PM CDT

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Kathleen, John, Emily, and Jack,
We hope the immune study results come back with great results. I am sorry for all that Emily and you all have to go through. No 8 year old and no parent should have to go through all that you folks have.We pray for your whole family and for Emily's health. Take care,
Nancy Washko <nancyw@webkorner.com>
Salisbury, NC - Saturday, May 31, 2003 1:53 PM CDT

---

Hi,this is Katia and her older sister Tatiana!
Have a good summer!bye!

Katia and Tatiana
- Saturday, May 31, 2003 10:26 AM CDT

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Hey Emily.Just wanted to say hulooo ;D hope you have a grrreat summer!!

Sharayah
- Friday, May 30, 2003 11:36 AM CDT

---

Just a quick hello!

Visit Katia's Page and sign her guestbook:) (Leukemia AML M4)

Tracy and Katia
- Thursday, May 29, 2003 10:17 PM CDT

---

I guess I haven't been by lately but it is nice to see you are doing well. We pray for you and think of you often:) You are a very busy little 8 year old:) Love, Tracy and Katia

Visit Katia's Page and sign her guestbook :) (Leukemia AML M4)

Tracy Solomon
- Thursday, May 22, 2003 12:13 AM CDT

---

Kathleen and family ~
Just stopping by to say HI and let you know that we are continuing to pray for Emily. I hope she is still feeling good and full of energy! Please post an update when you get a chance!
Hugs to you all ~
Stacey and Chad Wada
Stacey and Chad Wada <SLW6204@aol.com>
Las Vegas, NV USA - Monday, May 19, 2003 9:06 AM CDT

---

Just a quick note to let you know even some friends from long ago think of you and pray for you regularly. As always my best to you and your family.
Don Brannelly
- Friday, May 16, 2003 7:19 AM CDT

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Kathleen, Happy Mothers Day!!!
gina geddings, mommy of angel Morgan <mimor2@comcast.net ~~~ www.caringbridge.com/sc/morganspage>
- Saturday, May 10, 2003 6:27 PM CDT

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We are very pleased to here how Emily is doing, and we will continue to check on her status weekly.All our thoughts and prayers are with Emily and her family.

Sincerely, Wendy McCarthy and MIchelle Hong at Dura coat Products INC.
Wendy Mccarthy <magnoliagirls222@hotmail.com>
Riverside, CA USA - Thursday, May 8, 2003 4:35 PM CDT

---

Dear Kathleen,
I am glad to hear everything is going pretty well with Emily. I hope you find someone to help her peace of mind soon. Andrew has not grown in a yr and 1/2 also (although his may be the Hurlers) I hope she can avoid the shots but if not I hope she will grow like a weed. I will be checking in on that for sure. Take care and tell her I said hi. Love, Anne
Anne Himes <www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewh>
Boonsboro, md USA - Thursday, May 1, 2003 7:01 PM CDT

---

Just stopping by to let you know that Emily is always in my prayers. What a brave trooper she has been. Jack's birthday was the same as mine (and one of my sisters has a new baby named Jack !). Take care.
Samantha's Aunt Cathy <lamarreca@irctt.com>
Boone, NC - Wednesday, April 30, 2003 5:27 PM CDT

---

So sorry to hear about the growth issue. I'm sure it'll be another hill you guys will CONQUER in your journey of love. Sending bunch prayers of love, strength, and most of all patience from all your friends here in Indy. God bless!!
Indianapolis Korean Catholic Church <jasmine@clsbenefits.com>
Indianapolis, IN 46280 - Monday, April 28, 2003 9:55 AM CDT

---

Kathleen, John, Emily, and Jack,
We have been praying for your family so often and I am thankful the Duke checkup went well and I am wishing you didn't have to deal w/ growth issues and more issues - you all sure deserve a break and only good news. I sure hope you can find the help you need for Emily. Emily - we hope you can enjoy some 8-year-old fun this summer. Again reading about Jack always brings a smile to my face. May God bless your family,
the Washko's (Nancy, Ken, Sam, and Matt) <nancyw@webkorner.com>
Salisbury, NC - Sunday, April 27, 2003 9:28 PM CDT

---

I am so glad to hear the good and wonderful news. It has been just over a year, March 30, since you came home and it is truly heart warming to know that Emily has continued to progress so well.
Big hugs from us.
Herb and Lani
- Thursday, April 24, 2003 10:13 PM CDT

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WELL I SUPPOSE ALL IS GOOD NEWS! I HOPE THE GROWTH STARTS SOON:)

Visit Katia's Page and sign her guestbook :) (Leukemia AML M4)

TRACY SOLOMON
- Thursday, April 24, 2003 6:49 PM CDT

---

Hi Emily ~
Happy 18 months milestone! It's April, and I'm wondering if you are back from Duke and had a great check-up? I sure hope so! You are such a special little girl! I will have to come back to your webpage and read your mom's new update soon! I hope the Easter Bunny brought you lots of treats yesterday!!
Have a Happy Spring!!
Your friends ~
Stacey and Chad Wada
Stacey and Chad Wada <SLW6204@aol.com>
Las Vegas, NV USA - Monday, April 21, 2003 11:26 AM CDT

---

HAPPY EASTER!!!

Visit Katia's Page and sign her guestbook :) (Leukemia AML M4)

TRACY SOLOMON
- Saturday, April 19, 2003 3:14 PM CDT

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Hi Emily,
Have a blessed and happy Easter!
Kathy Haws
Thousand Oaks, CA. - Saturday, April 19, 2003 0:08 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 ~
- Thursday, April 17, 2003 6:19 PM CDT

---

Hello My name is Jenna, and I was born with a rare bone disease. Emily's story is an inspiration.
My webpage is: http://www.matmice.com/home/fighterandchampion
Jenna <hockeys_life@hotmail.com>
Kamloops, BC Canada - Wednesday, April 16, 2003 3:05 PM CDT

---

I brought by a friend to see you and stay with you:)

Visit Katia's Page and sign her guestbook :) (Leukemia AML M4)

Tracy Solomon
- Friday, April 11, 2003 10:20 AM CDT

---

thinking of your family, Laura
www.caringbridge.org/ca/coltonmeyer
- Saturday, April 5, 2003 10:33 AM CST

---

I will check back for your April update. What day in April! Oh heck, I will just pray for you everyday! Love, Tracy

Visit Katia's Page and sign her guestbook :) (Leukemia AML M4)

Tracy Solomon
- Saturday, March 29, 2003 11:49 AM CST

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Hi Emily,
The trip to the restaurant sounded like fun! I am glad to hear everything is going so well. Have a fun week. God Bless,
Kathy Haws
Thousand Oaks, CA. - Wednesday, March 26, 2003 11:59 PM CST

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Hey Girly! Hope everything goes good for you and your family and hope that you stay healthy!!! Keep up the good work!!
Sharayah Solomon
Tampa FL, - Monday, March 24, 2003 3:48 PM CST

---

You are such a pretty little girl. Keep on that beautiful smile!
Sharayah Solomon
Tampa FL, - Monday, March 24, 2003 3:41 PM CST

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Just letting you know I was thinking of you guys and wanted to come by personally and let you know that!!! Happy St. Patrick's Day! Love, Tracy

KATIA'S PAGE (LEUKEMIA AML M-4)

Tracy Solomon
- Monday, March 17, 2003 1:14 PM CST

---

Great news ! I am sure she will continue to be 100% OK. Keep positive thoughts all the time. warm hugs.
rose
brazil - Monday, March 17, 2003 8:01 AM CST

---

I am here thinking about you. Hope all is well. Love, Tracy
http://caringbridge.org/fl/katia_leukemiapage
Tracy Solomon
- Wednesday, March 5, 2003 1:16 PM CST

---

Hope this finds you feeling good and doing well Emily.
Please know lots of people are thinking of you.
Kathleen, hope things are good for you.
Hugs & prayers,
Chris
~ Gooch's Site ~ * * ~ Adopt A Kid's site ~
- Monday, March 3, 2003 7:52 PM CST

---

It was wonderful to read your journal today. It almost sounded ordinary. (smile) So happy to hear about Emily's continous progress. You guys really came a long way. Thank you God!
Your friends @ Korean Caholic Church <jasmine@clsbenefits.com>
Indianapolis, IN 46226 - Monday, March 3, 2003 12:39 AM CST

---

Just checking in for any updates. Enjoy the snow as best you can. Love, Tracy
Visit Katia's Page and sign her guestbook :)
Tracy Solomon
- Thursday, February 27, 2003 4:36 AM CST

---

Kathleen - Happy late Birthday! Again you had me laughing with the thought of Emil asking to sell Jack - he sounds like he is growing up too quickly!! So cute! Hope the additional therapy can get Emily what she needs. Thinking of you often and praying for you,
Nancy Washko <nancyw@webkorner.com>
Salisbury, NC - Tuesday, February 25, 2003 10:25 PM CST

---

WOW a spa treatment!! Someone gave me that gift and I will love them forever! I live in Florida so the weather is great here 99% of the time minus hurricane season. Glad to Emily is doing well. Love, Tracy
Visit Katia's Page and sign her guestbook :)
Tracy Solomon
Tampa, FL - Friday, February 21, 2003 12:27 AM CST

---

HI everyone...
Let it snow let it snow let it snow...ha! we hardly ever get any snow...Glad everyone is doing good. Tell Emily if she has to sell Jack, I will buy him, lol...love you all, gina
gina geddings, mommy of angel Morgan <mimor2@comcast.net ~~ www.caringbridge.com/sc/morganspage>
- Tuesday, February 18, 2003 10:27 PM CST

---

Hi there cutie! I just wanted to drop by before I forget and wish you a Happy Valentine's Day!
Know that many other many people are thinking of you that day and every day!




Gooch & Mom
Gooch's Site

- Tueday, February 11, 2003 3:23 PM CST

---

Emily, I was checking for an update but I assume no news is good news :)
Love, Tracy
Visit Katia's Page and sign her guestbook :)
Tracy Solomon
Tampa, FL - Monday, February 10, 2003 12:06 AM CST

---

I am so glad to hear that Emily is improving. I hope you will be able to find out about the hairloss. I know unexplained things can be very bothersome. As far as Jack, WOW! What a big boy! Katia is three and graduated from her crib to our bed about 6 months ago and has been there since. We bought her a new bedspread with ladybugs in hope she would drift to her bed but nope, she prefers ours and since we are on the other side of the house and she has been through so much already, we give in. She did get off the bottle about a month ago and we are trying to get her to stop sucking her thumb, but Jack, I am so proud of you:)
Love, Tracy Solomon
Katia's page
Tracy Solomon
Tampa, FL - Wednesday, February 5, 2003 12:13 AM CST

---

HI All,
I am so glad to see an update...I am so happy for you Emily. I cant believe Jack is already out of the crib. Time does pass quickly. Take care, love ya!
gina geddings, mommy of angel Morgan <mimor2@comcast.net ~~ www.caringbridge.com/sc/morganspage>
- Wednesday, February 5, 2003 6:22 AM CST

---

Just checking on Emily to see how things are going. I look at your page for updates and pray that no news is good news. You are in my prayers. Love, Tracy
Katia's page
Tracy Solomon
Tampa, FL - Friday, January 24, 2003 at 08:02 PM (CST)

---

Kathleen - I loved reading your entry! I am so sorry about Emily's hair again. Once Sam got off her FK506, her eyelashes all fell out again and she started growing hair in the bald spots she had left (the ones that only I knew she had!) I sure hope it's just a medicine change that has this happeneing and that it grows back quickly for Emily. Sounds like Jack has a future ahead of him in caring! He is really growing up! Glad to hear your holidays were at home and calm. We hope 2003 brings lots of good health for you folks!
the Washko's <nancyw@webkorner.com>
Salisbury, NC - Saturday, January 18, 2003 at 04:17 PM (CST)

---

We are trying to raise awareness and bring more love, prayers and support to more kids' sites, so you will be getting messages here from someone who "Adopted" you and your site. (unless you dont want to..) As you know Gooch has leukemia too, and I know the support & prayers from others mean a lot. Please know we will be joining so many others who are thinking of you and praying for you. Tell mommy I said hi!
Chris ~ Gooch's Site
Adopt a Kid's site Here

- Saturday, January 18, 2003 at 12:43 AM (CST)

---

Last journal entry, I didn't ask why Emily was losing her hair. Is she still under treatments? Love, Tracy
http://caringbridge.org/fl/katia_leukemiapage/
Tracy Solomon (Katia's mommy)
- Friday, January 17, 2003 at 02:36 PM (CST)

---

Hi Kathleen,
Sounds like fun at your house...Jack sounds like he is pretty smart. I miss you all and think of you often. Please keep in touch, and tell Emily I am still waiting on a piece of artwork...I would love an Emily original...lots of love
gina geddings, mommy of angel Morgan <mimor2@comcast.net ~~ www.caringbridge.com/sc/morganspage>
- Sunday, January 12, 2003 at 10:33 PM (CST)

---

Emily, you are adorable and my 10 year old daughter loves the powerpuff girls! All 3 of my daughers do. They have chosen who they are. I have a 3 year old with AML. I found your site on Gooch's site. When our daughter lost her hair I figured it was because the chemo was working and that was a good thing. I know it is hard. She likes to stack tons of hats on her head! If you email me, I will send you a picture of her piling on the hats. Take good care of yourself and I will pray for you during these rounds of chemo. Love, Tracy Solomon
Katia's site
Tracy Solomon <tmsol87@aol.com>
Tampa, FL - Sunday, January 12, 2003 at 09:38 PM (CST)

---

Sorry to hear her hair is falling out again. Another little girl we know lost hers over and over too. Its so hard on the girls. But the chemo is doing its job! Remember that!'

chris
Gooch's Site

- Friday, January 10, 2003 at 10:03 AM (CST)

---

Happy New Year, We pray that Emily gets stronger and healthier each day.


Larry and Glenda Allen <lafretired@cs.com>
Easley, SC - Friday, January 03, 2003 at 12:29 PM (CST)

---

Hi Emily and Family ~
It's still officially December 25th so we're not too late to wish you all a very MERRY CHRISTMAS!! We hope Santa left lots of goodies for your family! Just wanted you to know that you are in our thoughts and prayers on this special day.

Sending lots of holiday hugs ~
Stacey and Chad Wada (age 10, dx ALL 9-19-00)



Stacey and Chad Wada <SLW6204@aol.com>
Las Vegas, NV USA - Wednesday, December 25, 2002 at 10:53 PM (CST)

---

We will be forever grateful to have met such a wonderful and caring family
.
Happy holidays and best wishes for a healthy new year.
Herb, Lani, Amanda and our angel, Andrew
- Wednesday, December 25, 2002 at 06:50 PM (CST)

---

Merry Christmas! Love,
the Washko's
- Wednesday, December 25, 2002 at 12:55 AM (CST)

---

Merry Christmas to you all. We pray for Emily every day to get stronger and healthier. Thank you for remembering Michael.
Larry and Glenda Allen <lafretired@cs.com>
Easley, SC - Monday, December 23, 2002 at 08:33 PM (CST)

---

HI everyone,
I want to wish you a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS! love to you all...
gina geddings, mommy of angel Morgan <mimor2@comcast.net ~~ www.caringbridge.com/sc/morganspage>
- Saturday, December 21, 2002 at 07:15 AM (CST)

---

Hi Kathleen, John, Emily & Jack,
Just wanted to let you know I'm thinking of you and to wish you a very Merry Christmas!
Kathy Haws <firecap.wife@verizon.net>
- Tuesday, December 17, 2002 at 11:12 PM (CST)

---

I just wanted to wish you a FANTASTIC HOLIDAY AND MUCH HEALTH & HAPPINESS!

Gooch & Mom
Gooch's Site

- Tuesday, December 17, 2002 at 07:02 PM (CST)

---

HI to the Kim family...
Just stopping by and thanking you for remembering. It means so much. I just remember sitting and talking (laughing mostly). That seems so far away now. Love you all and am so glad to hear that Emily is doing so well. And that wild little man. He looks like a handful. God Bless, love gina
gina geddings, mommy of angel Morgan <mimor2@comcast.net ~~ www.caringbridge.com/sc/morganspage>
Beech Island, sc - Monday, December 02, 2002 at 06:40 PM (CST)

---

Just dropping by to wish you happy holidays... laura
www.caringbridge.org/ca/coltonmeyer
- Friday, November 29, 2002 at 10:10 PM (CST)

---

I am glad to hear that good things are happening to you. This is so overwhelming and frustrating but when you look back you will see how it was all worth it.

Have a happy Thanksgiving
Don Brannelly <dbrannelly@attbi.com>
Woburn, MA - Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 02:17 PM (CST)

---

Just wanted to wish you a Healthy & Happy Thanksgiving
chris
Gooch's Site

- Wednesday, November 27, 2002 at 01:27 PM (CST)

---

We are so glad to read that Emily is doing so good.
Love, Krisan and Brett
Krisan
- Wednesday, November 20, 2002 at 08:36 PM (CST)

---

I am so glad to hear that Emily is finding happiness. I am sure that just the parents from Duke could provide you with all the clients that you would ever need. I am sure that we would all find it unbelievably gratifying too. I am so glad that the GVHD is staying undercontrol. Love, Anne
Anne Himes <www.caringbridge.org/page/andrewh>
Boonsboro, md USA - Tuesday, November 19, 2002 at 04:44 PM (CST)

---

We are so happy to hear about Emily's continous improvements. Keep up the good work!!!! We will remember Andrew and his family in our prayers. God bless.
Your friends @ Korean Catholic Church of Indianapolis <jasmine@clsbenefits.com>
Indianapolis, IN 46226 - Monday, November 18, 2002 at 01:46 PM (CST)

---

I am just getting back online from when we moved. We are still not fully settled in and unpacked. I wanted to drop in and see how Emily is doing. Mom you are doing great in staying on top of the schools for her. I am really sorry to hear about your friend Andrew, I know thats really hard.

chris
Gooch's Site
<chrisrusso_@hotmail.com>
- Saturday, November 16, 2002 at 10:34 PM (CST)

---

Hi Kathleen and family ~
Belated Congratulations on Emily's One Year anniversary!! Wow, time flies, and it is wonderful to hear how much she continues to improve. You'll have to post some new photos of both Emily and Jack so we can see how much they've both grown! I hope that Emily only thrives both physically, and mentally during this second year post-transplant. She is such a special little girl! Also, our hearts and prayers go out to Andrew Lee's family. We are so saddened to hear of his passing. God Bless both of your families.
Take care.
Love ~
Bill, Stacey, Bryce, and Chad Wada (age 10, dx ALL 9-19-00)
The Wada Family <SLW6204@aol.com>
Las Vegas, NV USA - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 09:20 PM (CST)

---

Hi - so nice to read about that smile! I pray Emily will give you that smile many many many more times!! I hope the weaning goes OK and NO signs of any GvH pop up as you try to wean! Lots of love and thinking of you!
the Washko's - Ken, Nancy, Sam , and Matt <nancyw@webkorner.com>
Salisbury, NC - Monday, November 11, 2002 at 04:05 PM (CST)

---

Glad to see the update. Just signing in to say hello and let you know that you guys are still very much in my thoughts and prayers. Blessings.
Khalita www.caringbridge.com/nc/khalita Duke Peds BMT aplastic anemia <khalita@hecaresonline.org>
Lexington, NC - Monday, November 04, 2002 at 08:57 PM (CST)

---

Dear Kim Family, It is GREAT to hear the news of Emily's improvement w/ health issues. The anniversary of her "second birthday" is also a wonderful milestone. We cheer for you all. We continue to keep Emily and all of you in our prayers as we know that you're still facing plenty of challenges - math and otherwise. You all have come so far and your strength is such an inspiration. Kate P.S. Tell Emily that Nora hates math too
Kate Duchelle < >
Silver Spring, MD - Monday, October 28, 2002 at 03:58 PM (CST)

---

Dear Kathleen,
As a co-Marylander, I hope you are keeping your head down down there. I hope also that Emily will soon be over her cold and as time goes on will feel better about your run of the mill stuff...as will we all. Some where between her reaction and Jack's would be nice huh?! Hannah is now offically on indoor recess. I am about ready for this to be over. Keep safe. Love, Anne
Anne Himes <arhimes@yahoo.com, www.caringbridge.com/page/andrewh>
Boonsboro, md USA - Wednesday, October 23, 2002 at 12:31 PM (CDT)

---

Hope you get over that cold- we have had them too! Take care- you are in our family's prayers...love, laura
www.caringbridge.org/ca/coltonmeyer
- Tuesday, October 22, 2002 at 04:08 PM (CDT)

---

Hi Emily. My daughter Katy is about your age and she had a bone marrow transplant too. Guess what? She sometimes has a bad time at school too. It can be very hard sometimes, can't it? One more thing...Katy wants you to know that SHE was a flower girl at a wedding too! If you want to, you can see some pictures of Katy as a flower girl on her website at www.katyhubbell.com. We are sending hugs to you Emily.
Mary and Katy Hubbell <mshubb2@aol.com or KatysMiracle@aol.com>
Fisher, IL USA - Tuesday, October 22, 2002 at 03:28 PM (CDT)

---

Hi there, hope you are doing well. I am enjoying missing school but if my counts go up will have to go back eventually! Since we are moving then & wont have computer for 2-3 days, I wanted to wish you a HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Gooch
Gooch's Site

- Saturday, October 19, 2002 at 12:27 AM (CDT)

---

Hi Sweetie, I was just stopping by to check on your updates and see how you're doing. My little nephew has ALL too. He was diagnosed in August this year. He's 3. His site is at http://t_hogue7.tripod.com/kaden.html if you want to meet him too. Hope you have a Happy Halloween!





