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A celebration of Cora’s life will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, February 10, at Grace Community Church, 1600 S. Anderson Rd. Newton, Kansas.

Burial will follow at the Pleasant View Cemetery in rural Elbing.
In lieu of sending flowers, a memorial has been established to construct the Cora Playground, an extension of the children’s ministries department at Grace Community Church.
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  • Kasey Hunt - Praying for you and your family for strength and peace. Blessings from Michigan.ReplyCancel

  • JOY Marie's Boutique - My deepest sympathy. The prayers of our family is with you & our hearts ache for your loss! You never walk alone…let the Lord carry you.ReplyCancel

  • Melanieshea - Praying for your family during this difficult time.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - We’ve been praying for you all week – ever since we found out about Cora. Our prayers are with you now – for peace from above. Know that your little angel is always watching over you. God Bless,
    The Coueys, Benton KSReplyCancel

  • The Jones' - Prayers for you and your family from TexasReplyCancel

  • The Brack's - My husband and I would like to contribute to her memorial fund if an address or more information could be provided. Our prayers are with you.ReplyCancel

  • Mike, Chelsea and Co. - We are SO sorry and saddened to hear of your beautiful little Cora’s passing. We will continue to pray for you and your family and hope our donation helps build a play structure as beautiful as your little Cora deserves.ReplyCancel

  • Karen - Oh I LOVE THIS IDEA! What a wonderful to continue Cora’s beautiful little spirit. A playground…it’s perfect.
    Is there an address for donations? Also, an address where we might send cards?
    I have to say, I can’t sleep tonight. You have all been on my mind all day. I can’t stop my tears. I am sorry this has happened to you. Thank you for sharing Cora with us. She is just the most beautiful little baby I have ever seen.
    I walk with you today in your sorrow and although I can’t imagine the grief you are feeling at this moment, you are in my thoughts and prayers at every moment. Please know that there are so many people out here thinking of you. None of us has the right words but we do care very deeply and are hoping your days get easier.ReplyCancel

  • The Eadle Family - I am so sorry for your loss. My good friend just lost their 2 year old daughter a week ago to neuroblastoma. There are no words that can ease your pain. I am just … so sorry. You are in my prayers, and I am sure she is playing with my friends daughter up in Heaven right now.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - I will continue to pray for you and your family during this most difficult time. At a time like this what keeps coming to mind is, “The will of God will not take you where the grace of God will not protect you.” God bless you.

    I would like to contribute to Cora’s memorial fund. I think the Cora playground is a beautiful way to remember her. Is there any more information on where to contribute?ReplyCancel

  • nate - great idea for the playground.

    love you guys so much. see you tomorrow night. 🙂ReplyCancel

  • amy - I just read about your precious little girl on another blog, and want you to know I will be praying for you and your family.ReplyCancel

  • christy p - Sending you love and prayers.ReplyCancel

  • Rhonda - I will post this on my blog. Again, my sincerest condolences.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Just came across your blog and tears are falling down my checks and on to the keyboard. I pray for comfort for you and your families tonight. May God be ever present in your spirit even now, especially now. So very sorry for your loss. dgReplyCancel

  • Jen r. - My thoughts and prayers are with you. I am so sorry to hear about your beautiful little girl. God Bless.ReplyCancel

  • Whitney - Thinking of you…hurting for you…praying for you. Our deepest sympathies go out to you and your family. I know God’s arms are around you even through the deepest pain you must be enduring.ReplyCancel

  • Heather - I know you don’t know me but how I wish I lived close enough to attend. I would love to contribute to Cora’s memory, if more info was provided. I am heartbroken for you and continue to mournfully pray for you. There are no words sufficient enough to express how deeply sorry I am for your loss of sweet Cora. My heart is heavy with grief for you. I pray that the Lord will allow me to carry a part of your pain, so that you won’t have to carry the weight alone.
    Love, hugs and prayers,
    Heather~ On the HomefrontReplyCancel

  • ~Cherie - Please know that we are praying and grieving for you in Ohio. Thanks for allowing us to get to know your precious little one. She was beautiful.ReplyCancel

  • TheScrappyMama - Much love and comforting thoughts coming to your family from TN.

    I am so sorry for your loss.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - What a blessing your sweet Cora’s life has been.
    I’m so thankful for the testimony of your family during this difficult-to-understand time.
    Thank you for sharing Cora with us and for being such a light in the face of darkness!

    I cannot even begin to understand the sorrow and loss you must be feeling.
    Be comforted in God and know you WILL see your little girl whole again…ReplyCancel

  • april - Dear Mac Family-
    I don’t know you, but my heart aches for you. May the comforter be with you and hold you up.

    You are in my prayers.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - i am so very sorry for your loss. my heart breaks and tears are in my eyes as i type this. know that people are praying for you.ReplyCancel

  • Xazmin - My heart aches for you and your family. You are in my prayers. May our Savior’s love comfort and sustain you through this difficult time.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Dear Cora, today you earned your wings. Enjoy heaven, where you can play, sing, and laugh! Though you will be missed, just know that your parents will be okay. God is already sending his healing love to them. – Family in Christ, The Kalkofen from south Texas.ReplyCancel

  • Jill (Sneaky Momma) - I am heartbroken that you are having to go through this. Prayers of peace and comfort are being directed your way.
    I think Cora’s Playground will be an amazing way for you and others to honor the life of your precious little girl.ReplyCancel

  • Shoebee - May God continue to wrap his loving arms around you during this time.ReplyCancel

  • Misty Rice-Baniewicz - My heart continues to grieve. I have cried all day, and held my 10 month old daughter harder and more than ever today Im so confused and have so many answers as to the sudden change for todays shocking turn of events. I am so deeply sad and I hurt and pray for these two parents who have just had their breaths taken away and their hearts crushed. I only pray that we all truly believe in the God we say we believe and we focus on the beautiful image of a happy healed and pain free Cora dancing around like the princess she is….smiling at Jesus, because there are no tear in heaven. I pray that God help this family, and all of us to know and understand what we are to learn and do with this loss today. And that he comfort this family and truly let them know today that he loves them as he always has.

    Thank you for sharing your beautiful daughter with us. I have read through your blog from start to finish today and I cry, because she reminds me so much of my own. I fell in love with her the day I started to read your blog.

    You do not cry alone today…….

    Im sorry!

    God bless you.ReplyCancel

  • Christina - Many people probably feel this way…if I were closer I would want to be at the service. You all are about six hours north. Know that prayers continue to go up.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - You are both in my prayers – my tears have been falling for you all day, and you are on my mind constantly. God is with you and has something great planned for you. It is evident that your faith is strong. Even though we don’t know each other, you have been a blessing to me and my family. God bless…ReplyCancel

  • cynccook - In 1628 the English poet Robert Herrick wrote this for the headstone of his beloved baby daughter who died suddenly at the age of two:
    Here a pretty baby lies
    Sung asleep with lullabies:
    Pray be silent and not stir
    The easy earth that covers her.

    That little rhyme has stuck in my head all these years. We are so sorry this has happened to your family. Take comfort in one another.

    God Bless you,
    The Cooks- Mark, Cyndy, Patrick, Anna, Andrew and Jack
    Akron, OhioReplyCancel

  • nennermommy - I just can’t find find the words though my tears.I am so Torn! I am so sorry!!! My prayers are with forever!ReplyCancel

  • J. Denae - Deepest sympathies from my family.ReplyCancel

  • Ray, Megan and Ruby Denise Clark - praying for God’s peace
    praying for God’s strength
    crying out for His return
    when every tear will be wiped away
    and there will be no more sadness

    words are not adequate

    cancer took my mother from me before she ever got to be a grandmother to my baby girl. we dedicated our church nursery in her name because she was always working in the nursery. i like to think she is in Heaven’s nursery and is welcoming sweet Cora and while that is nice, I wish we could have both of them here instead.ReplyCancel

  • Those Crazy Clarks!!! - I am so sorry. I know we don’t know each other but I wish I could just put my arms around you and just offer you the smallest amount of comfort. I just found your blog this week. My heart is broken for you and your husband. We will be praying for comfort and peace for you both.
    Love,
    The ClarksReplyCancel

  • The Momma - You don’t know me, and there’s really no right words to say, but I am so sorry for your loss! I can’t even imagine.

    Praying for you and your family.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - What a beautiful idea-the playground at Grace Community Church. All the children at Grace will always remember and know about your little Cora each time they play there. What a beautiful angel that will be watching over that playground too. God bless you Macs.ReplyCancel

  • JANE - Praying for your family.ReplyCancel

  • Daniel and Angie - This is the Krebs Family (we heard about Cora through your friends Jeremy and Amy. Just want to tell you we are praying for you and so so sorry for your loss!! May Jesus be your strength and comfort in the coming days and months.

    Psalm 105:4 “Look to the Lord and His strength; seek His face always.”ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Please post an address where contributions can be made to the memorial.
    I do not know you..but I am praying for you.ReplyCancel

  • THE BILLS FAMILY - We are praying for your family to get through this difficult time and hoping that you will be comforted. We are so so sorry for your loss. Blessings from IdahoReplyCancel

  • OGLADI - Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. AmyReplyCancel

  • Lesley - Someone sent this poem to me when my baby girl passed away and it brought me comfort. Perhaps it will touch your heart as well.

    “I’ll lend you for a little while a child of Mine,” He said.
    “For you to love while she lives, and mourn for when she’s dead.
    It may be ten or eleven months, or twenty-two or three,
    But, will you, till I call her back, take care of her for ME?”
    She’ll bring her charms to gladden you, and should her stay be brief,
    You’ll have her lovely memories, as solace for your grief.

    I cannot promise she will stay, since all from earth return,
    But there are lessons taught down there, I want this child to learn.
    I’ve looked the wide world over in My search for parents true,
    And from the throngs that crown life’s lanes, I have selected YOU.
    Now, will you give her all your love, nor think the labor vain
    Nor hate Me, when I come to call, to take her back again?”

    I fancied that I heard them say “Dear Lord, Thy will be done!”
    For all the joy thy child shall bring, the risk of grief we’ll run.
    We’ll shelter her with tenderness, we’ll love her while we may,
    And for the happiness we’ve known, forever grateful stay;
    And should the angels call for her, much sooner than we’d planned,
    We’ll brave the bitter grief that comes, and try to understand.

