Elena's Hope

Guestbook Archives

We have had so many wonderful entries to our guestbook we had to create an archives page to handle it all.

Look here for entries before April 1, 2007.

MARCH 29, 2007

Hi Elena,

I think this dog likes pajama parties (maybe Sally should have a pj party too:). The other one is ready to go on an Easter egg hunt! Wouldn't Miss Sally look dashing in an Easter outfit? Haha! Sorry I missed you guys at Grandpa-Grandpa's- I think of you all the time! Happy Spring!!!!!

Love, your cousin Shawna

MARCH 30, 2007

Hello everyone!

You can add me to the legions of well-wishers and readers that have never met your family in person, but feel as though they have. I love Elena’s little corner (with big impact!) of the web, and have fallen in love with beautiful girls! I also have to compliment you on your terrific photography skills, as you have done a marvelous job of capturing the spirits of your daughters – well, what we know of them from reading your site. Elena sounds a lot like I did when I was younger – introspective, somewhat shy, with a few ‘control’ issues (nothin’ wrong with that!!) while your Gracie sounds more like me as an adult. J I too will do almost anything for a laugh, and have an uncanny ability (disability?) to fall off of chairs, walk into walls, and misjudge steps with surprising regularity (and yes, without the influence of alcohol!)

I don’t remember how I found my way to you, but I do check on Elena every night. I have been struck by your courage, and I so appreciate your honesty in your journal, Brooke and Keith. Your love for your family shines through, as does your hope, and at times, your despair. But mostly what emerges from your journal is your steadfast faith, which I admire greatly. I am not a religious person, but I am certainly spiritual, and I can appreciate what it means to have a belief in something bigger than all of us.

You can add my positive thoughts to those that are coming in from around the world. And for Elena especially, I have also attached some pictures of my cat and of my friend’s dog, because, well, they’re both really cute. And like Elena, I have always had an appreciation for very cute animals, and can relate to her ‘oooh’ing and ‘ahhh’ing over anything warm and fuzzy. J

Thank you again for your openness and for sharing your story with us. Although it is unlikely that we will meet in person, I feel as though ‘knowing’ your family has enriched my life in ways I am still working to understand.

Take care,

Kristi

Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

PS – Elena should also check out these websites – they post a new picture of a cute puppy and cute kitten every day:

http://dailypuppy.com/ and http://www.dailykitten.com/

MARCH 25, 2007

Hi Elena,

Can you believe how warm it is outside today? Zak, Hannah and I spent the afternoon at the zoo. Boy was it hot. Hannah thought it was sooooo hot that she and her brother are now outside playing in the sprinkler. Who would believe it. But I guess it is true what you learn in kindergarten, March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb. I hope it stays warm. I hope that you are enjoying the sunshine. Maybe you'll get some extra recess next week since it's so nice. I know Hannah had gym outside last week. I hope you did too. I hope you are having a fun weekend. The birthday party sounded fun. Enjoy the spring and all the flowers.

The Lemperts

Hamilton H. Lempert, M.D Deborah E. Lempert

MARCH 27, 2007

Hello...you don't know me but I have been following Elena for some time now..as I have a 3yr old little girl Dying this very moment from this same monster....She has been fighting every moment for every breath this week...But I had to leave this prayer for you...Skylar~Jade was dx on May17, 2006..she was only given 5-6 months to live at that time....God has spared her many times...more this week than any since we began this journey....I can say with my WHOLE being that I understand your fears....In reflection while watching our princess fight to live...I find myself thinking back about all of our decisions...all the "ifs"...all the "should we have's"....And I've relized that ONLY God gives pontine glioma children another day....so I put my faith in him...to lead the path to take...so I will pray a million prayers for your strengh in the decisions you have to make...and peace in knowing that God has already had the plan in his control....I want to leave you this poem someone sent me.... I have found I read it a lot these days....trying to make sense of this...still trying to make the right and best decisions.....still praying for a miracle...You will always remain in my thoughts and prayers...ConnieJo mommyto Skylar~Jade www.caringbridge.org/visit/skylarjademaxson

Riding The Storm

The winds howled and the sky grew dark.
The storm hit and we were the mark.
The winds blew with exceeding force.
The storm would set our lives off course.

I begged this storm to not strike us, please.
For this storm was truly a terrible disease.
It hits with sudden force and there is no protection.
It is not choosy in making its selection.

Once chosen by this storm, there is no going back.
Your life will continually follow the treatment track.
Treatment is a battle with more than one side-effect.
And there is no guarantee of which plan will be correct.

The storm will ravage psyches of kids and spouses.
And lives will forever be changed inside those houses.
Hospitals, doctors, and prescriptions become a way of life.
And you will need to learn to handle emotional strife.

As the storm passes, rays of hope will appear.
But the threat of ensuing storms remain with those that are dear.
The sun will shine and life will be good.
Yet, the fear of wind and rain is always understood

Only God knows if the skies will remain blue.
Faith in Him must always shine through.

MARCH 27, 2007

Hey Elena,

Today is our last day of Spring Break--boo hoo. It's not that school isn't fun; it's just that not waking up early and not having a tight schedule is way more fun! But these next few months will fly by; they always do! My students write children's books for our first graders. So, we stay super busy during April and May. This year will be extra special since Martha Glen is in first grade and will get one of our books! We also have lots of special activities during April. One day is Community Day, and we do all these community service projects. I'm always in charge of the dog wash to raise money for our humane shelter. We take a field trip to a town in Alabama called Monroeville where we see a reinactment of a famous book, To Kill a Mockingbird, written by a lady from that town. We have a school-wide family picnic. We have Grandparent's Day.

And, we have our annual field day. Whew-I'm exhausted just thinking about it!

Sadie had a great time on the Thomas the Train ride with her grandfathers and her daddy. She came home with a great big, royal blue Thomas tatoo on her cheek! I must say the tatoo artist was very talented. The Thomas was very bold and not a piece of him was missing; when I try to do those tatoos, I always pull off the applicator before at least one corner has completely stuck to the skin. You could definitely tell men had taken her on this trip. I would never have allowed this huge train on her cheek--arms, yes/ cheek, no. Anyway, she got to wear it for 2 days, and then we scrubbed and scrubbed and scrubbed some more and got it off last night so that we wouldn't go to church today with Thomas on our cheek!