Terri Lynn
- Friday, October 18, 2002 at 10:00 PM (CDT)

---

What a joy that God would create a special person like Emily.
Cheers,
From NYC
NYC
- Monday, October 07, 2002 at 06:01 PM (CDT)

---

Hi there! I found you and your story from Gooch. Take care and we will check back again sometime! Love, Laura
www.caringbridge.org/ca/coltonmeyer
- Sunday, October 06, 2002 at 08:47 PM (CDT)

---

CONGRATS on this milestone!!! Mom, the veil of fear never quite leaves us I dont think!
chris
Gooch's Site

- Saturday, October 05, 2002 at 02:34 PM (CDT)

---

Hip, hip horrah!!! Please forgive me for being two days late. The pride, excitment and happiness are not lessened because I missed the actual day. Kathleen, John, Emily and Jack, I am so happy for you. I know things will just keep improving and that will help calm you all. I am so glad to have gotten to know you. Love to you all. Anne
Anne Himes <arhimes@yahoo.com, www.caringbridge.com/page/andrewh>
Boonsboro, Md USA - Friday, October 04, 2002 at 08:54 AM (CDT)

---

Emily, way to go girl, happy anniversary. Keep on getting better. We're cheering you on to a full recovery....
Thank you for remembering Michael
Larry(Papa) and Glenda(Nana) Allen <lafretired@cs.com>
Easley, SC - Friday, October 04, 2002 at 06:43 AM (CDT)

---

Emily - Happy One Year anniversary - Wow - you have come so far! I was sad to hear of the apprehension causing such a rough time at school - I hope the procedures all went well and that all your results come out great from your 1- year checkup!
Nancy Washko
Salisbury, NC - Thursday, October 03, 2002 at 11:35 PM (CDT)

---

Kathleen - I loved reading about Emily's loud sigh! This is just the kind of thing I could see Matt doing with a big eye roll too. I sure am sorry about Emily's memory and I pray so often that her brain will remember more and for longer times. And of course, as usual, you make me laugh thinking about Jack acting like a duck! Take care! Miss you!
the Washko's
Salisbury, NC - Sunday, September 29, 2002 at 09:31 PM (CDT)

---

I read your web page to our pt while she was here. We laughed so hard (and her husband works for President Bush) It is just so typical. I know Hannah would have done something just as embarassing. I am so sorry that Emily is having trouble with her memory but I am even more sorry that it is causing her anxity. I pray that her brain will be able to heal itself somehow over time. The brain is an amazing thing. Love, Anne
Anne Himes <arhimes@yahoo.com, www.caringbridge.com/page/andrewh>
Boonsboro, Md USA - Friday, September 27, 2002 at 07:52 AM (CDT)

---

OH MY GOD! Thats hysterical. And besides, I'm sure she is not the first female to be bored with the President.....
chris
Gooch's Site

- Tuesday, September 24, 2002 at 09:55 PM (CDT)

---

Fantastic all the way around. It is good to hear good news. My Hannah loves President Bush so much and is so easily jelous of others that I didn't dare tell her that you are going to the White House and are going to meet him!!! Now Lance Armstrong- that's more my type of guy. I hope you had a wonderful time. You deserve it! Love,Anne
Anne Himes <arhimes@yahoo.com, www.caringbridge.com/page/andrewh>
Boonsboro, Md USA - Friday, September 20, 2002 at 08:20 PM (CDT)

---

Hi everyone! emily I can't believe that you are going to meet the president! How cool is that?!!! I am glad things are going well for you. My cats are doing well, they say hi! Meow! Meow! I think of you often and pray for you to keep getting better. Take Care!!
Kim Montague <kim_montague@hotmail.com>
raleigh, NC USA - Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 03:05 AM (CDT)

---

Hi Emily and Kathleen, I am Joan Adoff, Julie Watson's mom. I have been wanting to get to meet you and the rest of your family. I was so excited to hear you from the White House when I was listening to WTOP today! That was great.
I hope that one of these days I can get over to your house, and, perhaps Emily, you and I can do some fun things with Math.
Good luck when you go to Duke and I will talk to you soon.
Joan Adoff
Joan G. Adoff
- Wednesday, September 18, 2002 at 10:15 PM (CDT)

---

Hi Emily,
It's such exciting news about meeting Lance Armstrong. What a wonderful opportunity to meet a man who is such and inspiration and who has done so much to promote efforts to further cancer research.

Herb, Lani and Andrew <herblee9999@yahoo.com>
- Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 08:31 PM (CDT)

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Hi there! I heard about you from Gooch. WOW- it sounds like you are in for an exciting day tomorrow!!! Take care and take lots of pictures. Love, Laura
www.caringbridge.org/ca/coltonmeyer
- Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 08:11 PM (CDT)

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Hi! I found your site thru Gooch's site. My son, Jeffrey, was diagnosed with ALL on March 4, 2002. We are going through treatment right now. I am glad to hear that your daughter is doing better. God Bless.
Chuson Marsh (www.caringbridge.org/tx/jeffrey) <marshcz@c-b.com>
Arlington, TX USA - Tuesday, September 17, 2002 at 02:33 PM (CDT)

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Hi guys, so sorry to hear about Michael.

I am glad to see you kids are both doing well and your mom & dad must be thrilled!
Chris
Gooch's Site
<Chrisrusso_@hotmail.com >
- Thursday, September 12, 2002 at 11:46 AM (CDT)

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Hi Emily and Family,
We are glad to hear that you are back in school and that you are doing well. One year, you have come such a long way. Hope to see you sometime after Andrew returns home.
Herb, Lani and Andrew
- Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 09:23 PM (CDT)

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Dear Kathleen,
I am so glad to hear that Emily is making such a great transition! She sounds like she is doing at least as well as Hannah. I hope it will continue to normalize her life. I am sorry that we will miss you at Duke. It sure was good to see you last time and it was so nice to pass time in such an enjoyable way together. I hope things continue to go well. Love, Anne
Anne Himes <arhimes@yahoo.com, www.caringbridge.com/page/andrewh>
Boonsboro, Md USA - Wednesday, September 11, 2002 at 11:39 AM (CDT)

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Hi Emily, We saw your tile on the Lombardi Center elephant yesterday at the Navy Memorial and thought of you. We hope school is going well for you and you are finding lots of friends.
Mary, Aileen, Erin, Claire & Kathleen Monahan
Kensington, MD - Monday, September 09, 2002 at 01:29 PM (CDT)

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Hi Emily!
A very HAPPY (belated!) 8th BIRTHDAY!!! Hope you had a fun day! Your dress is SO pretty (& so are you!). So happy to read you are well and heading back to school. How exciting!
BIG cuddles to you and all your precious family, from across the ocean!
Love from,
Liz, Murray, Adam, Joshua & Bethany, from Down Under!
XO XO XO XO XO
the Cruickshank family (ALL-KIDS) <meajbc@bigpond.com>
Melbourne, Vic. Australia - Wednesday, September 04, 2002 at 08:50 AM (CDT)

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Happy Happy belated Birthday!!! What a wonderful and special Birthday!! It will also be her transplant anniversary soon and with her getting stronger and stronger she will be normal before we know it. How did she do at school? Hope she finds a friend she can bond with. Our prayers and thoughts are with Emily and your family. God Bless.
Korean Catholic Church <jasmine@clsbenefits.com>
Indianapolis, IN U.S.A. - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 01:58 PM (CDT)

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Hello Everyone! Happy late birthday Emily! We hope Emily will love school once she makes some friends and learns lots of new things. If we lived there, I would love to have the honor of being Emily's teacher. It is so good to hear about Jack's adventures....we remember some of the very same ones so well. Garrett is doing great and getting so big. Anyway, we wanted to let you all know that we are thinking of you and that we miss you all. Please give Emily and Jack hugs from Garrett. Maybe we will see you when you go for Emily's one year check up.

Love,

Tommy, Melissa, and Garret <mbdrew13@aol.com>
Marion, SC - Tuesday, September 03, 2002 at 08:46 AM (CDT)

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Hi Kathleen ~
Happy Belated 8th Birthday to Emily!! What a very special celebration you all must have shared. I am thrilled to read that Emily is returning to school!! Yes, it will be hard at first. Yes, she might cry and not want to go! But it will make a HUGE difference (a positive one!) for her to interact and socialize with her peers again. I am so happy for her, and hope that the transition is NOT as difficult as we anticipate! Kathleen, are you working again? And please let us know how Emily's friend Joanne is doing. I pray that all is well.
Sending lots of well wishes and big hugs to Emily and Jack!
Love ~
Stacey and Family
The Wada Family <SLW6204@aol.com>
Las Vegas, NV USA - Sunday, September 01, 2002 at 12:23 AM (CDT)

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Dear, Kathleen, John, Emily and Jack,
Happy Birthday Emily!!!! I can't believe you are 8 already. I pray that you are surrounded by God's peace and love at school and that you find many friends to share that love with. I am so glad that medically things are going better for you. You tell your mom to keep up with those updates- it worries me when I have to wait so long. Check in with Andrew and wish him a happy 1 year out. Oct. 2nd will be here before we know it and I will be thinking about you. Love, Anne
Anne Himes <arhimes@yahoo.com, www.caringbridge.com/page/andrewh>
Boonsboro, Md USA - Friday, August 30, 2002 at 07:56 AM (CDT)

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Hi Emily,
We are so glad that you had such a wonderful birthday celebration. The only thing more beautiful than your pink dress is your bright smile.
It is great news to hear that you are going back to school.

Herb, Lani, Andrew and Amanda <herblee9999@yahoo.com>
N. Potomac, MD USA - Tuesday, August 27, 2002 at 06:32 PM (CDT)

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Hello - We hope school will go well for Emily. It cracks me up to read what Jack's into too! Those lyrics really hit home, thanks for putting them on here for us to read! I pray that Emily will get into a good sleeping routine and will enjoy the company of the other kids at school! Take care,
the Washko's (Ken, Nancy, Sam, and Matt) <nancyw@webkorner.com>
Salisbury, NC - Friday, August 23, 2002 at 11:34 PM (CDT)

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Hi Emily,
Glad to hear you are going back to school. That is AWESOME!!! Are you still drawing? You are a wonderful artist. One day you may be famous! Maybe you should draw me a picture and send it to me (signed please) just in case!
Sounds like you and your brother are having a great time together. Be sweet and tell your mom to update more often, I like to check on you! love, mrs. gina
gina geddings <mimor2@aol.com www.caringbridge.com/sc/morganspage>
beech island , sc usa - Tuesday, August 20, 2002 at 09:37 PM (CDT)

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Happy Belated Birthday Emily! I think about you all the time and wish you well!! I have been really busy. We moved into a new house! The cats like it so far, they don;t know what to think about stairs! They say hi and hope all is well! Take Care! Kim, Taby and Princess
Kim Montague <kim_montague@hotmail.com>
Raleigh, NC USA - Monday, August 19, 2002 at 02:21 PM (CDT)

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Hello, Emily and Family,

My name is Beth Langston. My nephew Charlie was on the PBMTU floor durng the last week of November. Although we didn't have the chance to meet, we did wave once in the hallway.

I've been following your site and am happy to hear your good news. Happy Birthday to Emily and good luck in school.
Elizabeth C. Langston <beth.langston@sas.com>
Cary, NC USA - Sunday, August 18, 2002 at 05:19 PM (CDT)

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Ugh, I know, I have the cd (Mark Schulz's). It kills me, that song. I am glad to see the kids are keeping you busy and that things are well there. I miss talking with you.

Chris
Gooch's Site
<chrisrusso_@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, August 07, 2002 at 11:34 PM (CDT)

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Hello Emily, Jack, Kathleen, and John,

It is so good to read about Emily going to school. We pray that she keeps improving and we are sure that she will impress everyone at school. Sounds like Jack is a wonderful boy, and a very active one. We keep you all in our prayers and Garrett sends big hugs and kisses.
The Drews <mbdrew13@aol.com>
Marion, SC - Wednesday, August 07, 2002 at 07:16 PM (CDT)

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I am glad to hear Emily is going to get to go back to school soon. I keep telling Michael he'll be better like Emily and Samatha. Loved the song. Thanks for sharing it.

Larry Allen <lafretired@cs.com>
Easley, SC - Wednesday, August 07, 2002 at 08:42 AM (CDT)

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Hi Kathleen. I think about you guys all the time and pray for Emily. Hope she is feeling better, that things are working out for your job situation.
God bless you all!
Stephanie Bode
Avon, IN - Monday, August 05, 2002 at 10:39 PM (CDT)

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Kathleen - I pray that Emily will gain some weight and will especially get an appetite that will allow her to continue to gain weight. I hope John's back will keep getting better. I love reading about little Jack! We'll pray Emily's immune functions will return to normal for her to attend school with one less worry. And I especially hope things are working out for you!! May God Bless your family!
Nancy Washko
Salisbury, NC - Thursday, July 25, 2002 at 03:48 PM (CDT)

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Dear Kathleen,
I like to visit your website often hoping for good news about Emily. I think of you and your family daily and pray for all of you. It was good to hear that your husband's back is better and I hope your job situation impoves.

I firmly believe that life overall is an even keel so when you go through difficult times, those tribulations are payments for wonderful times to come.

There is not much I can add except my very best wishes to all.


Don Brannelly
Woburn, MA - Wednesday, July 24, 2002 at 09:01 AM (CDT)

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Dear Kathleen,
Poor Emily. I hope she gets some happiness soon. I think it is wonderful to think of her doing something so normal as going back to school. I hope they can help her get some enjoyment out of it. They have increased Andrew's steroids to increase his appitite also. Boy has it worked. But then he won't eat for 2 days right before the dr visit and so there goes his weight gain. Andrew sounds like Jack. He is just wild and crazy flipping around, running, climbing and getting into all kinds of trouble. The other day he emptied all the toilet water out onto the floor with our cat food container. What a mess. I wish we could think of something Emily loved to do and would make her just light up. It isn't at all the same but when I was little I was in the hospital for a month once and nothing brought me happiness. My family tried everything-friends, gifts, picnics on the hospital grounds etc. It came back one day. I guess it just took time. Love to all. Anne
Anne Himes
Boonsboro, Md USA - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 02:15 PM (CDT)

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It was so nice to hear the good news again. We are praying for you. Lots of hugs and kisses to Emily and little Jake!
Love David & Helen
Helen
Hockessin, DE - Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at 11:51 AM (CDT)

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Hi Kathleen ~
I hope things are better with Emily and John since your last journal update. I am so sorry to hear about John's back injury. My husband has also endured a couple of severe back injuries so I know first-hand how painful it can be. I'll pray that he is recovered by now. I also hope and pray that Emily has improved! Please let us know, she is in our thoughts and prayers so often!
Hope Jack is keeping you smiling through the summer! What a character! I love to read about his antics!
Take care, thinking of you all ~
Stacey and family
The Wada Family
Las Vegas, NV USA - Sunday, July 21, 2002 at 03:51 PM (CDT)

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I hope this finds you guys all doing well
enjoy the summer!

Chris & Gooch
Gooch’s Page

- Friday, July 19, 2002 at 01:58 AM (CDT)

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Dear Kim Family, I am praying that no news is good news and we all pray daily that your trials lessen and Emily's health improves. Smiles and hugs to all of you.
Kate Doug & Nora Duchelle-Smith
Silver Spring, md - Thursday, July 18, 2002 at 02:21 PM (CDT)

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Hi Kathleen,
Boy! It makes me tired to think of all you're going through. I hope Emily takes a turn for the better soon and hope you are able to get some rest. I will pray for you all.
Virginia Larson (Mom to Michael, resident of Heaven as of 10/8/01) <VLarson6@aol.com>
Taylors, SC USA - Saturday, July 13, 2002 at 08:13 PM (CDT)

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I am praying and praying for Emily and your family.
Samantha's Aunt Cathy <lamarreca@irctt.com>
Boone, NC - Friday, July 12, 2002 at 07:55 AM (CDT)

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Hi Kathleen, emily, john and jack! Sorry to hear that you are having some trouble. I hope things turn around and get better! I am sorry to hear that emily is having some obtacles, but I know that you are all very strong and she will get better! I think of you often! I cannot wait to hang emily's pictures in my new house!! Tell her the cats say hi and are hoping she gets better soon! Take care and email me if you get a chance!!
Kim Montague <kim_montague@hotmail.com>
raleigh, NC USA - Wednesday, July 10, 2002 at 07:37 PM (CDT)

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Sorry to hear all the bad news. I feel sure Emily will bounce back. Hope you find a job soon. Trust me I know how much a pain health insurance can be(hate to say it but I use to work for one and they treat their employees no better). Will keep you in our prayers. Michael is still at Duke. He's slowly getting better
Larry and Glenda Allen <lafretired@cs.com>
Easley, sc - Monday, July 08, 2002 at 06:24 AM (CDT)

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Kathleen - Thinking of you often and sorry to hear you're having difficulties with insurance etc - you certainly don't need any added hassles! I pray John's back will get better quickly.. Back pain can be so hard and take so long to heal. With all the times carrying Emily and the TPN backpack, etc. that couldn't have helped his back either and could have easily set it up for pain and injury. I'll pray you all get easier times ahead! Keep hanging in!
Nancy Washko <nancyw@webkorner.com>
Salisbury, NC - Sunday, July 07, 2002 at 10:06 PM (CDT)

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Praying things will soon get better and know that we pray and think of yall often.
Krisan <cknail@altamaha.net>
- Sunday, July 07, 2002 at 05:53 PM (CDT)

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Hi John, Kathleen, Emily and Jack,
Just wanted to let you know that we are thinking of you. We are anxiously waiting for the day that we will be able to see Emily and Andrew playing together as two "normal" and healthy kids.

Herb, Lani and Andrew <herblee9999@yahoo.com>
N. Potomac, MD USA - Monday, July 01, 2002 at 07:59 PM (CDT)

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Hi John, Kathleen, Emily, and Jack ~
I'm sorry to hear about what a L-O-N-G day you all had on Wednesday. I cannot believe your experience with the rocks hitting the car either! How terrifying! The best part, of course, is reading about Emily's slow but sure improvements. What a blessing! We are keeping your precious family in our prayers and sending good wishes and friendship always ~
Love~
Bill, Stacey, Bryce, and Chad Wada
P.S. Kathleen, how's the job search coming along? I am wishing you the BEST!!
The Wada Family <SLW6204@aol.com>
Las Vegas, NV USA - Saturday, June 22, 2002 at 11:52 PM (CDT)

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Hi Kim family-
Sorry that you had some extra excitement on your trip back. It is good to hear that Emily continues to improve. I think about you often.
Jamie (PT)
Jamie Drosky <jamiedrosky@hotmail.com>
Chapel Hill, NC - Thursday, June 20, 2002 at 08:44 PM (CDT)

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Thank God no one was hurt from the rock hitting the window. Glad to hear Emily is making strides. Little steps are better than none, right. Michael is hanging in there, his plateletes went from 50 to 58. I hope he can come home soon like Emily. Take care and I hope we can meet again under better conditions....
Larry and Glenda Allen <lafretired@cs.com>
Easley, SC - Wednesday, June 19, 2002 at 09:01 PM (CDT)

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Hi guys,
hope you guys are all doing well and enjoying the weekend
and a HAPPY FATHER'S DAY to you know who!

Chris
Gooch’s Page
<chrisrusso_@hotmail.com>
- Friday, June 14, 2002 at 11:58 PM (CDT)

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Hi kathleen, emily, jack and John, Jst wanted to let you know I was thinkning about you. I am so sorry for the difficult time you have been going through. I hope things get better for you. I am getting Emily's pictures framed to put up. I still love them! Take Care
kim Montague <jpuncher@nc.rr.com>
Raleigh, NC usa - Thursday, June 13, 2002 at 02:07 PM (CDT)

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Hello Kathleen,

I had trouble keeping the tears back as I try to imagine your many battles. I too am having a hard time understanding purpose of the curve balls at this time but knowing the calibur you are you probably have a game plan or two up your sleeve.

Kathleen use all of your emergency sources to let go of your frustrations and anger to maintain just enough sanity, peace of mind, and to rejuvenate. (smile)

I know its easy for me to say, but have faith I am sure everything will work out fine. God I guess is testing you again. I'm postive you (super Kathleen,Emily's Mom) will walk out all this with flying colors.

I look forward to the day when we can read through all the pain and anguish in the journals and thank God for Present.

God Bless!!
Jasmine <jasmine@clsbenefits.com>
- Wednesday, June 12, 2002 at 11:08 AM (CDT)

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Hi, I don't think you remember me but I am Michael Allen's grandfather. We talk a few times in the 5200 break area. Sorry to hear of all your troubles. Michael is still at Duke. His GVH is really bad. He will probably be in out patient clinic for another 6 months or more. Hang in there. Emily will get better and things will improve.
God bless.

