Thoughts & Wishes

Apologies for the late posting of these. Changed computers and just found these looking for an old email. --Brad April 2010 Messages Dear Straka family Our continued prayers that Jamie holds the numbers and continues to be a strong healthy growing boy. Love and peace. Rich and Marge TeKippe Hello Strakas The waiting game-you guys are good at that. Little did we know how much we would learn and appreciate your experience. You guys have been great friends and a great resource for families(especially the O'Brien's) We will continue to pray for Jamie as well as your journey continues. It is nice Jamie and Will have each other in the same class as they each go through thier own journey. God Bless you families you are all heros to me. Ann Ludwig Hey Jamie--go get 'em, Slugger! Hope you all have lots of great spring playtimes. Thoughts and prayers. Grandma Judy's cousin Beth Good to hear that things are remaining in the normal to watchful stage. It is nice to finally see the sun and take advantage of the great outdoors. Happy Easter, The Clark Family Hello! My mother-in-law found your website and shared it with me. My 10 month old son was born with an unidentifible Bone Marrow Failure. We are blessed that he was born alive. The Dr.'s say he isn't old enough to be diagnosed with Aplastic Anemia, but his Marrow is less than 20%. Your web site is very inspirational!! How did you go about doing all the things you did? Maverick goes for transplant next month and I am very nervous. You can read more about Maverick at Mavericksjourney.com Thank You for your inspirational page and God bless yor son and your family! Monique Brandon, Florida My thoughts are with Jamie and his family, I know Dr. Margolis and he will always do what is necessary. We will pray for Jamie to continue on with his strength,hope and spirit. Stay strong. My thoughts are with Jamie and his family, I know Dr. Margolis and he will always do what is necessary. We will pray for Jamie to continue on with his strength,hope and spirit. Stay strong. Hi My name is Laurie LaBollita. I live south of Boston Ma. My 3 year old grandson was diagnosed with Aplastic Anemia when he was admitted to Childrens Hospital In Boston on December 14 2009. Talk about a crash course in hematology. His younger brother Landon was our hope for a quick fix, sadly that wasn't the case.We are just beginning our journey with this disease and I am a little more than relieved that Jamie has done as well as he has.I pray he gets a transplant soon. As I do for my Cody.May God Bless you all. lauriel777@yahoo.com March 2010 Messages Hi to all the Strakas' Thinking of you while in the "waiting" mode. May each day be filled with good things and that you are able to enjoy the present. Tomorrow will take care of itself. May the peace of the Easter season fill your lives. In His name, Ron & Doris McAuliffe As always, we are thinking about you and admire your strength and courage in dealing with all of this. I'm just so grateful that Jamie can continue to be a little boy and not ill in bed or suffering thru this ordeal. NIH does some wonderful things and I think you are wise to enter their data. As you know I have MdDS and NIH just gave it's first grant to a researcher at UCLA to study this disease. After six months, she believes that she has isolated the portion of the brain that is not sparking correctly. So maybe they can develop a drug and I can get that "spark plug" working again. For that reason, I know that Drew and Jesse may be very important links to a solution for so many children. We hope you have a good weekend. I want to see a robin and have all the snow gone. This has been a long winter for us. Aunt Sherri and Uncle Ken January 2010 Messages 1/11/2010 A Donor Match has been Located! Hey there all you Strakas - Cheers from your old neighbor across the road, Marianne, now in Spain! Very happy to hear the good news. Much love... Marianne Hoerner Choquet Yay! A match was found. That is such great news! My thoughts and prayers are with your family, always. Lisa Hanson-Braun Awesome news...will continue to keep Jamie and his bros in our prayers. Hugs, Nancy Ronek & family Thank God for this new development! We have been monitoring it lately and this is great news. God bless you all and hoefully this new year will be filled with more great news. Uncle Gary and family That is wonderful. Great News!! Congratulations!! Angie Recker Yeah. We are so excited to hear the good news that a donor has been found. Really made our day. Think of you often and know how relieved you must feel that there is someone out there who can help Jamie. Our prayers are with you all Aunt Sherri and Uncle Ken Awesome news! So glad to hear Jesse and Drew had good results from Milwaukee too. The super dry air doesn't help with the nosebleeds. Keeping Jamie and all of you in our prayers!! Take care, Mollie Strief We are sooo happy for you! Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with your family. Cory, Jess, Carter, Landin, Jaida, and Adler Kramer Congratulations Straka Family! We are so happy to hear that you have found a donor. Best Wishes and tons of prayers. Charlie & Shannon Lundgren Family THAT IS AWESOME!!!!!! Carrie Habel That is wonderful news regarding a match for Jamie! What a way to start 2010. Meanwhile we will continue to keep you all in our prayers! I know everything will turn out fine in the end. Sue and Marlin DeWeerdt We are so happy to hear of your news! Keeping all of you in our prayers!! Luke and Melodee Dolan Absolutely Awesome Woo Hoo! Lisa and Andy I’m so happy a match has been found for you Jamie! Stay strong kiddo :) Teresa Putchio Thanks be to God!!! Mary Smock December 2009 Messages Congratulations on your successful drive! What an inspiration. Our son also has aplastic anemia, and our next drive is 1/17. I wish your family the best over the holidays. Staci Rieder (www.caringbridge.org/visit/antoniorieder) Have a nice holiday season. Best wishes from our family to yours. Uncle Gary and family Hi, You don't know me but I work with a cousin of yours in Connecticut. She has told me of your boys and their health issues. Please know that I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. My daughter is involved with a group which has a very large prayer chain. They are all praying for your boys. I hope you receive good news soon...this is the season of miracles. Violet Donnarummo November 2009 Messages EDITORS NOTE: Thanks for asking about testing to be a match! You can be tested by a simple Q-tip cheek swab kit sent to you from www.bethematch.org Dear Straka Family, I hope you all enjoy a wonderful Thanksgiving! Know that your family will be in many prayers this holiday season. We pray for you each day at school. You are such an inspirational family! Christie Steffen Hello Straka's, It's the DeWitt Frick's!!! We have been thinking about all of you! We miss seeing you! Tom, I haven't been in your court room yet (I work as a supervisor for Families First now) but when I do I will give you a hard time...appropriately of course! :) Hope to see you at a bball game this year!Take care!!! Lori (I am uncertain if i will be in town on the 11th....is there another time/way to donate?)Thanks! Straka Family, This note is from the Ballew family. We live just 2 houses straight over from you on Blue Jay Dr. We have been praying for Jamie since his last auction. I received this website from a close friend in Iowa City. We also had 3 sons and I love the logo. We have a son who donates plasma every week at the plasma center. I will tell him to stop at Hyvee on the 11th of Dec. We will try to stop as well. We will keep you all in our prayers and hope your holidays are blessed knowing there are a lot of people out there praying for your family in hopes Jamie finds a donor. Peace to all, Cindy & Gary Ballew Hey Tom/Brad, It's Steve Weber from the old 'hood. Kathleen told me about Jamie's struggles. After following your progress I finally was tested for the national database for bone marrow donation. I hope it helps someday. Will keep you all in our prayers. Steve Weber Hey Strakas, it's the Tekippes from down the street. Just wanted to let you know that your entire family is in our prayers. Lenny, Nancy, and Caitlyn. We're praying for all of you. We've been following Jamie's progress even though we haven't sent a message. Love Don and JoAnn Kennedy Hey Strakas, it's the Tekippes from down the street. Just wanted to let you know that your entire family is in our prayers. Lenny, Nancy, and Caitlyn. Hi Teri: What a great website for Jamie! I am wishing you and the whole family the best of luck with everything! All of you are in my prayers. Keep a positive attitude and that donor will be there for you! On a side note, if I can't make it on the 11th, is there another way for me to get checked? Take care all of you, stay healthy and happy! Love, Stacey Becker EDITORS NOTE: Thanks for asking about testing to be a match! You can be tested by a simple Q-tip cheek swab kit sent to you from www.bethematch.org M & J Bennet sent an email to us about the bone marrow drive in December. We will make sure to go. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. God Bless Roxanne Gartner Peosta Iowa We're praying for all of you. We've been following Jamie's progress even though we haven't sent a message. Love Don and JoAnn Kennedy October 2009 Messages Teri and Tom, Know that you and the boys are in our thoughts, continuously. We will continue to check for updates. We realize your support system is amazing but if there is something - anything - you could use an extra hand with, an errand run, a dinner out or one catered in, don't hesitate to ask. You are in our prayers. Jane and Brett Buse Teri and Tom, I just want you to know how incredibly inspiring and remarkable you both are! I am in awe of your ability in the toughest of times to see, enjoy, cherish and be grateful for all of the beautiful moments your boys give you on a daily basis. Amazing and truly inspirational! The boys are so incredibly lucky to have you as parents and positive role models in their lives. Your examples of strength, courage, endurance, and living presently while awaiting results are valuable lessons to us all. We think and pray for you daily. Love, Lisa and Andy Zelinskas We're praying for all of you. We've been following Jamie's progress even though we haven't sent a message. Love Don and JoAnn Kennedy My prayers will include you and your family as you go through this journey. Steve from Hartford Teri, Tom and family, I am a high school friend of Karen and Larry and just want to add my prayers and wishes that Jamie, Jesse and Drew can continue to enjoy their activities, family and friends and that answers can be found for them. It sounds as if they have the very best of love, parental care and support(what a huge job and you do it so well), and medical resources. May all of our prayers be answered. Karen Jennings, Prescott, Arizona Hi Staka Family, Albert and I are on the resgistry already. Either of us would be honored to donate to Jamie. I know you will find the match you are looking for. I'm speecless regarding the news of Drew and Jesse. Insane. As you may remember we have one kid with Aplastic and another with Chronic ITP. Never did get any answers as to why we hit the jackpot twice- just "one of those things." We are currently pregnant with our tenth baby, trying still to get that sibling match for Brandon, should he ever relapse again. I can't imagine the devestation I'd feel if I were told we had a match and then discovered something amiss. Stay postitive. Even with the potential for a bone marrow issue, it doesn' t necessarily mean either of them WILL have an issue. Just the potential for it. Perhaps many of us carry the potential for issues of some sort, we just don't find out about it since our DNA isn't analyzed. I am praying for you guys. Praying a perfect match becomes available on the registry. Hugs, Angela Fontenot (brandon fontenot's mom) Hi Strakas - Lots and lots of prayers coming your way from the Kronlages. You are such