    I pray that you hold on to your faith and know that even though you have to walk this heartbreaking path today, there is a time that you look back on Cora’s life with joy and peace. God Bless you.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - I love you all and owe so much to you. Thank you for sharing your sweet baby girl with us. My relationship with Christ has changed since I started following Cora’s story. She has changed my life, and I’m sure lots of others, too. What a legacy…

    prayers being said for the family.ReplyCancel

  • Sarah - Sending you love from Colorado. Love to you and to Cora.ReplyCancel

  • Kathy - Praying for you!ReplyCancel

  • tara @ kidz - God bless you during this time. I wish there were more I could say or do. Love and prayers for you.ReplyCancel

  • Shannon - My deepest sympathy. I am praying for you and your family. God Bless.ReplyCancel

  • jennifer - I came across your blog from another blog, Your family is in my prayers. My heart is breaking for you.ReplyCancel

  • Cathy Wilcox - My heart breaks for you. I know the Lord, Our God will continue to lead you through this wilderness. Cora is with him and as wonderful as that is I know your only wish would be to hold her. God gave you a gift to cherish, remember and care for, for her short time on earth. No one could have done it better than you. god Bless youReplyCancel

  • Martha (aka Yvette) - Prayers for you and your family, my deepest sympathy, from Southern California Chino Hills.ReplyCancel

  • The O'Grady's BLOG - This comment has been removed by the author.ReplyCancel

  • Elizabeth-Plain and Simple - My deepest sympathy for your family. Thank you for sharing your journey during this difficult time and please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.

    Blessings from Alabama
    ElizabethReplyCancel

  • Amanda@Imperfectly Beautiful - I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful angel girl. My heart is broken for you and your husband. I pray that the Lord will carry you through this dark time and minister to your broken hearts, as well. Earnest prayers are being offered for you here in Mississippi.

    Proverbs 3:5-6
    “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”ReplyCancel

  • The O'Grady's BLOG - My wife Karen & I wanted to pass on our prayers to the both of you during this time of grief…..

    We have been following the progress of Cora (via your blog) for many weeks and let you know that our hearts are aching for you and your loss.

    May God Bless you both…from New JerseyReplyCancel

  • Kristen - Praying for you and your family. I am so very sorry.

    May you feel God’s love surround you and hold you during this unimagineable time.

    hugs from ArizonaReplyCancel

  • Monica M. - May Cora rest in peace, be so thankful for you time with your precious angel! I wish I could take your pain away. Know that soon your sadness will be overcome by all the great memories you had with your amazing daughter.
    So much love, Monica and IvyReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - May God Bless You and keep You in his safe embrace. I pray that sweet angel Cora finds serenity with Jesus by her side. May your family find hope and strength in each other and in God.
    xoxo Laura
    Toronto, CanadaReplyCancel

  • Mitchell family - May the God of all peace and comfort carry you, Jess and Joel! I will continue to pray for you each morning (your night) as you grieve the loss of your darling daughter.
    In Christ’s love,
    Cathy Mitchell
    Bucharest, RomaniaReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Littel Cora has become dear to my heart. Since I heard about her, I have prayed for her and the family every day. My computer was down for a couple days until this evening. My heart dropped when I saw she has passed on; we must continue to have faith that God knows what He is doing.You now have your own special angel watching over you. I pray God gives you great comfort and peace knowing she is in the arms of Jesus.

    The Browns, Lincoln NEReplyCancel

  • Eryn - Lifting your sweet family up to the Lord. I am so so sorry for your loss.ReplyCancel

  • bri - I found you via a comment left on MckMama’s blog (mycharmingkids.net) and I just had to let you know how sorry I am for your terrible loss. It’s unimaginable and while there is nothing none of us can say that will help all that much, please know that there are complete strangers that care. I am praying for your family!!ReplyCancel

  • Donna C - Jess and Joel, my heart is so full for you both…for your extended family also… We lost our second son a week and a day before his 2nd b’day several years ago. I hope you both will continue to cling hard to the Lord and to each other. Men & women grieve differently and we have to allow that in our beloved, but we also have to cling together as this is a very hard storm for any marriage to withstand. With Jesus it’s a storm and a journey I’d never have anyone have to walk through, but with Jesus, it is surmountable. Anyway, I’m a stranger and I only heard of Cora’s life today and I still grieve for you both. We will be praying for you for the coming days and months of “fog” and for “joy to be found in the morning”…
    In Him,
    Donna C
    http://donnac.com/index_bio.htm
    (our story)ReplyCancel

  • Heather - We are praying for your family during this very difficult time. What a beautiful idea to carry on your daughter’s spirit and memory in a playground.

    The Leggetts
    Mulvane, KSReplyCancel

  • Casey's trio - I am so sorry for the loss of your baby girl. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.ReplyCancel

  • Al's World - You have been heavy on my heart and I am praying hourly for you. I have been following your blog since the beginning of all this, and have been touched by your love and commitment to Christ. Thank you for sharing His love during this horrific time. I lost my mom and have asked why, which I am sure you are doing. It sounds like you have a wonderful support group, and of course have the most wonderful support of all: Jesus. I am deeply committed to you all and to praying for you all right now and are putting you at your Savior’s feet. Golly..Cora has seen Jesus..amazing.ReplyCancel

  • SherryBee - My heart cries with you….
    I have no words….only a Chrisian love, from a stranger in Arizona.
    God Bless you all…ReplyCancel

  • Cynthia - May God hold you all in the palm of his hand. I am so sorry he has asked you to endure the loss of your sweet daughter. That has to be the hardest possible thing for any parent. I’m so very sorry.ReplyCancel

  • Melissa - I am so extremely heartbroken to hear of your loss.

    I will be praying for comfort for you in the coming days and months.

    Words escape me.ReplyCancel

  • mama's smitten - My deepest sympathy. Prayers for you and your family.ReplyCancel

  • Karen - This comment has been removed by the author.ReplyCancel

  • Karen - Joel and Jess – You don’t know me, but I used to attend GCC. I found out about your situation thru some friends that I have that still attend there, and have been praying for you and your family. I know what it is like to lose a child, and pray that God will give you the strength you need during these times. May God be a blessing thru Cora’s life at the ceremony today. May He also use Cora’s life to be a blessing to those around you and to those who might attend the ceremony that need Jesus. We will be praying for HIS will to be done!

    In Christ,
    KarenReplyCancel

  • Team Martins - Oh Dear Father… I don’t even know what to say other than I just stumbled upon this blog… tears are streaming down my face and my heart goes out to you in every way. May He hold you, may He carry you, may your strength come from Him alone. There are no words, but please know my family will remember you in our prayers!!!!ReplyCancel

  • zobars - I am so sorry for your loss. I came here thru Thrifty decor chick’s blog. this is something that no parent should ever have to go thru. i hope GOD gives you the courage and strength in such a difficult time. Prayers from our family to yours.ReplyCancel

  • Eva - our love for Cora will continue on in everything we do and see.

    please, if you feel you need anything included in our prayers, do write about it, everyone will help.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Below is the website for the McClenahans’ church.
    They may be able to help direct those wanting to give. They have contact info on the website.

    http://www.gcc-online.orgReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - I am so sorry! I don’t know you but we have a mutual friend who let us know about Cora through our Sunday School class. My heart breaks for you.

    Two things I wanted you to know. One, that your blog has been a blessing to me, your faith ever present and obvious to all, these verses came to my mind as I read your blog, from Psalm 42. Verse 11, “Why are you downcast, oh my soul? Why so disturbed wihin me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my savior and my God!” and verse 8, “By day the Lord directs his love, at night his song is with me, a prayer to the God of my life.”

    You have shown such strength, praising God through all your struggles, putting your hope in him and trusting him even through something as awful as this, it has been a strong witness to everyone who comes across you. I pray now that by day God would pour out his unfailing love on you and hold you through each night with his song.

    I also wanted to share an experience of mine with you, maybe it will help you a little. When I was five I woke up one night to find that my room was full of light. It was not sun light or electric light from a bulb, there were no shadows though I could see that it was brighter still outside. Even though the whole house was full of this light my little brother lay sleeping soundly in the bunk below mine and when I went to my parents’ room they were also deeply asleep. I decided to go outside to see where all the light was coming from. I stood for a moment on our porch and didn’t see anything unusual and then I felt propeled forward and I went to the edge of our yard where there was a fence and on the other side of that, a pasture with a valley and one lone tree. I climbed under the fence as I stood up I saw Jesus standing at the bottom of the hill beside the tree and he smilled and streched out his arms to me. My heart lept with joy and I ran down the hill into his arms and he threw me up and swung me around before hugging me close and setteling me on his lap. I don’t know how much time I spent there with him, it felt like a long time and we talked together though I don’t remember what we talked about. I just remember that I felt completely happy, completely loved, completely understood and fully known. After a long time Jesus told me that it was time to go back. I didn’t want to go and asked why I couldn’t stay with him and he told me that it wasn’t time for me to stay with him yet and that I had a mother and father and little brother who would be waking up soon and would be very sad if I was not there. I asked please could I please stay with him and he said no, it was time for me to go back to my family before they woke up. I got down from his lap after another hug and started trudging up the hill, very consiously trying to look as sad as I possibly could so that maybe he would feel sorry for me and let me stay. Then he called my name and I whirled around hoping it had worked! Instead he simply said, “Laura, I love you, and remember you can always talk to me in prayer.” I remember walking back up to the house and climbing into bed and the next morning I told my mom the whole story and she wrote it down for me in a journal she kept. Through out my life the memory of that night has carried me and given me strength. I can still remember what it felt like to be held in his arms. I hope that my story gives you some comfort, and I pray that you can also feel his arms surrounding you and know that your little girl is safe in his loving arms as well. I can only imagine the pain of not being able to hold her yourself.

    My prayers are with you.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Thank you for sharing your beautiful Cora with me. Your strong love and faith in God is an inspiration to me. May God keep you close and comfort you in this extremely difficult time.ReplyCancel

  • Jana - I have been following your blog for the last two weeks and have been thinking about you and praying for you guys since I first heard about Cora. My heart is broken for you. My son was born on the same day as Cora and I can’t even begin to imagine what you are going through. May you find peace in Christ’s love and knowing that she is with Him now! Praying for you in Indoneisa.ReplyCancel

  • Cassie - I’m sending you my prayers and may God bless you and your family with love, support and comfort that you need the most. YoungReplyCancel

  • Back in the Day - I will keep your family in my thoughts and prayersReplyCancel

  • bikim - from Portugal my thoughts are with you. I have a baby girl same age as cora … just wish I could hug you …ReplyCancel

  • One happy dot - I pray for you…I pray and hope that you will find the courage to go on. Please do not give up on each other…
    Irini-GreeceReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - May you find comfort in knowing that Cora is in the presence of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. May our Lord wrap his loving arms around you and comfort you both as only He can.ReplyCancel

  • jenny - I have been following your blog recently and was so sad to here your news yesterday. I know Cora is dancing with Jesus but that she will be sorely missed here on earth. Here is a quote I hope will encourage you …
    “Clearly, accomplishment in life cannot be measured in terms of years alone. It often happens that those that die young have accomplished more than others who live to old age. Even infants, who sometimes have been with their parents only a few days, or even hours, may leave profound influences that change the entire course of the life of the family. And undoubtedly, from the Divine viewpoint, the specific purpose for which they were sent into the world was accomplished. It is our right neither to take life prematurely, nor to insist on its extension beyond the mark that God has set for it.”
    love justina nd jenny – Cape Town, South AfricaReplyCancel

  • Michele - My prayers are with your family to give you strength during this very difficult time. I know what you are going through and no parent should ever have to feel this pain. God bless you and know that your little Cora is playing in Heaven with my little Nick. God bless you all.ReplyCancel

  • Tracy - Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
    Tracy in AlabamaReplyCancel

  • Chris - What a wonderful way to celebrate Cora with a playground.
    I am thinking of you today and sending you my love .
    Chris
    CanadaReplyCancel

  • Chris - “How very softly you tiptoed into our world. Only a moment you stayed. But what an imprint you have left on our hearts.”ReplyCancel

  • Crystal - Your an amazing family and we are all praying for your healing and blessed to have known cora..she will forever me in our hearts.ReplyCancel

  • Liz - Thank you for sharing your sweet, beautiful Cora with us. Words cannot express how deeply sad I am to hear of her passing. I pray that you can feel the arms of God surrounding you and that His peace fills your heart. Blessings to you from Minnesota.ReplyCancel

  • Sue - I just found your blog through another one and have read back since you first found out about Cora’s illness. I can’t believe how quickly this was…My heart breaks for you and there is nothing I can do but pray. I know from reading that your faith is strong and it will be God who WILL supply all your needs. We are praying for you in Alabama.ReplyCancel

  • Queen B. - We are so sorry for your loss.
    Please know we are praying for you and your family.ReplyCancel

  • Davis Family Blog - Oh how my heart breaks for you and your family – all my thoughts and prayers!

