My intention has always been that this would be a blog about teaching. But, as so often happens, things happen. Pictures of my family, my boys and my life has seeped into posts here and there.
I get email from teachers and readers who share their lives with me and the best thing happens . . . friendships and connections are made. Even though I may not know each and every one of you personally, I know so many of you that I feel like I have this HUGE, wonderful group of friends out there . . . and right about now, I’m counting on it whether it’s true or not. I need my friends!
So I need to tell you this story. But, I’m not particularly the best writer when it comes to this kind of thing. I wish I had the gift that my friend Kristin from The Teeny Tiny Teacher has. She writes and it makes you feel like she’s speaking just to you. She makes you laugh, she makes you cry, but ultimately, you totally ‘know’ what she’s all about. I don’t have that gift, but I hope you’ll listen anyway.
Of course, many of you already know that I have a family with a wonderful man, Mike, and three noisy, smelly and dirty little buggers . . . my little Irish lads . . . the loves of my life . . . MacKale, McCoy and MaGill.
They really are the moon, the sun and the stars of my sky. What you might not know is that MacKale was born with Hemophilia.
Hemophilia is a genetic bleeding disorder. That’s right! He got it from me. In a perfect world of hemophilia, my dad would have had hemophilia, which would make me a carrier and would then give each of my sons a 50/50 chance of inheriting this disorder. As it is, my dad never had hemophilia and this has all happened by chance. Mac was the only one of the boys to inherit it. I’m not gonna lie. It was the most devastating day of my life when we learned about MacKale’s bleeding disorder. We didn’t know what to expect. We were scared and terrified for this sweet baby. But MacKale thrived. He thumbed his nose at hemophilia. It doesn’t define him. It makes him strong! He is active and smart (just like every mom believes of their children) and has a sweet personality.
He never asked, ‘why do I have hemophilia?’ Never did he say, ‘why me?’
When he was just 5 years old, he received a port which made his infusions easier for us and allowed him more freedom to do some of the things that every little boy loves to do . . . soccer, skiing, golfing, biking and wrestling with his brothers.
From the time he was 6 years old, he attended overnight camp at the Hemophilia Foundation of Michigan‘s Camp Bold Eagle where he learned how to be a more independent with his treatment. When he was 9, he was asked to travel to Connecticut to attend Paul Newman’s Hole In The Wall Gang Camp where he learned how to be a regular kid and ‘raise a little hell’ just like Paul believed every kid should.
And then this year, he actually started to self-infuse . . . this is where he would locate his own vein and administer his own factor.
I was so proud. It was the biggest step he could make towards becoming independent with his treatment. All we needed to do was make the arrangements and set the time and that port was going to become history! His treatment center was so proud that they nominated him to attend a program called ‘Getting In The Game‘ in Arizona at the end October. He was set to attend their golf clinic with his dad. Life was AMAZING.
Then life happened!
We are a soccer family. Even with hemophilia, Mac was able to enjoy playing soccer just like his brothers. But recently, he suffered an injury to his leg that just didn’t seem to be getting better. Normally, when this would happen, we would infuse him with factor, rest and it would get better, but after two weeks, that just wasn’t happening. Last Tuesday morning, he woke in the middle of the night and he couldn’t even walk. My greatest fear was that he had an inhibitor. This is basically when the factor that you give hemophilia patients stops working and your body starts seeing factor as the ‘enemy.’ It’s bad. So my husband travelled to our hemophilia clinic with Mac on Tuesday afternoon while I was teaching and they did blood work. No inhibitor! So they did an x-ray, because maybe he broke the leg. Nope! Finally they did an ultrasound. There was a mass on his tibia!
If there is a blessing in this entire story, it’s the angel my family refers to as Dr. Deanna Mitchell. This is Mac’s hematologist. This amazing woman has known and cared for my son since he was an infant. In addition to being a hematologist, she is, of course, also an oncologist. In a matter of hours, she moved mountains to find out exactly what was going on with Mac. We left the little boys with their grandparents and travelled to Grand Rapids for an MRI at DeVos Children’s Hospital the next afternoon. The next day we had a biopsy, then CAT scan, bone scan, echocardiogram, and audio testing. By Friday, we had a diagnosis and a pathology report that confirmed our greatest fear, Osteosarcoma. MacKale has cancer.
My 11 year old, sporty, smart child . . . is fighting the greatest fight of his life. Our lives have literally been turned upside down.
How do you tell an 11 year old about chemo . . . about cancer . . . ? I’m a teacher, but honestly friends, I’m a mess. I don’t have the answers and really don’t have a lesson plan for this part of my life. When your baby cries because he wishes it was his arm instead of his leg, because everything he loves has to do with his legs . . . you cry too.
When he cries because he’s afraid to lose his hair . . . you cry too. When his brothers cry because they don’t understand why, you cry.
When people say, ‘they are sorry’ and it feels like they’ve already given up on him, even though you know they haven’t . . . you cry. And when he’s not looking and you’re all alone, you and your husband cry . . . and cry and cry. But mostly . . . you pray!
I need you to know that I am a person of great faith. Although I am fearful and I’m terrified, I am praying without question but with faith that God has my child in his hands. I am praying for his recovery and his survival. I pray for wisdom and understanding. I pray that I will watch him grown into the incredible man I know he will be and that I will share a mother/son dance with him at his wedding.
Because you are all my friends . . . and I feel like you are my family . . . I am not afraid to ask you do to something for me. Regardless of your religion or beliefs, if you are a person of faith at all, please, please, please pray for MacKale. God is good in so many ways. He has already given MacKale a clear chest scan and a clear bone scan an amazing group of doctors, nurses and support team as well. We are truly blessed. And I just know that with all the prayer warriors out there, He will hear our prayers and give MacKale all he needs to fight this horrible disease.
Thank you friends!
Holly says
Add the Ehle Family to your list of Prayer Warriors! Our family is lifting you up in prayer…deep, committed prayer. We are here for you! May you feel God’s loving arms wrapped around you. I have no doubt God is about to show his great love and healing power to the world, through this journey.
Marsha says
Holly . . . sweet Holly. Thank you so much. I love you friend. Thank you for keeping MacKale in your prayers.
Marsha
Marsha, my sweet sweet sweet friend that I have never met. You know that I am a person of faith. I’d like to think even ‘great’ faith, but the strength of my faith doesn’t matter.
What matters is that you know that I am now praying for you, for your amazing son, for his incredible team of doctors, for your whole family: loving husband and your other two sons.
That this is unthinkable is an understatement. That you don’t have a lesson plan for the unthinkable is genuine. You are prepared because you have what it takes to rise up.
You can cry all you want and all you need. You can scream or swear of vent all you need.
Life. Planet Earth. Where the unthinkable happens. To good people.
Holding you close to my heart.
Debbie
Love you Debbie. Just that . . . I love you.
Marsha
Marsha, I cannot imagine the fear and worry and pain you are going through. I am praying for your sweet son and your whole family. Your words and pictures have me in tears, may God Bless your little Irish lad. If you ever need anything from your friend in Oklahoma, please let me know!
(((Hugs)))
Jennifer
Thank you Jennifer. My teacher-blogger friends are sustaining me and lifting me up. I feel so much love and I know God is listening to your prayers.
Marsha
Marsha,
You and your beautiful family will always be in my thoughts and prayers. Having a strong faith and the support of family and friends, is more than half the battle. We are all here for you. Whatever you need.
Love,
Lori
You know I love you to the moon and back. Your support and sweet words mean so much to me friend. I don’t know what I would do with out my teacher-blogging family. I am so incredibly blessed.
Love you
Marsha
Hi, I haven’t been reading for long. I started reading because my baby started kindergarten. Praying hard for your sweet, brave boy.
Sweet Marsha. You have been on my heart and in my prayers and I am storming the gates of heaven in fervent prayer for your sweet boy. Your faith will carry you through this valley and we will all be right here lifting you all in prayer. “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7
Oh Cara. I can not tell you how much I appreciate all your support, prayers and thoughtful words. This is NOT an ideal situation by any means, but I will say that I am at more peace today than I have been since we started this journey. I know the power of prayer, and I feel my heart will burst from the support and prayers being sent to God by my sweet teacher-blogger-momma friends and family. I am faithful, but I am not perfect. Which makes your verse so appropriate. So please continue to pray for me to be the best I can be for MacKale and my other lovely little men.
Your support and words mean the world to me friend. Blessings.
Marsha
Marsha, you wrote that beautifully! Kristen has nothing on you. I hear your voice and your pain and your fears. But most of all I hear your strength, even when you might think you don’t have any. You have already started to find answers in the medical people who were chosen to care for Mac and care with you and Mike. It sounds like you found this quick and got treatment started right away. I will keep all of you and the medical team in my prayers. Hugs to you, my friend.
Patty
Marsha, I will not stop praying for you and your family!!!!!! I will keep MacKale’s doctors in my prayers as well. Please know that so many of us are here for you!! Hugs!!!
As a fellow kindergarten teacher and mother to a brave little boy who fought cancer (and WON!), we are with you! Just be there for your boy to listen to, hold is hand, and let him know you are in this together. Faith will get you through! Blessing! The Rohr Family
Marsha! My sweet friend. I was on the edge of my seat as I read this. My heart is breaking for the pain your family is feeling right now. I am joining you in believing the best, believing for healing, believing for a long and healthy life for your son. God is in control!
I love you. You’re in my prayers and heart. Xox
So many prayers to you and your sweet family, Marsha! Your strength is so evident here in your faith and you are such an amazing mom. I’m praying for a clear path and a strong body to fight this cancer!
too many battles for such a sweet boy!! Praying for total healing, faith, peace that passes understanding. Joshua 1:9
You are amazing and told your story beautifully!! My thoughts are with you are your family during this hard, crappy time.