Larry Allen <lafretired@cs.com>
Easley, SC - Wednesday, June 05, 2002 at 03:09 PM (CDT)

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Kathleen - Oh I am so sorry about the added trials on top of what you already have to deal with. We pray so much for your family and for Emily and for your lives to be easier and more full of joy. If anyone can make the lemonade - I am confident that you can! I miss your wit often still and want to let you know how much we think of you folks.
Take care,
Nancy Washko <nancyw@webkorner.com>
Salisbury, NC - Tuesday, June 04, 2002 at 03:56 PM (CDT)

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You and your family our still in our hearts and prayers, Brett just got out of the hospital yesterday he has so GVHD in the gut but is doing good just back on steroids oh well.
Love Krisan, Chuck and Brett Nail /ga/bnail
Krisan <cknail@altamaha.net>
- Tuesday, June 04, 2002 at 01:54 PM (CDT)

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Hi Everyone,
Kathleen, I am so sorry about your job. I wish I could help. I am so thankful that you at least have Emily with you, though. She is such a sweetie. I know that things will probably get tough for a while, Been there, done that, but you all have each other and that will see you through everything! Give Emily a kiss for me and tell her HI! I wish I could see Jack dance! I bet it is funny, (Just trying to picture John doing that!!!lol) Please keep in touch and remember we once said we always wanted to remain friends... Well, lets do!
Saturday would have been Morgans 13th birthday and it was also the 6 month anniversary since her death...Hard day, so remember, when you are feeling down, you still have your baby...Thank God! I think about you'll all the time and pray things will get better...take care and keep in touch, and just take it as it comes. love,gina (morgans mom)

gina geddings <mimor2@aol.com www.caringbridge.com/sc/morganspage>
- Monday, June 03, 2002 at 06:19 PM (CDT)

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Dear Jonh, Katherleen, Emily and Jake:

I just came back from China. We are thinking of you and praying for you. The life of ours has so much to think. It's hard but it's more beautiful. Believe yourself and never give up.
We miss you. Big hugs to all of you.

love
Helen,David <yuehongr@yahoo.com>
Hockessin, de - Sunday, June 02, 2002 at 09:56 PM (CDT)

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Kathleen
I am so sorry to hear about your job.
Its easy for others to say it may be for the best
or something better is around the corner,
but its a devastating blow financially.
And its nothing compared to the loss you already feel in the "old" Emily to compared to now.
As you said, she's here and thats all that matters.
Good luck. We'll be praying for you.
Chris
Gooch’s Page
<chrisrusso_@hotmail.com>
- Thursday, May 30, 2002 at 11:01 PM (CDT)

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Doris From Smile Quilts <cdmaa@insightbb.com>
- Wednesday, May 29, 2002 at 07:43 PM (CDT)

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Hi Katleen, John, Jack and Emily, I just wanted you to know I was thinking abut you! I hope things are going okay for you. I think about you everyday and pray for Emily to keep getting better.When you come this way let me know. I would love to see you! Keep strong!
Kim Montague <jpuncher@nc.rr.com>
Raleigh, NC USA - Wednesday, May 29, 2002 at 09:32 AM (CDT)

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Kathleen, John, Jack, and sweet Emily ~
We just wanted to say hello and to let you know that your family is in our thoughts today. We hope all is well and you are enjoying a peaceful weekend together! We are keeping you all in our prayers and we look forward to a good news update soon!
Take care,
Bill, Stacey, Bryce, and Chad Wada
The Wada Family <SLW6204@aol.com>
Las Vegas, NV USA - Saturday, May 25, 2002 at 09:44 AM (CDT)

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Thank you God for Emily. Thank you God for Jack. Thank you God for for each other. Thank you God for wonderful friends and family. Thank you God for another day of hope and love.
Many prayers and get well wishes from your friends at Indianapolis Korean Catholic Church <jasmine@clsbenefits.com>
Indianapolis, IN - Tuesday, May 21, 2002 at 09:29 AM (CDT)

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I am thinking about Emily and will say extra prayers that the different procedures can get easier for her.
Samantha's Aunt Cathy <lamarreca@irctt.com>
Boone, NC - Friday, May 17, 2002 at 09:46 AM (CDT)

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Kathleen - Happy Late Mother's Day! I wanted to let you know I'm thinking of you and hope your mother's day was wonderful.
Take care,
Nancy Washko <nancyw@webkorner.com>
Salisbury, NC - Monday, May 13, 2002 at 04:05 PM (CDT)

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Kathleen & John - We continue to pray for your whole family and enjoy hearing how Jack and Emily are doing. I am sorry the fluids are an issue for her. In the beginning of Sam's illness (pre-transplant) we had a horrible time getting her to eat and drink and we had some success with having tea parties. We tried to make it a fun event and invite her stuffed animals or relatives and this would get her drinking a lot of different kinds of fluids. It also made a lot of messes when she was doing the pouring, but the messes were worth it to get the fluids in her. Of course, Sam is much younger than Emily so something like this might not help for someone more mature like Emily, but you never know. Sam likes art too so she would decorate placemats for the tea parties and make the invitations. We sometimes had 3 or 4 of these tea parties a day back then. We also tried picnics spreading out a blanket on the floor, but the tea parties worked better for her. I hope Emily can continue to improve and hope your family can continue to have strength to do all you do.May God Bless You.
Nancy Washko <nancyw@webkorner.com>
Salisbury, NC - Thursday, May 09, 2002 at 03:27 PM (CDT)

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Hi John, THANKS FOR KEEPING THE POSTINGS GOING. Although this weekend is mother's day, remember that you are an awesome Dad. Hang in there.
CathyGannon <cgannon@erols.com>
- Wednesday, May 08, 2002 at 05:55 PM (CDT)

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hello Kims!!!!
Hope all is well on your end!!!
JUST IN CASE
I dont get back to you before then,

I know it has been a TOUGH year, to say the least!

chris <chrisrusso@_hotmail.com>
/page/gooch - Monday, May 06, 2002 at 01:32 PM (CDT)

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Hello Kim Family! We think of you all often and miss you. It's good to hear that Emily is doing well. We hope to see you all soon. We hope everything keeps getting better and better. Garrett sends lots of hugs and kisses to all of you!
The Drew's <mbdrew13@aol.com>
Marion, SC - Sunday, May 05, 2002 at 09:21 PM (CDT)

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Hi Kim Family~
You all continue in our thoughts and prayers as Emily moves forward on her road to recovery! We hope Kathleen has recovered from her bout with strep and that no one else got it! Take care, and have a great weekend!
Bill, Stacey, Bryce, and Chad Wada
The Wada Family <SLW6204@aol.com>
Las Vegas, NV USA - Friday, May 03, 2002 at 10:44 PM (CDT)

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Hi Emily,
Glad to that the counts are all good.
Best wishes from Room 5207, Duke University Hospital.
Herb. Andrew's dad <herblee9999@yahoo.com>
Durham , NC USA - Thursday, May 02, 2002 at 10:47 PM (CDT)

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What a terrific word NORMAL is. It is wonderful to hear how Emily's "numbers" are in the normal range and that other problems are continuing to improve. We keep you all and especially, brave Emily in our prayers. Its so nice to have you all home. Nora sends Emily a big hug and smile. The Duchelle-Smith Family
Kate duchele <kduchelle@hotmail.com>
Silver Spring, - Thursday, May 02, 2002 at 09:57 AM (CDT)

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I am SO glad to hear that Emily is doing so well! That is awesome!!!

I highly recommend having a "Tea Party" to get Emily to drink more. You would be amazed how much fun it can be! Use water, Sprite, anything! Brandon was partial to Caffeine Free Mountain Dew after the transplant. Yes! They really have caffeine Free!

Popsicles are also great - nothing wrong with "frozen water". Maybe even see if she would like to drink out of a baby bottle! It worked for us sometimes!

You know, Brandon's all time favorite drink post transplant was blue gatorade in the sport bottle. You may want to take her to 7-11 and let her shop for a new juice! They have lots of fun containers.

Isn't it great to be dealing with THESE kinds of problems?!?!?

Have a great day!!!
Colleen <BrandonMom@Yahoo.com>
Herndon, VA USA - Thursday, May 02, 2002 at 09:45 AM (CDT)

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Hi Emily, Jack, Kathleen and John,
I am glad to hear that Emily is getting better and better to be close to normal(?). Although I did not write often, I always check your journal and appreciate your update. Also my thought is always with Emily and her family. Kathleen, you are one of most honorable moms but please take care of yourself, too. I wish you are getting better soon. With Peace. JJ
Joungjoa Park <jou_park@ncsu.edu>
Chapel hill, NC usa - Thursday, May 02, 2002 at 09:00 AM (CDT)

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Hi~ Emily!
Don't let go of the string of love that the people have for you. I know the treatments that you are going through are very tough for you but, you must get over it for yourself and those of whom love you. I wish you the best and I'll watch you too.
Tae m. Nah <sojuman@ksausa.com>
brooklyn, ny 11209 - Tuesday, April 30, 2002 at 08:54 PM (CDT)

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Hello all,
Mom, I am so glad you have support from your community
but I wish you just had more time...you seem to have so many balls bouncing at once there.... its got to be hectic.
I hope Emily is feeling better and you guys are enjoying the weekend. You better not be at work!!!

chris <chrisruso_@hotmail.com>
www.caringbridge.com/page/gooch - Sunday, April 28, 2002 at 10:54 AM (CDT)

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Catherine:
Not a day goes by that did we not think of Emily. Susan white stopped by and mentioned you enquired about us.
Joanne will get her transplant 4/30 next Tuesday. She had 1wk of neck and spine radiation, and another week of TBI.
One of her lines was Gam negative O positive. Already on 5 kinds of antibiotics . Still drinking a little bit.
Making it to the transplant unit in and of itself is
a milstone for her after much mishaps. We thank you for the
household items which makes our apartment home
immediately. Our phone # is 919-402-8646.

Many good wishes for John, Jack , Emily and you.

Anne
Joanne's Mom
Anne Pang <anlwy@pacbell.net>
Durham, nc Durham - Sunday, April 28, 2002 at 06:49 AM (CDT)

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Hi Emily,
We are here in your former room, 5207, thinking of you. We hope to be home soon so that you and Andrew can play and watch videos together.
We also want to thank your Mom and Dad for being so kind and helpful as Andrew begins his journey.
Our prayers and thoughts are with you.

Herb. Andrew's dad <herblee9999@yahoo.com>
Durham , NC USA - Saturday, April 27, 2002 at 11:12 AM (CDT)

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Yesterday during the weekly chapel at Grace Episcopal Day School (where Emily used to go to school) we took some time to honor Emily and everyone who has helped the Kims this past year. Here is what I said:

Today I’d like to honor two people. Well, really one person and then a whole group of people. First I’d like to honor Emily Kim. As many of you know, Emily is a girl who used to go to Grace. Last year she was in Mrs. McDowell’s first grade class. Right around this time of year last year she found out that she was very, very sick with leukemia, a kind of cancer.

It has been and a long and very difficult year, but the good news is that Emily is getting better and that after being in a hospital in North Carolina for the last seven months, she has finally returned to her home here in Maryland.

I’m sure some of you are wondering when she will come back to Grace. Unfortunately, no one knows for sure. Emily still has a long way to go in her recovery; her immune system, which helps her fight sicknesses, is still very weak; she can’t be around a lot of other kids. Even if she does get better, it might be easier for her to go to a school that is closer to her house.

But the best news really is that every day she is getting stronger and stronger. She has worked very hard, been very brave, and has had to go through a lot of painful and scary procedures. So we honor her today and give thanks that she is back home.

The other people I want to honor are all of YOU and all the many, many parents and other people who helped Emily and her family this past year. Now I need a little help from Ms. McDowell’s class. (I had each child hold up a little prop to illustrate the following examples.)

Some people:
· Made cards for Emily
· Called on the phone to cheer her and her Mom up
· Made dinner for the Kims
· Helped babysit Emily and her little brother
· Put up flyers about Emily
· Donated blood and had their bone marrow tested
· Gave money to the Kims
· Some parents who work for the federal government donated vacation time
· Many people checked to see how Emily was doing on the Internet, where her Mom kept a journal
· And many, many people did something that I know her Mom and Dad think helped maybe the most of all: a lot of people prayed for Emily and her family.

It’s pretty amazing how many people came together to show that they cared about Emily. It really showed what a caring community we have here at Grace.

To celebrate our caring community, today I am giving the school two posters of flowers that Emily painted. I thought it was particularly appropriate to give them right around Earth Day. It’s a time of year when you realize it takes a lot of effort to help things grow; not only people to plant and water things like flowers, but people to pick up litter, recycle, and help cut down on pollution. It takes a lot of people doing little things to show they care that will ultimately make a big difference—just like it did for Emily. Thank you all for being so caring!

Jill Feasley <jfeasley@us.net>
- Friday, April 26, 2002 at 10:34 AM (CDT)

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You and your family continue to be in our hearts and prayers.\

God Bless,
Chuck, Krisan and Brett nail
krisan <cknail@altamaha.net>
- Thursday, April 25, 2002 at 07:26 PM (CDT)

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H*A*P*P*Y F*I*R*S*T B*I*R*T*H*D*A*Y J*A*C*K

Sending lots of hugs and well wishes for your entire family!!!!
Have fun celebrating!!

Love ~ Bill, Stacey, Bryce, and Chad Wada
The Wada Family <SLW6204@Aol.com>
LAS VEGAS, NV USA - Wednesday, April 24, 2002 at 12:41 PM (CDT)

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Happy Birthday Jack! We're praying for your whole family!
Love,
the Washko's -Ken, Nancy, Sam , and Matt <nancyw@webkorner.com>
Salisbury, NC - Tuesday, April 23, 2002 at 10:00 PM (CDT)

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Happy Birthday Jack! You are so lucky!
Mike McAuliffe <mjm@qmrm.com>
Rockville, Md USA - Tuesday, April 23, 2002 at 04:40 PM (CDT)

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To the Entire Kim Family,
I am glad to hear Emily is doing better and would like to wish Jack a happy birthday.
Love from, Mia and the Svendson Family
Mia Svendson <mias@erols.com>
Silver Spring, Maryland 20910 - Saturday, April 20, 2002 at 02:37 PM (CDT)

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Holy Moly is there any way you could have eased yoru way into going back to work with a week or 2 at least of half days?
You are gonna burn yourself out with those hours ....
I know, I know.... $$$$.
The kids get mad at me for always being at work and I look at Deb's $4750 worth of braces and just sigh.
Well I am glad to hear the kids are doing great though, I just wish there was a way for YOU to enjoy it!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JACK!!!!!!!!!


I wouldnt forget you Emily....


Chris <chrisrusso_@hotmail.com>
www.caringbridge.com/page/gooch - Saturday, April 20, 2002 at 02:20 PM (CDT)

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Dear Kathleen,
Wow, back to work. I can't understand how you do it. I find it is a full time job just to take care of Andrew and meet all those therapists at the door. I am glad things are getting a little better and maybe in the long run, going back to work, will assure Emily that everything will be ok and is getting back to normal. I am sure it is a shock for her though since you all have been together, constantly for so long. I really just wrote to say HAPPY BIRTHDAY JACK!!!! I hope you really enjoy that cake. Love,
Anne Himes <arhimes@yahoo.com, www.caringbridge.com/page/andrewh>
Boonsboro, Md USA - Saturday, April 20, 2002 at 12:40 PM (CDT)

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Hi Emily, Kathleen, John and Jack! I read every day to see what is going on. I am sorry about Emily's experience with the nurse and the port a cath. Hitting them right is a skill, like starting an IV. I am sorry!! I am going homr to Ottawa in May. I am very excited. I am going to my cousin's wedding which should be alot of fun. Tell Emily the cats are crazy! Jeff has been travelling back and forth to Ohio with his new job and they miss him so much. It's like I'm not good enough for them!! Anyway, my new job is going well. My schedule is alot better which is what I needed. I think of you everyday! Let me know when you are back this way. Take Care, tell everyone hi for me. :)

Kim Montague <jpuncher@nc.rr.com>
Raleigh, NC USA - Wednesday, April 17, 2002 at 03:53 PM (CDT)

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Gooch's mom <chrisrusso_@hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, April 16, 2002 at 11:24 PM (CDT)

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Kathleen ~
Oh I can't believe the incompetency of that &^%$#@ nurse!! What torture for poor Emily and for you too!! There is absolutely NO excuse for such idiocy!! I am so ANGRY!!
Sigh..........please know that your family continues in our prayers and we hope that Emily can recover from that awful experience and NEVER have to go through anything like it ever again!!
Hang in there, we're sending hugs to all of you from Las Vegas!
Love,
Bill, Stacey, Bryce, and Chad Wada
The Wada Family <SLW6204@aol.com>
LAS VEGAS, NV - Tuesday, April 16, 2002 at 11:30 AM (CDT)

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WELCOME HOME!!! Annie and Carrie still want to meet "Daddy's friend Emily" for whom they pray each night. How long til Emily can see other kids? Love to all of you, Mike
Mike McAuliffe <mjm@qmrm.com>
Silver Spring, Md USA - Monday, April 15, 2002 at 11:39 PM (CDT)

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Poor Emily!!! The same sort of thing happen to us last week, but it was with something that didn't cause a reaction. You and I know that it probably won't happen ever again but it sure would be hard to convince Emily of that. Yes I think it is fair to say that they have all been through enough. Jeff was so mad after the escapade with Andrew. He said "Once we got him to live through the BMT, I didn't know we were going to have to save him from the home nurses." It sure is how you feel. I hope things calm down. Love Anne P.S. take any help you can get!!!!!!!!!!!
Anne Himes <arhimes@yahoo.com, www.caringbridge.com/page/andrewh>
Boonsboro, Md USA - Monday, April 15, 2002 at 03:16 PM (CDT)

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Oh boy
with all these kids have to go through,
you would think they would at least send competent people who are experienced in accessing pediatric ports! Unreal.

I see one of your neighbors has offered help (Cathy G)
I HOPE you take her up on it.
Dont feel like you are putting anyone out
or bothering anyone
they would not offer if they didnt mean it

If you feel funny, give her/them an option
say "Look, I could use such & such or help with these things"
& run down whatever you need and let them pick which is most convenient for them ... so YOU wont feel awkward asking.
I know people offered to help me and I wished they would just DO so I didnt feel put out asking...
I know you probably feel like you never know if people are "just being polite" by offering or genuinely want to help....



Chris <chrisrusso_@hotmail.com>
www.caringbridge.com/page/gooch - Sunday, April 14, 2002 at 05:00 AM (CDT)

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Kathleen - I pray that your days can get a little more routine and somehow easier on your family. And that you can get a time to get those feet up or kick back an sip some coffee and chocolate crispy wafers or some other special treat just for you! We pray daily for Emily and the family.
Take care,
the Washko's <nancyw@webkorner.com>
Salisbury, NC - Friday, April 12, 2002 at 10:20 PM (CDT)

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Hi Kathleen, Welcome Back! Please call me. I would love to give you a hand- cleaning, cooking, babysitting, running errands, whatever. You have my number. You all are still in our prayers. Love, Cathy
Cathy Gannon <cathygannon@erols.com>
- Wednesday, April 10, 2002 at 10:26 AM (CDT)

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Dear Kathleen,
The words "We are home" are music to so many people's ears... One foot in front of the other now, take deep breaths, eat some dark chocolate, open the windows, hide in the bathroom and drink the coffee s-l-o-w-l-y, plant a little tree in Emily's favorite color, paint your nails pink, read 10 pages of an escapist novel, anticipate fireflies, put a pansy in a pot, close your eyes when no one is looking, breathe in the night air of spring, and never forget the wonderful words of Dorothy from Kansas:
"There's no place like home, there's no place
like home, there's no lace like home."
click, click, click...

Welcome back to the place you've been trying to get to all of these months......From Megin
Megin Walsh Sussman <meginws@yahoo.com>
Silver Spring , Md USA - Tuesday, April 09, 2002 at 05:36 PM (CDT)

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Welcome home!!! So wonderful to hear everyone is together where they are suppose to be. I understand little Jack is expecting a B-day soon. Congratulations! The thought of all of you guys together for Jack's special day puts a smile on my face. I know no one can't remove the many mountains still ahead of you but please always remember that everyone who has been touched by your story is with you in spirit and I know in my heart you will conquer all the obstacles and there will be a happy ending to this story!!
jasmine chong <jasmine@clsbenefits.com>
indianapolis, in - Tuesday, April 09, 2002 at 01:24 PM (CDT)

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Kathleen,

Thanks for continuing to keep the journal. I am embarrassed by how long it's been since I've called you. Please know that you, John, Emily, and Jack remain in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you are all adjusting to being at home. By the way, the pictures of Emily and Jack are precious. They both have grown so much. I'm delighted to see how beautiful they are!
Melanie <sanchemr@apci.com>
San Juan Capistrano, CA USA - Sunday, April 07, 2002 at 03:45 PM (CDT)

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Welcome home guys!
It's probably gonna be an adjustment for all of you to get back into a normal routine.
What IS normal anyway???
I hope your hospital days are behind you
Ronnie
www.caringbridge.com/page/gooch
<chrisrusso_@hotmail.com>
- Sunday, April 07, 2002 at 09:27 AM (CDT)

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Hi Kathleen and Family ~
WELCOME HOME! Oh I am so happy to hear you all made it back safe and sound! I'm sure it will take a little while for Emily to adjust again, but she'll soon realize, "there's no place like home!" We continue to pray that Emily grows stronger every day and her health only improves as well!
Take care and have "fun" unpacking! (Sounds like Jack already is!!)
Love, Stacey
Stacey Wada <SLW6204@aol.com>
LAS VEGAS, NV USA - Sunday, April 07, 2002 at 03:14 AM (CDT)

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Hi Everyone!! I am so glad that you are home!!!! It is so much better for everyone to be home. I think of you everyday. Don't hesitate to call for anything, even just to talk. Tell Emily I said hi. I will write her a letter!! Take Care and keep in touch!!
Kim Montague <jpuncher@nc.rr.com>
Raleigh, NC USA - Saturday, April 06, 2002 at 08:07 PM (CST)

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HOORAY!!! I just started screaming when I read that you were home. That is so wonderful. I am so happy and excited I can barely stand it. I sure bet you will miss John's help. Good Luck!! I know what you mean about Jack. Andrew is actively destroying my living room as I write. It is a huge change for Emily to be home. As much as we want to get there, it is hard not to feel safer with the hospital right across the street. Don't you worry, Dr. K. is just a phone call away. You will hit your stride soon. Again, congratulations. Love, Anne
Anne Himes <arhimes@yahoo.com, www.caringbridge.com/page/andrewh>
Boonsboro, Md USA - Friday, April 05, 2002 at 01:23 PM (CST)

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Hi Kathleen, John, Jack, and Emily ~
We are just stopping by to wish you all a very "HOPPY" EASTER!! Hope all is well and that you are on your way back home! Take care, we will check back soon for an update!
Love ~ Bill, Stacey, Bryce, and Chad Wada
The Wada Family <SLW6204@aol.com>
LAS VEGAS, NV USA - Sunday, March 31, 2002 at 11:34 AM (CST)

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I am so happy to hear that Emily had her Hickman out and is going home. I will continue to pray for Emily's recovery.
Samantha's Aunt Cathy <lamarreca@irctt.com>
Boone, NC - Saturday, March 30, 2002 at 10:10 PM (CST)

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Kathleen, John, Emily, and Jack - congrats on getting home home! I am so sorry that a doctor couldn't think enough before opening up so bluntly in fromnt of Emily! How could they do such a thing?! Arghh! Thanks again for listening to me babble the other day and I do continue to pray for Emily and for your family to come home and be healed.
Miss you,
Love,
Nancy Washko <nwashko@webkorner.com>
Salisbury, NC - Thursday, March 28, 2002 at 11:49 PM (CST)

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I have been following Emily's progress all along and it is wonderful to read you are all on the way home......"There's no place like home!"
Love & best wishes for a safe trip home and continued good health for Emily. She is so brave and courageous and an inspiration to so many people worldwide! Please give your CHAMPION a GIANT SQUEEZE from us.
Love & BIG cuddles to everyone!
Liz, Murray, Adam (dx ALL 3/00), Joshua & Bethany
the Cruickshank family XO XO XO XO XO <meajbc@bigpond.com>
Melbourne, Vic. Australia - Thursday, March 28, 2002 at 06:06 PM (CST)

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Dear Kathleen, John, Emily and Jack,
I am so glad to hear your goodbyes and know you are coming home to MD. I cry to read them because I know exactly how you feel. I wish every child on 5200 could have had confetti and the sweet sadness of going home. We are truely lucky. Love,
Anne Himes <arhimes@yahoo.com, www.caringbridge.com/page/andrewh>
Boonsboro, Md USA - Thursday, March 28, 2002 at 10:43 AM (CST)

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Hi Kathleen, Emily, Jack, and John
I am really happy that Emily is ready to go HOME. Also I feel sorry that I could not do more when you are here. I am going to miss you. Kathleen, you are going to add another new (?) Emily picture in the album later, aren't you? Have a good and safe return to home. Have a Happy Easter, too.
JJ
Joungjoa Park <Jou_park@ncsu.edu>
Chapel Hill, NC USA - Thursday, March 28, 2002 at 08:20 AM (CST)

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Hi Kathleen ~
I am so mad reading what that darn doctor said in front of sweet Emily!! How DARE he? But you sure kept your cool and did the RIGHT thing by ignoring him. (I don't know if I could have! Grrrrrrrrrrrr..........) Chad has never had a problem with his port, hope Emily finds it easy as well. Here's wishing you all a safe trip back home and an especially blessed Easter and Spring!
Love to you all,
Stacey and family
Stacey Wada <SLW6204@aol.com>
Las Vegas, NV USA - Wednesday, March 27, 2002 at 11:44 PM (CST)

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Hi Everyone! I am so glad that you are going home. It is about time!!!Emily will be so glad to be back home in her own room again. I am so glad that I met you guys. It was so rewarding to be able to help Emily. I was always glad to have Kathleen stay up late and talk to me when I worked nights. One day when emily is better, her and I will celebrate!!! If you ever need anything don't hesitate to call. Take Care and Happy Easter.:)
Kim Monatgue <jpuncher@nc.rr.com>
Raleigh, NC USA - Wednesday, March 27, 2002 at 10:48 PM (CST)

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Hi Kathleen and family~
It's wonderful to read that Emily is doing well and you are all getting ready to go HOME SWEET HOME! Yes, 2 kids can wear a mom out in a matter of minutes, that's for sure! We think of sweet Emily often and are excited about your move back home!
Please keep us posted!
Our prayers always include Emily and your darling family!
Love, Bill, Stacey, Bryce, and Chad Wada
The Wada Family <SLW6204@aol.com>
Las Vegas, NV USA - Saturday, March 23, 2002 at 12:18 PM (CST)

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Dear Kathleen, So sorry we haven't been in touch for a while, but grief has taken hold of us. Can't believe Christian died six months ago. We check your journal & pray for all of you daily. So glad Emily is weathering the leukemia storm, 'especially', because Christian didn't. We really need & want victories against this vicious disease. (Christian would have become a teenager this April 4th) Wishing you a speedy return home & hope Emily continues to flourish! Lots of love, Cecile
Cecile Smith <ceciles@iopener.net>
Chevy Chase, MD - Friday, March 22, 2002 at 10:53 PM (CST)

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I attended the bake sale awhile ago for Emily. I was deleting messages when I ran across an email message from someone when I inquired of her status. I'm glad to see that she is improving. I will continue to pray for her and your family. God Bless each of you. Tracy
Tracy Welch <tracy.welch@uspto.gov>
Washington, DC - Friday, March 22, 2002 at 07:58 PM (CST)

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Dear Kathleen,

It is so good to read about you all going home soon. We pray for your family daily. You all have shown so much strength. We are so glad that we were able to meet wonderful people like your family during Garrett's transplant. You all made it easier for us. Thank you! We will continue to remember all of you in our prayers.
Tommy, Melissa, and Garrett <mbdrew13@aol.com>
Marion, SC - Thursday, March 21, 2002 at 06:51 PM (CST)

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Dear Kathleen,
What wonderful news! I was a little worried about the lack of updates. I can't imagine taking care of both children down there with all there is to do and so much they are not allowed to do. You are one strong woman. It will be so nice to be functioning in your own home. Love, Anne
Anne Himes <arhimes@yahoo.com, www.caringbridge.com/page/andrewh>
Boonsboro, Md USA - Wednesday, March 20, 2002 at 07:07 AM (CST)

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Kathleen - I was sorry to read about the nosebleeds and some of your fears too. I wonder if there ever will be a worry-free time. I pray so hard for Emily and for your continued strength. I am so thankful you can have the happy moments with Jack and Emily too. There's nothing like the interaction between siblings to melt my heart - thanks for sharing the Jack stories too.
Thinking of you often,
Nancy Washko <nancyw@webkorner.com>
Salisbury, Nc - Saturday, March 16, 2002 at 11:00 PM (CST)

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Emily, Kathleen, John, and Jack,

We are praying for all of you daily. Keep your faith strong and never forget to thank God for what He has given you. We hope that your worries turn out to be just worries and nothing more. We know watching Jack and Emily is a joy. We wish we could be there to share in the joy with you. Garrett sends his love. Maybe we will see you soon. We will be at clinic on Monday for a check-up. Take care of yourselves.