    LindaReplyCancel

  • Beav's Wife - my heart is aching for you right now. you and your precious family are in my thoughts and prayers. sending you hugs and much love, jennyReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - We do not know your family personally, but our hearts goes out to you in this difficult time. Please know that you are not alone in this…God will be with you throughout and help you get through this difficult time.ReplyCancel

  • Joanne (The Simple Wife) - Love and prayers…ReplyCancel

  • Heather C - Praying you all through this week. May the Lord comfort and keep you as you continue to place your trust in Him.ReplyCancel

  • Mommy2QTPies - Your daughter’s story has just touched my heart in so many ways. Please let us readers know where we can send a donation as well. I have hugged my children extra hard this morning and will continue to pray for your family in this time of loss.

    Raeanne in IndianaReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - I am so sorry for your loss.
    Condolences from Perth, Australia.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - so so sorry for your loss.ReplyCancel

  • Staci - I am so sorry for your loss. I will be praying for your family.ReplyCancel

  • melanie - I am so sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you. May you feel God’s presence and love today.ReplyCancel

  • My Trendy Tykes - I am praying for you and your family.

    ((Hugs))

    Linda @ My Trendy TykesReplyCancel

  • Roxy - I lift my prayers and STRENGTH up for you! May you hold on to GOD and know she’s in HEAVEN waiting for you…at peace, no pain, and in the arms of JEsus.

    HUGS!!!ReplyCancel

  • Megan (mommyesquire) - There are just no words…
    Praying for in this most difficult time.ReplyCancel

  • PamperingBeki - We love you guys.

    If there’s anything we can do to help, please let us know.ReplyCancel

  • Scarlet O'Kara - Please let me know where I can send a donation for Cora’s Playground…I also want to share this information on my blog…

    My prayers are still with you, as well as with Cora who is now a beautiful angel.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - I don’t pretend to think that even all our comments will offer you any comfort, but we have been praying for you for the past month and will continue to do so.

    We will be at sweet Cora’s service in spirit.

    Your sister in Christ in North CarolinaReplyCancel

  • Jenkins - I do not know your family, just seen you on other’s blogs, asking for prayer.
    No words ever feel appropriate, no bits of wisdom seem to be enough…
    We are praying for you.
    Praying for you to find comfort in our heavenly Father.
    CarrieReplyCancel

  • ashley - i only learned of sweet cora and your beautiful family last week through angie’s blog, but upon reading your stories i instantly felt a connection with you all and began praying round the clock for each of you. my daughter is exactly 39 minutes younger than cora and as soon as i saw cora’s picture a week ago, i knew that she and reece were nearly the same age–it wasn’t until today when i looked back through your posts that i figured out exactly how close in age they are. i also grew up in kansas and lived my favorite childhood years in wichita. i want you to know that i will lift you up in prayer every day to our dear savior, who alone knows why calling lovely little cora to him seemingly early fits perfectly into his sovereign plan. may he heal your wounds and carry you as you grieve.ReplyCancel

  • Audrey - I am so sorry for the loss of you precious daughter. My family is praying for you and yours during this time and the days, weeks and months to come. We lost our only son at birth, almost 6 years ago. There is a book that brought us much comfort. It is called “Safe in the arms of God,” by John Macarthur.ReplyCancel

  • The DiVito's - I came across your blog a little over a week ago. I have been praying for your family ever since then. I have posted a piece of your story on my blog http://www.mmdivito.blogspot.com and just wanted you to know, that my family and friends in south Florida are praying for you too.ReplyCancel

  • Amanda - Words cannot begin to express how sad we are for your loss. But what a beautiful way to remember Cora. We will most definitely be continuing to pray for your family and Sweet Cora.
    The Reeds in ArkansasReplyCancel

  • Cindy - There are no words that I can utter that will bring you the comfort and the peace you probably depserately need, but I can pray and ask God for speed in bringing healing. Your daughter was a gorgeous delightful spirit and she is thankfully in Gods hands and is now “all better”. My heart and prayers go out to you.ReplyCancel

  • Oliver's - Praying for you and your family from Shawnee, Ok. God Bless each and every one of you.ReplyCancel

  • Tara - Praying for you today as you prepare your hearts for tomorrow. I cannot imagine what you must be going through. May the Lord bring indescribable comfort and peace to you today dear ones!ReplyCancel

  • amy - I am so very sorry. I have been through this when we lost our little one at 15 months and there is nothing I can say to make it easier for you,nothing to take away the pain.Your beautiful little Cora touched so may lives, so many hearts, thank you for sharing her with us.If you need someone to talk to,please contact me.dadjz1969@gmail.com.ReplyCancel

  • La Familia Garcia - Celebrating Cora’s life with you and the many lives she touched. Thankyou for using this as a testimoney for the Lord. My the God of Peace surround you with his presence during this time.

    ((Virginia))ReplyCancel

  • kelly - I am completely heartbroken about the loss of Cora. Thank you for sharing her life with us all. And thank you for being an encouragement to all who come across your blog, your faithfulness in Jesus Christ will not be forgotten. Your family is so special, I can’t wait to meet Cora in heaven.ReplyCancel

  • Kelly Preece - Praying for you and your family. A friend came across your site, and has solicited prayer from our church family for you. Know that many in the family of Christ are lifting you up today. Our hearts break for your loss. Praying for strength and the intimate presence of our Father to comfort you today.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - My heart hurts for you. I have been reading your blog for just a few weeks, but what an impact it has had around the world! May you find strength and comfort at this time.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - I Will Carry You –
    There were photographs I wanted to take
    Things I wanted to show you
    Sing sweet lullabies, wipe your teary eyes
    Who could love you like this?

    People say I’m brave, but I’m not
    Truth is I’m barely hanging on
    But there’s a greater story
    Written long before me
    Because He loves you like this

    So I will carry you
    While your heart beats here
    Long beyond the empty cradle
    Through the coming years
    I will carry you
    All my life
    And I will praise the One whose chosen me
    To carry you

    Such a short time
    Such a long road
    All this madness
    But I know
    That the silence
    Has brought me to His voice
    And He says…..

    I’ve shown her photographs of time beginning
    Walked her through the parted seas
    Angel lullabies, no more teary eyes
    Who would love her like this?

    I will carry you
    While your heart beats here
    Long beyond the empty cradle
    Through the coming years
    I will carry you
    All your life
    And I will praise the One whose chosen Me
    To carry you

    I write this today with a heavy heart. I can’t imagine your pain, but you are still in my prayers as you have been since hearing about Cora. God be with you and all your families during this time.ReplyCancel

  • rosemarie - my deepest sympathy to the family..my heart goes out to you.such a sad time ,but god will give you the strength .im so sorry for your loss..may god bless you and your family…ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - You don’t know me, but I have been praying for baby Cora since I heard about her. My heart is heavy today. God bless you and your sweet baby in heaven.
    My deepest sympathy,
    Adri Miami, FlReplyCancel

  • Anja - We are praying for you over here in Germany!ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Phil 4:7

    I pray for you, peace & comfort to be found in the palms of His hands. May the Lord bless you & keep you close, always.

    Destin, FloridaReplyCancel

  • tidymom - My deepest sympanty.
    My heart aches for your loss.
    Praying for your family.

    ~TidyMomReplyCancel

  • That Girl Designs - “When we have done all the work we were sent to Earth to do, we are allowed to shed our body, which imprisons our soul like a cocoon encloses the future butterfly.
    And when the time is right, we can let go of it and we will be free of pain, free of fears and worries… free as a very beautiful butterfly, returning home to God.”

    -From a letter Elisabeth Kubler-Ross wrote to a child with cancer.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - I would love some more information on how to contribute. Your story made it’s way to Canada, is there some way I can contribute via. PayPal? The idea of a playground for Cora makes me smile.ReplyCancel

  • Anne - You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Sending love from New York City.ReplyCancel

  • Tammie - I am so sorry, I just read your story as my sister in law put it on her blog to pray for you – tears just made trails as i went through your back logs and see the short deep journey you covered the the preceding weeks…my heart breaks for you. I will be praying for you all. a fellow blogger and sister in Jesus….ReplyCancel

  • CntryMomma - So deeply sorry for the loss of your beautiful little girl. May God lead you through this valley until that wonderful day you are reunited with her again.

    LORIReplyCancel

  • Lynn and family - My thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time. I know God’s strength will carry you.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Joel and Jess,

    Such happy pictures in your blog of Cora. I loved all her facial expressions especially the one when she is in the sink/tub. Precious!! The other thing I noticed was that Cora had a special blanket from back in the beginning of the blog and then comforted her at the hospital.

    My prayer for you is that you would remember that blanket of cover and protection is around you as well. You are covered in prayers and by the Master’s Hand.

    Thank you for sharing Cora’s story and her life. I will continue praying for your amazing family.

    Erica in CA
    Friend of Brice and HeidiReplyCancel

  • J'Ollie Primitives - Our deepest sympathy for your family. Thank you for sharing during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

    Blessings from OhioReplyCancel

  • Kate The Great - Hello – found your blog through a link on twitter.

    I cannot read your story, as I lost my seven-month-old niece last May after she fought for two months with five heart defects. It was far to difficult an experience to watch my Maeve pass, and then watch my sister and b-i-l pick up the pieces after she went to Heaven.

    We are a tight family and have held together to wait for the pain to soften. You all and your beautiful angel Cora are in my prayers.ReplyCancel

  • Polka Dot Moon - Beautiful Cora has touched so many lives and will always be in our hearts. May you find peace and comfort during this difficult time.
    The Nagle FamilyReplyCancel

  • Erin - I am so sorry for your loss. Your family will continue to be in our prayers. Thanks for sharing your little girl with us.ReplyCancel

  • Laura - Praying….ReplyCancel

  • Beth - Praying for your family. I cannot seem to read enough about your precious daughter. My heart aches for you, but am encouraged as a fellow Christian that you know Jesus, how could you make it through the day without Him? Though I do not you know, you are being prayed for.