We went to the barn yesterday for a riding lesson and we got to see that precious baby! I'm sending you some pictures of him. He is SO cute. I spent hours at the fence watching him. He's not so sure about people yet, so I never got to pet him. But, once he ALMOST let me! His name is (and I won't spell this correctly, I'm sure) Deifus Julius. They are calling him Jule. Since he was born in March, they wanted to name him something from Julius Caesar. Ask your dad about that--the Ides of March and all. I don't remember the whole story, but I think they deified Caesar after they killed him, so the first part of the baby's name is Latin for Deity or something like that. Remember, his name had to start with a D because of his stallion father's name. Some of the pictures have Jule's mommy Rosie in them. You'll get to see how dark she is and how light he is. That's part of what makes him so cute, in my opinion! Oh, one really cute thing--yesterday baby Jule would run as fast as his long wobbly legs could take him all the way to the other end of the pasture. Rosie did NOT like him getting so far away from her, so she would take off galloping to him and whinnying at him. Then, she would nudge him with her nose when she go to him. I think she was putting him in Time-Out, what do you think?!

Ok, I am off to get ready for church. You hang in there, sweet girl. I am praying for you and your parents and thinking of you always. I know your mom and dad have a lot on their minds right now. They will do what is the very best thing because God made them your parents, and He will direct their path.

Much love,

Caroline

MARCH 24, 2007

Hi Elena!

I have been reading your website almost every day and I am so happy you and your family got to go to Florida and that you got to swim with a dolphin. Our family did that a few years ago and you described them perfectly when you said they feel like giant rubber bands. That is exactly what they felt like to us too! I like they way they squish a little bit when you press on them, do you? Did you get a dolphin kiss?

We love the Bengals in our family too (I first read about you on the Bengals website) and I wanted to tell you that Carson Palmer lives at our house! Well okay, I guess you can see from the picture that it’s not the REAL Carson Palmer, but he’s still cute don’t you think? Our Carson Palmer is a guinea pig and he’s about 1 year old now and we never call him just “Carson”, because his name is “Carson Palmer”. Actually his full name is “Carson Palmer G-Pig Harrison”. The Harrison part is because he lives with us and that’s our last name. He is about the size of a small rabbit and he gets really excited and “talks” when you open his cage to feed him or play with him! When he’s excited he sounds like “wheeeeek wheeeek wheeeek”! Sometimes he just makes a little clicking sound and that’s his way of letting us know he’s happy. Kind of like when a cat purrs. He kind of wiggles his nose like a bunny sometimes too.

We also have a really funny toy poodle named Jessie and two quarter horses named TennCee and Buster. TennCee was my daughter Katie’s first horse and we have had her about 3 and ½ years. Her color is called “sorrel” and she’s a “mare”, which just let’s everybody know that she’s a reddish-brown colored girl horse. Katie showed TennCee in lots of horse shows for the past two years and won lots of ribbons, because TennCee is the nicest girl ever. She is 22 years old now and we decided to let her retire from the show ring, so she just mostly goes outside every day and eats grass. She likes being retired a lot. Our new horse is named Buster and he is a seven year old sorrel “gelding”, which means he’s a boy horse. He’s bigger than TennCee, but he’s really nice too and Katie will show him this year. We live in West Chester which isn’t very far from you, so maybe if it’s okay with your mom and dad you and Gracie could come and visit TennCee and Buster sometime. My four year old niece rode TennCee all by herself the other day for the first time she was ever on a horse! TennCee and Buster love visitors if you and Grace like horses.

That’s all the animals in our family. Otherwise there’s just me and Katie’s dad and Katie, who is eleven years old and in the fifth grade at the Summit Country Day school. We have never been to St. Jude’s but it looks like a really nice place to help kids get well. Katie has been to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, though, lots of times and had to stay there for 8 weeks when she was born because she was born with some things that are different with all her bones in her body. Sometimes her bones don’t work very well and her feet were really crooked when she was born too, so she has had 16 operations at Children’s Hospital and she is very brave, just like you! She had to wear casts on her legs for 3 and ½ years to help with her feet and sometimes she is in a wheelchair too. She has some things different with her lower jaw bone (ask your mom or dad to show you which bone that is) so she sounded really different when she talked. She had some operations to help with that and then she went to speech therapy for 6 years. She never learned the alligator mouth, but that sounds like a good way to talk so that people know what you are saying. Three weeks ago Katie had another operation on her mouth and she did very well. She is a very cool kid just like you because when her legs don’t work so well or when she couldn’t talk very well she never gives up, just like you! Guess what else? Even when her legs aren’t working so well she can still get on TennCee or Buster and ride! She really likes artwork too, so she can do that when she’s in a wheelchair. I can see from your pictures on the website that you are also a good artist. What else can you do while you are sitting? I’ll bet you can think of a bunch of fun things (like shooting nerf discs at your dad!).

Keep on being a brave girl and I hope you like the pictures of Katie and our animals. Maybe you could draw some more pictures for the website because we really like to look at them and all the pictures of your family. If you get to meet the real Carson Palmer tell him we said WHO DEY! Give your mom and dad and Grace a big hug! We pray every day that you will get well soon.

Tammie, Rob and Katie

The Harrison Family

APRIL 1, 2007

Dear Gracie,

I have been following your families website and I think you are a terrific little sister. I hope as my 2 year old gets a little older that she will love and respect her big sister like you do. I am proud of you for wanting to raise money for St. Jude's in your sister's name.. I would love to make a pledge. My daughter rode in that last year and loved every minute of it. Best of luck to you. I hope you reach the $1000 mark!!

Melony Wallace

KNOXVILLE KIDS' DIRECTORY

865-556-0207

MARCH 30, 2007

Hi Elena,

I'm so glad your sleepover went well. Hannah tried to have one at the beginning of kindergarten but it didn't work out too well. It sounds like you had so much fun, especially the pillow fight! I hope you are enjoying being off of school and spending time with your family. I bet you and Grace are excited for Easter! I hope you have a fun break, driving that Barbie Jeep! Have a great weekend!