Love,

Tommy, Melissa, and Garrett <mbdrew13@aol.com>
Marion, SC - Friday, March 15, 2002 at 09:33 PM (CST)

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I pray every day for Emily and your family. It's so easy for me to say hang in there since I am not in your shoes. I am Samantha's Aunt Cathy. I remember the first day I got Nancy and Ken out of the room to eat together and Sam had that aweful bloody nose that went on so hard for an eternity until the platelet transfusion kicked in. The more she cried, the worse I felt. I will keep you in my prayers.
Samantha's Aunt Cathy <lamarreca@irctt.com>
Boone, NC - Friday, March 15, 2002 at 01:43 PM (CST)

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Dear Kathleen,
I am so sorry that you all had to go through such a scarry time. You are so smart to be so sensible about worrying. I know I would drive myself crazy. Emily sure has a good mommy. I hope and pray that your fears will never come to be and that time will give you peace. I am glad that Emily is so much better today. It is funny to see me sit at home and rack my mind to think of things that could have caused her nose bleed-low platelets, heprin overdose... Some days I wish I was Dr. K but most days I am so glad that I am not! Love, Anne
Anne Himes <arhimes@yahoo.com, www.caringbridge.com/page/andrewh>
Boonsboro, Md USA - Friday, March 15, 2002 at 11:44 AM (CST)

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Hi Kathleen,

I wish I could say that the fear that you feel when you see a nosebleed will go away, but for me it hasn't. Brandon has had a couple of nosebleeds this winter. Sure, on the outside I could explain it away as the dry air of winter and even think back to having nosebleeds when I was a child, but all "those" memories came rushing back. He had another nosebleed just two weeks, the day we were to go to the doctor, I was so relieved when I saw his counts and everything was fine.

As far as Emily being tired afterwards, perhaps that is her response after a traumatic experience? I know it is mine.

So we are counting the days until you come home - not to an apartment in NC, but HOME.

Lots of love and hugs!
Colleen <BrandonMom@Yahoo.com>
Herndon, VA - Friday, March 15, 2002 at 08:03 AM (CST)

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Kathleen.. not to worry you but more to help calm you -
the dr "doesnt think" she relapsed.. arent they going to check??
I am NOT trying to panic you, but wont bloodwork or BMA confirm she has not & then you can breathe easier?
Chris
www.caringbridge.com/page/gooch <Chrisrusso_@hotmail.com>
Bethel, CT - Thursday, March 14, 2002 at 10:50 PM (CST)

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I am so sorry to hear of your terrifying ordeal with the nosebleed. We all pray for Emily to be healthy again and not have to face these awful things. Kathleen, I admire your courage so much. Keep strong, and thank you for sharing with all of us. Nora sends her love to Emily. We all think that she looks so pretty in the pictures with Jack. Kate D
Kate Doug & Nora Duchelle-Smith <kduchelle@hotmail.com>
Silver Spring, MD usa - Thursday, March 14, 2002 at 02:52 PM (CST)

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Kims:
I am so sorry to hear of her nosebleed
no idea why - no very low platelets ???
Kathleen, I think its safe to say we all live with that fear daily
Stuff that never crosses the mind of other parents haunts us
and stuff that they take for granted we dont dare let ourselves dream about
its a balancing act
having your guard up but not being walled in by depression
I wish I knew why they get to enjoy all the little things and we have to panic at every scraped knee, etc.....
Please try not to let your imagination get the best of you

Chris
www.caringbridge.com/page/gooch
<chrisrusso_@hotmail.com>
Bethel, CT - Thursday, March 14, 2002 at 01:20 AM (CST)

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Sorry to read about Emily's latest news. But continue to keep your head up and keep forging ahead. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Vicki Hoffman (ALL-Kids) <www.caringbridge.com/ca/mike>
Anaheim, CA - Wednesday, March 06, 2002 at 09:51 PM (CST)

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Dear Emily, HI, I really miss you a lot. I really liked the picture of you and Jack. You look so cute together. I'd like to play with you someday when you get back. We are still praying for you and your family. You are very special to me. With love from Julianna to Emily.

Julianna Lee <jylee723@msn.com>
Potomac, MD USA - Wednesday, March 06, 2002 at 07:54 PM (CST)

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We are still praying for Emily and your entire family.
Love Chuck, Krisan and Brett.

Krisan Nail
Baxley, Ga US - Wednesday, March 06, 2002 at 06:40 PM (CST)

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Hi Kathleen, What a great picture of Jack and Emily! Jack reminds me much of his Dad and he looks thrilled to be squishing his sister! Don't lose hope about Emily's brain functioning and memory. Nothing is impossible with God! Pray, pray, pray! And we will too. She will be able to learn and relearn what she needs to be a happy kid and adult, and isn't that what's needed? I can't wait for you all to return. You are sorely missed. Love, Cathy
Cathy Gannon <cathygannon@erols.com>
Rockville, MD USA - Wednesday, March 06, 2002 at 06:15 PM (CST)

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Kathleen, I am so thrilled that Emily is doing so well and that you'll be coming home soon. I've thought about you constantly since you went to NC but I'm a bad correspondent. Thank goodness for Gina, Golee, Beth, and Judy, to keep me informed all the time. Sometimes I was so afraid of what I'd read that I didn't open your web site. Thank God Emily is getting better and better.
Jack is beautiful, and he's so big! The children look so beautiful together. You are all amazing to have survived through so much. I am looking forward to seeing you when you're back. Esther
Esther Belenker <esther.belenker@uspto.gov>
- Tuesday, March 05, 2002 at 11:22 AM (CST)

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Dear Kathleen and family-

Lots of love and good thoughts are coming your way.
Thank you for sharing the photos of your beautiful children.
Wishing all good things for your sweet Emily-
Annie (from ALL-KIDS) <annie@geoplan.ufl.edu>
Gainesville, FL USA - Monday, March 04, 2002 at 09:27 PM (CST)

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Dear Kathy,
I'm so sorry bout your latest news. I know it has been a long hard battle for her. However there is hope that she will recover from the brain damage much more than the docs can predict. I know I have heard of this from other folks. You and Emily are in my heart and prayers. She is has a wonderful spirit and may yet surprise everyone in her progress. Linda
Linda Lewis <annhope2000@yahoo.com>
Grass Valley, Ca. U.S. - Monday, March 04, 2002 at 10:55 AM (CST)

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So sorry to hear of the lastest trial you having to face with Emily. How is the transplant going? Is she fully engrafted? Do you think she will recover completely from the leukemia? I will pray for you and your sweet Emily.
Virginia Larson <VLarson6@aol.com>
Taylors, SC USA - Monday, March 04, 2002 at 04:14 AM (CST)

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Boy! That Emily is a stubborn one isn't she. She is charting a map all of her own. She will astound us all, I'm sure. Praying strength and patience for you as you navigate yet again.
Kala Rogers (Paden's mom - dehumidifier lady)
Kala Rogers <Isntthatkute2@aol.com>
Cary, NC USA - Monday, March 04, 2002 at 12:57 AM (CST)

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Our prayers are with you and your family at this time.

God bless,
Bonnie,grandma to ^i^ James
<http://www.caringbridge.com/page/jamiebowman>
Columbus, Ohio - Sunday, March 03, 2002 at 08:07 PM (CST)

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Oh man Kim
I am so sorry
you MUST be devastated
but Emily will make her mark in the world
it just wont be the mark YOU expected
I know that is of no consolation, but I really dont know what else to say.....


Chris
www.caringbridge.com/page/gooch
<Chrisrusso_@hotmail.com>
Bethel, CT - Sunday, March 03, 2002 at 03:11 PM (CST)

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Hi Emily,
You are a beautiful little girl! You and your family are in my prayers.
Cindy Coffman <www.caringbridge.com/ga/hillarycoffman>
Cumming, GA USA - Sunday, March 03, 2002 at 02:42 PM (CST)

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Dear Kathleen and family ~
I am so sorry to hear of yet another hurdle sweet Emily must face! Your family has never left our thoughts and prayers! I so wish there was more we could do to help and that we weren't so far away! Please take care.......we are with you in spirit and sending heartfelt good wishes for strength and peace.
Love, Bill, Stacey, Bryce and Chad from ALL-KIDS
The Wada Family <SLW6204@aol.com>
Las Vegas, NV USA - Sunday, March 03, 2002 at 02:18 PM (CST)

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Dear John, Kathleen, Emily and little Jake:

Please know that we love you, we miss you, we pray for you always.
Brandon's mom Colleen was so right. We should very glad to have so many moms surports. We will overcome it no matter what.
Thank you John for your big help. Take care and God bless you.

Helen and David Situ <yuehongr@yahoo.com>
Hockessin, De - Friday, March 01, 2002 at 09:59 PM (CST)

---

Kathleen,

As you may remember Brandon had a drug that was also had toxicity. That's the reason for his seizures. I know it is hard to think of your child with brain damage. But I remember looking at Brandon when I didn't know if it would reverse or not, and thinking he was still the same child. He still loved me. He didn't know who I was, but he loved me. AND I loved him. I became so happy that at least it wasn't life threatening. I could handle it.

Today, Brandon is playing the electric keyboard as I type. He had a great appointment at the doctor, where he impressed everyone with his algebra! We have come a long way. You and Emily have started on the journey. It is scary and it isn't the path you would have chosen. It is overwhelming right now.

I don't know if Emily's brain damage will reverse or if the brain will reroute (I know with Brandon, at age 6, they said his brain could reroute), but I am so thankful she is alive. I am sure you still catch glimpses of the "old" Emily and I pray that you see more and more glimpses as time goes by!
Colleen <BrandonMom@Yahoo.com>
Herndon, VA USA - Friday, March 01, 2002 at 06:15 PM (CST)

---

To the Kim Family, We too will double the strength of our prayers for all of you. For courage, for strength and for the miracle of healing the body and the mind. While your doctors sound very smart and caring, I can't help but think that there are no tests to measure what the human spirit can achieve. Emily will thrive on your love for her and surprise us all! I am part of a chain of love and prayers that go around the world for Emily and I believe that it will make a difference.
A Friend of Emily
Silver Spring, MD - Friday, March 01, 2002 at 03:55 PM (CST)

---

Kathleen-

I know that your news must have devastated you, but it seems that so many people have regained far more than was expected after brain damage-and ther have been children who have had to have literally half of their brain removed to prevent severe seizures, and the other parts of the brain take over and "learn" new tasks. I wouldn't be so sure that Emily can't have a rich and full life.
Debbi Nichols <debbis6@excite.com>
Bethesda, MD USA - Thursday, February 28, 2002 at 04:01 PM (CST)

---

Dear Kathleen,
I am so sorry about your bad news. I know how hard it is to activly choose to do something that may be dangerous to our children. We did what we had to do, there was no other choice. I know that after Andrew was diognosed with Hurlers, I felt like he wasn't my same little boy any more. But he was and Emily is the same little girl she was yesterday. Children are amazing things and many a one have surprised a doctor. Don't be too discouraged, Emily's story may have a happy ending yet. I sure hope so.
Anne Himes <arhimes@yahoo.com>
Boonsboro, Md USA - Thursday, February 28, 2002 at 10:58 AM (CST)

---

Read your story it is very touching. We'll pray for Emily and you both to have the strength to be with Emily. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, be not afraid for He is with you.
Marilyn Tan <alfonso_alyn@hotmail.com>
Philippines - Thursday, February 28, 2002 at 06:34 AM (CST)

---

Kathleen,

If I feel what I feel after reading your journal today I can only imagine what your world must be now. Please do not stop dreaming or give up hope. I still believe a Miracle will happen. You must believe!!! We will pray little harder. I wish to send you the little hope and courage I had tucked away for situations like this. Did you get it? Have a great and wonderful week!!!
Jasmine Chong <Jasmine@clsbenefits.com>
indianapolis, IN U.S.A. - Wednesday, February 27, 2002 at 09:10 PM (CST)

---

Hey guys
I am so glad to hear Emily is doing well
and its great that she has good and patient teachers!
If I let Big Ron cut Little Ron's hair he'd end up with a mohawk!

Chris
www.caringbridge.com/page/gooch
<chrisrusso_@hotmail.com>
Bethel, CT - Saturday February 23, 2002 8:17 PM CST

---

Kathleen, John, Emily, and Jack - We have missed seeing you folks in clinic. I sure hope Emily's gall bladder will hold out! Sam says those magnesium pills are gross too! She crunches them while putting flavored gatorade in at the same time. I heard other folks take the liquid mag (meant for IV, but they take it by mouth) rather than the pills and it's just as yucky. I tried crushing them but the pills don't really mix with liquids nor to applesauce - they'd rather stick to the container! I hope you can find a way that works for you! The pills are also tough on the stomach so we're back to mostly overnight mag on the IV. I have been praying lots for you both and Sam asks about Emily often. I pray for smooth uneventful days ahead for your family.
Hi to Emily and Jack too!
Love,
Nancy, Ken, Sam ,and Matt Washko
Salisbury , NC - Friday February 22, 2002 0:20 AM CST

---

Emily, It was good to see you last Friday at clinic...You looked good...We pray for you all each day...Your momma and Daddy need your help with brother Jack...We hope each day brings better news...Take care....Garrett says hey!!!
The Drew's
Marion, SC - Wednesday February 20, 2002 4:42 PM CST

---

John,Kathleen, Emily and Jack: You are in our prayers as always. Love
Mike McAuliffe <mjm@qmrm.com>
Rockville, m - Tuesday February 19, 2002 7:54 PM CST

---

Hi Kathleen,
You might already have searched foods for magnesium and potassium. I got one website for magnesium in food.
http://www.hoptechno.com/book29l.htm. As you know already, potato and banana are good for potassium sources. Let hope Emily's appetite looking for those things. When Jack eats whole grain cereals, Emily may want some, too. I keep praying for Emily and your family. Hi, Five!!! . JJ

Joungjoa Park <jou_park@ncsu.edu>
Chapel Hill, NC - Monday February 18, 2002 11:57 AM CST

---

emily: i've been thinking about you and wishing you well...love to you and your family. liz
elizabeth joslin <emjoslin@aol.com>
chevy chase, md - Sunday February 17, 2002 8:52 PM CST

---

Emily,
We met you and your dad in the fish tank room at Duke in January. We just want you to know that you are praying for you.
God Bless,
Brian, Ellen, Simon and Andrew Bowman
www.caringbridge.com/page/andrewshope <AHope4Drew@aol.com>
Northport, AL Home at Last!!! - Saturday February 16, 2002 4:50 PM CST

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To Emily, Jack, Kathleen and John, I just wanted to wish you a happy valentine's day. I hope you enjoyed your day. Take Care! :)
Kim Montague <jpuncher@nc.rr.com>
Raleigh, NC USA - Thursday February 14, 2002 7:22 PM CST

---

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY !!!!



Chris {Goochie's mom}
www.geocities.com/goochsplace
<chrisrusso_@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday February 13, 2002 11:27 PM CST

---

Hi Kathleen!

Have you seen the BMTinfo site? It has lots of information. Here is the chapter concerning liver complications:
http://www.bmtnews.org/bmt/bmt.book/chapter.10.html

For those who want a greater understanding of bone marrow transplants, I recommend going to this site:
http://www.bmtnews.org/bmt/bmt.book/toc.html
Colleen <BrandonMom@Yahoo.com>
Herndon, VA USA - Tuesday February 12, 2002 7:49 PM CST

---

Dear Kathleen,
I can't tell you how worried I was after reading the last entry. I worried about you all day and must have checked half a dozen times to see if you had posted an entry for today. I am so glad that your fears were not founded. I sure hope that the rest of Emily's problems straighten out. Andrew is still low on Magnesium. I will continue to check on you daily. I hope you get a good nights sleep. Love, Anne
Anne Himes <arhimes@yahoo.com>
Boonsboro, Md USA - Sunday February 10, 2002 9:34 PM CST

---

Dear Kathleen, John, Emily and Jack:

Thank you so much for jounaling Emily's progress and for bringing more "awareness" to the need for potential donors. Emily's story has empowered so many people (myself included) to particiapte in National Donor Day, an annual event which is always on Valentine's Day.

Emily is a real inspiration to everyone and she is continually in our family's prayers and thoughts.

Much Love and Lots of Hugs to Emily and Jack and to their wonderful parents for Valentine's Day.

Sincerely, Claudia Fox

Just a note of trivia: My beloved Grandmother's name was Emily and my favorite newphew's name is Jack!!!!



Claudia M. Fox <Claudiamfox@aol,com>
Chevy Chase , MD USA - Sunday February 10, 2002 3:42 PM CST

---

Kathleen, Emily, and Family ~
Our heartfelt prayers and good wishes are continuing here in Las Vegas for Emily's recovery and good health! I pray that all liver tests (and other tests) return to normal SOON and Emily continues to regain her strength. Regarding Jack: didn't you know that the second child is ALWAYS the the "rambunctious" one?? Otherwise we'd all be sibling-less! Wait a minute.......I AM an only child!! What does that tell ya??
Take care, Love,
Bill, Stacey, Bryce, and Chad
The Wada Family <SLW6204@aol.com>
Las Vegas, NV USA - Sunday February 10, 2002 11:40 AM CST

---

Hi Kathleen!

We will be holding you close in our prayers tonight! Please let us know what you find out tomorrow.
Colleen <BrandonMom@Yahoo.com>
- Saturday February 9, 2002 8:43 PM CST

---

Hi Emily, Kathleen , John and Jack, I was just thinkning about you and wanted to day hi. I hope that Emily feels better soon and that her nausea goes away. Happy belated birthday!! I had no idea it was your birthday. I hope you had a nice day. Tell emily the cats say hi and want her to get better soon. MEOW MEOW MEOW!!
Kim Montague <jpuncher@nc.rr.com>
Raleigh, NC USA - Friday February 8, 2002 2:33 PM CST

---

HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY TO YOU MOM!
And I hope and pray she is feeling much better soon
My oldest came home from school with 104 fever today too
And ronnie still has that lingering cough - he just saw DR. this afternoon.
Hang in there!

Chris
www.geocities.com/goochsplace
<chrisrusso_@hotmail.com>
Bethel, CT - Friday February 8, 2002 0:18 AM CST

---

Happy Birthday Kathleen! Thinking of you lots and hoping you get a break!
Nancy Washko
Salisbury today, Nc - Thursday February 7, 2002 0:20 AM CST

---

Hi Emily! My mom and I read your mom's journals every evening before we go to sleep and I pray for you every night. My mom says if we all pray for real hard God will make you better faster. My mom wanted me to tell you to tell your mom happy birthday from all her friends in Indianapolis. I think you made her very happy because you are getting better and better. I'm sorry you feel sick all the time. I will pray harder! I really want to see you. I can't wait until you get better and come back to visit us. When you come we will do lots of things together. :) You are lucky to have a cute little brother.My brother is pain. he use to be really cute and now he never listens. Pray your brother never changes. I got you a surprise. I can't tell you what. Write back Emily if you can.