    Beth
    Phenix City, ALReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - My heart is aching right now for you..I have 6 babies in Heaven(due to miscarriage),and I feel deeply for you…You should check out Bring the Rain(blog)..it is an incredible story close to yours,it is very encouraging…also the song Glory Baby by Watermark was so healing to me…you are in my prayers.ReplyCancel

  • ml - You don’t know me, but I have been following your blog for a while and praying daily for Cora and your family. Your little girl has touched my heart deeply and your family is in my prayers.ReplyCancel

  • Miriam - Tears are streaming down my cheeks from hearing this news. I know Cora is with Jesus and what could be better? But I also know she will be deeply and sorely missed here on earth. What a sweet, precious, and beautiful little girl. No wonder heaven wanted her back so soon! My prayers are with you.ReplyCancel

  • Jaky Astik - praying for you. May love spread it’s shine on your family again. God Bless.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - My sympathy to Cora’s family. I’ve been following your blog since Heidi B. sent an e-mail asking for prayers. What a beautiful girl. You were blessed for almost a year with an amazing little lady.

    For those looking to donate to the playground fund, a quick Google search took me to the church’s website:

    http://www.gcc-online.org/

    This site was also set up for the family and it can accept PayPal (as someone asked):

    http://corapaige.blogspot.com:80/ReplyCancel

  • Cristy - Still praying today Jess. What a beautiful little angel Cora is. I wish I could take this pain away.

    Many hugs and love……

    Cristy Harder and familyReplyCancel

  • tanya - My prayers are with you from Louisiana.ReplyCancel

  • Starsnrose - I am so deeply sorry for your loss. I’ve walked this path and it isn’t easy, but God has carried me through and I know He will do the same for you. He never fails. There are so many people who truly do care. Allow them to love on you during this time and beyond. Cora is safe now. I will continue to pray for peace for you.ReplyCancel

  • mommaof4wife2r - praying….stillReplyCancel

  • Jerzeyjeep - Cora and your family are in my thoughts and prayers!ReplyCancel

  • Don, Aimee, Kaitlyn and Kysen - I found your blog through another blog that I read and my heart sank to the pit of my stomach! I know that you do not know me, but I am a mother of two and I stopped what I was doing after reading this and I prayed….I prayed that God would hold you in his arms during this time of sadness. I will continue to pray for your family.ReplyCancel

  • Irene Joy - I am so so sorry. I can’t imagine the heart break. You are in my prayers.ReplyCancel

  • Tammy - Little girl your father loves,
    much more than we can know.
    Little girl your mommy misses,
    will the tears every stop their flow.
    Little Girl, in your Father’s arms,
    you’re missed oh, so much.
    Little girl, your perfect now,
    but your parents long to touch.
    Little girl, bend your ear,
    to Jesus as he prays.
    “Father send your comfort down,
    help mommy through this day”.
    Little Girl, time so short,
    the world never knew you were here.
    Little Girl, we do now,
    and your memories we’ll hold dear.
    Little Girl, safe and warm,
    rest in God’s strong embrace.
    Little girl, some day soon,
    mommy and daddy will again kiss your face.

    Fellow mommy in ChristReplyCancel

  • T- - Your entire family is in my prayers. You have my heartfelt sympathy and my thoughts and prayers for peace and healing.ReplyCancel

  • Sarah - I have been watching your blog for over a week now and my heart just broke in half when I say that your sweet little Cora had passed away. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in this difficult time.

    — Prayers from NebraskaReplyCancel

  • Allison - You have my prayers and love during this difficult time.ReplyCancel

  • Lisa - I am so sorry.ReplyCancel

  • Fijufic - My best to you and those you love.

    Mercy is something so very difficult to understand.

    She will always be with you.

    BobbyReplyCancel

  • Angela W - Sending my prayers from Oklahoma to your family. May you have strength to make it through.ReplyCancel

  • ashjer - My heart breaks for you and your family. A playgraound is a perfect idea to continue the memory of Sweet baby Cora. Your family is in my prayers.
    God BlessReplyCancel

  • Courtney - Jess and Joel thank you so much for sharing your sweet baby Cora with all of us. Here is a poem that was read at our son Dylan’s funeral.
    Little one, little one,
    Where have you gone?
    Your going has darkened the brightest dawn.
    Why did you leave us so soon, so soon?
    Where can we look for you?
    Over the moon?
    On butterflies’ wings?
    In the heart of a rose?
    Who knows, who knows?
    Where a little one goes.

    Where I have gone,
    I am not so small.
    My soul is as wide
    As the world is tall.
    I have gone to answer
    The call, the call
    of the one who takes
    care of us all.
    Wherever you look,
    You will find me there-
    In the heart of a rose,
    In the heart of a prayer.
    On butterflies’ wings,
    On wings of my own,
    To you I’m gone,
    But I’m never alone-
    I’m over the moon.
    I AM HOME.

    I also would like to tell you about a song by Steven Curtis Chapman called “With Hope” this was also played for Dylan and we have found so much comfort in it.

    Keep your faith and know that God will carry you during this time and always remember that Cora is safe in the arms of Jesus.

    Love In Christ-
    Kelly, Courtney, Dakota, Madylan and Lilliah Mayfield
    In loving memory of our sweet baby boy Dylan and your sweet baby girl Cora. I’m sure that they are playing on the playground in Heaven together.
    We also had a playground dedicated in Dylan’s memory at our church Hope Community Church in Andover.ReplyCancel

  • Michelle Tucker - I am praying for God to wrap his comforting arms around you and lift you up at this incredibly difficult time. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family.
    The Tuckers, Cheney KSReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - We are praying for your entire family. I wish words could ease your pain!! We will pray for you in the days to come. May God wrap His arms around you.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Praying for you and family during this diffcult time. Let the Lord be with you all.ReplyCancel

  • Falling Around - Praying His peace & comfort will bring you strength for today, and every day to come.

    My sincere love and prayers are with you.

    ChristyReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - May you receive comfort from God in this time of mourning. He will lead you by still waters, and hide you in the shadow of His wings. Please know that I am praying for you and your family and please accept my sympathy.ReplyCancel

  • Katie - Your family & sweet little baby are in my prayers.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - prayers and tears are flowing for you and Baby Cora. I can’t imagine the pain and loss you are feeling right now. I am so sorry.ReplyCancel

  • MyLinda - I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. ((Hugs))ReplyCancel

  • Beth - I’m so sorry; I’ve been praying since a friend from Gentle Christian Mother’s asked for prayer. I am confident that Cora was welcomed into the loving arms of Jesus and all the other little ones of heaven (like my daughter Hadassah) were there to offer her love and hugs.ReplyCancel

  • Micki - I hurt for you!…and ask God to wrap His healing arms around you and speak peace into your hearts.ReplyCancel

  • Country-Girl - I too came across your journal via another. I wish I knew the right things to say to make things better, a little easier on you. Please know you are being thought of, and many prayers are being sent your way! Big huge hugs!!!!

    P.S. I really like the playground idea, what a great way to keep her legacy!ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - I had never been to your blog before today. I saw a request for prayers for your family at another blog that I had never been to before today. I was truly saddened to discover that your family was going through this devastating experience.

    To say one is sorry for what you are going through is not adequate to capture the essence of the sadness even a stranger can feel for the heartache that you are all experiencing.

    I left a comment on a previous post earlier, but I came back to your blog to better get to know your family and the circumstances leading up to this post. I read with a heavy heart through misty eyes.

    I know that there really isn’t anything anyone can say that will take away the pain and the burden on your hearts right now. Time will heal some of the pain, but it won’t move quickly enough, and sometimes it will seem as though it moved too fast.

    What I came away with in reading through many of your earlier entries and the chronicle of special moments in the life of the sweet little person who blessed your life, was that she brought a lot of joy to your lives and to your extended family too. She was and is a much-loved little girl. The love is still there and always will be. What a special gift she was to you!

    Although you didn’t get to spend nearly as much time with Cora as you wanted or expected, you all packed a lot into the time that you had with her (I know adults who have never flown on an airplane yet, and she did so she could go shopping!), and she was such a happy little girl! It is clearly evident that she was loved very much by your whole family. The value of being loved through your whole life cannot be overstated, and Cora had that, and she she loved all of you too.

    In the days ahead as you adjust to the new, unplanned, and unwanted changes in your lives, try not to close yourselves off entirely in your grief. Let people help you, and cling to each other. You will make it through this.

    I will be praying for you and your family to be strengthened and comforted, and I pray that you will find joy in the midst of your grief as you remember cute and silly moments with your little Cora.

    God bless you and keep you.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - I have no words…only deep sorrow for your precious family. Such a beautiful child…I loved her smile. And to be taken from you at such a young age. She looks to be about the same age as my son and…oh, I just don’t want to go there. My heart is aching for you and your family and I pray fervently that God gives you strength to get through the seconds, minutes, and hours ahead…each of which will seem like an eternity, but yet, not quick enough until you can see your precious baby again. I am so sorry for your family – and know that only God will be enough to bring you comfort during such a trying time.

    Praying for you.ReplyCancel

  • The O'Donoghues - You do not know me but I’ve been following your blog. I just heard the news that your baby is now with God. I am sitting here at work with tears in my eyes, I am so sad & hope that God pulls you through this very difficult time. I pray for you and your family.ReplyCancel

  • Megan Noel - Oh dear ones….I wish I could hug you both. May God bring you moments of rest on this tiring road of grief.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - My prayers are with you. Bless your whole family. With Love from MinnesotaReplyCancel

  • Team Clechenko - I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I’ve been keeping Cora and your family in my thoughts. Be strong and know that she is in a wonderful place smiling down on you.ReplyCancel

  • Jonalie Comeau - Joel and Jess, I cry with you. I’ve not met you, but as you sister in the Lord, my heart aches for you. I am thankful we find comfort that Cora is with Jesus. I’ll be praying for you over these weeks/months…. You will know His strength and comfort.ReplyCancel

  • Amy - Prayers of peace and comfort coming your way.ReplyCancel

  • Callista - I just saw the news… and I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers go out to you. Blessings from Washington.ReplyCancel

  • Tom and Mira Ehrlich - I wanted to express how very sad I am for you both. I wish that I could give you comfort that I am sure you need right now. You all have been so heavy in my prayers, and I just want you to know that. Tom and I have been through some of that ourselves, and would love to support you when you are ready. Cora will forever have an impact on this world, and I know that God is going to use her precious life to glorify His kindgom.ReplyCancel

  • Frugal Jen - Praying for your family, words cannot express my saddness for your family.ReplyCancel

  • trish - my prayers are with you and your family-
    TrishReplyCancel

  • Mike and Felisha - Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your sweet family in these hard times!! With love from Salt Lake City UtahReplyCancel

  • Amy - I am a pregnant mom with two girls and coming acroos your blog today just left me sobbing. The pictures of your sweet beautiful angel were too much to bear. Your faith in God is inspiring, you’ve touched many people. I will continue to pray for you and wonder WHY??? She is a sweet angel…ReplyCancel

  • Katie Spaulding - God bless you and comfort you in this time. I only heard about Cora today through another family battling Neuroblastoma. What a precious child.
    Your family is in my prayers.