Love,

The Lemperts :)

Hamilton H. Lempert, M.D Deborah E. Lempert

MARCH 30, 2007

Hi, Elena!

At the school where I teach our students raised over $10,600 for St. Jude's by doing the St. Jude Math-A-Thon. My first graders were happy to do it because they knew that St. Jude's has helped you so much! Every morning one of my first graders says your name when we pray for people and a lot of days you get mentioned more than once! Your picture is still hanging in our room...we won't forget you!!

You and Grace better drive your Barbie jeep safely...I'm glad that you're not in my neighborhood because it sounds like it could be dangerous when you drive!!

Keep being the brave little girl you are and give your mom, dad and Grace a hug for me!

Carol Boerger

MARCH 30, 2007

Hi Elena,

I just wanted to say thank you for talking to me and sharing your books that you made with me. They were very nice. I will have to bring in a book buddy made for me for you to see. Have a fun weekend at your slumber party. Maybe you can tell me about it next week. :-)

Christy Drinnen

MARCH 30, 2007

Gracie,

I live a couple of blocks from your street, and I work with the computers at our schools. I would love to sponsor you on your Trike-A-Thon ride (as I'm sure others would also). That is great that you are participating! Would you have your mom or dad let me know how I can sponsor you.

Thanks!

Mrs. Paas :)

MARCH 30, 2007

Hello to the whole Desserich clan! "You don't know me, but..." I know you get that all the time, and here it is again! I love reading what is happening with you guys. I live in Lexington. My son use to go to Cincinnati Children's, until our insurance changed... (He was there for pulmonology and GI.) What a great hospital. I felt like they really cared about our whole family. Where we are now, I feel like we are a number. ANYWHO...

Elena, I know you hear this all the time but you are such an inspiration to so many people all over the world. You have taught many adults live lessons that we could not have learned on our own in 30+ years! I think about you each day and pray for you morning noon and night!

What a special sister you have! It is so awesome that Grace is so excited about the St. Jude Trike-A-Thon and wanting to raise money for you and St Jude! You all are just an inspiring family. I am praying for your family each and every day!

In Christ,

Meagan Taylor

MARCH 29, 2007

Elena,

I am a Bengals fan from Utah - take care of yourself and my god bless you each day. You seem like a fantastic you lady and I hope all is well with you. We flew out to Bengals games the past couple of years and love the Cincy area. Take care of yourself and I hope you have a great day.

Sincerely

Tony Ritchie and Family

MARCH 29, 2007

Brooke,

I love your wording-wee hours of dusk. You are so funny! Anyway, may I suggest a Pretend Pajama Party? Martha Glen has gone to a couple of those; remind Elena that many, many, many girls get homesick when they try to spend a whole night out in kindergarten. SO, with the Pretend Pajama Party, otherwise known as the Almost Spend the Night Party, you go to the hostess's house in your jammies, say 4:30ish, sleeping bag in hand. Once there, pizza is ordered and popcorn is popped. You watch a movie, drink some Coke, play a game or two, polish some finger nails, and all the mommies and daddies come back to pick up the guests around 7:00 or so. MUCH better than consoling little girls at 1:00 AM because they want their mommies! That way, Elena will get her sleep too. Have fun!

Much love-

Caroline

MARCH 29, 2007

Dear Brooke,Keith,Gracie and Elena,

I am reading your journal every morning as I eat breakfast so I can stay up with what is happing. As much as the last couple of day have been a little intense I was glad to see it was also yet another hurdle of success with this battle of the tumor. And as gut wrenching as I am sure it is everyone seem to have raisin to the occasion and once again been able to cope and deal with another prognosis that is hard to understand let along attempt course of action to take. But I have to say caving into the 229.00 pink and purple "Barbie Jeep" was a good start if only for a day of smiles from not one but both of your little Angel's to help clear the mind so as to make another plan of action. It sure brings back memories of my own when they were young and how much satisfaction you could get from just something as simple as a "smile". Well I hope our little "road runners" have a license to operate a jeep and don't run you both over and tell them not to pick up any "hitch-hikers" but just enjoying watching them have fun.

As you continue along this path I will keep you all in my prayers that someday all of this will be behind and that all of our prayers will be realized.

Hugs & Kisses,

Aunt Joy

MARCH 28, 2007

May the GOD of MIRACLES fill you with HOPE!!!

HOPE for a smile...HOPE for a laugh...HOPE for more wonderful firsts...HOPE for more time with your precious child...HOPE for a cure!!!

I am praying for you, asking GOD to fill you all with HOPE!

Stephanie Boyd

MARCH 28, 2007

I have a little and Elana smile is absolutely beautiful.

Mother suffered with Cancer for 28 years and was totally and completely healed, I was right there every step of the way. And TRUST ME SHE WAS COMPLETELY HEALED.

I know that children is Gods heart and he will heal Elana. I'm not one of those fanatics but a true believer.

You are all in my prayers.

God Bless!!!!

Be Safe

Sherri Justice

MARCH 28, 2007

Hi Elena.

We went on an International trip at school yesterday. My passport says I went all around the world! I wish you were there. I miss you. Did you ride your Barbie Jeep a lot? I ride it until the batteries run out

- then it takes awhile to ride again.

Lauren M.

MARCH 28, 2007

Keith and Brooke,

We don’t know each other; I came across your website through Meghan. Our son’s were in the hospital together. I have been reading your website ever since. The other day my daughter came in as I was reading that the options for Elena were diminishing, she caught me crying and asked about it. So I explained Elena’s story and also about Grace. My daughter (Carissa) is the “little sister” of a seriously ill sibling. She instantly felt a kinship with Grace, as her older brother often receives more attention, gifts, etc. During Ben’s most recent illness he was expected to die. I spent two months away from home only to come home and still have to focus most of my attention on Carissa’s older brother. Ben got so many gifts, cards, balloons, etc. that Carissa felt very left out. Although we really tried to involve her in the care and activities it paled compared to all the gifts. A close friend of mine was kind enough to send a very special care package just for Carissa. This will never be forgotten, and now my eight year old daughter would like to pass that good feeling on to your Grace. I told her I would check with both of you first to make sure this wouldn’t be an invasion into your privacy since we don’t really know each other. If this is ok could you please let me know via email:Debbieh5@hotmail.com.