an amazing and strong family~ Paul, Angie, Ethan and Jacob HI Teri and Family Jim and I continue to keep Jamie and your entire family in our prayers. Jim has also asked about the testing process - he would like to help - please let us know the details when possible. Love and prayers Jody and Jim Normandin P.S. The pictures are beautiful!!!! Triple prayers for those handsome boys, and a zillion for Mom and Dad. Beth in Wis. What developments for your family! As I keep up on Sarah Reiss's progress on her CaringBridge journal, she and her family live "one day at a time" and emphasize their reliance on God, family and friends...and the medical caretakers. My thoughts and prayers, and especially at Mass, are with you! Corrine Schatz, friend of Grandma Judy Meyer Wow--what a week for you. I love that you are positive and taking life day by day--that's half the battle. You have so many friends that will be happy to be tested as donors at the drop of a hat...you can count on us. I haven't clicked on the link yet for more info, but we will...kids and all. Hang in there and know love and prayers surround you every day! Nancy, Al, Quinn and Max Ronek Hi Straka family, Keeping you in our prayers and thoughts as you try to live normal lives with an "elephant" in the house. May you experience all the support and help necessary to provide a sense of normalcy for the boys. Be sure to take time for yourselves while providing the necessary care for all. May the Grace of God continue to give you hope and faith for all that is to come. Love to all, Doris and Ron McAuliffe To all the Straka families: You are in our daily prayers. Keep hanging in there. Thanks for the updates. Rich and Marge TeKippe September 2009 Messages Hi Tom, Teri, and family, I was reading article recently about why a loving and kind Creator would "allow" our "little ones" to suffer with such a fierce opponent as cancer. The only reasonable answer seems to be, "for the greater good". So, never give up, but somehow try to see the "bigger" picture. Your family support sysem, your friends afar, and those all over the world, witness to how your story has touched many hearts. May all of you be able to experience this concern for your family and survive the daily stresses. May you continue to have hope and faith for what is to come. Ron & Doris McAuliffe August 2009 Messages Hi Straka's, Thinking and praying for you in Minnesota. Jamie good luck with baseball and basketball and Mom and Dad have fun at Buffet. What a great place to see him! P.S. Minneapolis/DBQ party is the 3rd weekend in September if interested. Tom, Go Vikings! I think you should get all 3 boys Farve Viking jerseys. I hear that can't make them fast enough. Lisa and Andy Hello, I just read your message on my daughter's good friend's Ashlyn Glass caring bridge and wanted to thank you for sending her a message. I was just reading your son's progress and just brought tears to my eyes. Amber and Ashlyn have danced together for several years and this past year she had to give it up. That was hard on all her friends that she danced with. Especially this year, they took their competition dance to the Iowa State Fair(Bill Riley Talent Search) and they went onto the semi finals. Did not make it to finals though, but still wished Ashlyn was with them! Now they were to be in an acting class in school and Ashlyn had to drop it as you noticed on her update. I hope things will get better for you and will put you in our prayers right along with Ashlyn. Take care, Sue Alaniz, Davenport, Iowa Hey Buddy, Sounds like your doing well. Keep up the great work. We need to get your platelets to the point where mom and dad can relax, and keep you there! God Bless you and your family little buddy, Phil and Kristi Doll family Amherst, WI July 2009 Messages Hi to all, We will keep all of you in prayer,that you may receive the strength and wisdom to make the best informed choice for Jamie. May you also enjoy peace of mind and spirit, as you live through this situation. May the close support of family and friends sustain you through this difficult time. So, be assured that all of you will remain in our prayers. Ron & Doris McAuliffe God bless all of you. We keep you in our nightly prayers for success. Thanks so much to you Brad for keeping us updated. Good luck to the three brave little boys who are putting up a good fight. Love to all. Marge and Rich TeKippe Hi Strakas, Thinking of, and praying for, you all. Becky and Andy We are keeping you and your family in our prayers. Prayers have power and strength, and there are a lot of us out here praying for good health for all the family. God Bless, Jim & Lorene Hynes Hi Jamie - - You won't know me because I have never met you in person, but I am your grandmother's (Karen Davis') sister-in-law! OK that seems pretty remote but I also live in Australia which is pretty remote, too. I thought you might like to know that while people are sleeping in the USA, there are millions of people in Australia that are experiencing daylight hours and some of them are praying for you. So that means that you have people wishing for your good health right around the world. It also means that there are people thinking of you night and day everywhere! Pretty good, eh? Stay strong, Jamie - we're all backing for you. Love, Mary Wagner, rendezvousbb@bigpond.com Thanks for sharing Jamie's story. I continue to be amazed at how normally he goes on. It sounds like you have the best of medical opinions and that fact that he is willing to consult with his peers is great. My prayers are with as you make this decision. Eileen McSperrin (Molly Baumhover's mom) Hi Teri, Thanks for sharing Jamie's site with us. Know that Jamie and your family have been added to our prayers. Doug, Amy, P.J. & Mary Edwards Hi Teri; Can't wait to see you guys this weekend! we can both drink together! heck why don't we just make a trip to Sweden together! Yeah... then we can stay there for a month and site see and visit other hospitals in the area! Doesn't that sound like a lot of fun..... ( j/k) well just wanted to let you know that we are thinking of you guys! Least you guys have a plan of action.... as for us we are still waiting.... hum, I think it has been um... how many years now - since transplant! P.S your boys look great! See you this weekend! My heart is heavy after reading your latest update. Please know that Jamie, Jessie, and the entire family will remain in my prayers and the prayers of the entire Seton family. Please let me know if there is anything that you need form any of us. I trust that God will take care of the boys! God Bless you all! Mary Smock Dear Teri & Tom, I am so thankful for this message site. I think about your family often and it is so helpful to know what is going on. Jamie and Jessie are two very brave boys. I know you are very proud of them. Keep up the good work and I hope and pray things will turn around. If AJ is not on the message board I know he would like to be. I sent him a note last week about Jamie's platelets and he thanked me for the information, so I know he would like to receive updates. Love all of you, Jayne Hi Jamie; I work with your Great Uncle Ken for The Hartford and work out of our Simsbury CT office. I just wanted to wish you well and let you and your family know- our thoughts and prayers are with you. Please feel free to keep in touch with us and we will keep you updated on anything you like to hear from us. Do you have a Facebook page? Is it ok If I share your page with our team? We have lots of people who do lots of things and have lots of kids. Let us know if there is anything about Connecticut you would like to know and feel free to share with us! Thanks for listening ~ Denise Mallamac Teri, Tom and family Jim and I keep Jamie and your family in our prayers daily. I know how difficult it is to know your child is sick and you cannot do much to help them other than get them the best possible medical care which you are doing. He is so handsome!!!! Keep up the faith, you have one another to lean on and many, many friends. On another note, I know this is far fetched but have your tried Boston Children's Hospital, they have been the number 1 hospital in the country for many years - a second opinion never hurts!!!! With prayers and much love Jody Thanks for the update. We have been thinking and praying for all of you during this difficult time. We are so glad Jamie is feeling and acting well. He looks great in the pictures!!! Ellen and Ralph Thanks for the update. Hang in there, Teri and family. Lots of prayers from our house to yours. Joe, Vicky, Jax and Davis Stelzer The Lord bless you and keep you! The Lord let his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you! The Lord look upon you kindly and give you peace! (from Numbers 6:24-26) And, I'll ask your guardian angel to take extra good care of you! Continued prayers, From a friend of Grandma Judy Straka Meyer... Corrine S. out by Key West, Iowa We will continue to pray for Jamie and your family. He is so lucky to have such a loving family and so much support. Many blessings, Rick and Amy Kluesner and family June 2009 Messages It was great to see at the waterpark in Waterloo the other day. Will keep you and yours in our thoughts and prayers that all goes well! Deanne Arrington Sharpless woo hoo, labs are up, yeah! Good news thus far. <.p>Lisa Z. Jamie, Uncle Ken and I thought about you all day yesterday. We were glad to hear from Grandma Judy that you were home. Glad to see that those numbers are going up. Continue to enjoy your summer and have fun. Love, Aunt Sherri We are saying lots and lots of extra prayers that you have good luck tomorrow. We wish you all the best. It is our daughter's and our grandson's birthday so maybe that will be a good omen. Love and prayers, Marge and Rich TeKippe Hi to all, May you have the graces necessary to be confident in this struggle. Know you are always in our prayers. Certainly this experience has made your family stronger and has drawn you closer together. May the Wisdom of God shine in all those who work to provide competent care and compassion in all they do. This we ask in Jesus name, Ron & Doris McAuliffe Tom, Teri and family, I just wanted to let you know you will be in our thoughts and prayers as Jamie goes through surgery. If you need anything just give us a call. Isaac would love to have Jesse and Drew over for another play date. Wishing you the best! Dave,Tracie, and David Pettera- Taylor and Isaac Hogan Prayers from the Ludwig's. Seeing Jamie at the ball games last night he looks great. Hopefully a bump he can hurdle again. Jamie is amazing. Best of luck and we will be watching numbers and counts closely. God Bless The Ludwig's Your family will be in our prayer’s Carrie Habel We will be praying for you. We added Jamie's name to the Book of Prayer at St. Joseph Key West and will get the prayer warriors on the prayer chain here at SJKW alerted as well. God is with you! Sharon & Jim Foust Straka's, Prayers and best wishes are coming your way!!! I am happy to hear Jamie is enjoying his summer and feels okay, but wish the labs matched the way he feels. He gets his toughness from you guys. Hope to see you in DBQ in a couple of weeks. Lisa and Andy Zelinskas I'm so sorry that the counts have continued to slide downward. Hopefully, after the biopsy you will have a new strategy. I am so glad that Jamie is feeling well and hope that continues. We will be thinking of you. Love, Aunt Sherri The Straka family is in our prayers. Hang in there!!! Love you guys, The Creans. Blessings to you all, for strength and healing. Beth in Wisc. Hi Jamie and family, Just wanted to send some prayers and thoughts to you. Keep fighting and never stop playing and enjoying life little cuz. Love, your cousin Emily Dear Teri, Tom and family I am saddened to hear this news regarding Jamie's blood counts, please know that Jim and I keep you in our daily prayers and always special prayers to our own "personal angel." I miss seeing you Teri. Please let me know if there is anything I can do in any way to help your family through