    ~Tanner’s Aunt Katie
    http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/tannereversReplyCancel

  • Ryan - we are friends of gina dreher as well as in their church small group…just want you to know that we are praying & thinking of your family at this time…

    ryan&melinda morrisReplyCancel

  • Aggie - My deepest sympathies and prayers are with you…ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - So sorry.ReplyCancel

  • The Harris Family - You don’t know me, I found your blog through Darby and Jennie-Marie’s links. I wanted to tell you that I’m heart broken by your loss, we have an 18 month old daughter and I can only imagine your pain. You should know that your Christian faith and love have shown through this blog during your tough time and many will be inspired by your story! Have Faith! Many Prayers!ReplyCancel

  • Carey in Colorado - This song was played at the funeral of my friend who lost their sweet baby girl as well. I pray that you feel “Held” during this difficult time.

    Held
    Natalie Grant

    Two months is too little
    They let him go
    They had no sudden healing
    To think that providence would, take a child from his mother while she prays, is appalling
    Who told us we’d be rescued?
    What has changed and why should we be saved from nightmares?
    We’re asking why this happens to us who have died to live, it’s unfair.

    This is what it means to be held, how it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life and you survive.
    This is what it is to be loved, and to know that the promise was that when everything fell we’d be held.
    This hand is bitterness, we want to taste it and let the hatred numb our sorrows.
    The wise hand opens slowly to lilies of the valley and tomorrow.
    This is what it means to be held.
    How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life, and you survive .
    This is what it is to be loved and to know that the promise was that when everything fell we’d be held.

    If hope if born of suffering – If this is only the beginning
    Can we not wait, for one hour watching for our Savior .
    This is what it means to be held
    How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life and you survive
    This is what it is to be loved and to know that the promise was that when everything fell

    We’d be heldReplyCancel

  • scrappysue - so sorry for your loss. she’s beautifulReplyCancel

  • Falling Around - This comment has been removed by the author.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - My words are insufficient to fill your empty arms. God chose the best parents for Cora.ReplyCancel

  • MuseSwings - May God bless and place his hands on Cora’s beautiful and loving family and give you the strength to step into each new day without Cora.ReplyCancel

  • Natalie in NJ - I just went through and looked back at your blog. My daughter was born 6 days before your beautiful Cora, which makes it so heartbreaking, which doesn’t even really begin to describe how I feel for you, to go through and see all the joy and happiness she brought to you in her 11 months, how close it hit to home for me. To have something so wonderful and precious taken from you so suddenly, I can not even begin to express my sorrow for you. I will pray for you and your sweet angel every day.ReplyCancel

  • Rachel - I am new to this blog, but wanted to tell you how truely sorry I am for your loss of your beautiful Cora.

    She was a fighter and was so beautiful in doing so.

    My thoughts and prayers are with you while you try to struggle through this very difficult time.

    Rachel
    luvfor9@gmail.com
    lovefor9.blogspot.comReplyCancel

  • Laura - My heart just breaks for your family. Thankful that Cora is healthy and whole in the arms of Jesus.

    I am (blogger) friends with Darby Stickler and read whatever regularly. Saturday afternoon I was rocking my 1 year old, and was overwhelmed with the need to pray for Cora and you guys. Just wanted you to know. I will continue to pray.ReplyCancel

  • Heather - My heartfelt sympathies. Your family is in my prayers.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Friends you don’t even know will be praying for your family.

    Sally in NCReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - I am a Berean grad of 1990…and my heart is broken for all of you. I have a one year old girl, and I have no words to say. Only prayers of comfort for you all. May God be with you, wrapping His arms around each of you during these days. Your family will remain in my thoughts and prayers. The playground is an incredible idea; bless you.
    Danielle Shore GravesReplyCancel

  • Chelsea P. - I just came to your blog today. I know I am too late to pray for Cora- she’s already been healed. But I will be praying for you two. I read back through your posts and cried. We almost lost our little girl a little over a year ago and my heart went right back to that place… I wish I understood God’s purpose in healing some and taking others home so quickly. You are in my prayers as you miss your baby. For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jer. 29:11
    I’m so sorry.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Oh, Joel and Jess, no words are good enough right now. I’m glad I got to meet sweet Cora.
    We are praying for you!
    love,
    ricky & kristenReplyCancel

  • Sandra Homolka - I am so sorry to hear of your loss, I just recently found out. My heart goes out to you. We know from personal experience how painful the loss of a child is. Fortunately, our baby did not have to suffer as it appears Cora did. Now she is in a perfect place with no more pain. May God hold her, you and your family close until the pain subsides. You will all be in my prayers. Jerry and Sandra Homolka Chambers NEReplyCancel

  • Carin - My prayers to you and your family. I know no words can comfort you but my hope is the Comforter will be with you during this difficult time.ReplyCancel

  • The Fabulous Side of Me - Lifting up lots of prayers for you and your family.ReplyCancel

  • DeLand - My heart hurts for you, having read through your courageous journey. Thank God you are anchored to the Rock. Don’t forget, all the verses and all the things you wrote about our God ARE TRUE! Our prayers are with you – DeLand & Carrie ShoreReplyCancel

  • Halfmoon Girl - I too, am a brand new visitor here- I came from another blog. I pray that you will feel yourself held in the hands of the God of all comfort during this unimaginably hard time.ReplyCancel

  • DC Urban Dad - I found you guys through another blog. My thoughts and prayers are with you.ReplyCancel

  • Nottingham and Sympson Families - We are all praying for you, we are so sorry for your loss. May GOD bring you peace in your time of sorrow. Love Ashley Nottingham and Rodney Wren Jr, and Reagan, Harold, Ethan and Madison Sympson.ReplyCancel

  • Laurel and Justin - I can’t imagine what you are going through. I hope that your faith in God brings you strength and a knowledge that he is taking care of your little girl until you can be with her again. Love and Prayers from Utah.ReplyCancel

  • Isaac and Mommy - I know I can’t take your sorrow away, but I can help make your journey less lonely. I am praying for the comfort, strength and love of God to surround you and your family at this difficult time.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Don’t know your family but received this from a friend…what a sobering thing to read. I’m hugging my kids more, saying I love you more, and thanking God for the small little blessings more…So sorry for your loss. There will forever in this life be a hole in your heart where she is but you WILL someday meet her again. I have heard it said of a woman that lost her daughter that she envisions her daughter on the shoulders of Jesus. I pray for your pain…just know that the angels are rejoicing as your precious little lamb enters the gates where she suffers no more.
    LauraReplyCancel

  • mrs. - Can’t imagine your loss.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - I don’t know you or your family but stumbled across your page. It was so touching your faith thru your journey I know it is hard to keep that faith in while going thru all this. When my niece first got sick with cancer someone told me to remember God is holding you even in the moments where you feel like you cant see him or hear HIm when it feel so dark he is still holding on! I will pray for you in the journey that lies ahead.ReplyCancel

  • Heather - I am so sorry for your loss…i can’t begin to imagine the pain you are going through.ReplyCancel

  • Stepping Stones of Promise - I just came across your blog. My eyes fill with tears for the pain and sorrow you must be feeling. The pictures you have posted of Cora are beautiful. I am praying for you and your family and that God will grant you all peace.ReplyCancel

  • quartermom - Our family is praying for peace and understanding. As I read your story I couldn’t stop thinking of this natalie grant song.
    HELD.
    Two months is too little.
    They let him go.
    They had no sudden healing.
    To think that providence would
    Take a child from his mother while she prays
    Is appalling.

    Who told us we’d be rescued?
    What has changed and why should we be saved from nightmares?
    We’re asking why this happens
    To us who have died to live?
    It’s unfair.

    Chorus:
    This is what it means to be held.
    How it feels when the sacred is torn from your life
    And you survive.
    This is what it is to be loved.
    And to know that the promise was
    When everything fell we’d be held.

    This hand is bitterness.
    We want to taste it, let the hatred know our sorrow.
    The wise hands opens slowly to lilies of the valley and tomorrow.

    (Chorus)
    This is what it means to be held.
    How it feels when the sacred is torn from your life
    And you survive.
    This is what it is to be loved.
    And to know that the promise was
    When everything fell we’d be held.

    Bridge:
    If hope is born of suffering.
    If this is only the beginning.
    Can we not wait for one hour watching for our Savior?

    (Chorus)
    This is what it means to be held.
    How it feels when the sacred is torn from your life
    And you survive.
    This is what it is to be loved.
    And to know that the promise was
    When everything fell we’d be held.ReplyCancel

  • The Rice Family - I have never met you, but I heard about your sweet baby. I am praying for you.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - We were so saddened and so very sorry to hear about Cora. Our prayers will continue to be with you as you and your family grieve the loss of your beautiful baby girl. Our hearts go out to you, and we pray you will feel the comfort and peace of God through these difficult days.ReplyCancel

  • The Sessions Family - I just found out about your precious Cora from another’s blog…Kelly’s Korner. I am so sorry to hear of your loss and wanted to let you know that your in our prayers. May God hold you as you walk this path, for you are never alone with Him.
    Brenda Sessions
    Snow, ArkansasReplyCancel

  • nikkicrumpet - My heart breaks for your tragic loss. May God bless you and your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - God doesn’t make mistakes. He picked you to the perfect parents of your sweet Cora. How I wish we could understand why He needed to take her back. He had/has a perfect reason and plan for taking you through this unimaginable journey. Our prayers will continue to be with your family as you experience this indescribable pain. Thank you so much for sharing your little angle. Your family has changed so, so many.ReplyCancel

  • His Doorkeeper - I just heard about your little sweet girl through my daughter(Kelly’s Korner). We have been struggling with our grandbaby in the NICU in critical condition the past three weeks. However, she got much better and got to come home a couple of days ago.

    We love the Lord and serve Him and trust Him. But I do not understand why he takes one and leaves another. But we trust Him no matter what. Your faith has been an inspiration to many. My prayers are with you and my heart just hurts for your whole family because I know how precious Cora was to you all.

    May He give you the grace you need at this moment in time.ReplyCancel

  • Bambi - Praying for you while you try to cope with your unspeakable loss of Cora. Your tribute to her memory is beautiful and I’m sure will be a comfort to you in the days and years to come. A donation will be coming.

    Coldwater, KansasReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - We are so heartbroken by your loss and can not even begin to imagine the pain you must be feeling. We pray that you would be uplifted, comforted and held in the arms of Jesus and find peace knowing that He is also holding sweet Cora. We pray that by Cora’s story would reach those who need Him and that they would draw close to Him through her life and your faith.

    Prayers, love and blessings from Columbus, Ohio.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Praying for you and your family. Just know she is no more pain and is a little angel now with Jesus and will have to suffer no longer. She will forever be with you.