Carrie
Marsha,
Not a single day goes by that I don’t think about your MacKale , you, and your entire family. I pray for healing daily. I believe in the power of prayer and I know that although this post may have been very hard to write, it will bring your community of friends together to fight with MacKale. You are a brave, beautiful, powerful mom. I wish I could hug you through this screen!
Marsha,
I am one of your blog followers. I do feel like I know you because I check your blog regularly, and you truly saved me with all your resources when I started a kindergarten teaching position! So, I hurt for you when I read your most recent post. I am so sorry. Please know there are people out there (like me!) you have never met, but who are are thinking of you and praying for you and your family, and cheering you all on!
A big hug,
Kristin
Marsha, I will definitely be praying for your sweet boy, for your aching heart, and for your family. Hugs!
Marsha- I am praying for you through this scary time. My heart is absolutely broken but thank you for sharing your story. Please keep us updated and let us know what we can specifically pray for as it comes up. Sending big hugs!
Your words were eloquent and brought tears to my eyes. I know that God is standing by your side through all of this and I will pray for Mac’s health each day. I will also pray that you continue to turn to Him for strength. Give all of your boys plenty of hugs and I will be here for anything you need !
I love you more than I can ever say friend. You know how much I appreciate you and Rob. Thank you for continuing to pray for MacKale and all you do.
Marsha
Marsha,
What a moving post. What a true reflection of “voice” in your writing…I could hear “Mac’s mommy” the whole time I was reading. I will be praying for Mac. In fact, I’m praying right now as I type this, through my own tear filled eyes, because when your sister in Christ is crying, you are too. Just as you don’t understand why this is happening, God does. And He will receive the Glory. So thank you for sharing your request for prayer and for your transparency. Please, keep us posted. Proverbs 3. <3 Lindsay
Thank so much Lindsay. I know God has a plan. I know it’s not for me to question, but trust in his mercy.
Marsha
You said the words that are in your heart. We hear you LOUD & clear! We never give up! You won’t either! Neither will MacKale..He will play soccer again..and kick MANY goals. Little bumps are life lessons..Maybe his “Path” is to be an oncologist? We never know…Hug him tight & rely on your faith. Pray daily & smile…( grit your teeth ) HE needs to see it! 🙂 Wendy 1stgradefireworks
Thanks Wendy. I appreciate your kind words and prayers so much. I’m gritting my teeth. I promise.
Marsha
Maria and I will be praying for MacKale and your family. I have every confidence that this cancer will be beaten and, just like the hemophilia, will not define MacKale. If there is anything we can do to help, let us know. We’ll be there.
Thank you Rob. You and Maria are such a blessing to me. I know that you will pray with great urgency, and I can’t even tell you what that means to me. I love you both dearly.
Marsha
I can’t imagine your worry and fear! Prayers sent from me and my family.
Marsha, you wrote that just beautifully. Our prayers, thoughts and hopes are with your family on this challenging adventure. We pray for strength and healing! Thank you for sharing too.
Thank you for your prayers. We are so grateful.
Marsha
Mackale will be on the prayer list at Paradise United Methodist Church. I walk with you. My youngest child lost his life to a malignant brain tumor 25 years ago.Medical science has advanced tremendously since then. Check with your school district. I received 110 donated sick leave days thru a catastrophic leave program that was started when Matty needed me most.Your friend in Christ–Sally
You put it very eloquently. Even though I have only met you once, I read your blog and feel like I, “know,” you. I will be sending prayers your way for you and your beautiful family to heal quickly!
You do know me. I count you as my friend, and I am so grateful for your reaching out and for your prayers. Thank you, thank you, thank you friend. It means the world to me.
Marsha
Marsha, thank you for sharing your journey with us. I can tell you that you are such a wonderful mom with the way you talk about your family! If there’s any way we can support you, please let us know. Sending positive thoughts your way! You are in my prayers, for sure.
Sarah
Thanks so much Sarah. Your prayers are so valuable to us. I can’t imagine anything we could want more.
Marsha
I am adding MacKale to our prayer jar at school at my kinders and we will pray for him and the rest of your family everyday.
Please do! We are so grateful for all prayers, but especially those from little children. I have a belief that they have a direct line to God’s ear.
Thanks,
Marsha
Adding my prayers to yours and everyone else’s for your sweet Mackale and your whole family. Prayers for strength, healing, and peace. Prayers for wisdom for his doctors.
Thank you so much for adding him. I know that people don’t know him, but if they did, they would know how amazing this boy is. . . and yes I am biased. Your prayers are soooooooo very much appreciated.
Marsha
So, so many prayers lifted up for MacKale and your family.
Thanks Christi. My TpT/Blogging/Teacher friends are my rock right now. I am blessed.
Marsha
Thank you for sharing such a tough time in your life. I’ve agree that this world of teachers that has connected through teacher blogs is like a family. Please know that I am praying for MacKale, you and your husband, your other sons, and the amazing team of doctors. From what you shared it is obvious that MacKale is a strong, vibrant you man that can be described as nothing other than a fighter.
Thank you so much Amy! He IS a fighter, but it’s nice to know that my teacher friends have our back. We so appreciate your prayers. I can’t even express my gratitude. Thank you thank you thank you.
Marsha
Oh Marsha, that was beautifully written. I am crying right along side you. I haven’t stopped thinking of you and we are praying hard for your sweet Mac. I will share this on my page and get those prayer warriors going. Mac has already proven that he is a FIGHTER! He WILL beat this, I just know it! All of my love, thoughts, and prayers are with your family! xoxo
Thank you so much Melanie. Prayers are the greatest gift we can receive right now. So the more . . . the better. I can’t even begin to tell you how much I appreciate the love and support of my friends in the teacher/blogging world. You are all so precious to me.
Marsha
Oh, Marsha. Your words were beautiful. I am thinking of you all, and will continue to think of your family every single day. I have no doubt that MacKale is going to come out of this stronger than ever. He sounds like such an amazing boy. You’ve got this!! <3
Thanks friend. He IS an amazing kid and we will get through this.
Marsha
Hello Marsha.
I know that you don’t know me but I briefly met you at the TpT conference in Vegas this year. I read your post and my heart just hurts for you. Not because there is no hope (oh friend, there is so much!!) but because I’m a mama, too. I’m also a mama of active smelly boys who would rather get dirty and build forts all day than to be restricted by something out of their control. I can’t fully understand what you’re going through because I’ve never walked in your shoes, but I do know how it feels to love fiercely and deeply for my kids…to want to take their pain away because it pains you to see them walk this path. Know that God is with you. Neither you nor your little boy is alone in this journey. Whenever we face situations where I fear for my kids, I am reminded that God, who created my little ones, loves than MORE than I can ever EVER love them. He is the author of life, The Great Physician, the Healer. Take comfort in knowing that when you are tired and weary and you are a hot crying mess, that you can rest in the arms of Him who brings peace that surpasses ALL understanding. Know that He loves you….oh how He LOVES you!!! I am praying for you, your family, and especially for your little man. He is so courageous already!!!
Blessings,
Angela Linzay
Oh Angela . . . thank you thank you thank you for your words. I think I’m going to need to read them everyday. I know this is a challenge, but I AM faithful. I know God is holding us up and sending us the right people to help us through this. . . even if we’ve only met those people once in Vegas. You can’t imagine how I appreciate your reaching out. Thank you friend, for you truly are one.
Marsha
We are all with you and will pray and help in any way we possibly can! Be strong!
Thanks so much Kim.
Marsha
Oh Marsha,
My heart breaks knowing the journey y’all are going on. I wish I had words to help, but I don’t know what to say other than that I will be praying for you all. Also, the American Cancer Society website has a 24/7 hotline staffed by nurses that will let you vent, offer support, and answer questions.
April, thanks for the kind words and the advice. We certainly appreciate it and your prayers.
Marsha
Marsha what beautiful words you shared. I can hear the determination and strength you have. While it’s a scary road ahead, God is good and will take care of you all. I will pray hard & often for Mac and your family.
Thank you for keeping us in your prayers. It means so much to us. More than you will know.
Marsha
Our family will be praying for Mac and all of your family for healing and strength! Trusting that God has a miracle in store.
Thanks so much Kim. We believe it too.
Marhsa, what a beautiful family! I am praying for your son, you, and all of your family! I believe God does great things. Please keep sharing stories on your blog!
Lauren
Thanks Lauren. Your prayers are so appreciated.
Marsha
Marsha,
This is an incredibly difficult time for you and your family. No one has answers or can reason why this has happened.
But you and Mike are strong, gifted parents. Your love, faith, and ability to see the positive in the world will get you through this time.
Keep writing, keep sharing, and always tell us what we can do to help you and your family.
Always know you are loved.
Michelle
You’ll never know how much we love and appreciate the support of our hemophilia team. Your office is our family and has taken such great care of us. We can never tell you how much your support and care means.
We love you guys.
Marsha
Thank you for sharing this beautiful story about Mac. He is a great kid and he will beat this! He is in Gods hands and God will carry him through this. We will keep Mac and your family in our constant prayers and also pray for the doctors and nurses that are caring for him.
Prayers for all!
Deb Belding and family
Thanks Deb. You know what a sweet boy he is . . . even as a little bugger. Thanks for your prayers.
Marsha
My heart breaks for you and your sweet family. You are all so strong and I have no doubt that God will bring you all through this. Praying for strength and comfort and most of all, healing. God bless you and your family.
Thanks Rebekah. I appreciate you prayers more than you’ll ever know.