Either way, please know that you are all in our prayers; Grace however has a special place in Carissa’s place. I have also sent your website to some friends of mine to be added to our prayer circle.

Debbie Hicks

MARCH 28, 2007

Hi Elena,

I think that is so great that you have your own jeep. They are so much fun. We don't have one at our house, but we have ridden one at other people's houses many times. I hope your Dad will put up a picture of you in it on the website. That would be so cool. I hope you are having a good day. You just ROCK!

Ashley Thomas

MARCH 28, 2007

Dear Desserich Family,

I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for sharing your journey with everyone. We share a little of your experience and hopefully become better people. We celebrate and triumph when you celebrate and have good news and we are heartbroken when things don't go well for you. We are thankful that you had something to celebrate today (a new vehicle/toy is always a celebration, I hope you find your camera). You are right, we should be celebrating firsts wherever we can. Look for opportunities for first and ignore the thoughts of lasts. I particularly love your idea of elena's wish list. We should all have one healthy or not and work towards fufilling as many wishes as possible. My daughter has a brain tumor also. We are lucky and she is well, so far. We would like to take a page from your book and ask both of our children to create a wish list and see how many of them we can accomplish in whatever amount of time that God allows us to have.

We pray for your family. I hope to read about many of Elena's firsts to come.

Natalie Wong and family from Richmond, B.C. Canada

MARCH 28, 2007

Keith and Brooke,

May God guide you through this extremely difficult time – somehow it’s all part of his plan. We’re constantly thinking of you and praying for you and Elena. We have been so humbled by your strength and resolve throughout this struggle. You’ve certainly taught us to be better parents.

Keep fighting and never give up… We’re cheering you on and fighting right beside you!

Love,

PJ and Sue Spann

Emily, Paul and George

MARCH 28, 2007

Please know that you continue to be in our hearts and that our hearts hurt and celebrate with yours.

The decisions that have to be made for our children are never easy (if I get her the Barbie Jeep/him the yellow Corvette will toys like this always be expected?).

Parents of these kids make what are truly life-altering decisions everyday. Know that whatever you decide can never be questioned by anyone else - even other families with this, make choices specifically for their family. There are no wrong decisions - you make the choice that is right for you.

May God's peace be with you all.

The Lipski Family

www.jjsmiracle.com

MARCH 27, 2007

Elena,

I'm up late tonight! We had soccer today and I ate ice cream after.

Mommy said you got a Barbie Jeep!!! I have one too! Don't you love it? Except my sister cannot steer very well. She keeps running it into trees! And Mommy doesn't love that we drive it in the wet muddy backyard, but Daddy thinks it's fun. I hope you will be back at school soon. I miss you.

Lauren M.

MARCH 27, 2007

Hi Brooke and Keith,
I spent 14 years as part of the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Department at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. Most of my activities were education and laboratory related. I think the most important lesson I learned from my pathology associates was that very little in medicine is certain. Your journal entry from 3/26 is a prime example, we expected a major bump in the highway and got an unexpected curve instead. Medicine would be a lot more predictable if it were an exact science but I'm not sure I'd like it that way.
It seems a bit ironic but your courage, determination and faith are an inspiration to us on the "outside".

Ed Knepp
(My son teaches 1st grade at Vermont)

MARCH 27, 2007

Dear Keith, Brooke, Elena and Grace,

I wanted to let you know that we are thinking about you every day. Our family follows your site and feels the same emotions you all do. We lost our daughter Hannah last year to this Cowardly Monster. Sometimes it's hard to read your updates because we see ourselves in you. We are praying for Elena and look forward to the day when you can write that she is improving and the tumor is shrinking or gone!

When I read your posts I see a lot of similarities between Elena and Hannah.

They liked the same kinds of things and seem to have the same kind of personalities. Also, I see a lot of the same emotions in your writing that I felt and wrote about in our blog when Hannah was being treated. We had difficult decisions to make during treatment and always struggled with deciding what course of action to take. In the end, we did was we felt was best for Hannah. Even if the Drs didn't always agree with us, we did what we felt was right with the information we had.

It's easy to look back and say we could or should have done something but that serves no purpose for us. We did what did and we did it because we felt it was what needed to be done. We always kept Hannah in mind when making decision because we wanted her to be able to play with her sister, go out to the park and just be a kid.

This might not be helping and you may think I'm rambling but what I'm really trying to say is this: Believe in yourself and trust yourself. Elena has faith that you will do what you need to.

Please know that you can contact us anytime for anything. We researched (and

tried) many different therapies, natural treatments, homepathic options, even some more esoteric options that to many people would seem odd. We want to help if we can.

Lots of Love,

Tore, Kathie, Allie and our Beautiful Angel Hannah

MARCH 27, 2007

Keith & Brooke-
I can say with great confidence that Tony Wilson's recent note reflects the thoughts and feelings of so many--countless-- Wyoming neighbors. If support and love and hope counted as a cure, Elena's tumor wouldn't have lasted a day. Please know that you have this love and support from so many of us and we stand ready to help in whatever ways we can. You have amazed us by letting us in and reminding each of us of what is important.

Please know that it is we who now owe you in the weeks and years to come.

Alison Momeyer (mom to Ruby, Zachary and Luca Napora)

MARCH 27, 2007

Dear Keith & Brooke,

I have been praying for your family and Elena since the start. I live in Cleveland , and got involved in this cause from "Maria".

When I read your latest Journal entry, it seems that Aidan Zaug and Elena have some very strong similarities, and they may be positive. I have no medical background, but just thought if you had not seen Aidans info., it may help.

I will continue praying for all of you. You are a remarkable family, and God will hold you tight.