this ordeal. With our prayers and our love, Jody and Jim Normandin My thoughts are with all of you - I am saying a lot of prayers for some good news to come your way. He's one tough little guy - I know where he gets that from :) Mary Patch April 2009 Messages Hi Straka Family Glad to hear all is well.... he's too cute to be sick! Always in my prayers Jody N March 2009 Messages I hope you all have a wonderful time in Florida. Nice to get out of this weather for a while. We keep getting teased with spring and then have a snow shower. Safe journey and relax with your Florida families. Aunt Sherri Hello to the Straka kids and families. Good to hear the numbers are holding. Have a wonderful trip to Florida. Just the medicine you need. We are in Florida now and the weather is beautiful. Have a fun time. Rich and Marge TeKippe Glad to see a rise in one of the counts! Have a great trip to Florida. I think the sun does everybody a world of good if not the idea of getting away. Our continued prqyers! Sue and Marlin DeWeerdt Good that the numbers are staying the same. Now maybe they will turn around and head in the right direction. So glad you are all getting away for awhile. Somehow the sunshine and warmth help. Thank of you all often. Aunt Sherri Yeah good news for you!! Hopefully things will improve and all these worries will go away. Have a great time at Grandma and Grandpa's. I know they are looking forward to your visit. You are always in our thoughts and prayers. Love for the Maldonado's in Connecticut. Have a safe and wonderful trip!!! The Creans February 2009 Messages Wanted all of the Straka families to know we are continuing to pray that all goes well. Three beautiful boys. Love to all. Rich and Marge TeKippe January 2009 Messages Happy New Year to the Straka's. What a great picture of your three boys. They are so nice looking. It is interesting to study them and see you both in them! Bet the girls will be"hangin round" before too long!! We keep praying for you all. Marlin and Sue Hi Strakas! We are still checking in on you and praying for Jamie. We're so glad that his numbers continue to rise! Thinking of you and wishing you a very HEALTHY and Happy New Year!!! Love, Luke and Melodee Dolan Thanks for keeping us posted. You are in our thoughts and prayers always. Glad you were able to spend some time with Grandma Karen and Grandpa Larry who braved the cold weather of Iowa to visit with you. Love from Connecticut, The Maldonado's Three fine-looking boys!! Thoughts and prayers to you all. Grandma Judy's cousin Beth in Wisconsin Looking good. Happy Birthday Jamie!! Where are the pic's from the birthday party? We are glad to see the numbers continue to creep up. Take care and happy new year, Lisa and Andy Zelinskas Hi Strakas! We are still checking in on you and praying for Jamie. We're so glad that his numbers continue to rise! Thinking of you and wishing you a very HEALTHY and Happy New Year!!! Love, Luke and Melodee Dolan December 2008 Messages Looking good. Happy Birthday Jamie!! Where are the pic's from the birthday party? We are glad to see the numbers continue to creep up. Take care and happy new year, Lisa and Andy Zelinskas HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO STRAKA MAN... AND DREW Happy Holidays to the Entire Straka Family The Weltys Jamie, We are praying for you. I hope you have a great Christmas and a healthy New Year. Your neighbors, Morgan & Zachary Hi to all, We are keeping all of you in our continued prayers and thoughts. We pray all the health care professionals that serve you. May they continue to be guided with wisdom and determination as they strive to prescribe appropriate treatment. We also ask for strength and fortitude for you, Tom and Teri, as you maintain a healthy and happy home for all. May this Christmas season provide a time of "rebirth" for all of you, as you experience the gift of each other and family this Christmas season. Ron and Doris McAuliffe (Brad, the best to you this season and may you continue to share this gift of love with your family. Maintaining this site and monitoring the messages is an invaluable gift of self for us. Thank you :) ) Happy to hear that the tests are doing okay. You are still in our prayers. Have a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year. Rich and Marge TeKippe Hi from Connecticut, Thank you for the updates. I think of you often and continue to pray for good health. I love the picture of the boys. You and Leah were the first pictures to arrive. Give a hug to those handsome boys from their Aunt Ellen. Love, Ellen Hi Terri, Tom and Boys, It's the Blum's You know all of you are always in our thoughts and prayers. We hope you have a nice Holiday. Terri it was nice seeing you last night and the Decker's. Let us know if there is anything you ever need. Love The Blum's: Dennis, Vicky and Shelby Greetings to the Straka Five! We are so glad to read that progress is being shown with regard to Jamie's counts. We follow your reports and are praying for you all. Have a wonderful holiday this season. Thoughts and Prayers, Marlin and Sue November 2008 Messages Happy Thanksgiving Cousins!!! Hope you all have a wonderful holiday. Glad to hear that the the blood counts continue to go up! Love, Emily Maldonado Great news. Keep it up and we will keep praying. Marge and Rich TeKippe We are so happy for all of you. You have been in our thoughts and prayers. Have a great Thanksgiving. We all have many things to be thankful for this year. Love to all, Ralph and Ellen Maldonado We are so happy to see those higher numbers. You have all been in our constant thoughts and prayers!! Don and Deb Great news! We continue to pray for your intentions daily and forward the intentions of all for prayers to prayer groups, prayer lines/chains and Books of Prayer requests in churches we attend. God is good! Jim & Sharon Foust Hey Strakas That is awesome news. It sounds like you are on the right track. We will keep you guys in our thoughts and prayers. Hey-Teri great job with the gala. You are SUPERWOMAN!!!!! God Bless~ Rick, Ann, Sophie, Robbie, and Jude Great news ! We always have Straka-Man and you guys in our prayers.... The Lake's Jamie and family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you Sincerely, Caitlin Kennedy & Family Jamie and family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you Sincerely, Caitlin Kennedy & Family October 2008 Messages Glad to hear the surgery went well and you all are back home together. MY thoughts and prayers are with you all. Have a Happy Halloween. Love, your cousin Emily Hi to all. We are sending our prayers and heartfelt wishes for success. It is so hard for focus on all the good incidents that have occurred during this struggle. Sometimes the one bad condition seems to use all our strength and time and energy. Think of the all the good times that have taken place since the start of this battle. Just reviewing the posts, prayers, and thoughts that have been sent are visible proof of all the good people in this world. Tom, Terri, & family, we send our love and prayers. Ron & Doris McAuliffe, Peosta, Ia Hi Jamie and Family, We hope that all is going well. We will continue to pray for you and hope that for the best. Sincerely, Mrs. Steffen's 3rd grade class Seton Catholic School Straka's, We are thinking of you and saying lots of prayers! Your boys are definitely troopers! Jeff, Lori, Brandon & Kaitlyn Frick To all the Straka and Davis families and especially to the two little troopers who were the active participants: We have been praying for you today and will continue to do so for a successful outcome. God's blessings to all of you. Thanks to Brad for keeping us updated. To the grandmothers, (and the grandfathers) hang in there!!! Lots of love and prayers to all of you. Marge and Rich TeKippe Jamie and Jessie, I am so glad to hear that everything went well. We are all praying for you. Can't wait to see you back in school. Ms. Smock I represented Jamie during the CEW prayer healing service last night at St. Joe's Key West. During the evening, there were several stories shared about prayer and healing and it gave such hope that miracles truly do happen. The very best is wished for all of you. >p> Sara Fagan - Holy Roller Friend of Grandma Judy & Tom Straka Man, Jesse and Family We are so glad that everything went well yesterday and you are back home already. We are praying everything goes well and Jamie will be ready to play Basketball again after Christmas.... Take Care The Weltys Wanted to let you know that you all are in our thoughts. So glad to hear that everyone is back home. We are cheering for good numbers!! Much love, Melissa, Todd and Ryan We are monitoring the progress and lifting up your whole family in prayers. May each one of you be granted those special "graces" you need at the moment. We will continue our prayer vigil. Ron & Doris McAuliffe Hi Straka's, We are praying for everyone here in Minnesota! Lisa and Andy Zelinskas I'm sitting in the office early this morning and just opened your new E-mail. I will be thinking about you all day and know that Jesse might be getting ready for surgery as I write this. He is growing up much too quickly. So sorry your family has to go through all of this. I do respect your courage,strength and endurance. Love, Aunt Sherri Great pictures Jesse! You are an awesome little dude! We will be thinking of you all day on Monday. You are the best brother anyone could possibly have! Jamie- we will keep you in our prayers and can't wait to see what the Straka boys are going to be for Tick or Treat! Take care and keep us posted. The Deckers Jesse: These are great photos! You look much more grown up then when I say you last! (Can you slow down a little!!) I'll be looking forward to the updates on Monday and know everything will go great. Be brave! We will all be praying for you. Uncle Brad Jesse, I just loved looking at your pictures. You and Jamie are two of the bravest little boys I know. Grandpa and I will be praying and thinking of you both on Monday. God will take care. Love, Grandma Karen Great pictures of your handsome Jesse!! Good luck with the procedures and we'll be thinking about you guys!! Love, The Creans. What a handsome young man! We will continue to keep everyone in our prayers! Jim and Sharon Foust You are in our thoughts and prayers! Jim & Sharon Foust Teri, Tom, Jesse, and Jamie, We wish you the best and will be praying for you all. You are all so brave, especially those darling boys! Take care, Sue and Marlin DeWeerdt Teri and Tom, Mike and I will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Deb Clemens Teri and Tom, Hi Straka Family! We will keep you all in our prayers. I'm sure it is going to go well! We too hope that this boost is what Jamie needs to put this ugly disease behind you. God Bless The Decker Family We will keep you all in our prayers. Jim & Lorene Hynes Go Team Straka!! Thoughts and prayers are with you all. Grandma Judy's cousin, Beth To the whole Straka-Davis families: We will put you back on the prayer list for a successful surgery and recovery. God's blessings on all of you. Best of luck. Marge and Rich TeKippe Hey Straka's It sounds like a bump in the road. Maybe this will be the final boost Jamie will need and we will see the end of this horrible disease. We will keep all the Straka's in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless Rick, Ann, Sophie, Robbie and Jude It's hard to believe it has been three years. We keep you in our prayers and thoughts. There will come a day when you will able to relax and "breathe" a sigh of relief. In the meantime, keep the faith and live each moment to the fullest. Ron & Doris McAuliffe September 2008 Messages Jamie, Hope your dad doesn't have you with the dark side (Minnesota Vikings) I'm not happy with route the Packers have taken, but they still welcome need you as a Packer fan. Keep fighting to stay well. Basketball will be good for you, and the Hawkeyes definitely need help. God Bless you little buddy and God Bless your mom and dad and brothers. Phil and the rest of the Dolls Amherst, WI