    Erin Parker
    Danville, ARReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - I am a mother of two and have been following your journey. Today my heart breaks for you. I am so very sorry. I am praying for you both. May Jesus give you peace that surpasses all understanding.

    Jenny in COReplyCancel

  • cancersucks - May the Lord give you strength to get through tomorrow and the sorrowful days ahead. Prayers to you both and sweet angel Cora.ReplyCancel

  • Brian Kohel - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xGPS8sa-bRQ
    I hope this song speaks to you in your time of healing. Many prayers from Lincoln, NEReplyCancel

  • carolinagirl - You do not know me. I was just introduced to you today through a mutual blogger.

    I am praying for you tonight that you may find some peace and understanding in your hearts. I cannot begin to imagine the pain you must be experiencing right now. I recently lost my father which was devastating, but I have not lost a child.

    Please know that there are many in this world praying for you. And know that your Cora is a little angel tonight.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - I am so sorry for you and will be praying for you in this trying time.

    ~MelindaReplyCancel

  • Got a feeling - God grant comfort for the ache that you feel with the loss of your daughter. May you find peace that Cora is in Jesus’ arms. We pray for strength for your family. You are enveloped in prayer by hundreds.ReplyCancel

  • janene - My heart aches for your loss. Prayers for strength from California.ReplyCancel

  • Abigail Hutchinson - I am so very sorry for your loss. No parent should have to say goodbye to a child. Words just can’t express how I feel for you and your family. Ya’ll are in my prayers!
    Praying for you in South Texas,
    AbigailReplyCancel

  • The Greenes - Joel and Jess, We are so sorry. I thought the pain of losing our daughter was hard, but I can’t imagine the pain of losing your dear Cora now. Please know that we are continually praying for you to know God’s abounding peace and comfort and strength now and down the road. We love you, Timothy and Andrea GreeneReplyCancel

  • Jessica Kate - We lost our little girl to NB this past week as well. I’m heartbroken for you both. If you ever need someone to talk to who knows right where you are, I’m here. I’m a mess, but I’m here.
    Jessica
    Tuesday’s mom
    half12.blogspot.orgReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - I have been checking in on Cora ever since I found your site through Kayleigh Freeman’s blog. Cora has been in my prayers and thoughts and I was so shocked to read that she is an angel now. I have no words to ease the pain — I have children and cannot imagine the loss and pain you now feel.
    I do know people who have lost children. Time helps, but one day you will begin to smile from your memories with her rather than cry.
    Your love for Cora will NEVER never die — it is difficult to know what to do with that love when your precious one is no longer physically with you. There are lots of things you do to honor her and remember her every day. I have a good friend who just spends spiritual time with her daughter who is now in Heaven. On her daughter’s birthday she has formed this huge community event called “The Mutt March” because of her daughter’s love of animals. All the money raised goes towards animal shelters.
    What I am saying is that Cora WILL be remembered and the love everyone has for her will always be there whether she is here on Earth or in Heaven. One day you will hold your precious baby girl in your arms again. You will. It will seem like an Eternity, but in reality, it is only a blink of a second the time we live here on Earth. She is a beautiful child and it broke my heart to read that she passed. I’m just so sorry.
    I will be praying for your family that you find peace. May God’s promise of love keep you and hold you. The song “Held” always comes to my mind after a tragedy. God’s promise is to surround you with love and comfort from His people and you are being “held.” The song is by Natalie Grant. May God hold you always and you will make it through each day.
    Karen Andwan
    Cincinnati, OhioReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Though my heart flesh may fail me; God is my strength and portion forever. Ps.73ReplyCancel

  • Lipstick - I am so very sorry for what your family is enduring. I don’t know you, but please know your family is now included in my daily prayers.ReplyCancel

  • Tasha - When I checked the blog today to see how little Cora was doing today I could not beleive what I was reading.That she was with Jesus.I just screamed NO!My heart is hurting.I really truly beleived that God was going to heal your baby.I am a Christian and I love Jesus with everything in me but this is one of those times that I question why this had to happen.I want you to know that even though I don’t know you guys,I love you and will be praying for you.My heart will be with you at Cora’s service tomorrow.May you feel the love and peace of God in a way that you can’t understand.Tasha in IndianaReplyCancel

  • Stacie (Bryant, AR) - My heart breaks for you. I just found your blog through Kelly’s Korner. My prayers are with you guys through this very difficult time.ReplyCancel

  • Double L - I linked to your blog through The Sticklers’ blog– cried reading about your loss last night and woke up this morning thinking about you and your precious Cora. Praying that you will find strength and peace.ReplyCancel

  • studiocharm - Prayers and thoughts with your family through this difficult time … I admire your courage and faith. My you be blessed with peace and comfort.ReplyCancel

  • Steph - I could not imagine what your family is going through. Your family is in my prayer. God Bless, coming from ArkansasReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - We are praying for you. May God be with you and your family.ReplyCancel

  • The Klinges - You are in our thoughts and prayers so much — our hearts, too. Cora must have felt how much you loved her every day, because we could see it in that picture of the three of you. Just take good care of yourselves!ReplyCancel

  • Honea Household - I just read through a lot of your blog, going back to older posts. I am so sorry to hear about your loss, and I pray that God grants you a peace that passes understanding until you get to hold you sweet baby girl one day in Heaven. Praying for you.ReplyCancel

  • Noon To Two - May you find the strength. God bless you and your family. Prayers from NY.ReplyCancel

  • Emily - I am so sorry for your loss. Have and will continue to offer prayers for your family.ReplyCancel

  • THE GESSELLS - Our prayers are with you and your family.ReplyCancel

  • heather spratt - Your family will be in my thoughts & prayers.ReplyCancel

  • Elizabeth - i don’t even know what to say…you all will be in my prayers and my heart is so moved by your story, I think it will even change how i mother my daughter. bless you both and may God touch you and heal you.ReplyCancel

  • Cher Salo - God bless you all.ReplyCancel

  • Carly Nicole Elliotte My Micro Preemie - I just read some of you blog for the first time today. I’m so truly sorry for your loss. I lost 2 daughters within 8 months and it’s a tough road but you and your family will be in my constant prayers. Prayers for peace, strength and courage.

    Much love,
    RachelReplyCancel

  • Ter - I also wanted to say that I saw my husband suffer with cancer and he passed away on November 27, 2008. I feel for you that your little girl had to endure that and not be able to understand what was going on around her. I am so sorry.ReplyCancel

  • Ter - (It looks like my first post didn’t show up, I mentioned that I am a bereaved parent as well, and that I recommend the SHARE website — http://www.nationalshareoffice.com they are a wonderful site for parents who have lost their babies.)ReplyCancel

  • THE HILSABECKS - I am so sorry for your loss. I pray for your family that you will find peace and comfort in this difficult time.ReplyCancel

  • Christine - I am so sorry for your loss. Cora will live in the hearts of many people long after today.ReplyCancel

  • ThreeCordsStrong - My heart is hurting for you and I will lift you up in prayer. We serve a mighty God whose ways are not always our ways…so hard to understand, but may His peace and lover cover you.ReplyCancel

  • Sally's World - Praying for you, our son passed away 3 years ago next month, and every day, as much as we miss him, we count our blessings for the time we had.

    Sally

    London, England xxxxxxxxxReplyCancel

  • adoptingmama - With deepest sympanthy, May God bring you through this. AlohaReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Your baby girl is so beautiful and full of life with our Heavenly Father. She no longer feels pain or discomfort. I know that God will be with you during this time of pain in your hearts. Your family is in my prayers. I wish that I had heard of your story last month so I could be part of your praying bloggers. May you hold Cora again someday and see her smile in your thoughts for the rest of your lives.

    Prayers from HawaiiReplyCancel

  • jessica - there are no words. she was so lucky to have you as parents, and you to have her. God bless your family at this time.

    Jessica from CaliforniaReplyCancel

  • Annie - Our love and prayers are with you at this time.ReplyCancel

  • Koningskind - This is the first time I read your blog. Tears are running down my face for the loss of your precious little girl.
    Know that both you and Cora are in God’s hands.

    Be blessed!ReplyCancel

  • Rachael - I was so sorry to hear about your sweet little daughter. I’m praying for you to find peace in this hard time.ReplyCancel

  • Annemarie - I am praying for you all this morning. I am praising God for His infinite mercies that are new every morning. For the fact that you will see your precious Cora again. I am so thankful, during these moments, for all of the older believers that I have heard say how fast this life goes. And how long eternity is.

    ~AnnemarieReplyCancel

  • jengallahar - I grieve with you for the loss of your gorgeous baby girl. Praying God’s arms around you at this moment.ReplyCancel

  • Heather - My thoughts and prayers are with you today as you say goodbye to your sweet baby Cora. I pray that God will bring light into the darkness and comfort into your hearts on this very hard day. You are not alone in your mourning. I pray that God will lighten the weight of your unbearable sorrow today and spread it out amongst those that share in your pain. I am so sorry you had to lose your sweet Cora so young and so soon 🙁
    Hugs and prayers,
    Heather~ On the HomefrontReplyCancel

  • Jeanie - I’m so very sorry for your loss. I can’t even imagine what it feels like and words don’t even seem adequate. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you and keep you.ReplyCancel

  • jandkland - Thinking of you today as you go through something no parent should ever have to face. I could barely sleep last night for thinking of you. I pray that the hope you know in Christ will somehow sustain you, even through the toughest moments.

    –Kelley in GeorgiaReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Praying for your family from people you’ve never met…yet your story has touched our hearts. May God give you peace and comfort.

    The Greens
    Round Rock, TexasReplyCancel

  • Lauren - We are praying for your family today – for strength and perspective. Others will undoubtedly see Jesus all over you. May you truly experience Him today! As Job said, I had heard of You with my ears but now I see You.ReplyCancel

  • The Conklin's - We are praying for your family during this time. May God give you peace and strength! Here is a wonderful blog called audreycaroline.blogspot.com – she set up this blog in memory of her daughter. She is a wonderful Christian woman and set up this website to help families who have gone through this situation. She has alot of other ministries, but you will be able to read her about her journey. Blessings!ReplyCancel

  • Amber - I just read about Cora on Kelli’s Korner blog. I am so sorry for your loss. Your precious Cora was a beautiful little girl. Words just seem so inadequate…I know your heartache must be overwhelming. My heart hurts for you….you are in my prayers.ReplyCancel

  • Karen - May the Lord bless you this day with peace and love and healing!