Maria

MARCH 27, 2007

Good morning Keith and Brooke,

Well, I awoke this morning, turned on my hymns and my coffee pot, and went straight to the computer to check on y'all. I am believing this is dead mass that is causing the outside walls to move. That's good if some of the tumor is dead, right? I was feeling encouraged by that news when I read it. Now let's pray those outside walls dead too! Interestingly, that's actually one of the prayer requests my other DIPG friend's (Madeline Adams) family has on their web site--to pray that God would so weaken this tumor that it would be "like a city without walls," weak and open to attacks from all medicines these children take! That will be my prayer for Elena as well as Madeline.

Brooke, everyone is sending you messages about how you've inspired them to be better parents. I just wanted to let you know that you've encouraged me to take better care of my body. I hate, double hate, triple hate, to exercise! However, I am feeling like a little butterball these days, so since I have been reading about your exercise and nutrition, I have been inspired to get on that stupid stairmaster and try to go to town. I never want to, but I always think, "Heck, if Brooke can make time to do this with all the stuff she's going through, surely I can make time as well!" I wish I lived near you so we could be workout partners and let all our girls play while we worked it all out. Anyway, I have found a Christian artist to whom I like to listen while I work out. His name is David Crowder. His songs inspire me and help me in my prayers for Elena and Madeline. His tempo rocks, so it's good for working out. You can download him on iTunes.

"Come thout fount of every blessing" and present a clear option to Brooke and Keith. Praise you for killing some of that tumor. Kill the rest, we cry out to you! Pour out your amazing grace on Elena and HEAL HER as only you, the great physician can do. Wrap the Desserichs in the shadow of your wings, guard and protect them from doubt and depression. "Be thou my vision, oh Lord of my heart," we shout to you as the Desserichs make these decisions. Be their clear vision, waking or sleeping. Be ever with them, speak to them, and continue your attack on that tumor.

Much love,

Caroline

MARCH 26, 2007

Hi Princess Elena,

By way of introduction, I'm Amy Hudoba and I belong to an organization called Epsilon Sigma Alpha (ESA). Our organization works very hard to raise money for St. Judes in order to help young people like you. Recently I had the blessed opportunity of meeting your grandparents while working the B-105 St. Jude Radiothon on Friday, March 16th. They shared a wonderful picture of you swimming with a dolphin on your recent trip to Florida, and shared many wonderful stories about you.

You are so beautiful and precious. I had the privilege of visiting your website this evening for the first time. I enjoyed reading the messages to you and your family, reading your story and seeing your pictures. I loved your song.

I noticed you really like dogs and puppies. I have a pet therapy dog, Sparky. Sparky is a Bedlington Terrier. Bedlingtons are known for looking like little lambs. He's very soft and cuddly and loves people of all ages, especially children. Sparky is certified to do visits at Children's Hospital here in Cincinnati. If you're ever in Children's and would like a visit from Sparky it would have to be cleared through Dr. Edith Markoff. If you would like a visit from Sparky we also do home visits. I can be contacted at ahudoba@fuse.net. You can see a picture of my husband and me with Sparky by going to the website www.elante1.com, then select "Pets" on the left hand side ... we're the fifth (5th) picture down on that site. Sparky and I also go to Shriners Burns Hospital for Children, Ronald McDonald House to name a few.

Elena, you are a very precious little girl and our family's prayers are with you and your family.

Love and blessings,

Amy Hudoba,

1st Vice President Ohio State Council

Epsilon Sigma Alpha

MARCH 26, 2007

Hi Desserich Family, wanted to drop a note to tell you we are thinking about you and, hope and pray for you everyday. I love the pictures of your club house, it looked really nice. I am glad that you guys can get out and enjoy the beautiful weather. hang in there and stay stong you have a lot of people praying for you everyday.

Love The Wagner (Indiana)

MARCH 26, 2007

Dear Elena i miss you We All pray for you from Alison Groteke

MARCH 26, 2007

Dear Elena

We hope you feel better. We missyou. From Alison

MARCH 26, 2007

Keith and Brooke,

I am praying for you today. You will make the right decision. I am praying for confidence and certainty for you. I am praying for freedom from doubt. I am praying for a calm and a peace that cannot come from this earth. I am praying for joy and happiness. I am praying for a sense of relief. Elena is God's gift to you. He gave you her to love and cherish and parent. He is guiding you through every moment He gives you with her, the wonderful ones and the tough ones. You are doing the most beautiful job with her! You are an inspiration to all parents. I don't understand why you are having to go through this, and I have cried out to God about that. I can, however, say with confidence that you have made so many people become much better parents as they journey with you, and you have brought so many people closer to God through your experience. I am 100% sure that you will make the right decision for Elena and for your family today. Everything you have done since November 28 has been good and right; today will be no different. Know that you are being lifted up in prayer today...praying that the scales of doubt will be removed from your eyes and that the decision, once made, will bring the relief that the manna from heaven brought so many years ago.

Much love,

Caroline

MARCH 25, 2007

Hi Desserichs,

I was just reading the comments in your journal about how the "news" reported by the media seems insignificant compared to the really important daily occurences. I just want you to know, when I think about the "news" and wonder what is going on daily in the world, it is Elena's website that I look to for the answer. Your journal's "reporting" of your emotions, experiences, and thoughts provide one of the most meaningful parts of my day, every day.

Sincerely, Amy Halm

MARCH 25, 2007

Dear Elena and family,

We found your website tonight after reading about you on Carepages. What a beautiful little girl you are. We will pray for God to heal you, and to help your parents find peace and comfort in the midst of their storm. Do not ever stop trusting in God- He is our hope when there is no other. God bless you and your family.

Love,

Edward and Gail Shifflett

Gastonia, NC

MARCH 25, 2007

Elena,

You are constantly in my prayers. I am praying for a miracle healing for you and comfort to your family. I am sorry you are starting to feel bad again. And I'm even sorrier that we've not made it down to visit with you. I knew you guys were busy so didn't push it! If you'd like to play with my kids, you just speak it and we'll come down for the day. We love you, though we've never met you and only Tony has. Much love girly!