It is great to see that things are not going backwards! Jamie and family continue to be in my prayers! God bless you all! Corrine Schatz,friend of Grandma Judy Way to go Jamie. Keep up the great job. Mine are down a little too, but we'll get em' back where they belong. Warm weather will do you wonders! Thoughts and prayers coming your way from central Wisconsin, the middle of Cub country. Phil Doll and family Good news, I just keep checking the updates and praying for all of you. Good luck in Baseball!!!!!! See you all this June, Jill and family May 2008 Messages Thank God for such good news. We will keep praying. Marge and Rich TeKippe Hope all went well with the baseball game!! I've been thinking about you, Jamie. Trying to locate your mom's email address. The kids and I are coming up that way for a visit this summer and want to hang out with you guys for a bit if you are going to be around. Looking forward to the next update. Hang in there!! Love you guys, Jill Crean Hello from Connecticut, We keep checking the site and are so grateful you are keeping us updated. We will continue to pray for good numbers. Enjoy the baseball season. Happy Mothers Day. Teri. Looking forward to seeing you this June. Love Ellen, Ralph, and Emily Hey Teri, Tom and the boys: Been trying to keep up with Jamie's news. The girls and I have been thinking and praying for all of you! I'm glad Jamie is holding strong at this time. I read that wonderful article where the nurse or doctor interviewed Jesse about helping Jamie - very special. You have some very special boys, we hope the power of prayer and love combined will pull all of you through this experience. We talk about you guys often and miss seeing you. Abby asks about Jamie often so please know we are thinking of all of you and look forward to seeing and talking to you soon. Love from Mary, Katie, Elizabeth and Abby Hey, Strakas!! Thinkin' about you guys all the time. Glad things are going as they are and not worse. Praying for good results next week!! Jamie, good luck at your game. It's funny to think you are just getting started with baseball when Jackson is just finishing up--3 games left. I keep forgetting that it is finally getting to be nice up there and that it gets too hot to play baseball over the summer here in Arizona. Hang in there, guys!! Lots of love, The Creans. Hi from the Keltings in Wheatland - Good news to hear that Jamie is hanging in there, and hopefully the rest of you are too! Brett would really like you guys to come over and see all our bucket calves - we are up to 4! Win that baseball game next week - we are praying for you all! Take care, Nancy, Doug, Brett, Alex, Matt Tom and Teri, Sorry to hear about Jamies problems. I hope that the count will turn for the better. Prays and best wishes, Jayne Keep up the good work. We are praying for you. Marge and Rich TeKippe Straka family, Just wanted to let you know that I am thinking of you. Stay strong! Shana Puetz April 2008 Messages I am reminded by the picture on this page that we all need to keep thinking about that "rainbow". We are happy that the numbers have remained the same and not gone lower. I know this uncertainty must be so difficult and we want you to know that we are constantly thinking about you all. Uncle Ken asked the congregation of our church to keep you in their prayers. Love, Sherri and Ken Teri and family, I continue to pray for all of you every day...continue to stay strong. You have a beautiful family with lots of support and love around you! Julie (Kaesbauer) Spelhaug Hi gang, I just read the latest update and am glad to see the platelets are holding steady. Also, sounds like you have a great Dr. I chatted with some physicians here at Children's in St. Paul who spoke highly of him. We will keep up the prayers. Lisa and Andy Good to hear another good week for Jamie. We are all hoping and praying things will hold and improve as each week goes on. Best of luck to all of you. Love, Marge and Rich TeKippe Teri and tom, Just read the update and so glad you are all home safe. I will continue to keep all of you in my thoughts. lots of love, Jill and Family Dear Teri, Tom, Jamie, Jesse, & Drew, We wish you the very best and are keeping Jamie in our prayers. Love, Dana & Jim Heming & Kids Hi Jamie, Its the Massey's. How are you doing kiddo? We are wondering how you are. We hope you get better soon. We really care about you. We are praying for you. I hope you get better before the end of the school year so you can have fun with your friends. Love, Mike,Julie,Lindsey,Dillon,and Hannah Massey Strakas, Keep up doing what your doing, with the exception of rooting for the brewers. Sending prayers from central WI, where we are a bit familiar with much of the medical jargon. God Bless! Phil and Kristi Doll and family Amherst, WI Hi Strakas, This website is great. Thanks for telling me about it. I just want to let you know again that I can help watch Drew or anything else you need. Your boys are so brave, tell them to hang in there. Jamie, my niece Ashley Kramer misses you in class along with everyone else. Everyone is praying for you. Take care and let me know if you need anything. I would love to help. Brenda Fangmann 4/24/08 Messages Dear Straka family, You are a darling family for sure and real troopers! I am grandma Karen's friend Cindy and her husband Karl and will tune in every day to read your progress report It will be a part of my day for sure and we want to read all good things! Keep up the positiveness and I hope you went to the zoo today and it isn't raining like it is here in Dubuque! Milwaukee does have a great one! Keep Thinking Happy Thoughts Cindy and Karl Millius So happy :) to hear the news. We will continue to pray that those numbers continue to rise. Hope you had a great time at the zoo and can't wait to see you back at home. Get ready for ball practice tomorrow. The Gasper's 4/23/08 Messages Great update!! Continued plans for baseball games and zoos instead of surgeries! Patrice Jamie, We are thinking of you during this difficult time. Know that our prayers and well wishes continue for you and your family. We hope that soon all this will be behind you and you'll be running and playing in the neighborhood again!! Your neighbors, Rick, Nancy, Morgan and Zachary Hey Strakas! I've been thinking (and praying) for you all day - what a roller coaster you guys are on. Keep those boys smiling and I'll keep praying for Jamie's numbers to go up! Take care, Sandy Hi Tom, Teri, Jamie, Jesse, and Drew, We are all praying that everything goes well. Brett really wants Jamie to feel great again so they can play catch. We have some new baby kitties that Brett would like to show everyone. Love, The Keltings Jamie - I am thinking about you and keeping you in my prayers this week. Take care! Love, Dana Hi Guys: WE wish you the very best for tomorrow as I know that everything will run smoothly- Say hello to everyone at the Ronald McDonald house for us- I am praying that the anti- rejection medicine is going to bring up those platelets. Let us know how things are going! Take care and great pictures of Jamie! Love your other aplastic anemia family! The Vander Jeugdt's Hi Teri - You may remember me as your auntie Mary from Australia. Karen, your mum, has written to me about Jamie and I just want you to know that I am so hoping all will be well soon. Take care and keep the courage you all must have in this situation - you are champions! Love, Mary 4/19/08 Messages Our thoughts and prayers are with you all for successful procedure. Thank you Brad for putting us on the list. The pictures of the boys are just darling. May God be with you. Marge and Rich TeKippe We are "Holy Roller" friends of Grandma Judy and we wish the very best for the Straka family. You are in our prayers daily. What wonderful boys! Ronnie & Sara Fagan Know that your entire family is in the thoughts and prayers of many people here at the Forum where Grandma Karen worked for so long. It hurts our hearts to hear the challenges posed to such little men. Hope that Jamie's platelet count improves and surgery will not be need -- we will be sending many prayers your way on the 23rd for great numbers. Theresa Benz Hi Straka Family, Just wanted to let you know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Lisa let me know that you were going in next week, stay strong :) Love to all of you, Krista You are all in our thoughts and prayers. This roller coaster just won't stop. Good luck next Wednesday. Let's schedule that boating day when everything is back to normal!!! Love you all! Deb and Don Straka Family, We have Jamie, Jesse, and your entire family in our thoughts and prayers. We will be thinking of you! Jeff, Lori, Brandon, and Katy Frick 4/17/08 Messages Straka Man and Family..... You and Jesse and your entire family are in our entire family's thought and prayers.... We know you both will do wonderful with the "boost" and before long Straka Man you will be hitting home runs and sinking free throws..... Take Care and God Bless The Weltys Hi Jamie and Jesse!!!!! Love from Grandma Karen and Grandpa Larry from Florida. We will be thinking and praying for you next week when you go to the Ronald McDonald House. By the time I come home in July, we hope that you will have all this behind you and enjoying swimming and baseball. And don't forget one of these months you can come to Florida and ride the golf cart to McDonalds Restaurant!!!!!!!!!! With all our love, Grandma Karen and Grandpa Larry Dear Straka family, Just wanted to send positive thoughts and wishes your way, especially to the boys. We continue to keep you close to our hearts and always in our prayer. Feel hugged, Suzy, Greg, Elyse, Elly, Anna & Ava Kalb Dear Straka family, Just wanted to send positive thoughts and wishes your way, especially to the boys. We continue to keep you close to our hearts and always in our prayer. Feel hugged, Suzy, Greg, Elyse, Elly, Anna & Ava Kalb Jamie, I am a friend of your Grandmother (Karen) and I keep you in my prayers. I work at Riley Children's Hospital in Indianapolis and know you are fighting - be strong and have hope and know you have lots of prayers. Connie (Sisters of Dubuque 1962 - your Grandma's graduation class). Tom, Teri, Jamie and Jesse, Mp> I just heard the news from my Mom and read the updates on the site. Hang in there my friends. You can add us to the list of people praying!! Lisa and Andy Zelinskas 4/15/08 Messages Keep you head held high. You will make it through this bumpy road. Stay strong and know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Jeff & Shelly (Lawler) Wolf Thanks for the update---we know what to pray for----more good cells and platelets for Jamie and good health for both Jamie and Jesse and love and trust for the family. Take care, JK Janice M. Kinsinger (friend of Patrice & Brad) The third graders as well as myself are saying extra prayers for all of you daily. We will continue to prayer for good news. Lots of Love, Mrs. Steffen & 3rd grade 4/14/08 Messages Hi everyone, Just as Jamie is getting a "boost", we too are increasing our prayers and offerings for everyone. We ask the Holy Spirit to boost your morale and help you over this bump. May all your fears be calmed and give you peace and inner strength. Ron & Doris McAuliffe Tom, Teri and boys, Know that you are all in our prayers! Stay strong & keep fighting. We are here for you... God Bless, Chuck & Debbie Donnelly The students and staff at Seton are praying for all of you! Ms. Smock Mrs. Steffen's 8th period science class at Seton is going to pray for the boys in the morning and at night before they leave from school. We hope all goes well and will continue to pray for you and your family. Mrs. Julie Steffen Hello Straka Family, We wanted you to know that you are all in the Seton School's prayers. We hope you get feeling better soon, Jamie! God Bless You, Ms. Dardis and the 3rd grade We will keep the Straka family in our prayers. Deb Rolwes 4/13/08 Messages GOD BLESS you and you are all in our prayers! Love to you all! ~The Dunnes Brett says "get better Jamie! You need