    “The Lord compensates the faithful for every loss. That which is taken away from those who love the Lord will be added unto them in His own way. While it may not come at the time we desire, the faithful will know that every tear today will eventually be returned a hundredfold with tears of rejoicing and gratitude.” by Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin

    Love, The Condos Family, Las Vegas, NVReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - My daughter-in-law made me aware of your blog and I have been praying for Cora and for you as the parents of this precious little angel. I am so saddened to know Cora is no longer with you; my heart breaks for you. I will continue to pray. May the Creator of this world and all its inhabitants surround you with strength and peace. I am so deeply sorry. Joyce Alison, Rockford, ILReplyCancel

  • Lisa - I will be praying for you and your family.
    Blessings
    LisaReplyCancel

  • Ellen - I followed a link to your blog on Sunday afternoon, and I have been full of prayer and heartache ever since. Continued prayers for your strength today and for you to experience God’s peace in these difficult hours.ReplyCancel

  • Jiff - I cannot stop crying for your family and your precious baby girl. My prayers will be with you constantly.ReplyCancel

  • Rhoda @ Southern Hospitality - You don’t know me, but I just wanted to stop by & say how sorry I am for your loss. We will never understand these things. I pray for peace and comfort for your family.ReplyCancel

  • Yolanda - Lord Jesus, comfort and remind this precious family of YOU as they go through this time in their lives. A time of tears, hurts, confustion and beautiful memories.

    Lovingly,
    YolandaReplyCancel

  • Wife, Mom, and Slave - I just found your blog and read of your story. My prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.ReplyCancel

  • happylittleprince - My prayers are for you. From Louisiana.ReplyCancel

  • Kate - our prayers are with you all and your angel as she continues to touch so many people. from arkansas!ReplyCancel

  • Susie (So Blessed) - I’m praying for God’s strength to fill you today and His comfort for your hearts.ReplyCancel

  • Whimsical Creations - Dear Mac Family,

    I don’t know you, I found & followed your daughter’s story through PamperingBeki’s blog. I am soooo sorry for your loss. My heart aches for you and your family. {hugs from Buffalo}ReplyCancel

  • Scott, Joanna, Matthew - May God’s peace be with you during this most difficult time. We will keep you in our prayers.ReplyCancel

  • Townsend Crew - What a blessing Cora is! Thousands have written over these past days to experess how her life, and the love of the Lord that we witnessed through you, her parents, has touched our lives. Through all of us, Cora lives on! Through your love of the Lord and love for each other, you can live on!ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Praying for you today, on what has to be the most difficult day of your lives. I am sorry for your loss, and will continue to keep your sweet family in my thoughts and prayers. Your Cora is absolutely beautiful…ReplyCancel

  • chesley - just found your blog & my heart is aching for your family. i don’t even know what else to say. I am so deeply saddened by your loss. you are all in my prayers.ReplyCancel

  • Krista Lynn - Father I pray for a peace that surpasses all understandings for this family. I pray that You would uplift them in this trying time. That You would draw them closer to You. Father that as they are surrounded by family, friends & even some strangers, Lord that You would be the awesome God of it all! Father we thank you that through this trying time You are present and Father we praise you that You have a plan. Lord we lift up this family to You. Thank You for every blessing, and especially for Your Love!
    Many prayers from WA state,
    ~KristaReplyCancel

  • Gina - I am praying today that the Lord will let me bear some of your burden while you go thru this process. Your own strength will amaze you, bless you.ReplyCancel

  • Calamity Anne - Through my tears…may God wrap his arms around your precious child and forever protect her. My heart goes out to you and your family.ReplyCancel

  • Deedra - On my knees for your family.ReplyCancel

  • The Faulks - Praying for you and your family today…ReplyCancel

  • Amanda - I read of your story last night and can’t get you out of my mind. What a precious face. Our family will continue to pray for your family. May God hold you and give you peace.ReplyCancel

  • TheBusyB's - WIth a heavy heart, we will ask for prayers this afternoon for your family. We ask that God wrap His arms of strength and love around you all and give you courage and love.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Praying for you to have comfort peace and understanding somehow during this time.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - February 10, 2009: Praying for you at this hour, as you celebrate your daughter’s life in a mighty way.
    Cora’s story has touched me in such a way that I cannot explain. I am so sorry she is not in your arms as you want her to be, but I rejoice with you that she is with our Heavenly Father.
    May God continue to carry you in His arms, may you always feel Him with you in all that you do.

    With love and blessings,
    Beth,
    MichiganReplyCancel

  • Kris - Praying that the Holy Spirit will COMFORT during the celebration of your sweet Angel’s life!ReplyCancel

  • loridanelle - Just wanted to let you know that while there are many surrounding you right now at Grace as you celebrate Cora, there are countless others who are lifting you up to the Lord and crying with you all over the states and even the world.

    I know that words are of little comfort, but I hope the knowledge that we are all here and praying for you, does a little.ReplyCancel

  • Janelle - i am broken hearted for you. i am trusting that the ONE who knows all the resons, and sees the tears will hold you SO tight. i will be praying for you today & in the future.
    “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” Exodus 14:14ReplyCancel

  • ~Cherie - I can’t stop thinking about you and your family and looking at precious Cora’s picture. I know you are in the celebration services for her short precious life at this moment. Her impact and smile will last far beyond her 11 months on this earth. I am praying for you and trying to keep the tears at bay.ReplyCancel

  • Christine - I have been praying for you and have cried so many tears for your sweet family in the last few days. Although we don’t know each other, and likely won’t meet this side of heaven, I have been moved by Cora’s story more than I can possibly tell you.

    Now, as I write this, you are surely in the middle of Cora’s memorial service. I am lifting you up and grieving with you. I pray an overwhelming peace would be with you today and in the days to come. May the Lord continue to give you strength.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Your family has been on my mind and in my heart today .I’m praying for you. God Bless. Marengo IlReplyCancel

  • Jodi Browne - There are no words to express the feelings that one has after the loss of a child. Our prayers are with you and your families. Cora will always be with you. She is not gone, just in a better place.

    sympathies & Love from Goodland,KS by way of McAlester, OK.ReplyCancel

  • Tara - I’m praying for you right now as you are in the middle of sweet Cora’s service. May God cover you with His peace, love and comfort.ReplyCancel

  • ~ Lisa @ AbidingThere~ - I’m so, so sorry for your loss. She is a beautiful baby. You are in my prayers. I hope you are snuggled up in your Father’s lap.ReplyCancel

  • Kate in Columbia, MD - I cannot imagine the pain that you’re enduring right now, to lose your sweet baby so suddenly after her shocking diagnosis. I wanted to tell you how much I admired you through your blog — always listing items for PRAISE along with the prayer requests, seeing answered prayers even alongside pressing needs. While this valley may be very dark right now, the Lord will be with you. We are praying for HIS comfort in this difficult time.ReplyCancel

  • Mrs. MK - Praying right now.ReplyCancel

  • blairspage - I was passed your site through a friend. I’m SO sorry to hear of your daughter’s passing! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time!

    Hugs – TiffanyReplyCancel

  • Helena - I am praying for you right now. Came over from Angie Smith’s site and my heart is just breaking for you all who love Cora. I pray that God will give you Hi peace that is beyong understanding, and and forever until you are reunited with your precious Cora.

    Praying for you in Maryland.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - You have my deepest sympathies. My heart is breaking for you. I pray that you all are able to find comfort in our savior. May His blessed peace reside in your hearts.
    Prayers from VirginiaReplyCancel

  • Bethany - Thinking of you today as you celebrate your precious girl. My heart goes out to your family.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - My heart absolutely breaks for your family. Your precious baby girl is in a wonderful place now, no suffering, no more tubes, no more hurt. If you haven’t heard the song Homesick by MercyMe – you must listen to it – everytime I hear it I think of all the loved ones who are “home” it’s very touching. The playground in Cora’s memory is AMAZING! I don’t know you but you are all loved and prayed for more often than you know. Cora……always in our hearts til we meet again.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Still praying for your family.

    ChristineReplyCancel

  • Tami from SD - I am so very sorry that your little girl has passed, and I can’t begin to imagine the nightmare of these past weeks. I’m a mother of four, my youngest turns 3 next week, and as I look at the pictures of your precious little Cora, my heart just breaks for you. I pray that God holds you just as close as He is holding Cora and may your faith bring you Peace.ReplyCancel

  • claudie - I’ve just finished watching little Cora’s beautiful life. March 5th was the first post.
    My heart is heavy for all of you today.
    Love from Canada
    Claudie
    xoReplyCancel

  • Michele - Praying for you all.
    Words could never say enough to express the sadness and heaviness my heart feels. I know for you all it is ten times worse.
    God Bless,
    MicheleReplyCancel

  • As You Wish - My prayers and love are with you during this awful time. I am so sorry.ReplyCancel

  • Megan - My heart is broken over the loss of your Cora. Such a beautiful girl!

    Praying that the memories you have of your baby girl will never diminish and that God will carry you through each day, each moment to come.ReplyCancel

  • Nana Rimer - May G-d hold you in the palms of His hands and keep you close to His heart. My heart aches for your loss.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - God will sustain you. God bless you and your family!ReplyCancel

  • Holly - Praying for you.ReplyCancel

  • Erika - There are no words… I am so sorry. I am praying so hard for your family right now.ReplyCancel

  • The Morris Family - Cora’s battle was so short, but will remain a legacy as how it will ripple and touch others, Joel’s battle with neuroblastoma was a tad longer, about 54 days. Right now you are at “ground zero.” I’ve been there, I am about a 5 now on a scale of 1-10. His grace Will be abundant and He will walk with you through this valley. Thinking and praying because WE know!!
    CindyReplyCancel

  • Mom to 4 Sweeties - Praying for you all today and wishing you strength, peace, and memories to smile at, in time, of your sweet angel Cora. May God be with you as you continue to miss your sweet baby.ReplyCancel

  • Bacardi Mama - My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Take comfort knowing that Cora is in Jesus arms right now.ReplyCancel

  • Christina - Tuesday evening. I have been thinking about you and praying for you all day. Although I am a stranger, I wish so much that I could do something for you all. I will keep praying for you each day; this may sound strange, but it’s like there is so much I want to say, and really can’t say, because there are no words that are adequate. Hope in the Lord, that is what we have. ChristinaReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - God bless you and your husband. I am praying for you both, it is so good to know that you have a God that you can go to, I know you both will have very hard days ahead of you but you have a friend like no other that will help you through. And Cora, she is well now, no more CANCER, and she is basking in the presende of our Lord, Jesus Christ. That is enough to make you shout. God bless you and your whole family, Love in Christ, and many prayers of support your way.ReplyCancel

  • Amy H - I have a 10 month old son and I just can’t imagine the pain and heartache you must be feeling right now. I am praying that your hearts heal and that your love for each other gets you through this terrible time in your lives.ReplyCancel

  • Doodle Bugs Paper - praying for you and your family.ReplyCancel

  • Erin - My deepest sympathy for the loss of your precious Cora. Blessings from upstate New York. Praying for you and your family.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - I am extremely sadden by your loss, I couldn’t imagine…. She is with Jesus no, watching over you two and smiling down at her wonderful, brave and loving parents. God bless you two and may you always remember the good times of Cora’s life lived. Much love, The Schatz familyReplyCancel

  • ann - I am so very sorry…annReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Deepest sympathy and prayers for peace. You are a beautiful family. God has Cora safely in His strong, gentle, loving arms. She is safe and healthy. Bless you and know you are thought of and remain in my prayers.
    From Newark, Delaware
    KathyReplyCancel

  • Jackie - We live in Orange County, Ca. We are so sorry for your loss, I can’t even imagine what you are going through, and I won’t pretend too. Please just know that people from all walks of life and living near or far have you all in our hearts and prayers. You and your husband need each other more than ever now. LOVE EACH OTHER EXTRA.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - I have followed your journey through a friend from an adoption website. Please accept my prayers and deepest condolences for the loss of your beautiful Cora. I ask God to hold you and carry you both at this difficult time. Sandy, from MichiganReplyCancel

  • Yarnmomma - I found your link when I was checking on baby harper at kelly’s korner. My sincere thoughts and prayers are with you and your husband and family. I know we sometimes don’t understand the why’s… But we do know the lord is a mighty god and he is there for us to call upon in all times of need… Your daughter is so beautiful and I will continue to pray for all of you as god will give you strength and keep up your faith.