Carrie

Keith and Brooke,

I'm at a loss of words. I sobbed myself to sleep last night after reading the latest journal entry. It's just not fair. I've never even met your precious Elena and I feel a connection to her. I feel like I've always known her. It is a time like this (gee, here come the tears again) that I lack understanding as a Christian. Yeah, I realize how this struggle with Elena has bettered the family lives of so many people, but it's still hard to come to terms with the possibility of God taking her back after so few years. You've learned so much about what to truly treasure in life and have made that change, can't it just be stopped now? That's where it hurts. I cannot even fathom how you are feeling. I know how I'm feeling and she's not even my child. My heart aches for you both and if you need anything, and I mean anything, do not hesitate to call us.

Much love and prayers,

Carrie Yarnell

MARCH 25, 2007

Hello Elena,

I have continued to read about your many adventures since I have left Memphis. As in Memphis, you continue to impress the heck out of me.

I am so proud of you! I am also so proud of your parents and Gracie.

I cherish the Christmas pin you picked out for me - it was such a beautiful gift from such a beautiful young lady! I thought it was pretty cool when you went swimming with the dolphins - hopefully I will be able to do that one day - it sure looks like you had fun! You and your family are in my thoughts!

Elke (the visiting Radiation Doctor from Chicago/Canada)

MARCH 25, 2007

Elena,

Hey! I just wanted to let you know that I am still thinking and praying for you every single day!!! I know that you are going to get better : ) I am working on a special present for you that hopefully will make you laugh : P

I read that you got to go to your cousins birthday party yesterday, I bet that was fun! You and Grace looked SO COOL in your Barbie car!!

Wishing you all the love and hugs in the world : )

Ryan

by the way....

Question:

what did the porcupine say to the cactus????

Answer: Is that you mommy

MARCH 25, 2007

Dear Desserich Family,

Each morning I read Elena's website and lately my heart just aches for you. Like all of us who have come to love Elena from afar, I wish I knew something to do to help ease some of your pain. So still I pray and I hope and I try and think of words of encouragement to write just to let you know how special your family has become, even though I have never personally met you. Thank you for continuing to share your joys and your struggles with all of us. May grace and love envelope your home and we will continue praying...

Ashley Thomas

MARCH 25, 2007

My husband and I have been following your journey daily since your cousin Dawn told us about you in November. We, like many, have laughed and cried with you. We have been amazed at the depths of your insight and faith. I just wanted to let you know that you have made a difference in the thousands of lives that are reading this website. You have daily reminded us of what is important in life. What a precious gift you have given all of us! As always, our prayers are with you.

Katie and Nick Warnecke

MARCH 25, 2007

Dear Desserich Family,

I am a second grade teacher at Vermont School. I cherish every smile I have the pleasure of getting from Elena.

Your strength and honesty in the journal is amazing. Each day after reading the journal, I am once again reminded that I have no "problems."

I have always considered all children a gift that God has given us. Elena continually reminds me of this. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Sincerely,

Jane Lance

MARCH 25, 2007

Keith and Brooke, thank you for your inspiring words to not let the "media" and all that junk interfere with the precious time we have with our children. It makes me want to go scoop up Colton and Dawson right now and squeeze them forever! My heart hurts for you two, and I hope you can find comfort in each other and in our Lord Jesus.

Love, Kristen

MARCH 25, 2007

Dear Brooke, Keith, Elena and Grace,

This is Beth Zimmermann, your Deacon from Northminster Church. I am writing to let you know that your entire church family has you lifted up in prayer right now...and will continue as long as you need us. If I can personally do anything for the family, please contact me, I would feel blessed to help you. I pray that God wraps your family in his arms, and fills you with the peace and calm you need right now. I read your journal everyday, and feel like you have taught me a lesson on family values..cherish every moment.

Thank you for sharing your journey with us, and I will keep you in my constant prayers. Beth

MARCH 24, 2007

Dear Desserich Family,

Over the past months hardly a night has gone by that someone in this home hasn't cried or smiled due to the news from your home. Liz and I have been amazed at the strength, courage, and wisdom you are demonstrating. I see so many similarities between our family and yours. Like all children in Wyoming (and lake Woebegone), our children are above average and we also have two blonde daughters, one in Kindergarten and one 2 years behind. We also tried to build a home business in order to stay close to our families and we constantly fight the battle for balance. Both wives are the stoic practical ones, while the Dads are big softies who love our kids so fiercely.

I've been amazed and terrified at the similarities. I think I'm pretty darn strong, but I can't imagine having Desserich strength. I wish that we had met more frequently last summer. I think we would have been great friends. More likely we would be too busy with our own families, which really is the quality we strongly share.

Still, I am proud of my neighbor, if not my friend -- yet. Whatever decision you make will be the best. Agonize, research, pray, guess, dream , wish. Whatever method or criteria you pick will be the best answer. Please know that there is a community that is stressed and worried and crying, we can do that for you. Let as much of that go as you can and take care of yourselves and your daughters.

The Wilson family is at your disposal,

The Wilsons (Tony, Liz, Maddie, Katie)

p.s. We have Return of the Jedi on the DVR in Hi Def, if you even need a night at the movies.

MARCH 24, 2007

Dear Desserich Family,

I somehow stumbled upon your website several weeks ago and have been checking it daily since. Even though I do not know you guys my heart absolutely aches for you. I pray for you daily that God will give you the strength you need to pull you through this situation and help you with the decisions that you are being forced to make. No parent should have to make such a decision regarding their child. I pray that God will speak loudly to you over the weekend so that you will have peace with your decision.

Elena,

You are a beautiful and brave little girl. Keep fighting and don't give up!! You are a lucky girl to have such a loving family and a great little sister!!

Love,

MARCH 24, 2007

Keith and Brooke,

My heart is aching for you and I am praying for you in your decisions. You love Elena and Gracie very much and I am sure they are proud of you and thankful for all you do for them.

Ashley Thomas

MARCH 24, 2007

Dear Desserich Family,

I check on Elena every day. Her relationship with her sister reminds me of my daughters. I understand your dilemma. My only advise is do the research, talk to the doctors and spend time with your daughter. I don't know if you know this but you can get a CD of Elena's MRI scans make copies and send them with the MRI report and your personal information to other hospitals. I would send Alicia's scans to Dana Farber, Duke, St. Judes and John Hopkins. All of these institutions would review her scans free of charge and contact me with what their hospitals had to offer. If you want more information or have any questions please email me at ESTYS@cfl.rr.com or call (321) 633-6002. When you have all your information and opinions, then make a decision. You will make the right decision based on the information you have at that time. Regardless of what happens in the future you can feel good about that. This tumor is a nightmare and I am so sorry you have to live it. Please know I understand and if you need anything I am here .... anytime. Please give Elena a big hug and kiss for me. Cherish her every day!