to come over so we can run around and play with Sam!" We hope things go well this time around and everyone is doing well in no time! Take care, Doug, Nancy, Matt, Ashley, Alex and Brett I cannot understand why this is happening to such wonderful people. It's just not fair. I will pray for your family and especially for Jamie and Jesse. Let God give you all strength to get through all of this. Love Jill Crean (and family). Hi Straka Family, I'm so sorry that you've having to deal with this AGAIN!!! I am praying for you and will add you to the prayer list at church. Aplastic stinks. Sorry to hear Jesse will have to undergo the procedure again. What a brave little boy he is. love, Angela Fontenot Jamie and Jesse, my love and prayers go out to both of you and your family! Nancy Welsh, Fortville, IN We are thinking about Jamie today and hope the procedure goes well for him. We will keep all of you in our prayers! Love, Luke and Melodee 2/28/08 Tom, Terri, & Boys Please know we keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Keep up the fight Jamie, this is God giving you another test. We know you can conquer. Well wishes- Jeff & Shelly (Lawler) Wolf 2/26/07 Wishing you another good report. You have been in our thoughts. Jeff & Shelly (Lawler) Wolf 2/20/07 Hi Teri, I was on the site catching up on Jamies status this morning. Looks like still having some problems, but from the pictures he sure looks good. Hope everthing else is going well for you. Just wanted you to know you are still in our thoughts and prayers. Steve Hockman 2/11/08 Thanking of you all each day. Praying that this little blip will soon be over and your sleeping will become easier again. Aunt Sherri 2/9/07 A short note to let all of know we are still praying for Jamie and all the family. We also include all the doctors and nurses that work with Jamie, that they will be competent in their duties and decisions. May you have the perseverance and strength to continue on this journey of faith. Ron & Doris McAuliffe 2/9/07 Hang in there!!! We are praying for you, Jamie!! We love you guys, The Creans 2/6/07 Hi Sraka family, This is Angela Fontenot. Not sure if you remember me. My son, Brandon has Aplastic as well. Just wanted you to know we're praying for an increase in Jamie's platelets. We will put you on our church's prayer list so that more people may pray for you as well. love, angela fontenot 2/6/08 Hello Straka's We sure will keep Jamie and all the Straka's in our prayers. Jamie looks great and hopefully next month will prove just a virus bug running around. God Bless, The Ludwig's 5/14/07 Hi Straka family! So happy to hear there were no concerns at Jamie's recent check. Awesome Jamie!!! I will continue to keep you all in my prayers. Valerie Peckosh Hi Jamie and family, I was talking to Grandma Judy & Tom this weekend. They were telling me the great news about your progress. We will keep on praying for continued success and health. I also work with a guy that is great friends of the Kunnert boy. We are also praying for him and his family. We never know just how close we are all to some sort of tragedy. Oh Yeah, I used Gradnpa Tom's old brown truck to haul some trees to the timber this weeked. What a ride! Ron & Doris McAuliffe 5/13/07 Glad to hear test results are in the normal range! It was great seeing all of you for Jackson's First Communion. Thank you so much for taking time to come for that. Enjoy the summer and let's not wait so long between visits!! Love, The Creans 4/26/07 Hi Jamie and Family My name is Jenna and I came across Jamie's site. Jamie is an inspiration and a fighter. He will be in my thoughts and prayers. http://www.caringbridge.org/canada/jenna 4/16/07 I read you story in the TH today and want you to know our prayers are with you. I lost my husband to asbestos cancer and I know how trying this must be for you. I also have three little grandsons around the same age as your boys. I thought of them immediately and wanted to post a note for you. My youngest grandson had staph in his left leg and it was a very dangerous time for him also. We are all praying for you and wish you all the luck. Grandma Joan Hey guys!! Hope all is well. I keep looking for an update. We're thinkin' about you! Love, the Creans :o) 2006. Just wanted to tell you to have a safe trip up to Milwaukee for the check up. Hope you hear good news!! Love, The Creans 11/21/06 Hey guys! That is great to hear those wonderful numbers! And no more cyclo.! I'll be praying that the 3rd time is a charm! Mollie 11/20/06 Teri, glad to hear everthing is going well. I really enjoy this site to keep up on Jamie's progress. I keep the people around Acosta here up to date on you. Have a happy Thanksgiving. Hock 10/28/06 Hi Strakas' Doris & I want to assure you tahta we pray for all of you every day. It's good to hear that you are doing so great. May your progress continue to be a source of joy and happiness in your lives. Ron & Doris McAuliffe just wanted to let you know we're thinking about you!! ~The Creans Jamie, so glad to hear that all looks great a year later! I still think of you often and pray for you. Please enjoy the rest of your summer and keep up your great counts! Angela and Brandon Great News! I am at work and obviously not working too hard cause I'm catching up on the Jamie Straka Progress Report. Couldn't be happier and also hope that this nightmare will be entirely over soon for all of you. Sherri July 2006 Messages Hi! Just stopping by to say hello and to check on Jamie's progress. Looks like all continues to go well and Jamie looks remarkable! What a handsome little guy. Blessings, Norma & Yashar Hi, Strakas!! Glad things are going so well and that you are able to enjoy your summer!! Take care, Love, The Creans :o) Hey Strakas! Jamie looks great and am happy that everything is going well. We'll talk soon, I'm coming this weekend for a visit would love to see you. Lori Koberg May / June 2006 Messages I just wanted to say that I hope today went well and you got some great results! Suzanne Hi Straka family, Jamie I am glad to see you're doing well! Thanks for the e-mail. Tisha Erinns mom Happy Re-birthday! What a year and congratulations for continuing to taper the meds. When will you be in clinic next? We will be there Wednesday. Suzanne Hello Straka Family, Just stopping by to see how things are coming along with Jamie's weaning and all. Happy to know that things continues to go well. Jamie is looking very healthy and handsome too. Hope you all have a great summer! Hugs, Norma & Yashar WOW! The pictures of the boys, enjoying summer and each others company, brings tears to my eyes. What a blessing they are to each other. Our prayers will continue. Ron & Doris McAuliffe Great News! I am at work and obviously not working too hard cause I'm catching up on the Jamie Straka Progress Report. Couldn't be happier and also hope that this nightmare will be entirely over soon for all of you. Sherri I know it has been a LONG year, but Jamie has come so far and is doing great, and so are you! Good luck tomorrow at your appointment. Suzanne and Michelle April 2006 Messages I was reading your updates today & I am so happy for all of you. I am glad you had a great make a wish trip & that Jamie is doing so well. Miss you in Wisconsin but glad your not here because then things wouldn't be going well. Take care. Thinking of you and continuing to pray for his continued health & recovery. Love, Nurse Kelly from CHW Hey Jamie, what`s up?!Its Saturday and last night I slept over at my friend`s house.Her name is Maddie. She`s the one who has the puppy named, Scooby. He slept with us last night. We had tons of fun!!! Maybe I should come out to your house sometime and see your Mom,Dad,Jesse,drew and YOU!!! And even Sid! I can`t wait!! Or,.... maybe... You could come to my house!!!! can`t wait to see you! Love, Riley March 2006 Messages So glad to here that all is going well I love to come to your website, it always puts a smile on my face! Good things happen to good people...so glad to hear the trip was a big success...that ice cream really looked yummy...but not as yummy as the smiles on all your faces! Hip Hip Horray, good times! Kristen Wow! What time for "miracles". This year is way different than last year, yes? We keep on praying and answers are provided. Ron McAuliffe Teri, it was great seeing you in Dubuque. Hope all is going well. Our thoughts and prayers are with Jamie and your family. Take care. Hock Hello Straka Family, I am asuming you are home from your wonderful trip. I can't wait to hear all Suzanne and Michelle Have a wonderful time at Disney World. Take lots of pictures to show all of your friends. Have a fun and safe trip. The Puetz's Have a wonderful time at Walt Disney World! I can't wait to hear all about it when you get back. Suzanne How great that the numbers are holding. We are so excited that you are going to Florida and will have an opportunity to play for a while. Jesse and Jamie will have such a good time. Think of you often. Aunt Sherri & Uncle Ken Have a great time on your trip!! Can't wait to see some pictures of the boys with the power rangers!! :o) ~The Creans~ Good job, Jamie, on keeping your numbers up!!! Now, just have the greatest trip with your family to Disney World!!!!!!!!! I know you will love it!! Linda Jamie, I am soooo happy to read your great numbers!!!! Yea for you! I hope you have a wonderful time in Disney world meeting the power rangers! I am thinking of you and thanking God for the miracles in your life! Love, Angela Fontenot Brandon's mom Disney World! What FABULOUS NEWS Straka family! You ALL deserve the greatest escape! Here's to SUNSHINE and FUN! Have a BLAST! Kristen February 2006 Messages So excited to read your update message today and especially excited to read the latest test results. Jamie, I loved looking at your photographs. We enjoyed seeing you in Wheatland; seeing you running and playing made our day. We will look forward to continued good reports. Aunt Sherri & Uncle Ken Hi Jamie and family, I have been following along with your progress, and thought it was well past time I write and say hi. My daughter Michelle is also a patient of Dr. Margolis and she had a BMT in November for AA. Currently we are at the clinic Tuesday and Friday so if you happen to be in, stop by and say hi. Suzanne Koopman Just wanted to let you know we're thinking about you guys. Hope all is well! Take care, Love, The Creans :o) Hello Straka Family, Just stopped by to see how things are going. Jamie's counts look great and I'm happy to hear he is being weened off the cyclosporine as I'm sure he's looking forward to the day when he doesn't have to ever "taste it" again! : ) As for Yashar,he continues to do well and for that we are Grateful. Take Care and Many Blessings Norma Jabbari (Yashar's mom) Hope you are enjoying Christmas break! Looking forward to seeing another wonderful update on Jamie's appointments! Have a wonderful new year!! ~The Creans I hope your holidays are the best ever! I imagine you may have a deeper appreciation for GIFTS than many of us who are without Superheros under our roof. Sending you all a spirit of true peace and happiness and of course HEALTH - enJOY every moment! Kristen from Appleton, WI Tom, Teri, Jamie, Jesse, and Drew- We want to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. The Puetz's- Mike, Shana, Cody, Cheyenne, and Caleb We're so happy Jamie's numbers are still looking good. We hope you all have a very merry and worry-free holiday. You deserve it!!! Love, Luke and Melodee Dolan Hello Jamie and Family! Wow! What wonderful counts. You're really doing great and I just know you're going to be weaned off the Cyclosporine with ease. Yashar and I would like to wish you and your family a blessed Christmas season full of cheer, reflection, and mostly love. Take Care little hero, we'll be in touch. Mrs. Jabbari, (Yashar's mom) great news. Sorry I haven't been in touch sooner. I will keep you all in my prayers. Have a great x-mas and Happy birthday to Drew. Jill So happy to see the latest update. Love those numbers!!! Aunt Deb