    Stephanie in Mo.ReplyCancel

  • Jodi - I came across your blog tonight from Kayleigh’s blog….I am sincerely sorry for your tremendous loss…your little girl was a beautiful and now she has her angel wings and is a beautiful little angel in heaven. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time. God Bless you.
    Jodi from NW OhioReplyCancel

  • Melanie @ This Ain't New York - I am so sorry for your loss. Praying God’s peace and strength for you.ReplyCancel

  • Stacey - I am so sorry; I read about your daughter on another blog; please know you are being prayed for. My heart hurts for you. I pray that you will find comfort in the arms of Jesus.ReplyCancel

  • The Tritschler Family - I somehow stumbled upon your site a few weeks ago, I too have a daughter the same age as Cora, so I imediatly felt a connection with your family.
    Since then I have thought about your family many times a day & prayed for her healing & your strenght.
    Tears are falling down my checks as I type this, my heart aches for your loss.
    I pray for comfort for you and your families in the days ahead.
    Thank you for sharing her life with us thru your website, she will forever be in many of our hearts. Fly high baby Cora!!
    Staci, Fred, Hailie & Kenzie Tritschler – NJReplyCancel

  • Allie - I am so so sorry, I just found your blog and my heart breaks for your family, I cried many tears for you all. You are in my thoughts.

    Lots of love from CanadaReplyCancel

  • Tanya - Praying the Lord will comfort you both in a special way.ReplyCancel

  • Ray, Megan and Ruby Denise Clark - I prayed for you continually today. I thought of you with a heavy heart during the time when Cora’s service started. I saw on another blog that you sang ‘mighty to save’ at the service. I sang that song at church on sunday and was claiming it for Cora as I did. I am thankful for God’s ultimate healing of your precious Cora, but broken inside for what you have to go through. I believed God would heal Cora and allow you to keep her here on Earth. Struggling to accept His perfect plan for your lives. Please know I am continuing to lift you up in prayer throughout the days ahead.ReplyCancel

  • pcb - I pray that Jesus gives you strength to cope with your loss; no one could do it without Him.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Many prayers for strength and comfort are being said for your family tonight. I am so deeply saddened by your loss. I will remember your daughter always as I do my best to help raise money to cure this awful, awful disease.

    God’s Blessings and Comfort to you all…

    In Sympathy,
    Karen Hohertz-Jacobs
    Mom to Kate, an NB warriorReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - I don’t even know your family, but heard of your story and am just shocked and crying at the unimaginable loss you have had. I hope you know how many people you have touched by sharing your experiences and celebrating Cora’s beautiful life.ReplyCancel

  • Jill - I just found your site through Kelly’s Korner and noticed you are also a K-Stater. My husband graduated from there also. I am so so sorry to hear about Cora. My heart aches for you and you all will be in our prayers.

    Mike and Jill Langham
    ArkansasReplyCancel

  • Jennifer - So sorry for your loss….thought of you today!

    JenniferReplyCancel

  • Craig and Denise - Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all your family. May God comfort you and give you peace.ReplyCancel

  • The Amsler Family - I just found your blog from a prayer blog that I visit…..just wanted to let you know that my heart aches for you..God’s heart mourns for your tears as well….My close friend just lost her little baby and i thought her readings might be of help to you…she has had many followers throughout her journey and i am sure would be happy to talk if you needed…..check out her blog

    http://www.shelbyfamily09.blogspot.com

    My love to you…Nicole Amsler Fishers, IndianaReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - My thoughts and prayers go out to you. I do not know you, but I have been thinking about you all day.
    May your memories comfort you and bring you peace.
    May God go with you.ReplyCancel

  • Jolene Ballou - As much as I wish your past could be changed, I know that the huge light made by Cora’s short life will change so many people’s futures.ReplyCancel

  • KristiJ - I’ve been thinking about precious, sweet Cora all day. I’ve shed so many tears over the last days, as many others have shed for your family; Cora really captured my heart. As a mom, my youngest just a few weeks older than Cora, I just cannot imagine how much you must ache for, and miss your sweet baby girl. Hold tight to each other, and know so many are in prayer alongside you. God is good, and what a blessing it is to know you will see Cora again in Heaven.

    ~Kristi in VirginiaReplyCancel

  • Mrs. Jo - I’m a friend of Shiloh (Blanton) Blasdel and she told me about your loss. I’m heartbroken for you and will be praying for you both and your families.ReplyCancel

  • jennifer - I am so terribly sorry for the loss of Cora. There are no words. Prayers for you entire family… many many prayers.

    Jennifer, AlabamaReplyCancel

  • Me - LOVEReplyCancel

  • cindy - My prayers and deepest thoughts are with your family during this difficult time…ReplyCancel

  • Amy - I’m so so sorry… I don’t know you at all but my heart reaches out to you and prays for your peace…ReplyCancel

  • Dawn - I can’t stop my tears. I have a 2 yr old and I can’t imagine what you and your husband are going through. I am so sorry for your loss and your family is on my mind.
    Thinking of you from Oregon.ReplyCancel

  • Reese & Marie - I don’t know you but I am touched and overwhelmed by your story. My heart achingly goes out to your family tonight. My deepest sympathy is reaching out to you now… I am so terribly terribly sorry for you unimaginable loss.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - I am heartbroken over the loss of your precious baby girl. I grieve for you. I am a Christian and know that the Lord will sustain you. At the same time I know His heart is grieved as well. I am very upset that we live in a world where little babies can die of cancer. This should not be. We live in such a chemical age and I have to wonder if she , either in utero or as baby, was unknowingly exposed to agricultural chemicals and/or pesticides. Something made her cells start to reproduce unnaturally and it is almost assuredly the environment. May God bless you and keep in the midst of this tragedy.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - My heart breaks for your family. Your daughter has a beautiful soul and endured so much for one so young. I pray you’ll find peace and a way to celebrate Cora’s essence in a million ways throughout your days. God speed!ReplyCancel

  • Pinkmom3 - I am praying you will find comfort and strength.Prayers for you and your family from Texas.ReplyCancel

  • Shari U - I’m so very sorry for the loss of your beautiful and precious baby girl, Cora. I pray that God will make Himself known to you and that He will provide you with warmth and comfort during these dark days.ReplyCancel

  • peejypaula - I am so sorry for your loss.. I just discovered your blog and reading about sweet baby Cora and seeing all the beautiful pictures of her has really touched my heart. May she rest in peace now..ReplyCancel

  • Becca - your family is definitely in our prayers.ReplyCancel

  • Megan - I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. I’ve been following your blog from James’s blog (I’m a former China teacher from C’ville as well). My heart grieves for you and I’ll be praying for your family.
    I’m also going to pray that God will use James in the lives of his Chinese students as he returns and shares of his sorrow to them. May they see the love of God and may many of them come to know our Saviour because of the life of your little girl.
    Megan, from DallasReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - The tears wont stop coming. They just flow as I look at the pictures of your most beautiful baby girl. To look back at all your posts and see how happy she was, and how loved she is makes it even more heartbreaking. May the Lord wrap his arms around you at this truly difficult time. Answers as to the “WHY” may not come in this lifetime, but your sweet daughter has already touched so many lives. Her story makes me hug and love my little ones even more everyday. Death is not the end, Families can be Together Forever. Hold on to what you know is true. I pray Cora’s sweet spirit can be with you always watching over and guiding you on the road back to her. My thoughts and prayers will always be with you.
    Love,
    JillReplyCancel

  • Nicole - I just found your blog through a friend and want you to know your family is in our prayers. I cannot imagine such a loss and I pray God can comfort you through this time.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Words are so inadequate. Your child and your strength through our Lord Jesus, quite evidently has had an impact on more people than you will ever know. I am sure Cora was greeted by Jesus, surrounded by a host of Angels all of whom were saying . . . “Well done.” Your family is in my prayers.ReplyCancel

  • Momma Bear - I am so sorry.ReplyCancel

  • paula - I have just read about Cora and tears are falling down my cheeks right now. Words are not enough to say how sorry I am. As soon as I read about Cora I said a prayer for you and will continue to keep you in my prayers. I do pray that you feel the loving arms of our Father as He gives you a hug as only He can give. I am so glad that He is your hope and your comfort as He carries you through this very difficult time.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - I was visiting family in NYC this weekend, and went to St Paul’s Chapel and lit a candle for your family. You are all in my prayers.
    SummerReplyCancel

  • Jamie - I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I heard of your journey through your cousin Nate. I cannot even begin to imagine what you are going through but we do serve a mighty God. I pray that you would feel His hands holding you tightly. May you find comfort and peace in Him that only He can give. You are in my prayers.ReplyCancel

  • Alicia - I just read about Cora from Kelly’s Korner. I know this is a rough time but please know that you & your family will be in my prayers!ReplyCancel

  • Clerice - I stumbled upon you blog almost 2 weeks ago. I read your entire blog and fell in love with your beautiful little girl. My heart aches for you. Although I do know she is happy, free of pain and very loved in Heaven. My prayers are still with you and I hope you will feel peace in your hearts. I believe Cora Paige is a very special angel. I send my love!ReplyCancel

  • Kasie - Praying for you as you go through this difficult time! I’m so so sorryReplyCancel

  • robinrane - Praying for you and yours…I’m so very sorryReplyCancel

  • tracy - We are praying for strength to get you through the hardest days of your lives. Many thoughts and prayers.ReplyCancel

  • Laura's Mom - Was totally crushed and saddened to read of the loss of your precious daughter, Cora. She will not be forgotten.
    Mara,
    mother of neuroblastoma angel Laura

    http://laurastiles-nj.blogspot.comReplyCancel

  • Becky - I came along this blog from a link from another blog etc. I have not cried so hard for anyone in a long time. My heart breaks for mom and dad and most of all baby cora. I cannot imagine. Just reading back to when she was sick with simple ear infections and teeth coming in to the major illness of cancer and chemotherapy. I am so glad that you both have the strength to get through this together. My thoughts are with you and may you find peace at some point to continue to strive. Rest in peace little cora. It may have been a short life but from what i can tell you have affected so many. Rest in peace baby girl. <3ReplyCancel