Sending you a big Hug,

With Hope,

Christine

mother of an angel named Alicia

www.aliciahopefund.com

MARCH 22, 2007

Hi Elena. I just wanted you to know that I'm thinking of you and continuing to pray for you. I was behind on journal readings and just caught up. I'll be saying special prayers for you and for your mommy and daddy and the decisions to be made.

Much love,

Carrie Yarnell

MARCH 23, 2007

Hi Elena!! I hear (from Gracie) that you have a fun filled weekend planned-- a birthday party, grandparents:-) Mine will be long and stressful but I guess that is what I get being an adult. I got to see the earings (or should I say earing since one broke) that you got for doing your MRI like a big girl. That was awfully nice of you to let Grace bring it to school today. She showed it to EVERYONE. I told her to give you a hug for me, I hope you got it. If not, maybe you can tickle it out of her (with Dad's help of course) :-) Did Grace tell you that while she was at school she and I were talking and she told me that you have trouble seeing because you see two of everything. After a second, we decided that you are the luckiest girl because that way you get to see two Gracies and two Miss Jesses... WHO WOULDN'T WANT THAT?!?! :-) Well have fun this weekend (an extra amount since I will not be having much fun at all) and hopefully you will come in soon to Goddard to I can get my Elena hug and smile. I miss you!!! See you soon sweet girl

Miss Jess

MARCH 23, 2007

Hey Elena- well, we just got back from Thomas the Train- and WOW, did we have a good time. Colton and Dawson rode the train, then they got tattoos, and got to play with tons of trains! It was a great day, and we were all very tired afterwards!

Keith and Brooke, I will pray for wisdom and discernment as you go through this weekend with decisions to make. Only you two know what is best for Elena and your family and you have done so much research already, I hope you feel confident in whatever you decide!

Maybe this verse will give you some comfort.

Jeremiah 29:11 "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." Also read vs. 12-13.

Love ya, "Aunt" Kristen

MARCH 23, 2007

Keith and Brooke,

I love your website! Elena is such a lucky girl to be blessed with such wonderful parents. I appreciate you sharing your beautiful little girl with us! Take care and we'll see you in a couple weeks!

Love,
Tracy

MARCH 23, 2007

Hello Desserich Family,

I hope you are all having a very good morning. It is FRIDAY and for us that means preparing for a weekend of cookouts, swingsets and mud... I hope the weekend brings some of the same for you.

Be confident in your decisions, you are well educated and have been educating yourself specifically on her disease, but most of all, you are her precious parents and that (along with the amazing peace from God) will guide you into making the most perfect decisions you can. I'll be praying specifically for that.

Elena, if I could fit into a beautiful red velvet gown... I would want to wear it out somewhere too, since I don't go to school any more though I might just have to wear it to the park or grocery store!

Ashley Thomas

Montgomery, AL

MARCH 23, 2007

I am a member of Memorial Presbyterian Church in Montgomery, Alabama. I sit at my computer daily and read your updates. I smile at your amazing adventures and cry imagining the fear and frustration you must feel.

My daughter Emilyn was born with a congenital heart defect called Tetralogy of Fallot. She had open-heart surgery when she was three months old and will need more surgery in the future. It has taught me to enjoy every single moment with my girls. It has definitely taught me what is a big deal and what is NOT! I laughed today as I sat watching Emilyn sitting at the kitchen table in her SPIDERMAN boy underwear, eating her macaroni and cheese with a SHOVEL out of her sand box, thinking I would never have allowed this with my first daughter, Elizabeth. What a shame. I think I missed out on some great times.

The fear and worry of the future gets to me some days. One of the scriptures that has really helped me is, Isaiah 41: 10,13 “ Don’t worry, because I am with you. Don’t be afraid because I am your God. I will make you strong and will help you; I will support you with my right hand that saves you… I am the Lord your God who holds your hand and I tell you, “ Don’t be afraid, I will help you.”

I know that HE is with you, holding your hands and giving you all the strength and courage that you need. I will be praying for you as you make decisions this weekend, asking God to make things very clear and to give you great confidence in your decisions.

Praying for you and your precious girl,

Stephanie Boyd

MARCH 22, 2007

I just want to start out by saying that I read your journal every day. Your family is a true example of unconditional love! I appreciate you putting your most intimate feelings online for all of us to read. You are a constant reminder of how precious life is, and you remind us all to live life to its fullest and never take our loved ones for granted. My prayers are with Elena and your family now and always. Believe in miracles, they do come true. Follow your heart, and trust that you are making the right decisions for your little angel. I wish you and your family many more sunny days filled with love, laughter, and memories to last a lifetime.

Lori Keller

MARCH 22, 2007

Hey Elena, I'm glad to hear you had a better day today. I'm sure you were brave for your MRI b/c you always are.

Colton and Dawson get to do something very exciting tomorrow- we're going to ride Thomas the Train!! Their Opa and Nana are taking us, and they are soooo excited. I'll tell you all about it tomorrow! Have another good day, and I hope you know you have a guardian angel looking over you at all times.

Love ya, "Aunt" Kristen

MARCH 22, 2007

Hi Elena,

I check your website every other day. I saw the pictures of all the fun things that you have been doing. You are so beautiful and love your smile.

Love

Maria

Keith and Brooke

My dad's VFW post sent money to St. Jude in Elena's name. I hope and pray that this will help Elena maybe there is something they can do. We will keep the prayers flowing and that this miracle will happen that Elena will find a treatment or drug that will help her. Love

Maria C

MARCH 22, 2007

Hi Brooke, Keith, Gracie and Elena
Wow...sounds like you have been very busy, and you seem to be quite the travelers! We just wanted to let you know that we're thinking about you all a lot and hope that, despite everything that's going on, you're enjoying all of the time you have together. You are a truly inspiring couple, sisters and family. Every night at dinner, Jack says our prayer, and Erin, without fail, chimes in with "do yena (for Elena)", and then we say a special prayer for Elena and other sick children to get better soon. We're thinking of you often and praying for you all daily.
Love, Dan, Julie, Jack, Ashley, and Erin

MARCH 24, 2007

Dear Desserich Family,

The Wilson family is at your disposal,

The Wilsons (Tony, Liz, Maddie, Katie)

p.s. We have Return of the Jedi on the DVR in Hi Def, if you even need a night at the movies.