Love Hana
Hana Chong <Hanachong@msn.com>
Indianapolis, IN U.S.A. - Wednesday February 6, 2002 8:32 PM CST

---

Dear Kathleen,
Well Happy Birthday!!! I am sorry you guys are having such a tough time. It warms my heart to hear about Emily and Jack. Hannah loves Andrew dearly even though he really bugs her sometimes. It is so good to have them together. I sure hope Dr. K can work some magic soon. We will be down sometime the first part of March. I check on you every day. Stay strong. Love, Anne
Anne Himes <arhimes@yahoo.com>
Boonsboro, MD - Wednesday February 6, 2002 8:03 PM CST

---

Emily, Kathleen, John, and Jack,
We're sorry to hear that Emily still has the vomitting and hope it will improve for her soon. I just love reading your stories of how well she is improving with interacting and the yoga and Jack. I imagine the yoga moves would be impressive to the physical therapist! We continue to keep you folks in our prayers. May God bless you. Love,
Nancy, Ken, Sam, and Matt Washko
Salisbury/Durham, NC - Wednesday February 6, 2002 8:17 AM CST

---

Hello All!!!
Wait a minute.. you mean the treatment can cause hearing loss TOO? Geez!
Well I wanted to drop by and say hello & wish you a good weekend, and was surprised to read that!
I am of course, sorry to hear that to say the least,
but it is MINIMAL in terms of what you guys have already or are currently overcoming!
Chris
www.geocities.com/goochsplace
<chrisrusso_@hotmail.com>
Bethel, Ct - Friday February 1, 2002 1:25 PM CST

---

Hello Emily, Jack, Kathleen and John, It is so wonderful to share the good news of Emily's improvements and rejoiced on her 100th day. We love hearing of the real Emily emerging again and pray that her healing continues and that your family stays strong for one another. Nora and the Duchelle-Smith family send their love to Emily.
Kate Doug & Nora Duchelle-Smith <kduchelle@hotmail.com>
Silver Spring, - Friday February 1, 2002 10:28 AM CST

---

I just wanted to say Hi to Emily and her family. You do not know me, but I had heard about Emily last summer through my church and the news. I had given blood at the Patent Bldg to see if I could be a match back in May. From time to time I always thought about Emily and what had happened to her. I am so glad to hear that she got her transplant and that she is still fighting strong.

My prayers are with her and her family,

Sincerely,

David


David H. Kim <dkim73@yahoo.com>
Bethesda, MD 20814 - Thursday January 31, 2002 10:36 PM CST

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Hi Kathleen, I am rejoicing with you and praising God that slowly but surely Emily seems to be progressing! It sounds as though you and John have your hands full. Jack must be so big and so cute. 9 months. wow. I miss you and continue to hold you in my prayers. Love, Cathy
cathy gannon <cathygannon@erols.com>
Rockville, MD - Wednesday January 30, 2002 10:48 AM CST

---

Hi,Emily,Kathleen,John,&Jack
We are very happy to hear that Emily's condition is continously improving and she smiles more. This morning,we(CBS friends) praised to the Lord for the good news and prayed to God for continous healing touch upon Emily.
We miss you and I can't wait to cook some spicy soup for
Emily when you come back to Md and play COCA COLA MASIJA game with her (She used to win all the time if Emily remembers) we hope everybody smiles more today.
from Jenny ,Pat, Christian,&Julianna Lee
Jenny Lee <JYL723@msn.com>
POTOMAC, MD USA - Tuesday January 29, 2002 2:47 PM CST

---

Hi Emily and her family,
I am so glad that Emily is getting better and better. I keep praying this good news keep going on and on. I guess Jack will be very happy to play with his Big sister sooner or later. Emily, you sleeping princess, you are always the hero of Jack. I am looking forward to see you and your family in Feb. Kathleen, please take care of yourself, too. Love, JJ
Joungjoa Park <Jou_park@ncsu.edu>
Chapel Hill, NC - Tuesday January 29, 2002 8:39 AM CST

---

Hi everyone! I was just thinking about you guys and wanted to say hi. I am glad that Emily is doing better. I can't believe Jack is 9 months old!!! I may be going to Dc in a couple of weeks with one of my friends. It will totally be to shop. If you need anything or need me to do anything for you while I am there please let me know. I am always praying for you guys. Take Care.
Kim Montague <jpuncher@nc.rr.com>
Raleigh, NC USA - Sunday January 27, 2002 8:13 PM CST

---

Glad to hear you and Jack are doing well!
I am so sorry to hear about Kevin.. we can never understand why some of these kids have to go through so much.
I still don't understand WHY.
But I am glad to read you are doing well....and will pray for the seizures to stop soon.
Chris
www.caringbridge.com/page/gooch
<chrisrusso_@hotmail.com>
Bethel, CT - Wednesday January 23, 2002 10:22 AM CST

---

Kathleen and Emily, you may have read this story before, but I think that it is worth the read:

Once upon a time there was a child ready to be born. The child asked God, "They tell me you are sending me to earth tomorrow, but how am I going to live there being so small and helpless?" God replied, "Among the many angels, I chose one for you. Your angel will be waiting for you and will take care of you."
The child further inquired, "But tell me, here in heaven I don't have to do anything but sing and smile and be happy." God said, "Your angel will sing and will also smile for you every day. And you will feel your angel's love and be very happy."
Again the child asked, "And how am I going to be able to understand when people talk to me if I don't know the language?" God said, "Your angel will tell you the most beautiful and sweet words you will ever hear, and with much patience and care, your angel will teach you how to speak." "And what am I going to do when I want to talk to you?" God said, "Your angel will place your hands together and will teach you how to pray."
"I've heard that on Earth there are bad men. Who will protect me?" God said, "Your angel will defend you even if it means risking its life."
"But I will always be sad because I will not see you anymore." God said, "Your angel will talk to you about me and teach you the way to come back to me, even though I will always be next to you."
At that moment there was much peace in heaven, but voices from Earth could be heard and the child hurriedly asked, "God, if I am to leave now, please tell me my angel's name." "Her name is not important. You will simply call her Mom."

Emily, you are clearly blessed with a wonderful angel. Get well soon. I think of you every day and hope good things for you and your loving family. Congratulations of Day 100 plus!
Tina Sandri, mother of Eva and Rachael at G.E.D.S. <tsandri@aol.com>
Silver Spring, MD - Tuesday January 22, 2002 10:38 PM CST

---

Emily:
i'm thinking about you...hugs and kisses...liz
elizabeth joslin <emjoslin@aol.com>
chevy chase, md - Tuesday January 22, 2002 8:40 PM CST

---

Dear Kathleen,
I have Emily on my favorits page and I check on you guys every day. I just wanted you to know that even though we are not at Duke any more, that I have not left the 5200 family. I am sorry that Emily is having such a hard time. You sound like you have really caught your stride and are hanging tough. Way to go!! I will always remember the first day I met Emily. She came around visiting with Emily from child life and she was so happy and sweet and telling about croutons on salad that some group had brought in. I hope that soon she will be that little girl again. You sound like you are doing a good job of enjoying her every day. I send my love. God bless Jack. He is such a light. I will remember you also, with your questions. It made me feel strong to be able to help you. Well at least I hope I helped. It sounds like you are growing where you are and I am sure you have helped many 'new' families of your own. I will continue to check on you. Love, Anne
Anne Himes <arhimes@yahoo.com>
Boonsboro, md - Sunday January 20, 2002 10:38 AM CST

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EMILY SHEMILY PEMMILY Poo,
Snow fell from the heavens,
As I was thinking of you.

Like crystally, sparkly delicate lace,
they danced on my eyebrows
and fell on my face.

I packed the snow tightly
like a little white dish,
And before rounding the snowball
I put in a wish:

"No more yucky days for
Emily the Brave.
Only good things to happen
to her.
And let God send a smile,
where a frown used to be.
Keep her comfortable, loved
and secure."

And I tossed up that snowball
as high as I could,
with a THWACK!! I heard a
branch snappin'

And with thousands of prayers
like this sent to the heavens -
For you, only best things
should happin'!!

Happy Saturday to you.
Megin Walsh Sussman and Brendan Sussman - GEDS <meginws@yahoo.com>
Silver Spring, MD USA - Saturday January 19, 2002 3:49 PM CST

---

Kathleen, John, Emily, and Jack,
I am so sorry that Emily is vomitting so much. I sure hope something is determined from Tuesday's test and that it is something very easily "fixable". We pray for no more vomitting and for better days for your family.
Love,

Ken, Nancy, Sam, and Matt washko
Durham, - Thursday January 17, 2002 10:31 PM CST

---

Kathleen: I know it's been quite a long time (I graduated with you at Brebeuf in 1986), but I wanted to let you know I was thinking about you and your family. I found out about Emily through Mike and Stephanie Bode (they go to church with my parents in Indy). I am so sorry to hear about your situation and I do pray for things to get better! My heart goes out to you and your family!
Heather Eggleston <heather_eggleston@bankone.com>
Chicago, IL - Thursday January 17, 2002 2:20 PM CST

---

Hi Emily and family, I was just thinking about you guys and wanted to say hi. I hope I will be able to see you soon. Princess and Taby say hi. Meoe Meow. They are pretty busy cats with all the sleeping they have to do. I am thinking about and praying that you get better soon. Take care and say hi to jack for me! :)
Kim Montague <jpuncher@nc.rr.com>
Raleigh, Nc USA - Thursday January 17, 2002 3:39 AM CST

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Congratulations on Day 100! Just wanted to let you know I am thinking of you always. Much love, and hugs to Emily and Jack, April.
April McDowell <jonapril@gateway.net>
Kensington, MD - Sunday, January 13, 2002 at 08:10 PM (CST)

---

All right! Day 100! Way to go.
Now we just need that sinus infection to clear up..
How is Jack doing?
Hope you are out of there soon!
Chris <chrisrusso@hotmail.com>
Bethel, Ct
www.caringbridge.com/page/gooch - Sunday, January 13, 2002 at 09:17 AM (CST)

---

Congratulations on day 100! WOW, what a wonderful milestone!
We hope Emily's sinus infection clears up quick smart & her other problems disappear soon too! Emily you a such a *STAR* and a true CHAMPION! Jack sound gorgeous too! I love reading what he's getting up to!!
Prayers and BIG BIG cuddles to you all from the land Down Under!
Liz, Murray, Adam(dx ALL 3/00),Joshua & Bethany XOXOXOXOXO
the Cruickshank family <meajbc@bigpond.com>
Melbourne, Vic. Australia - Sunday, January 13, 2002 at 05:51 AM (CST)

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Kathleen, John, Emily, & Jack - Wow - day 100! such a milestone! We pray the sinus infection will improve and Emily will continue to gain strength. You guys are such an inspiration every day for us. Bless you and Emily.
Love,
Nancy Washko
Durham for now, - Saturday, January 12, 2002 at 09:00 PM (CST)

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Hi, my name is Bob LeBlanc. I am the co-chair of the hall presidents council at Notre Dame. I was contacted by Mike McAuliffe, as he once held a the same position at ND. Emily sounds like an amazing girl, and I just wanted to let you know that students at ND are praying for her. We wish you the best.
Bob LeBlanc <LeBlanc.3@nd.edu>
Notre Dame, IN USA - Saturday, January 12, 2002 at 04:56 PM (CST)

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Hey guys how are you doing?
Kim I hope you are feeling a lot better soon honey!

Chris
www.caringbridge.com/page/gooch
<chrisrusso_@hotmail.com>
Bethel, Ct - Friday, January 11, 2002 at 12:02 PM (CST)

---

Hi ..
My Name is Margie Secord,and my husband is Ed Secord.
I know your name from Shannon Reber,her son,Sean is one of my babies to taking care at Bright Horizon Centre.
My (step)son,Chris also had leukimia and got the Cord blood transplant at Duke,but God had took him back to heaven on May last year. Last september I visited the clinic,to visit the nurses,doctors,especially visit the children and parents we know and we just know...
if there's anything we can help you,don't hesitate to call us at 919-785-1859 or my cell phone:919-641-4676.
send our hugs for Emily,I would like to meet her and jack and of course the loving parent of them.
Take care...we will pray for Emily.
Margie & Ed Secord <margie_bdg@hotmail.com>
Raleigh, NC USA - Thursday, January 10, 2002 at 07:59 PM (CST)

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Has it really been 100 days? I wish you many, many more days together. And let's hope that on each of those days things get better and better. Please kiss Emily's feet for me, too.
Jill Feasley <jfeasley@us.net>
Takoma Park, MD - Thursday, January 10, 2002 at 12:03 PM (CST)

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Kathleen,

I believe your love, patience, & strength for Emily has touched God as it has all of us and a miracle will happen. I will pray that God gives you extra patience & strength on the days you need it for I know he can't give you any more love than what you already have for your baby girl. Continue believing!
Jasmine Chong <Jasmine@clsbenefits.com>
Indianapolis, IN - Thursday, January 10, 2002 at 11:55 AM (CST)

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Emily, Good to see you yesterday at clinic...We hope and pray for your continued progress...tell Jack and your momma and daddy hello for us...May God continue to bless you all...
The Drew's
- Wednesday, January 09, 2002 at 10:50 AM (CST)

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Emily and family - we missed seeing you at clinic and I was happy to read that you have a little energy and we are praying for much more energy for many days ahead. I am sorry that you aren't feeling well and hope for some relief soon!
Love,
Nancy Washko
Durham, - Monday, January 07, 2002 at 11:16 PM (CST)

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Hi Emily and family ~
Happy New Year! It's just us again, The Wadas from Las Vegas, stopping by to say hello and check up on you! 10 inches of snow??!! Wow, that must be so beautiful to see!!
We truly hope and pray that you feel better and better each day. We will look forward to good news next week on your CT scan and echocardiogram too. Please take care of one another and here's a hug from us: {{{{{{{EMILY}}}}}}}
With love, Bill, Stacey, Bryce and Chad
The Wada Family <SLW6204@aol.com>
LAS VEGAS, NV USA - Saturday, January 05, 2002 at 11:14 AM (CST)

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Emily and Family,
My church family and I are praying for your health and strength. Remember
God loves you and he will take your pain and suffering.
I hope 2002 is a blessed year for you.
Julie Montgomery <Julie.Montgomery@uspto.gov>
Annandale, VA USA - Friday, January 04, 2002 at 07:49 AM (CST)

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Lets hope she is home to stay now!
and there are no problems from here on in!
Drop me an email when /if you get a chance Kathleen

chria <chrisrusso_@hotmail.com
www.caringbridge.com/page/gooch>
bethel, ct - Friday, January 04, 2002 at 12:07 AM (CST)

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Emily & Family, We are still praying so hard for your healing... God is working in your lives... take care
Garrett & Family
Foot of Snow, NC - Thursday, January 03, 2002 at 06:21 PM (CST)

---

Dear Emily,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Christiana <robinmw15@hotmail.com>
Indianapolis, IN US - Thursday, January 03, 2002 at 06:07 PM (CST)

---

Dear Emily,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Christianna (from church) <robinmw15@hotmail.com>
Indianapolis, IN US - Thursday, January 03, 2002 at 06:06 PM (CST)

---

Hi Kathleen, John , Emily and Jack. I hope you are all getting some moments of rest and peace, even if they seem brief. I'm praying that they will increase in the coming year, as well as strength and hope and faith.
Cathy Gannon <cathygannon@erols.com>
Rockville, MD - Thursday, January 03, 2002 at 03:26 PM (CST)

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Hi Kathleen,

Let's hope 2002 usher in a new "chemo-free" year for Emily!
Colleen <BrandonMom@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va - Thursday, January 03, 2002 at 11:58 AM (CST)

---

Hey Emily and Family! I am praying for you and thinking about you always!! Keep staying strong and smiling..You can do it!! Keep up the good work!!!!! :)
Kimberly Drew, Garrett's Cousin <KRDRSC21@aol.com>
Rains, SC - Thursday, January 03, 2002 at 11:54 AM (CST)

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Hi emily and Family! I returned from the Great white North safley and brought some back with me!! I think driving home from duke last night was the most terrible road conditiond I have ever seen, I thnaked God tht I made it back okay. I work on sat, sun and mon. I enjoyed my time home with my family. I thought about you and prayed that all of this will get better for you for the new year. I am glad emily gave you a great smile. I still want a picture of her smiling, someday.... Anyway, Take Care and tell emily I said hi. :)
Kim Montague <jpuncher@nc.rr.com>
Raleigh, NC USA - Thursday, January 03, 2002 at 11:09 AM (CST)

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Emily & Family, Happy New Year 2002!! We are soo glad you are feeling better...Please know that we keep you all in our prayers...God works in his own time... be ready for when that time comes...Keep the faith!!! God bless!!!
Garrett, Melissa, and Tommy Drew
- Wednesday, January 02, 2002 at 01:45 PM (CST)

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Hi Emily and Kathleen,
Happy New Year!!!
I am glad to see that Emily has started a good first day for New Year. I just wish and keep praying that Emily can hold it and getting better everyday. Kathleen, I could feel that keeping journals on must be really hard but also very brave work for your feelings and energy. I have learned alot from your journals, specially about Love. How our God give the strength to hold and how we can share love. I really appreciate your sharings through the journals. Yukyung and Soyun wish the Bests to Emily. Love, JJ
Joungjoa Park <jou-park@ncsu.edu>
Chapel Hill, NC - Wednesday, January 02, 2002 at 11:52 AM (CST)

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Happy New Year! We hope and pray for many better days ahead for your whole family! Hang in!
Nancy Washko
- Tuesday, January 01, 2002 at 10:11 PM (CST)

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Hey Emily and Family..You all are always in my daily thoughts and prayers..Happy New Year!! I know things will continue to look up for you!! Keep Smiling!! :)
Love Always, Kimberly Drew, Garrett's Cousin
Kimberly Drew, Garrett's Cousin :) <KRDRSC21@aol.com>
Rains, SC - Tuesday, January 01, 2002 at 06:09 PM (CST)

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Dear Emily &The Kim's,
We hope the New Year promises to better one for all of you.We hope you are feeling better.We have been praying for you and know that you have a very special angel watching over you.We hope you get to come home to maryland soon so we all can help your mom &dad in the little things.Keep the faith even though i know its hard.Happy New Year and God Bless.Love Dawn &Noel White
dawn white & noel white <DAWNWHT4@AOL.COM>
SILVER SPRING, MD USA - Tuesday, January 01, 2002 at 10:05 AM (CST)

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Dear Kathleen,
I'm from All-Kids and my 15 year old son has T-cell lymphoma stage IV. Dx 3/00. My heart goes out to you with all the hardship because of Emily's BMT. And I know it hurts so much to see your child suffer. You and your husband are under so much stress I wish someone could step in and give you both some comfort and relief. Please e-mail me privately if you just want to vent. I will keep you and Emily in my prayers that she will start to feel better and you see the light at the end of the tunnel. Big Hugs,Linda
Linda Lewis <annhope2000@yahoo.com>
Grass Valley, Ca. U.S. - Monday, December 31, 2001 at 10:35 PM (CST)

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Kathleen,
Just hang in there and know that everyone is here for you. Always remeber to trust in God that he will take care of you. My Tommy was dx on 6-21-01, just 13 days after my husband and I had our 3rd child, and what a strange thing her name is Emily. Just always know that God loves you and so do we.

Dawn Gresham <bdmtg@hotmail.com>
Warrenville, SC USA - Monday, December 31, 2001 at 10:22 PM (CST)

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Dear Kathleen and Emily,
Hope today was a better day and that the new year holds lots of promise.
Rita, a friend from All KIDS and mom to Rich, 19
Rita Guthrie <rguthrie@akron.infi.net>
Wadsworth, OH USA - Monday, December 31, 2001 at 03:42 PM (CST)

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HEY Emily and Family...Keep smiling and keeping the faith! You WILL get through this with God's help!! I am praying and thinking about you, always!!
<3..Garrett's Cousin Kimberly Drew
Garrett's Cousin Kimberly Drew <KRDRSC21@aol.com>
Rains, SC - Sunday, December 30, 2001 at 11:21 PM (CST)

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Hi. I'm not a mom, I'm a patient, but I have been Emily's age once and I just wanted to let you know how much we love you moms that take care of us in such difficult circumstances. we feel bad when the steroids and other drugs make our emotions so crazy and still you put up with all of that because you love us so much. we understand that you get frustrated, probably more than a lot of adults understand because we have to or have had to live a life that made us grow up very quickly in a lot of cases. I'm sure Emily is patient with you. I'm also know what kind of effect my parents fighting had on me. It was hard, but i knew it was because they loved me and understood it was because they were stressed out. It's bound to happen. Know that you're continually in my thoughts and prayers. I live in Durham--7 minutes from the hospital. If there's ever anything I can do to help you out, please let me know. Email me and I will give you my phone number. I've been going to Dr. K for 14 years. May you be comforted by knowing that you're in the best hands with God, and the fact that she is taking care of you guys means you have the best human care possible too. I'm here if you need me and I will continue to pray.
Khalita <khalita.jones@duke.edu>
Durham, NC - Sunday, December 30, 2001 at 09:38 PM (CST)

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Emily & Family, We haven't written in a few days but you all have been on our minds and in our prayers...God allows us to be tested as a way of proving our faith... when things are at their worst...remember all it takes is faith the size of a mustard seed to move mountains... God has a plan for Emily... and for each of you...Find comfort in the fact that so many are lifting Emily's name up to heaven... He hears all prayers...Your courage and strength are incredible...you all have been through so much...so keep strong and remember its always darkest before the dawn...
The Drews
Durham, NC - Sunday, December 30, 2001 at 09:30 PM (CST)

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Dear Kathleen,
I too hope your New Year is the BEST yet! I think parents of kids with cancer have all seen days like you are having... and this disease is sooooo frustrating that you and your cancer kiddo want to just pull your hair out! there are days that i do not think i can do this anymore... until i look at Houston's courage and resolve and i do it!!!! You can too!! just take deep breathes and go on...
Kelle, mommy to Houston, 5, dx pre-b all <kfralick@tpcgi.com>
Lubbock, TX US - Sunday, December 30, 2001 at 05:58 PM (CST)

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Dear Kathleen -- Just wanted you to know that I'm thinking of you. There are LOTS of people thinking and praying for you, Emily, and your whole family.
Sending cheer, good wishes, hope and lots of hugs from Virginia.
From, Sheri (Ashton's mom)
Sheri (from PED-ALL list) <eradik8cancer@aol.com>
Vienna, VA - Sunday, December 30, 2001 at 04:10 PM (CST)

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Dear Kathleen,
I just ready our journal entry. I hope that Emily is feeling better today. Without a doubt you are facing the challenge of a life time. You may feel tired and perhaps worn out but the fact is you are surviving. I wish that there was something I could do to make you feel better. Please know that prayers and hugs are being sent to you from PA. God Bless you and your family.
Sincerely, Eileen mother to Thomas 14, Dx t-cell ALL 6/00, POG 9404
Eileen Greco <thomasg102@aol.com>
holland, pa usa - Sunday, December 30, 2001 at 03:36 PM (CST)

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Kathleen and Emily, You are in my thoughts and prayers and my greatest prayers is that the new year brings healing, recovery and peace to your lives. GO EMILY! You are an amazing girl. We are proud of you and your mom!
Amy & Rosie Rumberger from ALLKIDS <TimRumb@aol.com>
Alameda, CA USA - Sunday, December 30, 2001 at 01:01 PM (CST)

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Dear Kathleen,

I read in your journal entry about what an awful day you and Emily had yesterday, and I wanted to join you in hoping for better times ahead. I have bad days too, and say things I wish I hadn't, and nothing makes me crazier than when my kids are sick. You guys have been through so much, and I hope it gets easier soon. Love,
Terry Nordbrock <terryn@azstarnet.com>
Tucson, AZ - Sunday, December 30, 2001 at 10:01 AM (CST)

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Dear Emily,
I am praying that you will be feeling much better soon. Tell your family that I am praying for them too. My daughter has ALL too and it's no fun!
Love and Hugs,
Cindy
Cindy Coffman <www.caringbridge.com/ga/hillarycoffman>
Cumming, GA USA - Sunday, December 30, 2001 at 09:18 AM (CST)

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Dear Kathleen,

I read in your journal entry about what an awful day you and Emily had yesterday, and I wanted to join you in hoping for better times ahead. I have bad days too, and say things I wish I hadn't, and nothing makes me crazier than when my kids are sick. You guys have been through so much, and I hope it gets easier soon. Love,
Terry Nordbrock <terryn@azstarnet.com>
Tucson, AZ - Sunday, December 30, 2001 at 09:12 AM (CST)

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Hi Kathleen and Emily... Just wanted to let you know you are in our thoughts and prayers as you go through this very trying time.