11/1/05 - 11/31/05

I apologize for not getting the Thanksgiving messages up earlier. I was in a place that had no internet connectivity! Really, those places still exit! --Brad Just wanted to wish you a Wonderful Thanksgiving! Love, The Creans A very happy Thanksgiving to you all! Beth in Wisconsin Thinking of everyone and how this must be a great Thanksgiving. Give thanks unto the Lord, for, from Him all blessings flow. Ron & Doris McAuliffe We are so thrilled to keep reading about great test results. What a year. I feel certain you are ready to put 2005 behind you. Just wanted to wish each of you a wonderful Thanksgiving. We do have a lot to be thankful for this year. Love, Aunt Sherri and Uncle Ken Hi Jamie, We're happy to hear you're doing well and your counts look good also. We also, know about the yucky taste of the Pentamidine breathing treatment. Next time try sucking on a cherry flavored jolly-rancher pop (something sweet/sour) just prior to your treatment or what seems to work for my son Yashar, is drinking Martinelli's apple juice right before the treatment. He said, it really does help mask the taste and his throat does not burn. Well, take care and keep-up the great work. Sincerely, Mrs. Jabbari Hi Jamie! Its me, Riley and my friend Madison. I`m lisening to music. It is country music.School is going good. Even though theres a lot of homework! And I`m glad that you are not gone all the time because I missed you over the summer. (And Sidney) I hope you get better soon! Sincerly, Riley Hefel Jamie- It is so good to see you at NICC picking up your brothers. Keep those numbers up and stay healthy. God Bless- Shana Puetz Jamie, we are so happy for you. Peyton and Gregory just love to see you everyday at school and so do I. You always look like you have so much fun. See you soon. Lots of love, The Bennett's Hi everyone, my internet is finally up so I was able to see the wonderful news that you had. We continue to pray for you and we enjoy having you in school each day. Love, Mrs. Steffen YYYAAAAAAAHHHHOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!! GREAT to read about your successful tests! smile smile smile! You desrve to celebrate!! Kristen from Appleton, WI Hey Guys, Great news! It's what we have all been praying for. It was wonderful seeing all of you the other week, we would love to have you come and stay with us, a mini getaway! Please call and let me know when you can. Lori Hash Koberg Wow Jamie that is the best news anyone could have heard... how awesome!! Hope that you are loving school :) jerica brown Awesome costumes! Awesome photos! So glad you had a "normal" Halloween!! Take care! Kristen from Appleton, WI

10/16/05 - 10/31/05

Teri, I just read the updates on Jamies progress. Sounds like things are getting better. Glad to see he is back in school. Hope this note finds you in great spirts and hope all is going well for you. All is going well here but I miss having you on board and knowing the territory is being handled correctly. We are still keeping Jamie and your family in our prayers. Hock Just checked in and am sorry to hear about the ups and downs. I know with 2 of my own, Halloween is all we talk about...hope you have a great Halloween and more good news! Prayers & Best Wishes Deanne Arrington Sharpless P.S. Love the photos! And I added a prayer for a bike, Tom! Hi Jamie, Your Great-Great Aunt Rosie and G-G-Uncle Larry want you to know that we are thinking of you and pray every day that you will get over this thing quickly. We hope that your next jet ride will be more fun and maybe someday you can fly it yourself!! Great-Great sounds really BIG but it just means we have been around a long time. Teri, Tom and Jamie, Just checked in, sorry to hear the bacteria infection returned. You all continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. Lisa and Andy Teri and Tom, I just read the report. My prayers with all of you. jill Hey, hey Jamie! Nothing can keep a superhero down! You just rest now and build up your superpowers so when you are ready you can BUST through those hospital doors! Kristen from Appleton, WI Teri, Tom and Jamie, Just checked in, sorry to hear the bacteria infection returned. You all continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. Lisa and Andy Hey Jamie! Sorry you are feeling a little rough right now - but I know you will be back to your old self soon. (Do they let you take the plane back home when you are better? Your Uncle Brad would like that!). I've been thinking of you a lot and hope you are better soon. Tell your mom and dad I'm sorry I can't get these messages to you as fast as I want. I've been doing some flying myself. But Aunt Patrice is going to help me out for awhile! Hang in there buddy! Love, Uncle Brad Hey Jamie, Sorry to hear that you have not been feeling well. I am sure they are taking real good care of you at the hospital. We miss you sooooo much at school. I miss your smiling face and my students ask about you everyday. I hope you get feeling better and come back to school real soon. Ms Leytem Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Dave, Ginger & Emma Rehman Hello Jamie and Family! Thanks for sharing your experience with AA with others who unfortunately travel this same road. You are a very handsome and brave young man and all will be well soon. You also are in very good hands with Dr. Margolis as I'm sure you know this. My 11 y-o son was diagnosed with SAA on Father's Day 2004. Unfortunately none of his 3 siblings were matches and we have had to go through the ATG/Cyclosporine route. So far everything is looking good for him. He has had a full response to the therapy and is currently being weened. I invite you to visit his webpage at www.caringbridge.org/ca/yasharjabbari as I have documented the majority of our journey in as much detail as possible. God Bless Us All Mrs. Norma Jabbari (San Jose, CA) Hi Straka Family, This is the first time I viewed and wrote on your webpage. I ran into Julie Steffen (Jamie's teacher) yesterday. She told me about this webpage. I just wanted to let you know that you have been in our thoughts and prayers. We heard you talk at the Bone Marrow Benefit at Guthers Tap in Centrailia. You did a very excellent job! The reason why we go to these benefits now are because our 5 year old daughter (now) was diagnosed with a Rhabdoid Brain Tumor in February of 2004. She is now in remission for 1 year in Sept.(www.caringbridge.org/ia/ kaitlynp) We will keep Jamie in our prayers. The Polfers Al, Joyce, Allen,Nicole and Kaitlyn Hi Strakas, Keep up the fight. We are praying, not only for Jamie and all your families, but also for the medical team. We pray they will correct in their treatments and recommendations. The rest is in God's hands. Ron and Doris McAuliffe Hello, Strakas--I wish the news was better, and that Jamie would be heading to school tomorrow. Too bad all school kids don't realize how lucky they are--and we teachers too! But daily thoughts and prayers are still flying your way, for Jamie's good health, and strength for you all. Love from Grandma Judy's cousin, Beth