Marsha
Marsha,
I’m sending prayers for your sweet boy and your whole family. I’ve always called my life a roller coaster ride that can literally freeze you in fear and take your breath away. But that ride also has the highest of highs. Cancer is a scary word and explaining it to a child is unfathomable. My daughter never ceases to amaze me with her strength and endurance to overcome so many medical issues while never complaining. I have a feeling that your son is an amazing young man and a fighter too. I am a 22 year cancer survivor. The battle for control over your life and the need to be the one to stop the world from spinning can be overwhelming. I know you are a fighter too. Your ability to differentiate for your students comes from your life experiences. Once again, you’ll need to differentiate your life plan for now. You’re an expert with God on your team. I will think of your family daily and send prayers and virtual hugs. If I can help you in any way, please let me know. You have friends all over the world that will be there for you.
Thank you friend. I know you know this ride only too well. Thank you for your prayers and ‘hugs.’ My teacher/blogger friends are amazing. God set me on this path to meet you all and you all have become so important to me.
Marsha
This is beautifully written! I will be keeping your whole family in my prayers.
Thank you Theresa and for your prayers.
Marsha
MacKale will get through this — of that I have no doubt. I also have no doubt that you will get through this. You will get through this because this amazing community of educators will rally around you and MacKale and make sure there’s never a moment that you feel alone in this fight. MacKale, his brothers, you, your husband, and his entire treatment team will be in my prayers each and every night.
My teacher family through the world is holding me up. I can not even tell you how grateful I am to them and everyone that is praying for MacKale
Marsha, you wrote your story beautifully. Prayers to your family and the medical team that will be treating your son.
Thank you Nicki. Your prayers are so appreciated.
Marsha
When I say “I’m sorry” it’s not because I think all is lost. It’s because no child should ever go through this, no parent should have to watch their child go through this, tell their child they have it or worry over their child about this horrible disease. You have so many prayers and positive thoughts coming your way from me. My biggest hope is for you to be dancing with his at his wedding. What a grand time you both will have after weathering this storm. Much love and support.
Tracy, I completely understand. Really I do, and I so appreciate your kind words.
Marsha
Prayers prayers and more prayers!
Thank you thank you thank you
M
Praying for your whole family! My son was diagnosed with lymphoma in August 2014, at 11 years old. After several months of very intense chemo, he is cancer free! We are so grateful for the way the Lord healed our son. I would love to help you in any way I can, in addition to praying for you!
Ashley, thank you thank you thank you for your survivor story. I need to hear lots of those. And for your prayers . . .
Marsha
I started praying for your son before I was even finished reading your story. I’m a mom of 4 boys and my mom was diagnosed with cancer last week and is currently at the U of M hospital for more tests and to learn about treatments. She also has MS which complicates things. This is the 2nd time through cancer for my immediate family as my sister was diagnosed with Leukemia 20 years ago and has been in remission for 19 yrs. I truly believe in the power of prayer and have experienced it firsthand many times over. I will keep your family in my prayers and know that God’s healing hands will be touching your little boy.
I truly believe it too. Thanks for sharing your story Melissa. You’re on my prayer list now too.
marsha
Praying for your little boy and beautiful family 🙂
Prayers are greatly appreciated. Thank you.
Marsha
Prayers, prayers, and more prayers coming your way! Stay strong, mama! I cannot imagine how incredibly challenging this is right now, but know that you have great people in your corner praying for you. Please keep us posted!
Oh Heather, thank you so much for your prayers. These amazing teacher/blogger/friends of mine from years ago and new are holding me up and getting me through. I am so blessed.
Marsha
What a beautiful testament to the love you have for your son, your family and God. Please know my heart breaks for you, but know that Mac and your family will be in my continued thoughts and prayer. Thanks for sharing your story with us, and know that you have a huge team of folks praying!! Sending lots of love!
Thank you Kelly. I am so grateful for this family of friends and teachers who have our back.
Marsha
I am lifting MacKale, your other sons, and your husband and you up in prayer as you begin this journey. Praying for wisdom for his medical team and strength and courage for your family.
Thank you Lori. Your prayers mean the world to us.
Marsha
My goodness, this certainly put my day in perspective! I’m sending all the prayers, good thoughts, and strength I can to you and your family, especially MacKale.
Thanks Sally. I so appreciate my teacher/blogger friends so much right now.
I will begin praying for MacKale and for your entire family. The Lord brought Isaiah 43 1- 4 to mind: “Don’t be afraid, I’ve redeemed you. I’ve called your name. You’re mine.
When you’re in over your head, I’ll be there with you. When you’re in rough waters, you will not go down.
When you’re between a rock and a hard place, it won’t be a dead end—
Because I am God, your personal God. ( The Message Bible) Please know that many people will be praying for your family! Julie ( Green Apple Lessons)
So many thanks for prayers and your kind words Julie.
Marsha
Oh i am so sorry to hear this! I just stumbled upon this on fb. If u need an ear pr just to compare stories im here. As u may remember this is the same cancer my daughter Hannah had..
Shawna, you KNOW I will be contacting you. I need to hear your success story often and learn from your experience. Thank you.
Marsha
Prayers for you and your family!
Praying for you and your sweet family. The situation that you’re facing is awful and scary, but God is with you and promises He will never leave you.
I will definitely keep you, Mac, and the rest of your family in my prayers. I’ve walked the journey you are now facing. No, it’s not easy, but you will get through it. As I look back, I wondered how in the world we made it through. It was that time that God was carrying me/us. So many times I think of the Footprints in the Sand poem and it continues to give me comfort. Rest in the fact that he will carry you through this. Hang in there, my friend.
“Footprints in the Sand”
One night I dreamed a dream.
As I was walking along the beach with my Lord.
Across the dark sky flashed scenes from my life.
For each scene, I noticed two sets of footprints in the sand,
One belonging to me and one to my Lord.
After the last scene of my life flashed before me,
I looked back at the footprints in the sand.
I noticed that at many times along the path of my life,
especially at the very lowest and saddest times,
there was only one set of footprints.
This really troubled me, so I asked the Lord about it.
“Lord, you said once I decided to follow you,
You’d walk with me all the way.
But I noticed that during the saddest and most troublesome times of my life,
there was only one set of footprints.
I don’t understand why, when I needed You the most, You would leave me.”
He whispered, “My precious child, I love you and will never leave you
Never, ever, during your trials and testings.
When you saw only one set of footprints,
It was then that I carried you.”
Jenny thank you so much for sharing this with me. I can’t tell you what it means to me. I know that God is with us. We have already felt his miracles.
Thank you.
Marsha
Marsha, I am so sorry that you had to write this post. But you sure did a beautiful job sharing about your family. I know SO MANY prayers are going out from all over the world for your son and your family. Personally, I think teachers may be the best pray-ers out there! I have been thinking and praying nonstop since I read this at lunch today at school. I couldn’t wait to get home and comment to let you know how your family will be in my prayers and in my heart for a complete recovery for your son and wisdom for the doctors, and somehow God’s perfect peace for you and your family. God is so good and we know it. He’s going to do great things for your son. <3 Love and prayers…
I can tell you . . . I KNOW that teachers are some of the best pray-ers out there. I feel their support and am so incredibly grateful.
Marsha
I am so very sorry for what you, your son, and your family are going through. I wanted to tell you about my neighbor Katie. She was diagnosed with the same cancer at about the same age as your son. When she was diagnosed treatment wasn’t nearly as perfected as it is now. Katie is now 23 years old, has graduated college, and is a beautiful young thriving woman. She has been cancer free since her first treatments stopped. I will be praying for you, your son, and your family and will ask my friends and family to do the same. Prayer can move mountains!
Oh Thank YOU Maureen. I love to hear survivor stories. I need them and all the prayers I can get. Thank you thank you thank you.
Marsha
I can’t even begin to imagine what you’re going through. Please know that prayers are being sent and will continue to be sent. God is good!! Rely on your family and friends for the support you will need. You’re not alone on your journey! Keep us informed! *Hugs*
God IS good Cindy!
Thank you so much for the prayers.
Marsha
Prayers from a fellow Kinder teacher/mom in Pennsylvania.
Marsha, thank you for sharing your story with us. You write beautifully …. from the heart. My daily thoughts and prayers will include you, MacKale, your family, and the medical professionals who will be helping you along this journey. I totally believe in the power of prayer… and will pass your story to others. You are an amazing mom, and you have a wonderful family. I believe that you have a support system larger than you could possibly imagine. Sending love and support.
Thank you so much Laurie. We are certainly feeling the love and support of all my teacher friends and TpT family.
Marsha
Marsha,
I’ve followed, and loved, your blog for a long time and feel like you’re my online friend. I’ve loved seeing your sweet boys in your posts and can feel your love and pride for them.
My oldest daughter had a cancer scare right before leaving for her first year in college, thank God we got good news and she was okay. I am praying that you receive the same message for your sweet boy and can feel the relief that he is safe and healthy very soon.
Please keep up updated if you can. I’m sending love and hugs for your whole family.
God bless,
~Kathy
Thank you for your sweet words of encouragement Kathy and for the prayers. We are so grateful.
Marsha
I have added you and your family to our prayer list! Sending a lot of love, strength and wisdom your way, from one Michigan teacher to another.
Thank you so much Devin.
Marsha
Oh Marsha, your words jumped off the page and touched my heart. It is so clear to me the love and bond you have with your family and God. I have prayed for you and will continue to pray for MacKale and your family. Thank you for sharing your journey with us and allowing us to reach out to you. I am sending you strength, even though it seems like you are one strong lady. Emma
Oh Emma . . . you know how much love and adore you. Thank you so much for your sweet words. Your prayers and strength are so greatly appreciated. I can not even tell you.
Love you friend.
Marsha
Marsha, you are so sweet. I hope you are doing okay. I have been thinking about you a lot. MacKale and your family have been in my prayers. I hope the wave of prayers and good wishes are lifting you all. You are so loved, as is evident here. Your journey will be made easier when you share the burden. Thinking of you always. Emma 🙂
Thank you Emma. Squeezes to you across the ocean friend.