Sherry & Kate Collings <sherrycollings@yahoo.com>
Cumming, GA USA - Sunday, December 30, 2001 at 05:18 AM (CST)

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We will keep you and family in our prayers.

God bless,
Bonnie,grandma to ^i^ Jamie forever 14.5 dx t-cell ALL 12/15/98 ~ Angel Wings 12/19/00
<http://www.caringbridge.com/page/jamiebowman>
Columbus, Ohio - Sunday, December 30, 2001 at 01:18 AM (CST)

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Kathleen - I typed this entry once and am not sure it went in ...I pray that you will have some peaceful times ahead! You certainly deserve it. And you should not think that you have no right thinking the thoughts you do about all this - you are being pushed to limits beyond what any normal person can take! And from what I have seen - you seem to be a wonderful mother who cares very much and you are doing a great job! Hang in there and I will pray for you and John too - it is so hard to have an iota of energy left for a spouse or even for yourself for that matter when your day is so full and all your energies are being drained into caring for your sweet Emily. So you do have every right to even open a window and stick your head out of it and scream at the top of your lungs - Oh no - wait you can't open the window even - a mold spore may drift in! - Argh! I know anything I say here isn't helpful but I will pray - it's about all we can do. Hang in there - I pray for your whole family. If you want to call and chat or burn off any steam please do. Love,
Nancy Washko <knsamatt@aol.com>
- Sunday, December 30, 2001 at 12:08 AM (CST)

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Hi Kathleen~
I am so so sorry to read the frustration in your journal entry today. I am sending you a big hug {{{{{Kathleen}}}}} across the miles and I wish I could be there in person to help you somehow!! This &%$#@ disease really wreaks havoc on every family it touches........please keep the faith.....things WILL get better!! The new year is almost here......time for a brand new beginning for sweet Emily and your whole family. I wish you strength and peace. Take care, Love, Stacey (from ALL-KIDS)
Stacey Wada <SLW6204@aol.com>
Las Vegas, NV USA - Sunday, December 30, 2001 at 12:03 AM (CST)

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Hi- I am your nephew Jacobs's teacher. I have been checking in on you guys from time to time. I just had a particularly trying day-my husband left very suddenly last year, for a younger woman, and my fourteen year old son has been depressed, and I have been feeling very stressed being a single mother to him and worrying about money, etc., but then I read your journal entry of today. There is no greater stress than what you are living right now. I just hope you are not hard on yourself for being human from time to time. As far as I am concerned, you have been pretty much super-human all along. I have been in awe of your strength and courage. I know it's a lot easier said than done, but I hope that you are taking care of yourself in some small way-getting out for an hour or two to a museum, or lunch with a friend-or whatever. If it makes you feel guilty, tell yourself you're doing it for Emily and Jack-they need you to be well. Anyway, you are in my thoughts and prayers always. God knew what he was doing when he gave Emily a mother like you.
Debbi Nichols <debbis6@excite.com>
Bethesda, - Sunday, December 30, 2001 at 12:02 AM (CST)

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Hey Emily and Family..I am praying for you all and thinking about you constantly! You are in my daily thoughts and prayers, always!! God is on your side!! :)
<3..Kimberly, Garrett's Cousin :)
Garrett's Cousin, Kimberly :) <RDRSC21@aol.com>
Rains, SC - Saturday, December 29, 2001 at 10:39 PM (CST)

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Wishing you the very best in the New Year. My prayers are always with you and your family. God Bless.
Steve Verrecchia <MWALT3819@aol.com>
Arlington, VA USA - Friday, December 28, 2001 at 02:46 PM (CST)

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Hey Emily...Just checking in, and letting you know you are in my constant thoughts and prayers..:) Keep smiling!!
<3..Garrett's Cosuin..Kimberly
Kimberly Drew, Garrett's Cousin <KRDRSC21@aol.com>
Rains, SC - Thursday, December 27, 2001 at 10:59 PM (CST)

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Hey Emily and Family..I am glad to hear that you had a good Christmas! I know you were a good girl, so Santa looked out for you :)(and Jack!) I know you will continue to do great! I am thinking about you and praying for you also! Keep up the good work, God is on your side! U Go Girl!! :)
<3..Kimberly Drew, Garrett's Cousin :)
Kimberly Drew, Garrett's Cousin <KRDRSC21@aol.com>
Rains, SC - Thursday, December 27, 2001 at 12:17 AM (CST)

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Emily, Kathleen, and John - Merry Christmas! I hope Emily is doing OK and you guys are enjoying some good family time. I don't know how you're doing everything with a little guy getting all over the place too - you certainly have your hands fuller than full - we think about you guys a lot and wish for one day ahead when we can all get together. Happy Holidays!
Nancy Washko
- Thursday, December 27, 2001 at 12:14 AM (CST)

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Hi Emily and Mom and Dad. I hope you have a good Christmas with your family. This is my first visit to your beautiful website, but I've been thinking about you all the time. My prayers and thoughts are with you, and I sincerely hope you all have a wonderful Holiday Season, with health and happiness in the new year. With love.
Olivia Suh and family <youngolv@aol.com>
Indianapolis, IN USA - Tuesday, December 25, 2001 at 11:07 PM (CST)

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Dear Emily,Kathleen,John,& Jack,
Merry Christmas morning to you all, praying that everyone,
especially Emily, is having restful and peaceful sleep right now without any interuption ...praying that when you wake up, you will find a gift of Christmas in your heart,the
life-giving savior, Jesus. Our thoughts and prayers are with you always. CBS friends are continously praying for Emily and all of you. With love in Christ.
From Pat,Jenny,Christian,and Julianna Lee

Jenny Lee <jylee723@msn.com>
Potomac, MD USA - Tuesday, December 25, 2001 at 12:13 AM (CST)

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Hello from Australia!
I hope Emily's seizures stop soon, along with her other symptoms. Adam has had seizures too through his tx and we hate them! Prayers & positive thoughts for Emily's quick recovery. Have a lovely Christmas and a safe, happy & healthy 2002!
Love & cuddles from
Liz, Murray, Adam (dx ALL 3/00), Joshua & Bethany XOXOXOXOXO
The Cruickshank family <meajbc@bigpond.com>
Melbourne, Vic. Australia - Saturday, December 22, 2001 at 12:21 AM (CST)

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Emily - Pucker-up baby because that something red that I mentioned earlier means lots of kisses are needed and its on its way to you as I write...any guesses yet..??
ps - put Jack in his bikini and tell him to come party in your room - Mom can provide the popsicles! liz
elizabeth joslin <emjoslin@aol.com>
chevy chase, md - Friday, December 21, 2001 at 06:15 PM (CST)

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Dear Emily and all the Kim's. We still are praying for you all and asking God for all his mercy and strength for you. Christmas is coming and we hope that you all can enjoy all that it means. God bless and keep you all. The Duchelle-Smith family and Nora sends many hugs to Emily.
Kate Duchelle <kduchelle@hotmail.com>
Silver Spring, MD - Friday, December 21, 2001 at 10:31 AM (CST)

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Dear Emily and all the Kim's. We still are praying for you all and asking God for all his mercy and strength for you. Christmas is coming and we hope that you all can enjoy all that it means. God bless and keep you all. The Duchelle-Smith family and Nora sends many hugs to Emily.
Kate Duchelle <kduchelle@hotmail.com>
Silver Spring, MD - Friday, December 21, 2001 at 10:31 AM (CST)

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Emily, We are certainly praying hard for you and your family. You all have been through so much..your strength is incredible.. please know God is with you...he never puts more on us than we can bear.. We hope Christmas will bring some good news and may you all have a blessed holiday season.
The Drew's <MADREW813@aol.com>
- Thursday, December 20, 2001 at 06:43 AM (CST)

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Hey Emily: All of us are cheering and praying for you! You are being remembered in the Prayers of the Faithful at all of the Student Masses at Notre Dame. My children want you to get well so they can meet you. They pray for "Daddy's friend Emily" each night at bedtime, and they can't wait until you can come over and play.

Kathleen and John, you are in our prayers and have our undying admiration.

Mike McAuliffe <mjm@qmrm.com>
Rockville, MD USA - Wednesday, December 19, 2001 at 10:50 PM (CST)

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Emily, It was great to see you in clinic yesterday...We pray that you will feel better very soon...Take care and God bless each of you!!!
Garrett, Melissa, and Tommy Drew
- Wednesday, December 19, 2001 at 03:33 PM (CST)

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Hi Everyone! I was just sitting here at work thinking about everyone. I miss you guys. I hope things are getting better for you. You guys are doing an amazing job!! Princess and Taby say hi and hope Emily feels better soon. Meow! Meow! They will be traumatized when the christmas tree comes down as they are very posessive of it. I will take some pictures of Ottawa when I go home next week. Take Care,we are praying for you.
Kim Montague <jpuncher@nc.rr.com>
Raleigh, NC USA - Wednesday, December 19, 2001 at 03:58 AM (CST)

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Emily-I'm thinking about you tonight and I hope you have a good night's sleep and sweet dreams...I think something red is headed your way...(that's a clue-what could it be?) I'll give you another clue later. liz
elizabeth joslin <emjoslin@aol.com>
chevy chase, md - Tuesday, December 18, 2001 at 10:45 PM (CST)

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Dear Emily,

I am so sorry you have to feel sooo bad. You are such a special little girl. You have to get strong so you can watch and take care of Jack. Jack needs you to read and play with him. It is unfortunate we can divide some of your pain among all of us to make you better. Have a wonderful Christmas. I hope Santa has a special gift for your family and everyone who loves you.


Jasmine Chong <Jasmine@clsbenefits.com>
Indianapolis, IN - Monday, December 17, 2001 at 09:08 AM (CST)

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Hi Emily and Family! I am praying for you all! You are always in my thoughts, and I know that God is especially watching after you!! Keep Smiling! :)
Garrett's Cousin, Kimberly Drew :)
Kimberly Drew <KRDRSC21@aol.com>
Rains, SC - Sunday, December 16, 2001 at 07:35 PM (CST)

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Hi, I came across your page in the ACOR site. You are a beautiful girl! My son Ronnie will be 5 next month. He was diagnosed with ALL in July of 2000. He's in long term maintnenance & doing well & driving his 2 older sisters absolutely crazy whne its steroid week! Hopes for your continued progress and a healthy & happy holiday!

Chris <chrisrusso_@hotmail.com
www.caringbridge.com/page/gooch>
Bethel, CT - Saturday, December 15, 2001 at 10:42 PM (CST)

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Emily and Family,
I hope you all are doing well. I am Mia Svendson, a 6th grader at GEDS. I hope
Emily is doing well, and the rest of the family as well. Emily, I really hope you
get well soon. Best Wishes, Mia Svendson.
Mia Svendson <erics@erols.com>
Silver Spring, Maryland USA - Thursday, December 13, 2001 at 06:48 PM (CST)

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Hi Emily!! I am glad you are continuing to do so great! Keep staying strong, and tell Jack "Hey" for me!! :)
Garrett's Cousin, Kimberly Drew <KRDRSC21@aol.com>
Rains, SC - Wednesday, December 12, 2001 at 08:50 PM (CST)

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Dear Kathleen,
Lately I find myself thanking God for all my blessings. I thanked God for being able to share your experiences and pain through your journals. It has opened my eyes to all the things I need to be thankful for and shown me how wonderful and strong Love is. I'm sure you have never imagined your love for your child would be tested to this extreme.... I'm sure you are only doing what comes natural but I wanted to express my admiration for your patience and strength. God Bless!

Jasmine Chong <Jasmine@clsbenefits.com>
Indianapolis, IN - Tuesday, December 11, 2001 at 08:55 PM (CST)

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Dear Emily,
I am very glad that you have gotten to the next step of healing. The "going-home" part of your journey pbobably feels very different than being in the hospital. You must have gotten used to all of the special women who became MORE than nurses to you. I hear that they become friends and buddies for life!! I hear that they have gotten to know and LOVE you! Well, that sure isn't hard to believe. The word all over North Carolina is that you are quite a lovable girl! And if you miss them when you are away, you can be sure that they are missing you BUNCHES when you are away from them.
I hope that you will be having the strength soon to create some pretty Christmas pictures. It's that time of year when it's fun to put glitter on pinecones and construction paper and jingle bells and moose antlers (whoops - I got carried away. I REALLY like glitter!) Let your body be still and quiet on your tough days and be wiggly and joyous and glittery on the easier days. And in your own, special Emily-way, you'll find some Christmas magic every day. Even if it's a little tiny magic tucked in your brother's tiny smile. Or a powerful hug from your Daddy. But, I want you to know something. If Chrismas is all about giving - then you have given your Mommy and Daddy their best gift ever. And that is your Courage. Your patience. Your touch. Your smile. Your laughter. Your drawings. And your STRENGTH to get to where you are today. But most importantly - your Love. THAT is the thing that will see you through the crummy days when it's hard to smile. That's the thing which will hold them so close to your heart.
So, the next time your Mom leans close to speak with you or to give you a hug, think about this. You KNOW that she is your Mommy, but many people who love her will tell you that you are looking into the face of an angel. Because angels quietly sit by us and hold us when we are scared. And they never sleep and they guide us when we are lost. And they have more patience than regular humans. So, she looks like a Mommy but she has saintly duties now. It's quite wonderful how we Mommies love our children so, isn't it?
Please know that we are saying our prayers that your days will get more and more comfortable for you, and before you know it, you'll be back to smiling, dancing and spinning again.
Take good care. From Megin Walsh Sussman and Brendan
Megin Walsh Sussman <meginws@yahoo.com>
Silver Spring, Md USA - Tuesday, December 11, 2001 at 09:42 AM (CST)

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Dear Kim Family, Just to let you know we are all still thinking about you at the National Naval Medical Center Pharmacy. We all wish Emily a very speedy recovery and wish you all the blessings of this holiday season. God bless you all.
LCDR Ron Nosek <ranosek@bethesda.med.navy.mil>
Bethesda, MD USA - Monday, December 10, 2001 at 07:22 PM (CST)

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Kathleen and John, You are doing and amazing job of taking care of emily, it's not easy. I hope that things will fall into place and emily can get her days back to normal. I am thinking about you. It was great to see Emily on the weekend. I miss taking care of you guys! Take Care and keep strong:)
Kim Montague <jpuncher@nc.rr.com>
Raleigh, NC USA - Monday, December 10, 2001 at 10:30 AM (CST)

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Kathleen - I can only imagine how overwhelming caring for everyone, doing line care and blood draws and getting to clinic and caring for the apartment and getting meals must be and knowing you - I imagine you are putting yourself last too. I hope the nights will get easier and that you can catch some sleep somewhere and take care of yourself too!
We miss you up here.
Nancy Washko <knsamatt@aol.com>
DUMC 5201, - Sunday, December 09, 2001 at 10:08 PM (CST)

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Hi Emily and Family!
I am glad you got to go home! I know you are loving that! I am thinking and praying for you A LOT!! Stay Strong!!
Love Always, Kimberly Drew, Garrett's Cousin :)
Kimberly Drew, Garrett's Cousin :) <KRDRSC21@AOL.COM>
Rains, SC - Sunday, December 09, 2001 at 12:18 AM (CST)

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Hello Emily,
I was so glad to hear that you might be going home.You are the strongest big girl and we are so proud of you.You are in our prayers and our thoughts daily.kathleen you inspire me as a mom. Your the most couragest person I know.We love and miss you both.Noel sends her love and prayers.We look at you picture every time we go into our kitchen and ask god to protect you and your family.Lots of huges and kisses from your friends Dawn&Noel
dawn white <dawnwht4@aol.com>
Silver Spring, MD USA - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 06:45 PM (CST)

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Hello Emily,
Welcome to the Apt. You are such a brave fighter against Leukemia!!! We miss you and Tiger asks about you every day. I told him you were teaching Jack to crawl. Huggies and Lovies to you and Mom,Dad,Jack, and the Beanie Babies!
Mary Groom <mgroom@umd5.umd.edu>
Kensington, Md. Montgomery - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 09:45 AM (CST)

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Hi Emily,
I am glad you are home, having a good time with your baby brother. Isn't he so cute? You know that I have a baby (Jeanne, you saw her), too. Your brother, Jack, will always admire and follow you. I wish and pray that you will be there for him whenever he needs you.
Dear Kathleen, I can imagine how you feel and so much things to do with her discharge. Please take care of yourself.
Joungjoa Park <Jou_park>
Chapel Hill, NC - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 09:38 AM (CST)

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Dear Emily: All of us are so excited that you got to see Jack and play with him in the aparment! We pray for you every day. In addition, all the students at Notre Dame are praying for you. You're our hero!
Mike McAuliffe <MJM@QMRM.COM>
Rockville, MD USA - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 06:12 AM (CST)

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Kathleen - I miss seeing you here! I hope you get some sleep and SOON!
Emily - We miss seeing you down here sitting on the chair by Sam's room. We're glad you are enjoying time with your brother and are thankful you can see him every day now.
Love,
Sam in 5201 and Sam's mommy (Nancy)
Nancy Washko <knsamatt@aol.com>
DUMC 5201, - Thursday, December 06, 2001 at 10:27 PM (CST)

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Dear Emily,

I heard you went back to your apartment. I knew you were going to get better and better. I hope you like your ballerina bunny. If you don't like her name (Pookie) you can change it. My friends at church saw some of your pictures and felt bad for you, but I told them all about you getting better so they don't have to worry. When you come back to church I'll introduce you to my friends.
So we all can play together. Do you like your baby brother? I love my brother except when he's bugging me or crying. (for no reason)Does Jack ever bug you? Write me back soon!
I am going to pray that you have a best Christmas EVER!
Your friend,
Hana Chong
Hana Chong <Hanachong@msn.com>
Indianpolis, IN America - Thursday, December 06, 2001 at 08:18 PM (CST)

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Hello Kathleen,

To get stressed out and frustrated just shows you are human. Please don't beat your self up about it. I would really worry about you if you didn't show any sign of stress once in a while. Even super moms need to be human at times.

I was just checking in on Emily's status. By the way I have promised my kids I would tell Emily that Hana & Andrew put a special heart full of get well wishes inside the ballerina bunny so she should be getting better soon. They ask about Emily's status every day. Give her a big hug for us.
Jasmine Chong <Jasmine@clsbenefits.com>
Indianapolis, In - Wednesday, December 05, 2001 at 02:02 PM (CST)

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Dear Emily,
I understand you might go home today to your apt. That makes Tiger and me very very happy. You are the strongest fighter to not give up until you are well!!! I send you big huggies and lovies today and always....Tiger and Ms. Groom
Mary Groom <mgroom@umd5.umd.edu>
Kensignton, Md. Montgomery - Wednesday, December 05, 2001 at 12:45 PM (CST)

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Hi Emily,
I like your complaining because I feel that you are getting better. You know what? I stay in APT until I will find the right house for my family and my kids keep complaining. But I think in other way that this period in APT will be joy someday with all funny episodes. Also, you will be happier with your real home in Maryland later. Having a time with your younger brother will be fun, too. Right Emily? Remember Yukyung, Soyun and my family always think of you and are praying for you and your family. Let's Hi Five!!!
Joungjoa Park <Jou_park@ncsu.edu>
Chapel Hill, NC - Wednesday, December 05, 2001 at 12:20 PM (CST)

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Hi emily and Family, I was just checking in on you and wanted to let you know I was thinking abut you. It waill be stressful when you first get dc'd. It will be a change form your routine of the last couple months. You will develop a routine and become more comfortable taking care of emily and everyone. When you go to the Bopp room on the weekend, talk with some of the parents to see what tricks they have developed to help them deal with the transition from hospital to clinic. You should talk to Brandon Coker and his Dad. I think you would feeel better. I hope jack and John are doing good. Emily will be so excited to spend time with Jack. Take Care and take a deep breath because it will be okay. :)
Kim Montague <jpuncher@nc.rr.com>
Raleigh, NC USA - Wednesday, December 05, 2001 at 10:11 AM (CST)

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Hello, Emily and Family, I just wanted to let you know that you are in my thoughts and prayers, constantly! :) Keep up the good work, and know that you are on my mind! Love, Kimberly, Garrett's Cousin :)
Kimberly Drew, Garrett's Cousin <KRDRSC21@AOL.COM>
Rains, SC Usa - Tuesday, December 04, 2001 at 03:00 PM (CST)

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Hi Emily and family, It has been great to take care of you and help you through this. I know when emily is feeling better we will have a few laughs. You are a very strong family. When in doubt, just remember right before the catheter when I asked God to please let me get it in right away- because I really didn't think I was going to. Faith will carry you a long way. Take Care and I will see you on the weekend in the bopp room. Tell Emily I want a picture with a big smile.:) Princess and Tabby say hi, MEOW MEOW MEOW...
Kim Montague <jpuncher@nc.rr.com>
Raleigh, NC USA - Monday, December 03, 2001 at 08:43 PM (CST)

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After reading your entry about going to be with Gina after Morgan died, I looked up "compassion" in the dictionary. It means "a sympathetic consciousness of others' distress together with a desire to alleviate it." You showed great compassion that day.
Jill Feasley <jfeasley@us.net>
Takoma Park, MD - Monday, December 03, 2001 at 05:07 PM (CST)

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Kathleen,

After I read your journal and entries from Colleen(Brandon's mom) today, I couldn't stop the tears from flowing. It just seems sooooo much. I have prayed today with all my heart for God to lighten the weight of the cross you are carrying. Please take care of your self!!!

Jasmine <jasmine@clsbenefits.com>
indianapolis, in - Monday, December 03, 2001 at 03:03 PM (CST)

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Kathleen,
We will be praying for Emily.