10/12/05 - 10/15/04

Hi Jamie, Praying that you get through the surgeries and can come back home soon. Keep up the fight! Love, The Ludovissy's Hi Jamie, Terri and Tom We are sorry to hear you are not feeling well Jamie. You and your family are always is our prayers. God Bless, Dennis, Vicky, Darren and Shelby Blum Jamie We hope you are up and feeling better soon. We will continue to keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. Stay strong. Love, The Puetz's Hi Jamie, I am Brandon Fontenot's grandma, and he told me to visit your website and let you know that you have been in my thoughts and prayers. I am sorry to hear that you are not feeling well. I know that you would rather be in school learning and playing. Hang in there precious one. Ev. Sexton Jamie, I am praying for you extra hard today. I know you are a stong little boy and you will get through this! Please remember that there are so many people praying for your speedy recovery. And let's make sure your next plane ride is to somewhere more fun than the hosital! Get well soon little one! Love, Angela Fontenot Jamie, I am praying for you extra hard today. I know you are a stong little boy and you will get through this! Please remember that there are so many people praying for your speedy recovery. And let's make sure your next plane ride is to somewhere more fun than the hosital! Get well soon little one! Love, Angela Fontenot Jamie, We missed you last night at Erics birthday. We saved you some cake and a treat bag. As soon as you get home call so you can come over to play. God Bless Gwen Recker Hi Jamie, Just wanted to let you know that we miss you in the classroom. We all are praying that you will be back with us soon. Lots of Love & Hugs Mrs. Steffen & the Kindergarten Class at Seton Hi Jamie, We're saying lots of extra prayers for you - keep fighting, we're all cheering for you! All Our Love,The Ludovissy's Hi Jamie! I'm sorry to hear that you had to go back to the hospital, but I know they are going to take good care of you. Wow! I saw your picture on your first day in kindergarten - you have grown so tall! I bet Jon and Riley were excited to see you! Mrs. Steffen told me you had to go to Milwaukee - she was sad. It sounds like you have charmed your way into her heart already! Take care - I am praying for you! Mrs. Kuhlmann Hi Jamie! I'm so glad you were able to start school! I am still praying for you that you continue to get stronger and stronger and be rid of aplastic anemia forever. My little boy, Brandon is also five and also just started kindergarten. He has aplastic anemia also and has missed a lot of school when he gets a fever. Brandon has enjoyed visiting your website. It makes him feel like he isn't alone. If you would like to visit his site the address is www.caringbridge.com/mo/brandonbear We also have a house full of boys (in fact, Brandon has a brother named Drew also-isn't that neat?) You are a very brave and strong little boy Jamie and you are in our thoughts and prayers. We are so proud of you! Angela Fontenot Char had passed on the webiste. I check it often and say prayers for you and your family. We hope that you get a great report on Thursday. Laura and Chad Chandlee hr> Jamie- We hope your first day at school was great. It looks like your friends were excited to see you. Stay healthy and strong. God Bless! The Puetz's Mike, Shana, Cody, Cheyenne, and Caleb

10/6/05 - 10/10/05

Dear Straka Family, I wanted to drop a few lines to say I am still thinking of and praying for you guys. I'm thrilled that Jamie has been able to finally start school! I don't know if you remember or not, but my son Brandon who is five, has the same disease as Jamie. We didn't have a sibling match in our family so we did the immunosuppressive therapy. It took a while but finally, Brandon is in remission, although lately we've been having some trouble with his platelet count...not sure what that means yet, we just have to watch and wait (I'm sure you guys can relate to that!). Brandon also started Kindergarten this year, but has had to be absent frequently becuase he keeps getting sick. It seems like every other week, he wakes up with a fever and its back to clinic! I am following your website closely and praying for a full recovery for Jamie. Brandon has enjoyed visiting Jamie's website and knowing there is someone his age who has the same illness. I think it makes him feel a little more "normal." Stay strong and hang in there! --Angela Fontenot www.caringbridge.com/mo/brandonbear     Jamie, My son, Hunter Hancock, has been telling me all about you in the last few weeks. He is in Mrs. Steffen's kindergarten class, and he can't wait to meet you. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Lori Hancock Tom & Teri, We continue to keep your family in our prayers. What a great day when Jamie was able to go to school! Jim & Lorene Hynes

9/16/05 - 10/5/05

Hi, Jamie, This is your aunt from Connecticut again. I am sitting here early this morning thinking about Halloween and what I can do this year to celebrate. I was wondering what you and your brothers will wear to go trick or treat. I look forward to seeing more pictures of you and your brothers. I see Jesse and you every morning when I turn on my computer as your picture is my screen saver. It always brings a smile to me as I start my busy day at school. Love, Aunt Ellen Dear Teri and Tom, I check in every once in a while and have become relaxed with the news that everything is going well. Now I will get the message sent to my friends and colleagues that we need their prayers and thoughts again in abundance. Hang in there, hug each other often and know we are there for you. Love, Ellen You are still in our thoughts and prayers. We will continue to pray that the Jamie's numbers will increase. Love, Luke and Melodee Dolan Hey Strakas- I am thinking about you more then ever~ i love reading your updates. I miss seeing your beautiful faces everyday at work :) I love their little smiles lots of love and prayers always:) Hey Jamie~ i bet you love having mom as a teacher not many kids can say that ;) Jerica Tom and Teri, Continue to stay strong through all of this - that is half of the battle. You both have been so incredible through all of this! Keep up the faith. We will continue to keep all of you in our thoughts and prayers. Julie Kaesbauer Spelhaug Hey Jamie, Just wanted you to know we saw another rainbow last night (from our house, it looked like it was right on top of your house!) - we made another wish for your recovery. Gotta love all those rainbows!!! Hope your check-up goes well today. Love and prayers, The Ludovissy's Glad to hear that everything is getting better for you Jamie. I am sure your brothers are glad to have you back home, along with everyone else. Keep strong! Alicia Hansel p.s. It was great to see you at NICC today! Hey Jamie, Just wanted you to know we saw another rainbow last night (from our house, it looked like it was right on top of your house!) - we made another wish for your recovery. Gotta love all those rainbows!!! Hope your check-up goes well today. Love and prayers, The Ludovissy's Hi to all the Straka's, Glad to see the great photos of the boys. Jamie looks great in his superman cape. Our prayers will continue, not only for Jamie, but for all the family members. God bless. Ron & Doris McAuliffe Glad to hear that everything is getting better for you Jamie. I am sure your brothers are glad to have you back home, along with everyone else. Keep strong! Alicia Hansel p.s. It was great to see you at NICC today!

9/14/05 - 9/19/05

Teri and Tom, Glad to hear the news of Jamie coming back home. Lots of prayers to you, JIll Great News Jamie! Glad to hear you're back home and feeling better! See you soon, The Ludovissy's Welcome home Jamie and Teri. We are very happy for you. The Bennett's Glad to hear you are home now! Great pictures of three beautiful boys!! ~The Creans Hey guys! Great news!! Lisa and Andy Hope you are feeling better Jamie. Just wanted you and your family to know that we are keeping all of you in our thoughts and prayers. Riley had a lot of fun at your house and can't wait to get together again. The Sweeney's hey strakas~ i am thinking of you all of the time... i miss your handsom little boys so much jamie i miss you bunches and i hope you will get to be with Mrs. Steffen soon, she is an awesome teacher you will love her. Hope i can be as good as her someday! Just remember to SMILE :) Jerica Brown Hi Jamie. Hope you are feeling better today. We have been thinking about you and your family a lot and we just hope that we see you out and about very, very soon. We still owe you a golf cart ride!! Everyone at school keeps asking me the latest update on how you are feeling and when you are coming home.You are so strong, Jamie, like one of those Super Heroes. You are in so many people's thoughts and prayers every day. See you back in the neighborhood soon. The Bennett's

9/10/05-9/13/05

Hi, Jamie, hope you are feeling better each day. Grandpa Tom & I are thinking about you a lot and praying that you will be back home in no time. I think those sheep and llamas are getting hungry and we need to feed them more apples. I am glad we had our afternoon together and know that you will soon be home to spend time with us and your friends in Peosta! We love you. Grandma Judy Prayers are flowing again. We got into a lull thinking all was well and hospitals were a thing of the past. We hope this infection goes away quickly. Love the Ackleys Jamie, So sorry to hear of you very temporary setback. We are all thinking of you and praying for you every day. Love, Aunt Deb and Uncle Don Dear Jamie, So sorry that one of those yucky little bugs that live in all our bodies decided to make your little body miserable. I know you will be feeling better very soon with your excellent Dr. looking after you. I hope your headache is better. The medicine should get that little bug out of your body very soon. We are thinking about you and Mom and Dad. Love, Aunt Sherri and Uncle Ken Jamie- Hope you are up and feeling better soon. We will keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. The Puetz's Hi Straka's We are praying for all during this disappointing and difficult time. God Bless. Ron & Doris McAuliffe Hi Jamie and family, So sorry to hear you are hurting. I hope those antibiotics help you feel better very soon. I continue to pray for you all...Sue Troester

9/7/05-9/9/05

Hi Jamie, I hope you get feeling better! I will miss not seeing you Tuesday after school. I will give mom a call and see how you are when you get home. Maybe I can come over to your house and visit you. I will continue to pray for you and my class will do the same. Ms. Stephanie Leytem-Seton Catholic 1st grade Sorry to hear the bad news. We will pray for Jamie and your family. The Creans Hi Jamie, We'll pray extra long and hard for a very quick recovery and return trip home! The Ludovissy's Hey Jamie - So you decided you missed the nurses and doctors in Milwaukee! I think you just wanted to ride in the abumbulance again! Just wanted to let you know we are thinking of you and would rather have you back in DBQ with us! Hope you can come home soon. Love Leah and the rest of the Hefel gang Hi Jamie, I just wanted to let you know the kindergartners prayed extra hard for you today. We are all hoping that you make a fast recovery and are back with us soon. God Bless you and your family. Be strong. Love, Mrs. Steffen & the Kindergartners Continuing to keep you all in our prayers. Happy Belated Birthday to Jesse and Tom! I'm liking Brad's idea of the tattoos (did I spell that right?)...I'm sure he could come up with a great one for each of you! Hang in there and I hope improvements continue on a daily basis. Hope to see you soon. Nancy Hoerner-Ronek Happy Birthday, Uncle Brad! Love, Patrice Hey straka family~ just wanted to let you know that i am still praying for all of you. I miss seeing you at NICC. Jamie I hope you can go to school pretty soon, you will love Mrs. Steffen!! I bet mom is doing a great job filling in for her :)

8/24/05-8/29/05

OOPS - the following messages got lost in cyberspace! But I found them. Sorry for the delay Jill! --Brad It's nice to hear the good news! Happy Birthday Jesse and Tom!! ~The Creans :-) Looking Good on the bike!!!! Jamie looks so good in the pictures.Hope all continues to go well I will keep praying JIll Hey Jamie, it was great to see you out playing last night. Peyton was so excited to tell her daddy that she saw you and that you will be going to school together hopefully very soon. Call us if you ever want to go for another golf cart ride. I'll make sure Peyton's not driving though--she's a crazy driver!! Have a great day, Jamie. See you soon. Lots of love to you and your family, Julie Bennett Hi Jamie, This if from your kindergarten class at Seton Catholic School. We are praying for you each day. We can not wait to have you in our class because kindergarten is a fun place to be and Mrs. Steffen is a nice teacher. We hope you are better soon. Love, The Seton Kindergartners and Mrs. Steffen