Marsha
I truly believe in the power of prayer. You will have thousands of prayers going up for your son. Mine will be one of them. God Bless your family. I pray for wisdom for the doctors. Peace and healing for your family.
Thank you sooooooo much.
Marsha
Just wanted to let you know that you and your son will be in my prayers.
From another Irish teacher
Stay strong! Lots of hugs and love are being sent your way!!
Love you sweet friend.
Marsha
Praying for your family and Mac. We serve a Mighty God!
Amy
Marsha-
As a new mom I know I would do anything to protect my child. I am praying.. praying VERY hard for your family and your son. Hugs coming to you from NY!
xoxox
You are such a sweet friend. Thanks so much for all you help as always. Hold your baby close and thank you for your prayers. They are precious to me.
Marsha
Of course I will send up LOTS of prayers for not just Mac but you and your family as well!! Sometimes we do not know how strong we really are until we are put into a situation that requires it <3 Lean on us any time !! That is what friends are for!! even us cyber ones 🙂
God Bless
Karen
I love and appreciate my cyber friends and family more than ever. Thanks for your prayers Karen.
Marsha
You are all in my thoughts and prayers
I will continue to offer prayers up for you and your family.
Thank you so much Melissa. Prayers are exactly what we need.
Marsha
Your family and sweet boy will be in my prayers. I have 2 sons myself and I can only imagine how difficult this must be. I pray for strength and healing for MacKale.
Thanks so much for your kindness and prayers Michele. We certainly appreciate it.
Marsha
Marsha,
I don’t know if you remember me, it’s been a few years! My son Ben was in your preschool class at Franklin several years ago.
I have so much I want to tell you, so bear with me. First of all, big hugs to your whole family. I’ve been there, and it stinks. MacKale is adorable, as are your other boys, and I’m so sorry he has to go through this.
As I said – I’ve been there. My daughter Melanie was diagnosed with cancer (leukemia) at age 6, and treated at DeVos. You’re right, Dr. Mitchell IS amazing. While she wasn’t Melanie’s main oncologist, we did get to know her quite well over the years. DeVos itself is wonderful (which it sounds like you already know!) and they’ll take very good care of him. Melanie is now 19, healthy, and off at school in Grand Rapids. She has very few late effects from the chemotherapy.
Another story I want to share is that Melanie’s current boyfriend is actually a friend she met at Camp Catch-A-Rainbow (a similar camp to the other camps you described, except for kids with cancer). They have known each other since they were 7 and 8 and attended camp together every summer until they were 15 and 16. The reason I’m sharing this is that her boyfriend is an osteosarcoma survivor. He’s 20, and entering his junior year of college at GVSU.
One of the best pieces of advice I got from the mom of another cancer survivor when Melanie was diagnosed was this: it’s ok to say this isn’t fair (it isn’t, especially when your little guy has already been through so much), and it’s ok to be angry sometimes. No one would ever wish for this for their child. But you’ll be amazed at how strong he’ll be, and at how strong YOU will be as you advocate for the best care for him. Your family will have to discover a ‘new normal’, and while it’s not easy, your love, and the love and prayers of family, friends, and even strangers will help bring you through this.
Please feel free to contact me if you ever want to talk. I did find it helpful sometimes to talk with other parents who had “been there”. I will keep your family close in thought and prayer as you begin this new journey, and I hope that sharing Melanie’s and Ray’s stories will give you some hope that there IS life after cancer.
Please take care,
Kathi
Of course I remember you and Ben and Melanie’s story. You have walked this road we are starting down. I know you know how we feel. Thank you for sharing any survivor stories. They sustain us as do all the precious prayers from our friends and family. Thank you so much for reaching out. Thank you thank you thank you.
Marsha
Marsha,
I don’t know you but found you through TPT. I have loved your blogs and your creations! Please know I will be adding you and your family to my daily prayer list! I don’t know besides prayer if I can do anything, but I will be happy to send cards to your son if that would help. I pray for God’s peace and healing!
Jenny you may have never met me, but you know me and now you are part of my family. Anyone who prays for MacKale is part of the McGuire clan. Welcome to the family and thanks so much for your prayers.
Marsha
One of the best things you could have done is write this post. Your son will be lifted in prayer every day across the nation and quite possibly across the world. I felt your sincerity and your faith and will pray for your family every day. God is covering every single one of you. One prayer can change it all. Be blessed
Lena
I believe that too Lena. I really do. Thank you for join us in prayer for MacKale.
Marsha
Praying for your family!
Prayers of healing and strength for MacKale and all of the family.
Praying for courage and comfort for Mac, support and strength for you and your family, and continuing wisdom for Mac’s health care team. May you all find peacefulness under His wing. (And thank you for all the ways you have helped me become a better teacher through your blog and tpt store.)
Thank you so much Nadine. Your prayers are exactly what we need.
Marsha
Marsha,
God bless you and your wonderful family. Your story brought tears to my eyes. Your precious little boy will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Trish
Marsha you are so gracious to share your story. I am deeply touched by it. I have been a fan of yours on your blog and TPT for years. Remember, it takes a village. I am praying, we are praying. Like you I trust in God and he his with you and your family. Sending prayers your way.
Debbie
Thank you Debbie. Your prayers are so very much appreciated.
Marsha
MacKale is in my thoughts and prayers. I pray God will give the doctors and medical staff the guidance in his treatment. I pray you and your family will look for strength in the Lord’s plan. God bless you all.
Marsha, prayers for your family. I hope you can feel all of your Kinder friends standing right behind you.
More than you know Susan. You are all so precious to me. I can not even tell you.
Marsha
Your family and especially your son are in our thoughts. I am so glad he “injured” his knee so that it was found now and not later! I’m also thankful that he has great doctors and it seems like he has a lot going for him. Please keep us updated and know that we are thinking of you!
Yes Sharee. We definitely have so many blessings to be grateful for.
Marsha
I have followed your blog for a while and have loved “meeting” you and your family.
Your words are eloquent, beautiful, and above all, powerful. MacKale, you, your boys, and husband are in my prayers. I truly believe that God has a plan for everyone and He will get you through this. Sending love, prayers, and a SPEEDY recovery.
Thank you Yael. My teacher friends are definitely holding me up during this time. I love you all so much for your support.
Marsha
My thought and prayers will be with your family as you go on this journey. May you feel the Holy Spirit beside you the whole way. He is the great physician. He has a plan and a purpose for all of this. Hugs. ~Strphanie
Praying for complete healing. Lifting you all up in prayer.
Oh goodness this breaks my heart. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Please tell MacKale he is a super hero he can and will kick some cancer butt! If he ever needs a pick-me up please let us know if there is a p.o box or something to send cards and happy little surprises for him. Also there’s a site called caringbridge.org where you can create a page for your son to keep your family and friends in the loop and it can be an outlet for you. Sending so much love to you be kind to yourself you are one incredible mama (and teacher)!
Thank you Patty. We certainly appreciate it.
Marsha
Praying for your son and for your family as you walk through this fight with him. Praying for healing and for God to hold you in his arms when days are rough. I know that God loves my kids even more than I do (which seems impossible!) and I know he loves yours the same way. ((Hugs))
You and your family are in my prayers. I pray God gives you comfort, wisdom and understanding on how to deal with such a difficult time. Our boys are so precious to us but they are just as precious to our Heavenly Father. He will watch over all of you and give you peace at every turn. Please feel His presence in your daily life. God be with you!
Marsha, Such a heartbreaking story! Just know how much God loves your son…more than even you!! We don’t know what the future holds, but we know who holds the future! I will be praying for your precious son! I will pray for you and your husband to be comforted and to have peace! God bless you! Prayers from Maine!
Thank you Stephanie.
Marsha
I see that big Sparty and know you must live close by – we are of the blue and yellow persuasion but we all still pray 🙂 Will add you to my nightly prayers along with little chad carr #chadtough If you ever need anything from the Detroit area please let me know. ps- have a daughter that I drove from Detroit for the care at the hospital you are at. Have great faith in those doctors!!
Thank you Gina. Mac is a die hard Sparty fan but I’m glad you won’t hold it against him. Thank you for keeping him in your prayers.
Your family and team of doctors and nurses will be in my prayers. We will say a special prayer for everyone during our bedtime prayers each night. Thank you for sharing your story!
Thanks for putting us on your bedtime prayer list. It’s an amazing gift that you give us when you pray for MacKale
….. I want and wish I could hug you and give you the strength that you need…. what I can do is lift you and your family up in prayers, prayers for healing, prayers for strength and prayers to fight with all of your might….
Lifting us up in prayer is the BEST thing you can do. Thank you Tracy.
Marsha,
We are sending lots and lots of prayers and positive thoughts to Mackale and your family. The McConnells, the Westdorps and the Davis family.
Thank you so much for all your prayers.
Marsha, I am praying for healing for sweet MacKale, strength for his mom and dad, wisdom for his medical team and love and comfort for the family. You have a strong team of prayer warriors sending blessings your way!
This Ohio Teacher is praying along side you! Know that even when your faith fails, your family and friends can petition on your behalf. I’ve lived that.
Marsha,
I can barely type because of the tears in my eyes. Thank goodness for ole Mrs. Noe and Typing 101 and for teaching me to type by touch all those years ago. =) You most definitely have my prayers for your son and I will share this at church as well. I know cancer well. It isn’t a good friend to have. We’ve been there. If I were close, and um….if I was a good cook….I’d run a casserole over to you. I know how hard it is to go through life’s motions when you have so much on your mind. Prayers for you all!
You are so sweet Jennifer. My teacher friends and blogging buddies have enveloped my family with so many prayers that my heart is about to burst. I love you all dearly and count you all as my family. Thank you thank you thank you for your prayers.