I also wanted to let you know about the Candlelighters Holiday e-Tree. It's on the Candlelighters site, http://www.candlelighters.org/2001holidaytree.stm

The tributes written in honor and memory of 'our kids' are incredibly moving. To read all of the ribbon tributes posted so far, go to the above url. Then click on 'search the ribbons' and without entering any data fields, simply click on 'search' and up will come all of the names and tributes posted so far. They are a powerful testimony to the strength of our cancer children and the impact that childhood cancer has on their families.

There are currently more than 300 tributes written.
Colleen <BrandonMom@yahoo.com>
Herndon, VA USA - Sunday, December 02, 2001 at 04:33 PM (CST)

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Kathleen,

I am so sorry so much is happening all at once. It is too much. I am glad that you stopped by the PICU to visit the family. I know it meant a lot to them. It is lonely in the PICU - the place no one wants to go. It does help when people care to stop by.

You are also right in keeping focused on Emily. I know it will sound very mechanical, but I became very good at choosing when to just let it all hit me and really cry. I would usually do this in the morning, while Brandon was sleeping . Then I would take a shower and eat some breakfast, and get my questions ready for the doctors when they started their rounds. There was still a battle to be fought and won. Brandon was still there and he needed me so much. I couldn't think about what the next minute would bring. I focused only on that minute and being there for him. Of course, that also meant that I had to take care of myself too by eating and sleeping even when I didn't feel like it, so that I could stay the strong person that Brandon needed. I hope you are taking care of yourself as well. The sort of good news, is that Emily probably won't remember any of these bad times. Brandon remembers very little of his transplant. He has lots of memories of before and after, but only a few of the hard memories.

I am glad the doctors are planning on you leaving on a Monday. That's good, because all week, the regular staff is in and available. On the weekend, it isn't as easy to reach people for non-emergency, but still important questions.

I can't say you are missing too much here in DC. Everyone seems to be struggling with celebrating Christmas in light of the Sept 11 tragedy. One place in Maryland is not even going to have Santa.

I wish I could be there to give you a hug. Know there are lots of people that are hugging you and Emily in their heart!


Colleen <BrandonMom@yahoo.com>
Herndon, VA USA - Saturday, December 01, 2001 at 07:20 PM (CST)

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Hi Kathleen,

Now you know why I describe going through transplant as walking through a mine-field rather than a roller-coaster. With a rollercoaster, you know eventually it will level out and come to a stop. With a transplant, I felt we were in the trenches. We had no idea when the next mine would go off or where. We frequently saw those that were also walking through the field be devastated at any given moment. When would our turn happen? Would we survive?

The best advice I can give you, is that some moments in life, the only thing you have to do is breathe. Seems silly, I know, but some moments just seem completely unbearable.

On the other hand, it has been almost 2 months since her transplant! I am sure you wondered how you could even get through that, before you went to Duke. When you look at how far you have come, you really have journeyed quite a ways!

Always remember, too, that people are praying for Emily every day!
Colleen <BrandonMom@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Friday, November 30, 2001 at 03:57 PM (CST)

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Kathleen, I am so sorry to hear of all the losses touching your heart in NC. It must be so hard to stay upbeat for Emily. We will continue to pray for you and her. I tried to email you a letter at the address on the caring page but it was returned. Have you changed emails as well as home address and phone number? I would love to hear from you if you ever get a chance to talk. Love, Cathy
Cathy <cathygannon@erols.com>
Rockville, MD USA - Friday, November 30, 2001 at 12:31 PM (CST)

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Kathleen,

It is wonderful to hear about Emily's new progress.
We will all keep our fingers cross and pray extra harder this weekend.

After reading your journal today I couldn't help but think about the doctors and nurses who is treating all the children. The roller coaster emotions they must face each day after day.... I have gained a new respect for that field.

I could only imagine what you are going through. I truly believe your families love will work miracles. God bless.
Jasmine <Jasmine@clsbenefits.com>
indianapolis, IN - Thursday, November 29, 2001 at 09:30 PM (CST)

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Hi Kathleen, John, Emily,& Jack

So happy to hear about Emily's improvements. With so many friends, families, and strangers praying for Emily I know God will work his miracles.

Kathleen, get some sleep any way you can and continue doing what you are doing. Your strength is a true inspiration to all the parents.
Jasmine Chong <jasmine@clsbenefits.com>
Indianapolis, IN U.S.A - Wednesday, November 28, 2001 at 12:53 PM (CST)

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Hi Kathleen, Emily, John, and Jack -

I am so thrilled for Emily and overjoyed to hear the good news. Thank you Kathleen for updating us on Emily's status. You are amazing for finding the strength. God is working his miracle and I truly believe that Emily will fight this and win. The poem you shared was beautiful- thank you for sharing it with us. Take care and I will be thinking and praying for all of you.

Young ae Kim <Kimy@ctep.nci.nih.gov>
Rockville, MD USA - Tuesday, November 27, 2001 at 04:29 PM (CST)

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Hi Kathleen,

I am so glad to hear things are improving! Take care and sleep whenever you can - even if it is in the middle of the day! Trust me, you will not be the first mother of a transplant patient that has done it!
Colleen <BrandonMom@yahoo.com>
Herndon, VA usa - Tuesday, November 27, 2001 at 02:15 PM (CST)

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Hi, Emily
Can you remember us? We are Jung's family(Yukyung and kathy) from Indiana state. We) wish you had a good Thanksgivng with grandparents.We are very glad to hear that your white cells are ok, praying that keep going. Do you know that you are very brave and patient? Everybody think so definitely. You are a good teacher to others including adults although you do not want to be. Let's try to keep your spirits one inch higher than yesterday because today is better than yesterday. We wish you and your mom have a good sleep tonight. We will talk to you often and someday you can give us some responses, right? Have a good day!!!
Joungjoa Park <jou_park@ncsu.edu>
Chapel Hill, NC - Tuesday, November 27, 2001 at 01:07 PM (CST)

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Hi Emily and family! I hope things are going okay today. I was so happy that you white cells were 15 when I left the other day! I have enjoyed taking care of you and I will miss you when you go home! That will be a very exciting day when you guys get to go home!! I just wanted to say hi to everyone. See you this week! Take care:)
Kim Montague <jpuncher@nc.rr.com>
Raleigh, NC USA - Sunday, November 25, 2001 at 11:14 AM (CST)

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Praise God,for the new cells that are growing.We knew you could do it.We will be keeping you in our prayers.Happy Thanksgiving for this is truly a time to be thankful.Be strong and know that you are in our thoughts.Love Dawn&Noel
dawn white <dawnwht4@aol.com>
Silver Spring, MD USA - Saturday, November 24, 2001 at 10:40 AM (CST)

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Hi Emily,Kathleen, John and Jack. Praise be to God for His gift of healing and growing donor cells! Are you feeling any stronger, Emily? I bet it feels great to get rid of that dumb catheter! How did you celebrate Thanksgiving? You are all always in our thoughts and prayers. We are looking forward to your coming home. We miss you. Love, Cathy
Cathy Gannon <cathygannon@erols.com>
Rockville, MD - Friday, November 23, 2001 at 10:28 AM (CST)

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a truly special thanksgiving. thanks be to God.
jfl
- Thursday, November 22, 2001 at 03:17 PM (CST)

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Dear Kathleen, John Emily & Jack,
Happy Thanksgiving! We will be giving our thanks today for those wonderful new cells growing and multiplying, bringing strength and good health. Our prayers also for continued good news and recovery. Joey wants Emily to know that he hopes that she's feeling a little better now. He also says, "YAY for the new cells!" The boys are looking forward to playing hide and seek again with Emily soon. Our hearts and thoughts are with your family today and everyday.
The Carrs
Silver Spring, MD - Thursday, November 22, 2001 at 11:50 AM (CST)

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Dear Emily- Yeah, donor cells!!!! You are in our thoughts and prayers everyday. Keep up the good work! Lots of love-
Annie, mama to Isabelle (ALL-KIDS) <annie@geoplan.ufl.edu>
Gainesville, FL USA - Wednesday, November 21, 2001 at 10:33 PM (CST)

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Dear Emily, I was so thrilled to learn your cells are growing. Keep up the good work! We're looking foward to you coming home soon so Mollie can come visit you again. Your mommy has many friends back here who love and care about you. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Judy Grundy <judy.grundy@uspto.gov>
Alexandria, VA - Wednesday, November 21, 2001 at 06:15 PM (CST)

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Dear Kathleen:
Thank you for having the strength to keep us updated on Emily's recovery! I treasure your few lines of news everyday. The courage that you and Emily have is astounding and inspiring. What happiness to hear that the healing cells are growing!! My 2yr old daughter Tess and I pray everyday, "Please God, heal Emily," (or "M-ly" as Tess says.) We will keep praying!
Maureen
Alexandria, VA - Wednesday, November 21, 2001 at 06:00 PM (CST)

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Dear Emily, I am so thrilled that your cells are growing so well. Keep up the good work. I have two pictures of the beautiful flowers you painted, and I want to see more! Esther

Kathleen and John--I can't tell you how happy I was to read about this good news. What a blessing. Esther
Esther Belenker <esther.belenker@uspto.gov>
- Wednesday, November 21, 2001 at 12:21 PM (CST)

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Dear Emily, Kathleen, John and Jack,

I am so happy to hear that Emily is progressing! What wonderful news. Emily, continue to make those cells grow! I have two of your pictures Emily, and you're a great artist. Thanks for sharing your work with Law Office 101.
Kathleen, thanks for the lovely poem. Your family is such an inspiration for me. I admire your strength. My family continues to pray for you. Have a blessed Thanksgiving.
Angela Wilson <angela.wilson@uspto.gov>
Arlington, va USA - Wednesday, November 21, 2001 at 09:07 AM (CST)

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Emily,

Keep it up!!!!

- Tuesday, November 20, 2001 at 02:57 PM (CST)

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That is wonderful news! Our continued prayers!

Tim Price at Quinn, McAuliffe & Rowan

- Tuesday, November 20, 2001 at 01:25 PM (CST)

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Hi Emily!!

Your Aunt Alexia called me today to share your wonderful news!! ....this is so exciting! I'm so happy!!!
I was looking at all your photos on the web site.....you made such a beautiful angel on Halloween! Also, I love your flower drawings...you are such a good artist!!
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!!!

Keeping you in my prayers.
Love,
Melissa Vaught <vaughtml@yahoo.com>
Bloomington, IN UAS - Tuesday, November 20, 2001 at 12:43 PM (CST)

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Emily: I heard this morning that you have been busy making cells, cells and more cells...I tried to call but no answer anywhere! - this is GREAT NEWS! (its time to shout!) I was thinking those cells are like snowflakes - each one wonderful and different. How could we make cell-snowflakes into a art project? I miss doing those crazy kind of art projects with you...Try making Technicolor Turkeys for Thanksgiving - Trace your hand on paper and color each tail feather (finger) a different wild color and add colorful feathers, rhinestones, glitter...P.S. Babycakes, Add this day to your treasure box its a special one! love, liz
elizabeth joslin <emjoslin@aol.com>
chevy chase, md - Tuesday, November 20, 2001 at 12:19 PM (CST)

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Yeah!!!! I'm so excited to read that those little cells are growing more and more everyday. Thinking of you all and cheering, GO EMILY!!
Kathy Rosario <rosariofam@msn.com>
Silver Spring, MD U.S. - Tuesday, November 20, 2001 at 12:11 PM (CST)

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Kathleen and Emily: YEAH!!!! I'm so happy I could burst! Finally, a good thing has happened. Everyone I've told is estatic as well. Thank you God! I can't wait to see you tomorrow, I love you bunches :) Emo (Aunt Alexia)
Alexia Goldberg <alexiagoldberg@hotmail.com>
Potomac, MD usa - Tuesday, November 20, 2001 at 11:53 AM (CST)

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Dear Emily, Kathleen, John and Jack,
I am so happy for your wonderful news!!! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, I know that mine will be more special now.
Emily - I love your art work - the pictures are hanging in my office and at home. I smile whenever I look at them, and am amazed at how talented you are!
You are all in my prayers, and I'm looking forward to seeing you again when you come home. keep those cells growing!
lots of love,
Susan DuBois
Susan DuBois <susan.dubois@uspto.gov>
Arlington, Virginia USA - Tuesday, November 20, 2001 at 08:32 AM (CST)

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Hi Emily! This is Kim your nurse. I was so excited to hear the great news today. When you are feeling better we will have to celebrate.I am so glad that you are growing those baby cells. Have a nice visit with all of your family and I will see you on Thursday. Taby and Princess say hi Meow Meow!!:)
Kim Montague <jpuncher@nc.rr.com>
Raleigh, NC USA - Monday, November 19, 2001 at 08:01 PM (CST)

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Katherine,

I couldn't hold back tears as I read through your journal and the guestbook entries. I want you to know we are praying for Emily and your family here in Indianapolis at the Korean Catholic Church. I'm sure Emily remembers visiting us with her Grandma. We remember her smiles and wanted her to know we are counting the days when she will visit us again soon. Please remind Emily to bring Jack too. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving Day and your feast day on the 25th.

Jasmine Chong <Jasmine@clsbenefits.com>
Indianapolis, In U.S.A. - Monday, November 19, 2001 at 02:11 PM (CST)

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Dear Emily,

We're SO happy to hear that your white cell count is going up! Keep thinking happy thoughts! :)

From your friends at WTOP Radio

Washington, DC - Monday, November 19, 2001 at 01:02 PM (CST)

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Katherine & Emily,
We saw John and Jack after the run on Saturday and really enjoyed to see them especially Jack. He is a just adorable baby and very friendly to each one of us even though we met him for the first time. I can not imagine how Emily would love and enjoy her brother at her side. We keep hoping and praying that we can see you soon. We are reading your daily journal everyday and find a courage to love one another. Thinking of you.

The Swains Runners
Silver Spring, MD - Monday, November 19, 2001 at 06:40 AM (CST)

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Hi Emily
Grandpa Yung wants to say Hello and send a lot of kisses
Yung Soo Kim <LKim123@email.msn.com>
FORT LEE, N.J U.S.A - Friday, November 16, 2001 at 09:14 PM (CST)

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Hi Emily ,Jack,Chulsoo and Cathy
Stay well.
W'll fight together.Everybody in Korea wish you well
Love Grandma Linda
Linda S Kim <LKim123@email.msn.com>
FORT LEE, N.J U.S.A - Friday, November 16, 2001 at 08:57 PM (CST)

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Hello Emily!!!
We don't know each other, but know that you are in my prayers. You are a brave and strong girl! Lots of love to you and your family!
Hobak :)
Alexandria, VA USA - Thursday, November 15, 2001 at 02:32 PM (CST)

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Dear Emily, We keep you in hearts and our daily prayers and we're so excited about your rising white count numbers. Grow cells, grow! Be brave and keep strong, even if it means eating spinach. We check the website every day so thanks for the updates and pictures. May God bless and comfort you all. The Duchelle-Smith family
Kate Duchelle <kduchelle@hotmail.com>
SILVER SPRING, MD USA - Thursday, November 15, 2001 at 11:15 AM (CST)

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John just letting you know that you and your family are in our prayers.please keep us informed.
Laura ,Scott and Makenna Harding <lkharding@bethesda.med.navy.mil>
FREDERICK, md - Thursday, November 15, 2001 at 06:20 AM (CST)

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John, Just got an email from Libby Hearin about Emily's status. Please know that all of us in the pharmacy are thinking about you daily and that you are all in our prayers.
Ron Nosek <ranosek@bethesda.med.navy.mil>
Bethesda, MD 20889 - Thursday, November 15, 2001 at 05:24 AM (CST)

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Kathleen,

The following web-site gives more info about HUS and ITP (also a possibility). FK-506(tacrolimus) can cause these syndromes. I mention it because sometimes platelet transfusions make the problem worse, rather than better. I think the normal treatment in plasma. In any event, ask your doctor. I would be interested in hearing what the doctor says.

http://www.nephrologychannel.com/hus_ttp/
Colleen <BrandonMom@yahoo.com>
Herndon, VA - Wednesday, November 14, 2001 at 09:00 AM (CST)

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Kathleen, go with the morphine pump. She can control the pain medicine with a push of the button. It was so very helpful to us. Brandon never got addicted and easily gave it up when it was time.

Are they sure the blood in her urine is from low platelets? What about HUS (a potential side-effect of a transplant)?
Colleen <BrandonMom@yahoo.com>
Herndon, VA - Wednesday, November 14, 2001 at 08:43 AM (CST)

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Kathleen, go with the morphine pump. She can control the pain medicine with a push of the button. It was so very helpful to us. Brandon never got addicted and easily gave it up when it was time.

Are they sure the blood in her urine is from low platelets? What about HUS (a potential side-effect of a transplant)?

- Wednesday, November 14, 2001 at 08:42 AM (CST)

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Hi Emily, I'm thrilled to hear that your white count is climbing. I'm praying for the good cells to multiply! Sorry you are still not feeling like celebrating, but I know you will get stronger and will jump and dance and sing for joy soon! Say "Hello" to Jack and your Mom and Dad for me. Grace and I miss you. Love and Prayers, Cathy Gannon
Cathy Gannon <cathygannon@erols.com>
Rockville, MD USA - Tuesday, November 13, 2001 at 07:40 PM (CST)

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Emily,
What super buttons you made....I have a button maker and my buttons are not as pretty as yours! We are all proud of you and know you will be better soon...what a special girl you are.
Love to all,
Bonnie from the ALL-KIDS
Bonnie, grandma to ^i^ Jamie <http://www.caringbridge.com/page/jamiebowman >
Columbus, OH - Tuesday, November 13, 2001 at 02:34 PM (CST)

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Hi Emily! This is Kim your nurse. I was thinking about you and wondering how you were today. You are such a brave girl! Princess and Taby say hi.MEOW! MEOW! Taby is on my lap while I am trying to type. She loves attention! I hope that you are having an okay day. Keep strong and sweet! Say hi to you mom and dad for me. GROW CELLS GROW!!!!!
Kim Montague <jpuncher@nc.rr.com>
Raleigh, NC USA - Tuesday, November 13, 2001 at 12:32 PM (CST)

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Dear Emily,
Greetings from WJLA-TV in Washington! We just wanted to let you know that we are so proud of your bravery and that thousands and thousands of our viewers are rooting for you! We look forward to doing another story with you and hopefully encouraging more people to be tested as potential bone marrow donors. Keep up the GREAT work getting better! Andrea McCarren
Andrea McCarren <amccarren@wjla.com>
Washington, D.C. USA - Tuesday, November 13, 2001 at 09:16 AM (CST)

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emily

my grandmother used to say, espescially when i was having problems with something, `the longest route home is often the surest' --

lazy kid that i was, that logic didn't always win me over.
it does now. you're on your way. see you when you get here. don't forget to honk.


jfl

- Tuesday, November 13, 2001 at 12:10 AM (CST)

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Hi Emily Princess,
Emo and I can't wait to see you again soon. We all had such a great time with you the last weekend we were there and we all miss you so much. Keep your smile in tip-top shape. I want to see my smiling princess next time we come. Jacob and Maddie miss you so much also.

Love,

Your Uncle Dan.

Dan Goldberg <dangoldber1@hotmail.com>
Potomac, MD USA - Monday, November 12, 2001 at 09:17 PM (CST)

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Emily, Love your Halloween bag and buttons. Did you make them. I think it is funny that they call activity time "Cell Mates". I love your pink shirt. Do you get to dress in your own clothes all the time on the unit. I hope you get to feeling better soon. I had a friend whose little girl had a bone marrow transplant when she was in kindergarten and Katy really thought it was way too long of a time to be in the hospital. Her hair grew back curly. My son Rich, had cancer, but right now he is not in treatment and lives at college and goes to school. He likes living a way from home very much. We're praying for you that you feel better soon, here in Ohio.
Rita, mom to Rich, Meghan and David <rguthrie@akron.infi.net>
Wadsworth, OH USA - Monday, November 12, 2001 at 08:13 PM (CST)

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Hi Emily, We are praying that you will feel better soon, and will get to go home. You are a beautiful young lady. I know that all of this stuff can be a real drag, but hang in there, We believe that you are a special person, and that you are going to beat this thing and come out smelling like a rose. Your Mom tells how brave you are I can just imagine you keep those doctors and nurses in line. Keep up the good work. We are all pulling for you. Love and prayers, Pat and Denise Green, PeeDee Green's parents, Jacksonville, Florida
Denise Green <pgreen828@aol.com>
Jacksonville, FL. USA - Monday, November 12, 2001 at 06:09 PM (CST)

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Hi Emily! Me and my family are hoping you feel better real soon. Take care sweetie! You will be home before you know it.
Kim <SKELKIMTAYSYD@aol.com>
Round Rock , Tx USA - Sunday, November 11, 2001 at 06:46 PM (CST)

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Hi from all the way Down Under, Emily!
You are such a *STAR*! We hope you are feeling a little better with each new day and we hope those good cells start doing their "stuff" soon! What a CHAMPION you are! Keep up the good work sweetie!
We are heading into summer soon here and it won't be long before Santa visits!!! Will you have snow flakes falling soon, where you are? My kids would love that, but we don't get snow where we live.
We send BIG CUDDLES to you Emily and also to your family and all the people looking after you.
Love from,

Liz, Murray, Adam (ALL patient), Joshua & Bethany
XO XO XO XO XO
the Cruickshank family <meajbc@bigpond.com>
Melbourne, Vic. Australia - Sunday, November 11, 2001 at 06:09 AM (CST)

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Hi Emily! Houston, my little boy and i are praying for you to feel better very very soon! Houston also LOVES to do art projects, especially when he has to be in the hospital. he has all like you. keep up the fight, you'll win!!!!!! one idea for puppets is pretty simple... get your nurses to get you some tongue depressors, scissors, glue and white drawing paper. Draw anything you like and cut it out, glue it on the top portion of the tongue depressors and there's your puppet!
Houston did this and we had a puppet show!
kelle & Houston (ALL kids) <kfralick@tpcgi.com>
Lubbock, TX USA - Saturday, November 10, 2001 at 10:16 PM (CST)

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Hi Emily,

That was a great picture of you making Halloween buttons. Get Well soon.
Jiten Shah, father to Raj (ALL List) <jitenshah@yahoo.com>
NJ - Saturday, November 10, 2001 at 12:35 PM (CST)

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Emily- I am thinking about you and I am very proud of you! You are a fighter!
Diane <Stubby3620@aol.com>
Boynton Beach, FL USA - Saturday, November 10, 2001 at 12:14 PM (CST)

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Hi Emily,
My daughter, Taryn, and I are sending big hugs and lots of prayers to you and your family from Texas.
Michelle Dia (ALL KIDS) <mleighrd@aol.com>
Amarillo, TX - Saturday, November 10, 2001 at 12:10 PM (CST)