MARCH 24, 2007

Dear Desserich Family,

Elena,

You are a beautiful and brave little girl. Keep fighting and don't give up!! You are a lucky girl to have such a loving family and a great little sister!!

Love,

MARCH 24, 2007

Hi Elena!

Tammie, Rob and Katie

The Harrison Family

MARCH 24, 2007

Keith and Brooke,

My heart is aching for you and I am praying for you in your decisions. You love Elena and Gracie very much and I am sure they are proud of you and thankful for all you do for them.

Ashley Thomas

MARCH 24, 2007

Dear Desserich Family,

Sending you a big Hug,

With Hope,

Christine

mother of an angel named Alicia

www.aliciahopefund.com

MARCH 23, 2007

Miss Jess

MARCH 23, 2007

Maybe this verse will give you some comfort.

Jeremiah 29:11 "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." Also read vs. 12-13.

Love ya, "Aunt" Kristen

MARCH 22, 2007

Much love,

Carrie Yarnell

MARCH 23, 2007

Keith and Brooke,

I love your website! Elena is such a lucky girl to be blessed with such wonderful parents. I appreciate you sharing your beautiful little girl with us! Take care and we'll see you in a couple weeks!

Love,
Tracy

MARCH 23, 2007

Hello Desserich Family,

I hope you are all having a very good morning. It is FRIDAY and for us that means preparing for a weekend of cookouts, swingsets and mud... I hope the weekend brings some of the same for you.

Ashley Thomas

Montgomery, AL

MARCH 23, 2007

Praying for you and your precious girl,

Stephanie Boyd

MARCH 22, 2007

Lori Keller

MARCH 22, 2007

Hey Elena, I'm glad to hear you had a better day today. I'm sure you were brave for your MRI b/c you always are.

Love ya, "Aunt" Kristen

MARCH 22, 2007

Hi Elena,

I check your website every other day. I saw the pictures of all the fun things that you have been doing. You are so beautiful and love your smile.

Love

Maria

Keith and Brooke

Maria C

MARCH 22, 2007

Good morning, Elena-

Now that Martha Glen is on her way home, I can tell you where she went for her surprise Spring Break trip--Minnesota! BUUUURRRRR!!!! It was 16 degrees there when she arrived, but she didn't care because she got to see her best buddy Max who moved there this past summer. She's having a great time.

Meanwhile, Sadie and I have done all sorts of special things. We've gone to Libby Lu in the mall to get a rock star makeover. We've gotten a new princess bike with training wheels. We've had a little friend over and gone to the nail parlor to get nails polished. Tomorrow, she goes with the men in her life--Daddy and both grandfathers--to ride Thomas the Train! So, we've had a fun spring break.

Oh, I forgot to tell you about the pony baby. It's a boy! He was finally born.

He is a very light tan color--champagne. He's super cute! Since it is so warm here now, he is already out in the pasture with his mommy. I'm not sure if he has a name yet. It has to start with a D because of the stallion, the baby's daddy. Can you think of a good name for him?

Today is going to be a day of closet cleaning out. I have to gather $100 worth of old stuff for a Jr. League thing here. Your Uncle Kent's mom (my Aunt Gail-Allyson and Michele's Nana) used to work for Jr. League, and I'm sure she remembers the old Rummage Sale. It's not my favorite project, but I have to pay the money if I don't turn in the stuff. So, off I go to clean out!

I hear you are having some troubles now. You hang in there, precious. I am so proud of you. You are a very special part of my life. EVERY SINGLE day I wake up and go to my computer and read all about you. I have my prayer time after that and I talk to God about you and my other DIPG friend Madeline Adams. You made it through this limp and trouble talking once before and YOU WILL DO IT AGAIN! Don't give up! You have inspired me to be a better teacher and a better mommy to all the kids in my life. You have taught me so much about what is important and what we can just ignore and refuse to think about! Keep fighting, my brave warrior princess!

Love,

Caroline S

MARCH 21, 2007

Brooke and Keith, I am lifting up prayers constantly for Elena and you all. I know you are so thankful for your trip to Orlando where you could just be a family! Please know you are on my heart and we have many people in AL praying for you.

Elena- guess what, we were down near Orlando the same time you all were there! We were volunteering at a golf tournament so it was not quite as cool as swimming with dolphins. I'm jealous! Do you know how lucky you are to have such a great sister? I hope you and Gracie give each other lots of hugs every day to show how much you love each other! Sisters are very special!

Gracie- your trophy is sooo cool! You are the best little sister, and I'm so proud of how you are taking care of Elena! Give her a kiss from me, ok?

Love ya, "Aunt" Kristen

MARCH 21, 2007

Keith, Brooke, Elena, and Grace,

You have so many wonderful people supporting you in word, deed, and prayer. May you know that you have touched the hearts of many, and that in addition to being in my prayers, my church continues to pray for all of you.

It sounds like you had a wonderful trip and have accomplished so much on the Wish List. I pray you can do so many more of those activities!

May the Lord Bless and Keep You on your journey,

Katie Miller

Great-West Retirement Services

Read:

Psalm 23

Philipians 4:4-7 and 13

Romans 8:26-27

Jeremiah 29:11-14

Lamentations 3:22-27

MARCH 21, 2007

Keith and Brooke,

I just pray that God will give you and your family some amazing pockets of grace, unexpected bouts of joy, extra stamina, and a sense of togetherness that is greater than you all as a family has ever known. I know God is good, purposeful. I know He is moving in Elena because He has used this website and her tenacity to touch me and work in me.

You are an amazing family with an amazing fight.

love,

Ashley Thomas

Montgomery, AL