Marsha
Praying for your little guy, Marsha. I believe Jesus hears our prayers and will carry each of you through this.
Marsha, I read each and every one of your blogs and I do feel like I know you. You have given me inspiration and strength in my teaching and I know how many lives you have touched through your words. I am so sorry to hear what you and your family are going through right now. As a person of great faith myself, I know what a relief it can be to give your concerns to God and trust that He will take care of things. I also recognize that this is your son, and it is hard not to worry! I pray that you remain strong in your faith and that you and your family continue to give each other love and support. You have also built a huge “family” through your blog and I think you’ll find that a lot of prayers will be going out on your son’s behalf!! God bless MacKale and your family!
Hi Marsha,
I do not know you and I have only read your blog here and there (I am a 2nd grade teacher) but your post brought tears to my eyes. I can see the love you all have for one another and can only imagine the fear and worry you must be going through as a mother – and as a family. I will be praying for Mac but our God is good and I know He will sustain you ALL through this trial. I will be following along and waiting anxiously for the update that says – “Mac is cancer FREE!”
Praying for you, my sister in Christ!
A.M
Thanks for your kind words. I will definitely keep all my praying friends updated. I am faithful that God will see us through this.
Marsha
You are so brave to share your story. I see the strength and love in your photos. MacKale has a light in his eyes — I can see he is all boy. 😉 I pray God grants you wisdom, strength, and healing.
oh dear friend and mother as I was reading my heart started to hurt and the tears started to flow. You and your family are in my prayers daily. I will pray for a quick healing and understanding and peace for the rest of you. I think this must be the toughest fight a mom has to fight. We are in your corner cheering you all on.
Maria Scurr
Thank you Maria. Cheerleaders are greatly appreciated.
Marsha
I will pray for your son. What a scary time for all of you. The uncertainty must be awful, but keep your faith. With faith, so much is possible. I have no doubt that your son has an army of angels walking with him on this journey to help heal and protect him. God bless.
Marsha,
So many prayers for MacKale, you, and your entire family. My son has a hematologist in Grand Rapids as well — that team of doctors is incredible. We also feel like his doctor, Dr. Dickens, is a part of our family. He is so, so special to us. Thanking God with you for such amazing resources for MacKale, so close to home. We will not stop praying — thank you for sharing this, so that we can surround your sweet boy in prayers. <3
Oh thank you so much for sharing Jill. Yes these doctors are the BEST. Your prayers and continued prayers are an incredible gift. Thank you thank you thank you so much.
Marsha
He will get through this just like he has gotten through hemophilia. As a cancer survivor, I know it can, and will, be done. At first I worried about losing my hair too, but soon realized I could just wear a hat and It was easier to deal with. Cancer is a scary thing and I’m sure it’s not easy to deal with your child having it. I’m sure you can find a therapist/counselor to go over all of that with all of you as a family. It will affect everyone so I suggest making an appointment for everyone. As much as he (and the rest of your family) needs you to be strong, they need to know that you have emotions too. Everyone is entitled to their emotions and shouldn’t have to hide them. But it is important to work through them and show/help them through theirs. There will be good days and bad days, but cherish every moment because it will make you stronger as a family. Sending lots of love and positive thoughts from Mattawan.
Thank you so much for your words of wisdom Stacy and your positive thoughts.
Marsha
Marsha, my heart is breaking for all the pain your sweet family is facing. MacKale is a blessing to your family, and he has a lot going for him. A supportive, loving family and a great medical team. Know that all of us will keep him in our prayers. I pray that his doctors have the knowledge to meet his needs. Keep the faith and know we are all thinking of you.
Sebrina
Thanks so much Sebrina. We appreciate all the prayers you can send our way.
Marsha
I read that through a veil of tears. As a Mom of 4 handsome, intelligent and talented boys, I feel your pain. We are praying for you all and that McKale will have the best possible outcome.
Kiss your boys for me Teresa and thank you for your prayers.
Marsha
I don’t know you personally but your story touched my heart. I am the mother of one son. I will say a prayer for your sweet boy. I can’t imagine what you’re going through. I believe in the power of prayer.
You know me better than you think. You’re a mom and a mom to a boy that’s willing to pray for my boy. That makes you family to me. Thank you.
Marsha
Praying for your family and your sweet son! May God go before you and be beside you and your precious boy. I will add your son t my church’s prayer chain and ask the children and teachers at my school to lift him up as well. One of my favorite songs you may know as well, is Blessings by Laura Story. May our prayers and this song be a blessing to your family!
Thank you for adding us to your prayer list. We so appreciate it.
Marsha
Sending many thoughts and prayers to you and your family!! Sounds like he is an amazing kid and is so STRONG!!!
~Heather 🙂
Marsha, I’m praying for your son, you, and your family. I pray for strength, healing, and guidance for you guys throughout this process.
Marsha and Family,
Our prayers are with you all during this difficult time. We will be praying for comfort and strength for you all. I, too, am a momma to boys! I can’t begin to imagine the pain you feel. Stay faithful and God bless MacKale and your whole family!
Thanks Stephanie.
McKale. Now is the time to use your power that you never needed to use before. One of my kindergarten students told me you can only use it when Mommy needs help to make you better. My students and I will be thinking of you. We would even like to write you. My students said, “Fight like Batman an Superman.”
Amen! He needs to fight just like those superheros. Thank you Pam. And thank your sweet kinder babies.
Marsha
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. No words to ease this pain, just sending you love and strength.
Thank you so much Dodie. Prayers are exactly what we need.
Marsha
My heart aches for you- You all are in my prayers!
Please know we are praying for all of you.
Marsha,
We have never met, though I have followed your blog for 3 years, bought countless centers from TPT and grown so much as a teacher from your on-line support. Just this fall I stained my counter coloring pasta for my sensory bin. My heart breaks for your family and for your son. Each day when I look at that green spot on my counter (funny it was the green and your boys are Irish!), I will say a prayer MacKale and for you all. Blessings and love… your story touched me more than you could know.
Oh gosh Sarah . . . thank you for making me laugh and I’m so sorry about your counter. I would have been livid. Your prayers are a sweet gift that means so much to me. Thank you thank you thank you. We may have never ‘met’, but you know me and I know you. You are part of my family of friends who have graciously offered your support and prayers. Blessings,
M
Marsha,
I read your blog regularly. I also teach kindergarten in Michigan and I truly identify with what you write. I can’t imagine what it is like to have a child who has been diagnosed with cancer. Please know that I am sending you and your family good thoughts and prayers.
Thank you so much Sue. Your prayers are greatly appreciated.
Marsha
Dear Marsha- we meet last year (14) in Vegas, and I teach Kdg. about 2 hrs away from you. ABSOLUTELY Mac and ALL of you are in my prayers; Your story was so eloquently shared, the ache in your heart is very evident in your words; for those of us in similar situations, our hearts are feeling your pain as well. Angela’s response is perfect; that’s exactly how I wish I could have formulated my thoughts. I have no words to take it away, but please know that so many of us ‘have your back’ in prayer, in positive thoughts sent your way, in any ways you can think- just ask… (hey, 2 hrs isn’t so far! )
Oh Cathy, you are so dear and sweet. Thank you so much for reaching out. Your prayers and positive thoughts are precious to me and my family. No 2 hours isn’t that far.
Marsha
Oh my goodness! I sat here and cried as I read this beautiful post. (If you ever doubt your ability to relate to your readers, let me just tell you that I am a brand new reader of yours, yet I feel already like you are in my circle of dear friends. You have a beautiful way of sharing your honesty, your truth.) You and your beautiful boy and your whole gorgeous family are in my thoughts and prayers!
Thank you Pamela. I feel the same way about all the wonderful people out there praying for my MacKale. You are all part of my family. Thank you so much.
Marsha
Marsha, I am praying for your sweet boy. Your family is also in my prayers. These are going to be tough and trying times for you all, keep the faith and stay strong. ??
(Kaci Hoffer’s mom)
I know you know this road all to well Vicki. I will pray for your family the same way. Love that Kaci girl. She’s part of my teacher family.
Marsha
Prayers for you and your family and especially for Mac! He sounds like a mighty Irishman!!! Tough little guy no doubt!!!
He is on tough Irish Lad. Thanks for your prayers Nicole.
Marsha
Praying for your beautiful boy and all of you.
Just saw your story and my heart breaks for you all and what you are facing. I have said a prayer for him and the family. I do not know you personally but no child should have to face this. I will be praying that God will touch his body and heal him. Just remember that the Lord will see you through this.
You may not know me personally Nancy, but you are praying for MacKale and that makes you family to me. Thank you for your kind words. They mean the world to me.
Marsha
Marsha,
This is my first time to visit your blog. You are a beautiful writer, with a beautiful family. I’m so thankful to have found you. My prayers are with you, MacKale and your family. What an amazing boy with a huge heart and spirit. What a blessed mom you are.
Thank you Dede. I am a blessed mom of three amazing boys. I never doubt that. I so appreciate your kind words and prayers for MacKale.
Marsha
Oh my sister in Christ, I pray for you, for you husband and your boys and McKale. Arm yourself with the truth God did not give you a spirit of fear but one of faith. Believe God, ask him to carry you. And if it is needed, show McKale the wonderful pictures of runners with prosthetic legs and how fast they can run and what wonderful things technology can now do.
Thank you Darcey for your kind words and prayers.
M
Marsha I have always admired you as a teacher. You are so informative, full of great ideas! I am so sorry to hear this… We cry with you. As teachers and as mothers we know and understand how hard this is. Expect and trust in miracles. I have seen the power of prayer work! We pray with you. Take a deep breath and stay strong. By the way you wrote it beautifully.
I feel the support of all my teacher friends out there. Thank you for your words of encouragement. I, too, believe in the power of prayer.