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Dear Emily,

We are cheering for you here in Michigan. Sending lots of pryaers your way
Denise Hendler (ALL-KIDS) <jhendler@earthlink.net>
Rochester , MI USA - Saturday, November 10, 2001 at 09:51 AM (CST)

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Dear Emily,
I know you are tired of being in the hospital. Creative people need to have their imagination stimulated. I saw on another of your pages the puppets you made. I bet you could make a lot of neat puppets from some of the stuff around you in the hospital. I've got a book on the way to you that will give you some ideas. I keep you in my prayers, I know that God is looking after you , after all, He is the creator and He likes creative people. He will give you strength and when you are tired you can imagine resting in His everlasting arms - because He REALLY is there. Keep an eye out for the book - it may take a couple of days or so - I am sending it to the hospital. Hugs to your family.
Pam Haddock, mom to Deiah (16) preB,ALL, dx4/00 high risk <pkhaddock@hotmail.com>
Salisbury, NC USA - Saturday, November 10, 2001 at 08:11 AM (CST)

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Thinking of you, and your family
Think happy thoughts
Thanksgiving will be here soon and you can be Thankful you are all together! As I do every year.
STephanie Alvarado <all4cure@aol.com>
Holt, MI USA - Saturday, November 10, 2001 at 07:56 AM (CST)

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Hi Emily,
We are praying and wishing good things to you and your family! You seem like a special young lady. You are a fighter and an inspiration to us all. My son , Andy who is age 8 was diagnosed on Aug. 30,2001 and he is also inpired my you. You will win this battle for we are all praying for you. With love the VanderWyden Family.
Mike Vander Wyden <Mevande@aol.com>
Carmel, IN 46033 - Saturday, November 10, 2001 at 05:01 AM (CST)

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Hi Emily, we are from the ALL KIDS, and it looks like you are having a great time making those projects with your family. You are a strong person, and the Lord will see you through this trying time for you. Keep smiling, but most important of all keep the faith. Family, friends and faith will get you through anything that comes your way in life. I am the father to Jonny who had a BMT on August 9, 2001. It didn't work for him, for he relapsed, but he hasn't given up the fight yet. He is looking forward to the day when cancer is only a word. You will survive this, you are a great person.
Jake Barlett <JacobECONRAIL@AOL.COM>
CAMDEN, MI UNITED STATES OF AMERICA - Saturday, November 10, 2001 at 02:07 AM (CST)

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Hi Kathleen and family,
We're your friends from the ALL KIDS group sending good thoughts and strong prayers from Las Vegas, Nevada! Emily is a beautiful little girl! We are praying for strength for her, and for all of you! God Bless your wonderful doctors and nurses! Many many many hugs,
Bill, Stacey, Bryce, and Chad Wada
The Wada Family <SLW6204@aol.com>
Las Vegas, NV USA - Saturday, November 10, 2001 at 01:35 AM (CST)

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We are all happy to read the wonderful news of your growth. We have all been inspired by your bravery and stubbornness in the face of so huge a such challenge. Our thoughts and prayers are for your continued improvement!
Tim Price, Quinn, McAuliffe & Rowan
- Friday, November 09, 2001 at 08:34 AM (CST)

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Hi Emily- This is your nurse Amy. I am so glad that I got to care for you these past few nights. You are such a special girl. I hope that your cells continue to grow quickly. I have enjoyed our speed races in the chair. Before long, we will have to have some races on the bicycles. Thanks again for my picture. I really enjoyed it. Have a great weekend and I will see you on Monday!
Amy
PBMTU 5200, - Thursday, November 08, 2001 at 10:28 PM (CST)

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Yeah!!! I am so glad to hear that she engrafted!!!!
Colleen <BrandonMom@yahoo.com>
Herndon, VA USA - Thursday, November 08, 2001 at 02:45 PM (CST)

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In the darkness of night I see stars in the sky, far and near. I wonder if you can hear me, if God can hear me. I yell for you, for Emily with you, to God. I hate you, God!
I dare hate you. Why! How could you do this to Emily? Such a beautiful girl deserves better! I want you know you are not alone there, Kyung. Though you don't see me, I and other friends of you and your parents are watching you and Emily. We all had moments of despair, and we are fully aware of our destiny.We only live one day at a time. Life is resilient. Let's keep it going. Let's have hope. I see the dawn over the East of the sky. The Sun will rise soon.
We all pray for Emily, for a better day.
Moo-Nahm Yum, with Kim <www.kwiok@aol.com>
Carmel, IN USA - Wednesday, November 07, 2001 at 12:13 AM (CST)

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Emily-We are all wishing for your new cells to
Grow, Grow, Grow...think hard about those little cells moving into your body and setting up house - its such a great place that they grow some and then put up curtains, maybe put in a pool -grow some more and have some kids (get really big and have some grandkids...)- think it, wish it, and I'll do the same -love liz
elizabeth joslin <emjoslin@aol.com>
chevy chase, md usa - Tuesday, November 06, 2001 at 11:22 PM (CST)

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God Bless you emily,you are in my prayers.I hope you enjoyed snow white we sent you.I Remember all those times we watched movies in extended day at silver spring.I hope you feel better soon.love ms. white
Dawn White <dawnwht4@aol.com>
silver spring, MD USA - Tuesday, November 06, 2001 at 05:02 PM (CST)

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Dear Kathleen, Thanks so much for letting me know about your internet journal and for sharing your heart and pain with us through it. You and John and Emily are very courageous. Emily, you keep fighting, we'll keep praying!
Grace and peace, Cathy
Cathy Gannon <cathygannon@erols.com>
Rockville, MD USA - Monday, November 05, 2001 at 04:01 PM (CST)

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family

today -- as ever --
in my first thoughts and prayers
jfl
dc, - Monday, November 05, 2001 at 10:09 AM (CST)

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Dear Emily (Kathleen, John and Jack),
I have been keeping updated by your journal. I know that Emily is a very very strong girl and I also see how very strong her family continues to be in all of this. I think of you often and pray for each new day to bring strength and guidance to all of you. I still keep a picture that Emily made for me in extended day at Grace on my refrigerator...it brings a smile to my face every time I see it. Emily, you are such an extraordinary girl, FIGHT HARD. We love you.
Kathy Rosario <rosariofam@msn.com>
Silver Spring, MD U.S. - Monday, November 05, 2001 at 08:11 AM (CST)

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Just wanted you all to know that I am thinking of you. Emily you are a such a sweet girl. I will be back on Friday and we will have to go for a walk. Take care.
Love, Kelly
Kelly Chelf <kelly_chelf@hotmail.com>
5200 PBMTU Durham, NC - Monday, November 05, 2001 at 06:18 AM (CST)

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We like reading the journal entries on Emily's progress. It's nice to know that so many things about Emily have not changed....her sweetness, her independence, her wit. You are all being so brave. I know it may not seem like it but your strength and love are an inspiration! You are always close to our hearts and in our prayers.
Melanie Sanchez-Jones <sanchemr@apci.com>
San Juan Capistrano, CA - Friday, November 02, 2001 at 04:06 PM (CST)

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Me again! My son is the one who had the transplant in October 1998, so we are a few years ahead of you! Anyway, I remember like yesterday the nights in the hospital. When you look out that window tonight, remember there are people out there praying for you and Emily. You are not alone. And though everyone can't physically be there, you are in the thoughts and hearts of many.

I KNOW how hard it is. I KNOW how terrifying it is.

Have they done a bone marrow aspirate yet? Perhaps she has engrafted some, but the new cells are busy fighting the infection rather than floating around in her blood stream waiting to be counted. It is possible.

It would be helpful if you could post the names of her meds. Since her neuro problems may not be caused by an infection (good thing), do they think it could be drug induced like it was for my son? If so, perhaps they can try different meds?

Consider this a long distance hug!
Colleen <BrandonMom@yahoo.com>
Herndon, v usa - Friday, November 02, 2001 at 03:12 PM (CST)

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Dear Kim family,

I am a teacher at Jacob's school-his teacher,in fact! Alexia has told me about you. I just wanted to send you my best wishes. You have been in my thoughts a lot. When my son was eighteen months old, we were told he had a degenerative bone disease. It turned out to be a misdiagnosis, but for a couple of weeks, I cried myself to sleep every night, praying for God to give it to me instead-and this situation is so much worse-I can't even imagine! I know what you're going through is the hardest thing you will ever have to face. I'm sure she's getting the best possible care, and I feel hopeful that she will get better. It sounds as though you have tremendous support, and that means so much. Stay strong.

Debbi Nichols
Debbi Nichols <debbis6@excite.com>
Bethesda, MD USA - Thursday, November 01, 2001 at 06:34 PM (CST)

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Dear Kathleen and family,

I just wanted to let you know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Take care, David


David Ledwith <dledwith@stradley.com>
Washington, DC USA - Wednesday, October 31, 2001 at 04:22 PM (CST)

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Dear Emily,Kathleen, John and Jack
Hannah and Alex pray for you every night at dinner and we will all keep on praying until you are safely well and home; then we will pray in thanks.

Diane, Frank, Hannah, Alex, Dorothy and Michael Hastings <dhastings4@aol.com>
Potomac, MD U.S. - Tuesday, October 30, 2001 at 10:21 PM (CST)

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Kathleen and John,
We were very touched reading through your journal entries yesterday, and will continue to follow Emily's progress. Cecile and I remember only too well the days and nights in the room with Christian going through many of the same medical problems before and after his transplant. We know how hard and heartbreaking it is to watch your child go through this, and are so sorry you have to. We hope with all our hearts that things turn around and go better for Emily. Please give her a hug for us. All our love - Jerry and Cecile
Jerry and Cecile Smith <jerrywsmith@hotmail.com>
Chevy Chase, MD USA - Tuesday, October 30, 2001 at 04:42 PM (CST)

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Dear Emily,
Your cousins, Maddie and Jacob, Uncle Dan and I love you so very much it's hard to even express in words! Savannah, Benji and Riley (kitties) miss you too. I think of you every moment of the day and my arms are always around you. I pray for the day we can all be together again. Life is not the same here without your sweet face and presence.
To my sister Kathleen -- I love you more than words can say and I wish I was able to make everything ok for you...I would anything to make things ok again. I am and will always be here for you.

Alexia Hwang Goldberg <alexiagoldberg@hotmail.com>
Potomac, MD USA - Tuesday, October 30, 2001 at 12:11 PM (CST)

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Kathleen, John and Emily:
Please remember this in your time of despair "Through the storm, thou shall not walk alone", Psalm 50:15.
You and your family are always in my prayer, I always pray for Emily and ask God to give her one more chance.
You are not alone, you are with us in our prayers.


An employee at USPTO
- Tuesday, October 30, 2001 at 12:04 PM (CST)

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Dear Kim Family,

"...for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." Lamentations 3:22-23
Thank you for keeping us updated on Emily's progress. Our prayers are with you...




- Monday, October 29, 2001 at 10:34 PM (CST)

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Dear Emily:

The best gift you can give to your grandma & grandpa, Mom & Dad, Jack and all your friends around the world is you to fight hard and win the battle. I never met you in person but know you are very tough and strong person to win this battle.

I often see and hear your grandma singing at Korean Catholic Church in Indianapolis. She sings beautifully and always prays for you.

My wife and I join her to pray for you healthy recovery soon.


Sung-Jae & In-Young Park <jpark@bsu.edu>
Muncie, IN USA - Monday, October 29, 2001 at 07:06 PM (CST)

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Jerry and Cecile Smith <jerrywsmith@hotmail.com>
Chevy Chase, MD USA - Monday, October 29, 2001 at 02:49 PM (CST)

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Dearest Emily and family,
We think of you constantly and pray for your well-being. Emily is so brave - she is an inspiration to all of us, especially the children.
I know it is very isolating being away in North Carolina but remember that you are not alone - your many friends everywhere are pulling for you.
Love and healing thoughts,
Maria, Lee, Alexa and Alanna Walczak
Maria Recio <mrecio@krwashington.com>
Washington, DC - Monday, October 29, 2001 at 10:27 AM (CST)

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Dear Emily, Kathleen, John and Jack,

We are thinking of you and keeping track of your progress. Keep getting better! Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Love, Joan
Joan Guilfoyle <jguilfoyle@stradley.com>
Washington, DC USA - Monday, October 29, 2001 at 07:29 AM (CST)

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the world has changed utterly since you all pulled away from the house that day. are we all so generally blessed with plenitude that it takes True Tragedy to give us the discipline to understand true priorities, how inessential most of our pet worries are? kathleen, john -- those of us who know you, whether or not you have the energy to be aware of it ( i wouldn't) are permanently changed, also, by your example of parental sacrifice and selflessness.
strength (the longest single-syllable word in the american language, by the way -- save that piece of trivia for Jeopardy)-- emanates from this journal as a blessing that could come from no other source. you are all deeply loved.
john lord <jflord@hotmail.com>
washington,d.c., - Sunday, October 28, 2001 at 11:39 AM (CST)

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Dear Emily,

I am praying for you. I just want you to know that I participated in Leukemia and Lymphoma society's Light the Night Walk in honor of you.
Good Luck.
Ram <ram@marrowminded.org >
Arlington, VA USA - Friday, October 26, 2001 at 06:53 PM (CDT)

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Just wanted you to know that we are keeping tabs on Emily's progress and that all of you are in our thoughts.
Bonnie, Lyle, Logan and Bianca Bush
- Friday, October 26, 2001 at 09:12 AM (CDT)

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My son had a BMT back in Oct 1998. He had symptoms very similar to Emily's. He kept seeing ghosts. It was terrifying. He didn't even know who I was or what his own name was. The problem turned out to be a toxic drug reactions to cyclosporin. We switched to FK506, but since it is a similar drug, we also had the same problems. We switched to CellCept and Prednisone.

Also, we had the same problems with itching. I know how heartbreaking it is too see a child thrashing in the bed at 4:00AM when they should be fast asleep. Atarax and benadryl worked well for us. The itching is likely caused by GVHD.

The good news in all of this is that today, Brandon takes no immune-suppresant drugs. The brain damage caused by the drug toxicity reversed itself over a few months. If you have any questions, or want to know more of our story, please let me know!

You can also see our webpage at
www.caringbridge.com/va/brandon
Colleen <BrandonMom@yahoo.com>
Herndon, va usa - Thursday, October 25, 2001 at 08:34 AM (CDT)

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Dear Emily, Kathleen, John and Jack: We are praying to God and all of His angels and saints - and most especially to Emily's Guardian Angel - that Emily wins her battle quickly and that you all are given the peace, health, and happiness that you all so deserve. Emily and all of you have taught us so much about courage, and we can't wait to hug each and every one of you when you come home. In the meantime, we have asked Emily's Angel to hug her and hold her for us, and we have asked Mary, the Mother of Jesus, to wrap you, Kathleen and John, in strength and hope. May God please hear your prayers and those of the so many who love you and so desperately need to hear happy news about this most courageous soldier named Emily. Our thoughts, hopes, prayers and love are with you all.
Barbara Loughran(LO 101)and Family
- Wednesday, October 24, 2001 at 10:16 AM (CDT)

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Dear Kim Family,

"The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace." Psalm 29:11
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all...

By His Grace,
A Friend

- Wednesday, October 24, 2001 at 09:11 AM (CDT)

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Dear Emily (and Kathleen, John and Jack) Nora misses you very much and we all are praying for you every day. We love your new web site because we can see you in the hospital. We'll send some pictures of Nora and the Grace 2nd graders. Love, Kate, Doug and Nora Duchelle-Smith.
Kate Duchelle <kduchelle@hotmail.com>
Silver Spring, MD USA - Tuesday, October 23, 2001 at 10:23 AM (CDT)

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Dear Emily and Family: I just wanted to say hi and let you know that all of you are in our thoughts are prayers. God bless.
Steve Verrecchia and Family <MWalt3819@aol.com>
Arlington, VA 22207 - Sunday, October 21, 2001 at 10:22 AM (CDT)

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Hi Emily, Kathleen and family,

I hope this finds you feeling better and stronger. I know this is really difficult for you and your family and it sure isn't fair, but try to keep your spirits up and get better. My family, Law Office 101 and I wish you a full and speedy recovery.
Jerry Price <Jerry.Price@uspto.gov>
Alexandria, VA USA - Friday, October 19, 2001 at 03:09 PM (CDT)

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Hi Emily and family
The 4th graders at Grace think about you lots, especially the 2 Margarets. All of our best goes out to you and we look forward to your return.
Gretchen Hirschauer (Price) <g-hirschauer@nga.gov>
Silver Spring, MD - Friday, October 19, 2001 at 02:52 PM (CDT)

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Hi Emily,
I know your mum from ALL KIDS. Just wanted to send you a great big cyber hug from Houston, Texas and let you know we are praying for you here. Hope you get to go home really soon.
Thirza Ritter (Tristan's mum) <thirza@ritterworld.com>
Houston, TX - Wednesday, October 17, 2001 at 09:59 PM (CDT)

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Hi Emily,
Just wanted to drop a little note saying how much I miss having my super scientist in class. I ordered a few extra catapillars this year just by the offhand chance someone might want one. I bet we can even keep this one alive (they will send me catapillar food, too). In the meantime, you hang in there and know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mr. Musgrove
William Musgrove <wmusgrove@prodigy.net>
Arlington, VA USA - Wednesday, October 17, 2001 at 09:07 PM (CDT)

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Dear Emily (and Kathleen, John and Jack),
Your mommy is doing a great job letting us know how you are doing. I'm so proud of you! You are a strong girl-hang in there!
Love,
Angela Wilson and Family
Angela Wilson <angela.wilson@uspto.gov>
Springfield, VA USA - Wednesday, October 17, 2001 at 07:18 AM (CDT)

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Hi Emily
Your Mom keeps us updated on the ALL-KIDS list. Our thoughts and prayers are with you to stay strong and get better! You are a *STAR* and a true CHAMPION! Keep up the good work! Love & cuddles to everyone,
Liz, Murray, Adam (ALL patient), Joshua & Bethany XXXXX
The Cruickshank family <meajbc@bigpond.com>
Melbourne, VIC. AUSTRALIA - Tuesday, October 16, 2001 at 10:04 PM (CDT)

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Emily
Lots and lots of love from our family to you and yours...Natalie and Nick say hello...take care babycakes.
love you, liz
elizabeth joslin <emjoslin@aol.com>
chevy chase, md montgomery - Monday, October 15, 2001 at 09:24 PM (CDT)

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There is a sweet girl named Emily
Who has a heart as big as the sea.
She dances on air and smiles quite a lot
And whirls though space like a spinning top.
She has fun days and tough days
And she's loved by so many
That when she needs hugs, there are plenty, just plenty!!!
She's very artistic, oh how she can draw!
The finest kid pictures that anyone saw.
Now I wish her some rest and I wish her soft keeping
while her mommy fluffs pillows
when her brother is sleeping.
So three cheers to the girl who's much brighter by far
Than the sparkliest, most gigantigest star!
We think of you when we say prayers at night
and know you'll come through this
Like a sweet bird in flight!

We send you this little poem from our home to yours at Duke
and hope the ows turn to ahhhhs very very soon.
Love from Megin Walsh Sussman and Brendan
(4th grade GEDS)

Megin Walsh Sussman <meginws@yahoo.com>
Silver Spring, Md USA - Friday, October 12, 2001 at 03:54 PM (CDT)

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Dear Kims,
We are stepping things up and sending more good thoughts and prayers your way.
Love,
The Owens family
Kitty Owens <kowens@aft.org>
Silver Spring, MD - Friday, October 12, 2001 at 03:49 PM (CDT)

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Dear Emily,(Kathleen,John and Jack)
Everyday we are asking God to make you feel better and stronger than the day before. Emily was doing the "wiggle" dance a couple of nights ago but says it is more fun to do it with you! We will continue to pray for good health for all of you.
Love,
Kitty, Tom, Emily and Riley Owens

Kitty Owens <kowens@aft.org>
Silver Spring, MD USA - Tuesday, October 09, 2001 at 09:27 AM (CDT)

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Dear Emily Kim,
We are praying for you every day. We are Emily and Riley Owens cousins in Austin TX. We know how hard this illness is on you and your family and we pray that God is watching over you and putting you in his arms each day.
Patrick, Meagan, M.E. and John Cook <mecook@austin.rr.com>
Austin, TX USA - Tuesday, October 09, 2001 at 06:40 AM (CDT)

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Dear Emily,
Our thoughts and prayers are for your recovery. We hope you feel a little better each day. You are a lucky girl to have so many people love you. God bless you, sweet one.
The Sandri family, Joe, Tina, Eva, Rachael, and baby Joseph <tsandri@aol.com>
Silver Spring, MD USA - Monday, October 08, 2001 at 10:24 PM (CDT)

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Emily, Kathleen, John, and Jack -- Zachary and I pray for all of you each night. You are frequently in our thoughts too. Our love is pouring out to you. Do you feel it? :-)
Melanie Sanchez-Jones <sanchemr@apci.com>
San Juan Capistrano, CA USA - Monday, October 08, 2001 at 10:55 AM (CDT)

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Emily my prayers are with you. Ihope you are feeling better today. I tried to get Abigail to send you a note yesterday but the web site did not allow us. Abigail send her love. She loved your web page with the pretty balloons
Maureen Stephenson <dawns@primanet.com>
Maryland, MD guyana - Sunday, October 07, 2001 at 04:53 AM (CDT)

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Hi Princess,
Hang tough and Keep your Toes Tickle-ish.

-Uncle Dan
Dan Goldberg <daniel.goldberg@ericsson.com>
Potmac, MD 20854 - Friday, October 05, 2001 at 02:41 PM (CDT)

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Hang in there, Emily!! We're thinking about you always. You are an inspiration to many, many people out there. With lots of love,
Mark and Alex Keam <amkeam@earthlink.net>
Alexandria, VA - Thursday, October 04, 2001 at 09:31 PM (CDT)

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Hi! 'Just thought I'd check in and see how things are going. I'm glad to hear that things are taking slow and steady steps towards improvement. Here is a riddle for Emily from my daughter, Joan: Q: What does a bird get when it gets sick? A: "Tweetment"
Jill Feasley <jfeasley@us.net>
Takoma Park, MD USA - Thursday, October 04, 2001 at 08:16 PM (CDT)

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- Thursday, October 04, 2001 at 07:42 PM (CDT)

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Hi Guys,
This is so exciting to be able to keep up with how everything is going. We miss you guys very much and can't wait to have you all back home. Our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love, Michael, Lisa, Joey and Johnny
The Carrs <MLJJCARR@PeoplePC.COM>
Silver Spring, MD - Thursday, October 04, 2001 at 03:51 PM (CDT)

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Dear All---
Our prayers and thoughts are with you all during this stressful time. Logan, was in Mrs. Duckett's class last year and he often talks about her. The power of prayer is a very powerful thing and we send nothing but well wishes for Emily and your family.
Bonnie, Lyle, Logan and Bianca Bush
- Thursday, October 04, 2001 at 10:37 AM (CDT)

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