Marsha
Our prayers are with you, we very step of the way.
Thank you so much Rachael.
Marsha,
Thank you for being open and sharing your world with us. I look forward to hearing of God’s healing touch on Mac’s body in miraculous and incredible ways!
– Leslie
Thanks so much Leslie. I look forward to hearing about it too. I am faithful it will happen, and I am so blessed to have such an amazing teacher family out there praying for my boy.
Marsha
Dear Marsha,
We have never met, but I feel like I know you and your family through reading your blog! As a mom and a teacher, those words were hard to read. I teach at a Catholic school where we meet as a school each morning for prayers and a morning meeting. I have already included Mac and your family in our school-wide prayers starting tomorrow. I figured another 200 prayers couldn’t hurt 🙂 Wishing you all the best.
Tina
While we have never met, I feel the support of so many teachers around the world . . . we are all a family. And honestly, another 200,000 more prayers couldn’t hurt. I love it. I’ll take them. Thank you so much for adding us to your list Tina.
Marsha
I wish I had better words of comfort but all I have is I’m praying. Peace be with you and your family.
Karen
Those ARE the best words of comfort right now. Thank you.
Marsha
Prayers for your son and your family. My student helper was diagnosed with osteosarcoma at around 13. It was in her leg also. She had limb salvage surgery and under went chemo an has been cancer free for a couple of years now. Praying and believing!!!!
Thanks for sharing her story with me. I love hearing those success stories. And than you for praying.
Marsha
My prayers are with you all. Wish there were words of wisdom, but i have none. Know that you have many living you all up in prayer.
Praying for you and your precious son.
When words come from the heart, they are perfect! Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. I believe!!! You sound like a fighting mom and your son too will be able to fight this horrid disease !!! You cand do this!!!!
I came across your blog while searching for ideas. Right now, in my life I am dealing with fear and sadness that comes with cancer. I believe in the power of prayer. I believe where there is faith there is HOPE! Miracles happen everyday! Your story and your son (and family) have touched my heart tonight. I’ll say a prayer for Mac, you and your family…??
Thank you so much JoAnn. Those prayers are so appreciated.
Marsha
Praying for your family! Thank you for sharing your story. We do not know what God has in store for our lives….we only know that he will give us strength for what every comes our way.
Marsha – My heart hurts for your and your family. I will pray for MaCale and all of you.
Lots of prayers for MacKale and your family. Prayers for strength and healing.
My prayers are with you and your family! I believe God is always close to a mother’s heart for her children! He understands your feelings of hopelessness and pain. I would love to give you my favorite verse that has carried me through life.
“Fear not for I am with you. Be not dismayed for I am your God. I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will hold you in My Righteous right hand. ” Isaiah 41:10
Pam
A perfect verse. Thank you Pam.
Marsha
You may not know me but you have helped me countless times when I have needed just the right activity- you have saved many a weekend with your generous freebies and fabulous activities. I feel that I can finally give a little back to you- even if it is just prayers for your son and your family!
You may not know me but you have helped me countless times when I have needed just the right activity- you have saved many a weekend with your generous freebies and fabulous activities. I feel that I can finally give a little back to you- even if it is just prayers for your son and your family!
I may have never met you, but I know you. You are part of my teacher family and I so appreciate your prayers. Thank you Cheryl.
dear marsha, tears are cleansing, and necessary. let them flow. especially when the kids are not around. this is a lot but take it one step at a time and stay present. it’s doable. really really tough but doable.
hang in there and celebrate each little ordinary or special moment as it comes. you can do this. be as normal as you can and let life win over fear. with love,
harriet
thank you harriet
Many continued thoughts & prayers to McKale & your family. ❤️ Carson & the Danford Family.
Thank you so much Aimee.
Praying for your sweet boy and your family. Believing for Gods healing,for peace and comfort. Much love!
Marsha,
MacKale and your family is in my prayers! I am a mother, teacher, and cancer survivor myself. The word “cancer” is terrifying, but keep the faith! Prayer is so powerful!!
Thanks for your story of survival. I need lots of those. And for your prayers for MacKale.
Marsha
Oh Marsha ~ tears are running down my face right now! I am a believer and you bet I will pray for you sweet, sweet boy! Cancer has hit very close – too close to my home and I understand your pain, fears, etc. Please know that you are added to my prayer/devotion time. Please keep us posted. Love and cyber hugs to you!
xoxo,
Vicky
Thank you dear friend. I can not tell you how much I appreciate my teacher family right now.
M
How beautiful. You have no idea who I am but we have a mutual friend who had already passed along a request for prayer for your family. As a mom of an 11 year old my heart broke for you and your family. We will be praying for you and your entire family. I appreciate your willingness to share your pain, fear, and faith in what you wrote. We will also pray for the wisdom of doctors, compassion from others, and most of all peace for each of you that you are loved and cared for by our God. As a fellow mother, I appreciate your warrior spirit is making sure that no stone is left unturned in the what needs to happen now.
As Father Joe said to me once “Becky, this is just not suppose to happen this way.” I pass along that same message knowing the fight you face will change you all.
Thank you Becky. I may have never ‘met’ you, but I know you . . . you are a mom just like me and a person of faith. Anyone who prays for Mac, is a part of my family. Thank you so much.Marsha
Marsha,
I will hold you all in my daily prayers and at Mass. I will hold MacKale up especially as my kinders say the daily decade of the Rosary. And in my heart during the rest of the day.
God bless you all.
Thank you so much. Kinder baby prayers are especially appreciated.
Marsha
Thank you for sharing. As a mom and teacher myself, I can hear every cry. Although you may question your faith, stay strong. God is there for you and your family. Praying.
Prayers coming your way.
I am on my knees for your precious boy. I am praying for complete healing and for God’s presence to surround you all as you walk down this road.
Your words are beautifully written and very heartfelt. Prayers go before your son and all of you. Praying for the peace that surpasses all understanding to envelope you.
Praying for your sweet boy and your family. Complete healing.
We’ve never met, but you consistently inspire me to be a better teacher. I will pray for your boy, for you, for your family, and all of the medical staff involved. I wish for you peace, sweet blessings, pure love and energy.
Erin
We may have never met. But you know me and when you pray for MacKale you become part of my family. Thank you so much.
Marsha – Please know that my families thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I will put his name in with all of my prayer warriors. Peace and comfort to all of you.
Patti
Praying xx
I’ve been following your blog for years – and I don’t even teach kindergarten anymore! I will be praying daily for your son!
I am praying for your son and your entire family. As a cancer survivor, it breaks my heart when I hear of children having to face this devastating news. And as a parent, I cannot even begin to imagine what you are going through. Praying for peace and calm for you and praying for the path ahead to be flooded with wise doctors who will be God’s instruments for healing your son.
Marsha,
You and your family are in my prayers. It’s good to know that we are all in God’s hands.
Romans 8:28 (ESV)
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. May you find comfort in the promises of our God.
Thank you for your kind words and prayers Mary-Ann
Marsha,
You know, “All things work together for good, to those who love Him and are called, according to His purpose.” After reading your story, (by the way, it WAS wonderfully written!) and seeing all the posts of prayer and support, it just made me think that God is using this as a testimony of His greatness and goodness. I, too, am praying for complete healing for Mac and comfort and strength for your family. You will be added to my prayer journal. I am a 3rd grade teacher and can’t imagine the strength it takes to teach and take care of a family. Praying!
Thank you Cheryl. I don’t know God’s plan, but I know there is one.
Your prayers are greatly appreciated
I will be praying for your entire family. So sorry all of you have to go through this, but prayer is POWERFUL!!
Thank you Terri.
Please know that I will include you, Mac, and your family in my prayers everyday from now on! My prayers will include the medical staff as well. My kindergarten class will also be praying.
Lean heavily on God. He will be by your side every step of the way. And remember to take care of yourself!
Wishing you peace, comfort, strength, and love,
Sue
Thank you Sue. We definitely appreciate having a permanent place on your prayer list.
Marsha
Wow. I go to St. Agnes too..this summer I had failed miserably in attending every week. I’ve finally been trying to get past this, and just went this last Sunday with my 2 boys. I work at Little Blessings daycare, and Mackale had attended years ago. When I saw him in his wheelchair, I thought he was fighting a hemophilia battle, transfusion, something…and then the end of church came. Father said the horrible word…CANCER.
I feel like you guys have consumed many of my thoughts and prayers since then. I will definitely be a prayer warrior for him and your family.
If u guys ever need anything, whether it be meals, someone to watch the other boys..ANYTHING, I will definitely be there to help 🙂
Isaiah 43:2
Thanks for reaching out Sarah. Little Blessings will always hold a special place in our hearts.
We so appreciate our church family and friends at St. Agnes. Your prayers are exactly what we will need during this long journey. Thanks so much for reaching out.
Marsha
…..and when you cry, we cry with you. I pray for MacKale and lift him up in prayers. He is such a courageous young man. He is a fighter!
As for you and your family I pray that our Father will give you peace and console you during the hard times.
God bless,
Daniela
Thank you Daniela. I think God is hearing those prayers of peace. I had more peace yesterday and today than I have since this journey started. I know that God hears our prayers.
What a touching, honest and moving post. As a mother of 3 boys myself, I can not even begin to imagine what you are going through. I will keep your son and family in my prayers. May the Lord provide healing and strength and peace to you all.
~Laura
Thank you so much Laura. Mom’s to 3 boys totally get my crazy life. I am so grateful for your prayers.
Marsha
Tears here too for your family. I will be lifting you up in prayer daily. God is good!
Thank you Renee.
Marsha,
We are praying for MacKale and your family. We know that this is just temporary and that he will get well real soon because we believe in Him and He is already working on your son’s well being. Everything is possible if we believe and we do. We trust in Him and so it is. Love from our family to yours. Please know that we will be praying for you and your family! I know you don’t know who I am, but that doesn’t matter, we are mothers and we love our children. Blessings to you and your family!
Carmen Doerr
The Bilingual Teacher Store
Thank you Carmen. Although we haven’t met, we do know each other. We are sisters-mothers-teachers. When one of us hurts, we rally. I know that now more than ever. I am so thankful for this community of wonderful friends that have been given to me simply because I teach and blog. Your prayers are a precious gift.
Marsha
Thank you for sharing your need. I will be praying with you for your precious boy! I know God loves him more than we can comprehend. He has done the work–I will look forward to following your story and hearing how God is working! To Him to be glory! Praying and believing with you and your family!
Thank you Gretchen. We so appreciate all the prayers.
this is the first time I’ve read your blog. A friend shared it. Your Mac and the whole family will be in my prayers.
Thank you Sinead. I wrote this post for the sole purpose of increasing the amount of prayers headed toward heaven on behalf of MacKale. I think God may be working overtime right now. We are so grateful for all the prayers.
Marsha
Prayers sent for your beautiful boy and family. I have no words for what you are going thru. May God be a source of comfort and may he bless your boy and his team of doctors.
Thank you Jennifer.
Marsha just believe that everything is fine. Have some pics of son and mother dance up your wall. And I will pray to God this miracle works and it will bring good health to your boy.
Thank you Nidhi. I am faithful that I will have that dance.
Marsha
Oh Marsha! MacKale and your family will certainly be in my daily prayers. Thank you for sharing your heart with us. So much love and strength to you while you go through this time. God is faithful!
Thank you so much Annie
Hi. I am a teacher (not currently full time) and my good friend told me about your story. I, like you, was teaching when our then 9 year old son was diagnosed with leukemia. I, like you, consider my faith to have carried us through some very rough times. I, like you, would have given anything to protect and heal our son. We are blessed 3 years post bone marrow transplant and an additional cancer diagnosis to have a happy healthy child. It is a blessing I only credit God with giving. I’d love to provide any support I can. We have a caringbridge website (caulinbooher) if you’d like to read our story. I consider it a story of faith and healing. Or, feel free to email me.
MacKale has been added to our prayers for complete healing and the ability to remain a kid in the process.
Suzanne
Suzanne, thank you so much for sharing your story. I need lots and lots of stories like these. I know that all the miracles that we have had so far are completely the work of our God. He has a plan. I am faithful. Thank you for adding Mac to your prayers. You know how long this journey is . . . continued prayers are a great gift to us right now.
Marsha
I know what your feeling and I am praying for him.
Thank you.
Marsha,
I only know you through your blog, but I admire what you do at school and home very much. Your random acts of kindness has become a part of my daily life.
I am crying with you now and adding your family to my prayer box. Be strong and trust in Him.
Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Know that I am praying for you each day. God bless, Melinda
Thank you Melinda. Your prayers and words of hope are very much appreciated. And you do know me . . . even if only through my blog. I am certainly feeling the support of my teacher friends throughout the world right now.
Blessings,
Marsha
What a touching story. I know how hard it is to have a child with health issues. My youngest daughter was born with persistent fetal circulation with pulmonary hypertension and was put on ECMO (a heart lung bypass machine). It was one of those times when you never knew what the doctors would tell you from one minute to the next. Sometimes it felt like one step forward and 2 steps back. This was the scary time of my life. We owe her life to The Monroe Carrol Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt in Nashville, TN. She was a month old when we brought her home and for 2 years we had lots of doctor’s visits. Through God’s loving grace and many prayers she was completely released from the hospital at 3 years old. Now 8 years later we have a very healthy and active little girl. My prayers are with your and your family for quick healing,comfort, and understanding. May God’s loving grace take care of not only your precious little boy but you and your husband and family as well. I know how much you need prayers as well.
Thanks for sharing your story Amy. It gives me great hope.
Marsha
Marsha, We know you a bit through the Cinco’s. We will be praying for you all and especially Mac as you go through treatment, and that his healing will be complete. What an amazing, brave little man you have there. Thanks sharing his story. It made me cry that he and you have to go through this painful process. Praying!!!
Thanks for your prayers Pam. Those Cinco’s are amazing friends. We sure do love them BIG.
Marsha
Marsha, I’ve never met you, yet I know we are sisters in Christ, and I’m now praying for MacKale, and for you and the rest of the family. I’m rejoicing in the good news you’ve received and for the wonderful doctor God has given you. This morning I read Psalm 56, which is rich in assurances of God’s goodness and care. I was particularly drawn to verse 13, and now, after reading your blog, I want to share this beautiful promise with you–it seems just made for MacKale! “For You have delivered my life from death, yes, and my feet from falling, that I may walk before God in the light of life and of the living.” God is good!
You are right. Even though you may have never met me, you know me. I am a sister in Christ and I so appreciate your kind words and prayers.
Thanks
Marsha
Mike ,Marsha while I was reading your story my heart just ached for your family I Prayed and cried but I just kept reading I’m so inspired by your faith, because not one time have you said why us, yes Us this is a journey that I know you will win, keep the Faith in our God as I know you will ” Prayers”
Thank you Eldena. Your prayers are greatly appreciated.
My heart is so full for you right now. Thank you for letting us know how to pray. One day at a time is all He asks of us. Remember these four words…. His Grace is Sufficient. It truly is. Blessings on you and your sweet family.
You are absolutely right.
Every morning at school, right after the Bible Story we pray. I will add your son to our prayer requests each morning. God is so good. A good friend of mine told me that God hears a mother’s prayer first. He is listening.
Please do Nancy. I kind of think that little children have direct line to God’s ear. Your prayers are definitely welcome.
Marsha
I’m sending prayers and wishing on every star.
Thank you sandy
I cannot even imagine the pain and anguish you are feeling right now. Just know that you are loved, and you have people you may not even know pulling for you and your family right now.
Just heard about your story through the TpT community and wanted to send some love your way! Although I don’t know you, I can tell by the way that you wrote your story that you are such a strong mom and a fighter with a very positive attitude. You can and will get through this and it will make you and your family stronger than ever. I grew up with a very handicapped brother so I know what it’s like to go through hard times like this, but it will create an unbreakable bond in your family that will last forever. Sending healing thoughts and lots of hugs your way.
~Sherry
Thank you Sherry. Believe me, you do know me. I’m just like any other teacher/mother/blogger and I certainly feel the love from my TpT/blogger/teacher family and friends.
Marsha
I don’t know you and your family and never heard of you until I read your story that a friend of mine shared on Facebook. I do know you are a Tigers fan (YAY) and a sparty fan (boo), but I also know you would do anything for your family, and that in itself is one of the most selfless things a person could do. I applaud you in so many ways, but the one that is the greatest is your strength to not give up. Never give up! I really hope and pray that Mac is able and strong enough to beat this and that you can share that dance with him. Your family will definitely be in my thoughts and prayers. Take care and never, ever, ever give up.
-Sharon
God is good !! I will be a prayer warrior for your little guy!!
Sending prayers and well wishes your way!
I have read your blog and followed you on Facebook and TPT for a while now. You and your family are in my prayers.
You have my hope and prayers. I am sorry that your family has to deal with this but he sounds like a tough cookie. Please keep us updated. ❤️
Dear Marsha – I believe most devoutly in the power of Prayer. I pray now, that God our Almighty Father in Heaven grants your son a speedy recovery from this disease. I pray now, that God our Almighty Father in Heaven grants you and your lovely family Strength and Patience and FAITH during this trying time. I pray that MacHale’s Doctors be Blessed. I pray that all who work to improve MacHale’s health be of good heart. I pray that God the Almighty Bless you. Amen.
Now, I hope you step back from school and know that those Kinders will survive without you. It is hard to let someone take the reigns in your classroom, but, that is why God created substitute teachers. I am sure your KinderTeam will step up and fill in any gaps.
Praying for your child and you –
Thank you Emilie. I am walking a tight rope between hospitals and school but school is sometimes a blessed distraction. I so appreciate your kind words and prayers. Thank you.
M
Praying for all during this difficult time! I pray for wisdom for the doctor, healing and strength for your sweet son. I hate cancer and hate that you have to deal with this! God is the great physician! Praying for healing. Praying for you and your family as they help your precious son through this journey.
Thank you Barbara. It is a difficult time but we are hanging onto our faith.
Marsha
Sweet Marsha!
I am praying as I type, lifting up every word so you may feel the support coming through. I’m praying for complete healing of your precious boy, comfort for your family as you fight, and an overflow of peace that only comes from Him. Praying, expecting, and believing for you!
Laura
Thank you so much Laura. My teacher-blogger family has been amazingly supportive. I can’t even tell you how much I appreciate this community.
Love you friend.
Marsha
My family and I are praying for you. You are a teacher, and teachers know that if we have anything, it is strength.
I know you don’t have answers for your son, the one answer he does have is that he has his brothers, family and your love. That is what is going to get him through these tough times.
God bless your family. Remember, we are all your extended family. Please keep us posted.
Thanks so much Kim. I appreciate all the prayers.
Marsha
Marsha,
Even though I don’t know you, I feel like I do after reading your blog regularly for the past two years. You are one of the many teacher bloggers who inspire me daily and led me to start my own blog. I just prayed for MacKale and your family and I am confident that God will take you through this extremely trying season in your life. I truly believe in the power of prayer and will continue to lift you and your family up daily!
Kristi, if you pray for my MacKale, then you do know me… you are part of my family . . . you are my friend. Thank you so much for praying for him and being there for my family. Thank you thank you thank you.
Marsha
My husband and I stopped what we were doing and prayed for you and your family this evening. He knows you through what I show him and from the MOUNTAINS of your creations I print each year. As soon as I said, you know my “Differ Kinder” lady he said, “yes”….. and I showed him this post. There’s no differentiating this situation, no breaking it down so that its easier to do. There is only faith. We will be praying that even in this, you will have faith. Day by day, step by step, Faith in the Love that holds you even now and will see you through this.
Thank you so much Mary. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate my DifferKinder Teacher Friends. The support and love I’ve received from this community of wonderful people is making my heart burst with happiness. There is no differentiating this situation, but I feel like friends like yourself will help me find a way through it.
Thank you and your husband so much.
Marsha
Praying for your family.
Marsha,
I love and read your blog all the time. I am a woman of faith and I will keep you and your son in my prayers. I cried reading this and can’t even imagine the pain you are going through. I will pray for strength for you both. I attend a women’s bible study and I will make sure to ask them for their prayers so we can pray and lift you up. Your son sounds like a fighter and I pray that he kicks cancer’s butt!
Carrie,
Thank you for getting your bible study group on board. I am so thankful to all my praying teacher-family-friends right now.
Marsha
Marsha and ;Mike, I sit here reading this with watery vision, tear-stained cheeks and with prayers headed toward heaven.
We are so very sorry to hear this heart-wrenching news about your son.
just wanted to let you know that the Johns family is also praying and is in your corner.
We are grieving with you at this moment and we will be celebrating with you when this cancer has been eradicated.
Thank you Ted. Your prayers are greatly appreciated. You can not even imagine.
Marsha
Marsha,
I feel like we are friends (even if it is virtually) because I’ve been following you since forever. :o) I just want you to know that you have another follower/friend thinking about you, praying for you, for your son, for your family. I’m praying for healing, for strength and that you will know that even when you are sad, angry or scared you are not alone. We are all standing beside you. Hugs.
We are friends and now we are family. When you pray for my family, you become part of it. Thank you so much Karyn.
Marsha
My thoughts and prayers will be with you on this long road. But, I send the encouragement of a survivor. I was diagnosed with Non Hodgskins Lymphoma at 8. I had an army of doctors and nurses, but more importantly family that never left my side. 26 years later, I am teacher, aunt, wife and I enjoyed the father daughter dance at my wedding recently. God is good and there when you need him most.
Thank you so much for your story Theresa. Our God IS good.
Marsha
I also believe in the power of prayer and have added your family to mine. Prayers for your sweet child, prayers for your his brothers, prayers for you and your husband during this challenging time. God bless!
I have followed you for a long time and have always been able to see your passion. my heart aches for your journey but I am praying for courage, strength ,and comfort for the days ahead knowing that God is faithful and hears our prayers! I will join you daily in prayer!
Thank you Louann. I know he hears my prayers.
Marsha
Marsha, your love for your family and dear boy was portrayed so beautifully in this post. We will be keeping MacKale, your family, and his doctors all in our prayers.
~Prayers and love
Prayers <3
You, MacKale, and your family are in my prayers. I had to explain to my daughter why her Papa could no longer play with her as he once did and she was 3. It is hard. After reading your story, if anyone can work through this it is MacKale. And if anyone can teach something to anyone out of this, it is you.
Jennifer, thank you so much. From your lips to God’s ears.
Marsha
I’m so sorry to hear about your son’s diagnosis. My son was diagnosed at 8 with osteo. He’s now 15. Please contact me if you have any questions or want to talk. It’s a tough road; stay strong for each other. We will be praying for you.
Jamie
Thanks for sharing Jamie. I would love to connect. Stories of survival are so important for me to hear.
Marsha
Praying for healing for MacKale and comfort for you all during this challenging time. Take care!
Marsha, Wow life really throws us curve balls sometimes. I can’t imagine! I believe in the Lord’s healing power and I pray for peace, comfort, and strength for you. I also know how much you care about your class and if you’re like me you worry about them when you aren’t there, so I’ll pray for an amazing sub so you can put all your focus into being a mom right now. Take care, Lynn
I am a wreck about my class . . . I do worry so appreciate prayers for healing and for me to let go and focus only on MacKale.
Thanks Lynn
Marsha
Praying for you al …our 2 year old son was diagnosed with leukemia 27 years ago and is now married with a son of his own and a police officer! I KNOW what you are going through and will pray that God gives you the strength to get through all the ups and downs you will experience in the next few months! Don’t ever hesitate to call on your friends…and me if you ever want to talk! As a teacher you have to remember YOU ARE A MOTHER FIRST and school will get by without you..I KNOW how hard that is! you are right, there is NO lesson plan for this…except in the Bible and your faith…cling to one another and to God!
Thank you for this story and the prayers Betsy.
Marsha
From one mother and teacher to another…you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
I appreciate it so much Trinh. Thank you
God Bless you all and know that we are praying for MacKale!!!!!
Thank you Anita
My heart is breaking for you and your family right now. I love reading your blog and have found many inspiring teaching ideas from you. You and your family are in my prayers. I will watch your fb page to see if there is anything you need. God Bless You all.
Thank you Jen.
Marsha
I will be praying for your family! Know that God is always bigger than our problem. He will provide.
Every morning I pray for children with cancer. I’ll add your son to my list!!
Thank you for including Mac
Marsha,
I am also a kindergarten teacher and mother to 3 grown sons. I can’t even begin to understand or feel the pain that you are feeling at present….however I know that your son is in the best hands and those are of our Lord himself. I’ll be praying for your family and I know that God hears our prayers. May God bless you in the coming days and may you feel His presence through this trial.
God Bless,
Sharon
Kiss those big boys of yours and thank you so much for your prayers.
Marsha
Marsha, First want to say Prayers already going up for your son, you and the rest of the family. I am in tears with you. I have five children, and one of mine (Jerika) had primary pulmonary hypertension and diagnosed at 11 with a disease she knew she would eventually die from because there was no cure. She did pass away at age 20 with complications from the double lung transplant that she needed. I am telling you this because as a MOTHER I know the the emotions that you are going through. You have the right to cry, pray cry and pray more. I still do it. Take one second at a time and live this second because that is all we are guaranteed in this life. I wish I could reach through this computer and just hug you and pray, because I have had to deal with the other aspect of life happening and every day I still cry.
I wish you could reach through and give me a hug too and me one for you. Thanks for sharing your story with me Tina.
Marsha
I believe in the power of prayer and good thoughts. You and your family have them. Good luck with this fight. He WILL win.
thanks Candice!
Marsha
Marsha,
I have followed you for a long time, reading and implementing all of your great ideas. I always felt bad that I wasn’t able to reciprocate. Perhaps, I now I can offer you some advice that I was given almost 12 years ago. You see, this coming January we will acknowledge the 12th crapiversary of my then 4 year old’s leukaemia diagnosis. It was a dark and scary time. My best friend told me then, that it was important for me to share Lucas’ story. She told me that every time I shared a piece of our pain with someone, it would be taken from us and carried by someone else. I am forever grateful for her very wise words. We met some of the most incredible people then and are forever connected. Take the time to reach out to those around you. Let them carry some of your fear, anguish, and worry. One of the best things we did was to join an online community its of parents around the world whose children all had the same diagnosis. We are still close now. Sending you strength and love and prayers. Xoxoxo
Thanks for your words of advice and your prayers Frances. I so appreciate it. You have reciprocated 100x over.
Marsha
I will definitely be praying for your Mac and for your family as you will all be affected by this. God is an AWESOME God! I know He’s got this — I will pray for healing for Mac and strength for you and your family. I don’t know you, but I am also a teacher and feel a connection to you and your story. Hugs and prayers!
Thank you so much. I will take all the hugs and prayers I can get.
Marsha
I’m praying for you, MacKale, and your entire family. My friend’s daughter was diagnosed with brain cancer as a toddler. She is the most spunky, funny, loving, beloved 2nd grader you’ll ever meet. Kids are incredible and with the doctors and prayers and your network of friends and family you are in a great place to win the fight. Sending prayers and love.
I love hearing survivor stories. Thank you for sharing this and for keeping us in your prayers.
Marsha
You and your son and the rest of your family is I. My prayers. I believe in God’s healing power. I pray for peace for your family as well. God is good all the time.
Thank you so much for including us in your prayers.
marsha
Father, all powerful all knowing loving God, You know the needs of my friend Marsha and her family, please bless them with your peace, your comfort, your love and your strength, they need you Lord and they’re calling out to you…hear their prayer as they and I trust you to to meet their needs, we give you thanks and all of the honor and glory in Jesus’ name Amen
Thank you for this beautiful prayer.
Marsha,
Sending prayers for MacKale and your family!
Thank you so much Thauna.
Prayers for your sweet boy, your family and your doctors as you join in this fight.
Thank you Pat.
Praying for your son and your family. GOD is good!
Amanda,
Thank you. Yes He IS good.
Marsha
Just started following you this year, I actually looked at your blog tonight because my math stations hit a wall today and (after some prayer) I wandered to your blog; reading your post made it today worth it. I just want to thank you for being so transparent. My entire team is deeply rooted in our faith to Jesus. We will be praying for your sweet Mac. “God is our refuge and strength, an everpresent help in times of trouble.” Psalm 46:1 God’s got this!
Thank you for your kind words and prayers Amber and then your team as well. I am so grateful for my friends of faith who are lifting MacKale up.
Marsha
Dear Marsha, Please know that I will be praying for your beautiful son. I teach in a school where prayer is allowed, and I will ask my Kinders to pray for you and your family also. I hope all our thoughts, good wishes, and prayers will lift you up and give you strength. Gail
Your prayers are such a precious gift to us. Thanks you so much Gail.
Adding MacHale to my prayer list.
Please do and thank you so much.
Marsha
just looking for classroom decor ideas and stumbled on this post. I am lifting your son and your family up to God in prayer and stand with you in professing and claiming God’s healing over your sweet son.