8/17/05-8/22/05

Thanks to all who participated in the Poker Run Harley Ride! Looks like a great day! I think Tom & Teri look very comfortable on a Harley - and although I can't yet afford to buy them one - I can design some kick ass tatoos. . . something to think about. --Brad Dear Jamie Hi, you don't know me but I am your principal at school. I have been praying for you for a long time. Even before I knew that you would be coming to our school. Tomorrow is the first day for the other students but you get a few extra days to sleep in. I will be calling your mom soon to set up a time for the teacher to come out to your house and get you started on all of your homework. We will work hard to keep you up with the rest of the kids so that when you finally get to come you will fit right in. I can't wait for that day! Keep getting stronger and we will see you in kindergarten shortly! Ms. Smock Straka Clan: Between letters from Judy, updates from my mother (Ramona Lee) and checking this incredible site (how incredible you are Brad!) we have been keeping up-to-speed on Jamie and his on-going triump over his illness. Please know that our entire family keeps you in our thoughts and prayers. -Michael, Amy (Lee) & Jackson Blaess Des Moines, Iowa

8/8/05 - 8/15/05

This is my first post, but probably my 20th visit to this amazing website. Even though the only Straka I've met in "real life" is my friend Brad, this web connection makes it feel like you are all friends. I've always thought very highly of Brad and now I see the resemblances of extraordinary qualities throughout this group of family and friends. You rock! It may be re-energizing to hear that there are probably many others like me, out here, thinking of you, marveling at your strength and endurance, experiencing strong emotions at photos (favorite is the lake front...love that smile!), and sending you positive energy on a regular basis. You have touched many lives and today I felt the need to say thank you for helping me to keep life in perspective. Jamie, you are my Superhero! In fact, the positive message in this catastrophe is Super and you have all become Heros.... Kristen ~ Appleton, Wisconsin Welcome home, Straka family! So happy to see life moving in such a positive direction for you...we'll continue to keep you in our prayers. Enjoy the rest of your summer, Jamie! P.S. Brad...and Tom, I think I remember that swing set that came out of the ground when you went too high (maybe I fell off it too many times)! Love, Nancy Hoerner-Ronek Strakas- So glad to hear everything is going so good for Jamie. Jamie, you are such a strong boy. Good luck up in Milwaukee on Thursday. We will continue to keep your family in our thoughts. The Puetz's- Mike, Shana, Cody, Cheyenne, and Caleb Hi Jamie! We were so Happy to see you at the Epworth Parade on Saturday. It was fun to see you again and talk to you. We are so glad you are feeling better!!! Andrew and Audrey (Mickey Mouse & Cinderella) What wonderful news - you must be thrilled to be home together again. Our prayers are being answered, aren't they? Wishing you continuing "success". Karen Jennings (friend of Karen and Larry)

8/2/05 - 8/5/05 Messages

Awesome!!! Almost to the home stretch, way to go Jamie. You are going to make it!!! Lori (Hash) Koberg Hello Strakas--what terrific news about Jamie!!! Such a treat to read upon returning home from a vacation. Surely hope and pray that his numbers and recovery keep on track, and you can make fewer and fewer treks to Milwaukee. Heres to normally crazy family life! Beth Murphy, in no. Wis. Hi, guys. Just wanted to let you know how happy we are that Jamie is able to be back at home with his whole family!! We are still praying for him every day! Love you guys, The Creans :o) Seeing the pictures you must know you have God on your side. Jamie looks great. Drew is so big. I hope you can get back to normal crazy boy days soon. JIll Jamie, we are so glad that you are home and doing so well. Enjoy the park with your friends. You have been so brave and we are very proud of you. We think of you all so often and are glad you are together as a family once again. Aunt Sherri & Uncle Ken WOW!! You look great. we are so grateful that you are out and about having some good times with your brothers and friends. We continue to pray for you every day and for your family. Have a geat rest of summer. Ron and Doris McAuliffe Dear Tom, Teri and family: We are delighted to hear Jamie got to come home. Ejoy your time and we'll keep up the prayers. Love to all, Phil and Joan Weber HI Jamie, I was just checking your web site to see how you were doing. I am so glad your counts are doing so well and that you are back home. We miss you in the hospital but I am glad you got to go back home. Take care and stay healthy. Love, Nurse Kelly from Children's in Milwaukee

8/1/05 Messages

This is a message from Grandma Judy to all of you out there! It amazed me this morning to realize that (looking at the web counter) over 11,000 times in the past 48 days someone has thought of Jamie and our family and took the time to check the website, say a prayer for us, send a message, shed a tear or share a smile. It was an awesome thought and I just want to thank you for all. It has been so encouraging for me and know it has uplifted Tom, Teri & Jamie many times. Thank you and I am saying a prayer for all of you today that you and your families will be very blessed for all you have done for the Straka family. Welcome back home to Peosta Jamie. Glad to hear that you are mending quite well. I can see your backyard from where I work, so I'll be looking for you. Ron & Doris Welcome Home Jamie! You are such a strong boy. We will continue to pray for you and your family. Love, The Noonans Jamie- Welcome Back home! So great to see you with all your belongings back home. Keep those counts up and stay strong. We will continue to keep you in our prayers. Tom that is a great picture of Jamie. The picture and message that you wrote brought tears to my eyes. That message is so true. The Puetz's- Mike, Shana, Cody, Cheyenne, and Caleb The Straka's, we are so happy for you all that Jamie is finally home. I bet he loves sleeping in his own bed. We continue to think of you and pray that the footsteps continue forward. Can't wait to see Jamie out and about in the neighborhood. Lots & lots of love, Julie, B, Gregory and Peyton Welcome back!!!!!!!!! We have been gone for a week and what great news to come home to. Sounds like the super hero is continuing to make strides. We will keep praying for rainbows. The Ackleys Hi Straka's, It's nice to see your home. You will have to come and see our new puppy when you are outside playing. Welcome home and we will keep praying for you. Love and God Bless, The Blums, Dennis, Vicky, Darren and Shelby

7/30/05 Saturday

WELCOME HOME Jamie!!!! Call me sometime when you want to play! Happy Home Coming and still always in our prayers! Jon (and the rest of the Ludovissy's) I just wanted to let you know that you are all in our prayers and thoughts. I just learned of your situation, and from reading all of the wonderful messages from your many friends and family members, I have no doubt that you will find that pot of gold at the end of your rainbow very soon! Best wishes to everyone & I look forward to future updates and photos. Deanne Arrington Sharpless & Family (Iowa City) and Rick & Teresa Arrington (DBQ) PS...Great job Brad! We are so glad that you were all able to spend some time together at home finally. I'm sure that helped a lot. We continue to say a prayer for all of you every day. Stacy, Jeff, Megan, Luke & Maci Kennedy Hey Tom! Just got this website from Laura Trentz and thought I would write to let you & your family know that you will all be in our prayers! It is wonderful to see all of you with such beautiful smiles on your faces in the pictures! It was also good to hear that the recent tests are coming in good! I will check the site regularly & as I said before keep all of you in our prayers! Kelli Lange (Botsford) Hi Jamie, Just wanted to let you know that in November you will have a new boy cousin. He will be living in Virginia but you will meet him at the family reunions. Hugs and kisses from his grandma and your aunt ellen Great to hear the news. Looks like you guys had a great weekend at home. Keep you in our prayers The McMurrays

7/24/05-7/27/05

Dear Straka family, I just wanted to drop a few lines to let you know that we continue to pray for a very successful outcome for Jamie. I am so glad to read that his test results are showing good things. Isn't it so strange to go from getting news that is all bad bad bad to suddenly getting positive results? I'm glad to read that the engraftment looks good. We also have good news about Brandon. As we had no sibling donor, we are doing the immunosupression therapy. Finally it looks like its beginning to work. Dr. Margolis consulted with our doctors in St. Louis and suggested starting GCSF and it worked like magic on his white cells. They came way up, so far up that we were able to discontinue the medicine. Since then they have remained quite good! Also last week we had a bone marrow biopsy and the results came back that there were indeed all three types of cells present , although the platelet cells are lacking in comparison to the other two. SO, as of now, we're still needing to be transfused with red cells and platelets but hopefully that won't be for too much longer. We were thrilled to find out this news. Jamie, you are such a brave boy! I am so thrilled to read good news on your site! You hang in there and be a good boy. I bet you loved your new swingset and getting to come home for the weekend! We'll write again soon. We're praying for you!!!!!!!!! love and hugs, Angela Fontenot mom to Brandon Fontenot www.caringbridge.com/mo/brandonbear Tom, Laura Trentz forwarded this to me. I am thinking of you and your entire family. I know Jamie will gain a lot of character through this whole ordeal! I hope to see you again sometime. Kate Savage, formerly Kate Morgan '88 grad. DSHS Glad the weekend home happened and went so well. We will keep our fingers crossed for more home time very soon. Love, The Noonans Just wanted to say hello. We are so happy that Jamie got to go home for the weekend! We'll hope and pray that you'll be able to move him back there and do the commuting. The new play equipment looks like fun. Your neighbors sound like wonderful people with all their hard work with the yard and the swing set. We think of you every day and pray for you every day. Take care, The Creans Good job Jamie, I'm glad you got to come home and play on your new swingset. I hope I see you soon. Riley Sweeney What Great News to see that you got home this weekend! I'm sure that this trip was exactly what Jamie needed - he's been so patient. Hopefully you can start making many more of these trips. Love and Prayers, Julie & Eric Strakas- Great to see Jamie at home again. I bet he really enjoyed seeing everyone again. It looks like everyone is enjoying the new swing set. Hopefully you can have more weekends at home and be home to stay. Jamie keep fighting. We will continue to keep you and your family in our prayers. Mike, Shana, Cody, Cheyenne, and Caleb Puetz

7/21/05 - 7/23/05

Great to see the whole clan back at home, looks like there are lots of good eats in the fridge. Also, very glad to hear the promising lab results. Hang in there and hope to see you soon. Lisa and Andy Z So happy to see everyone together and at home! Thanks to all involved with the swing set! (It certainly isn't the kind Tom and I used to have that would fly out of the ground when we went to high!!) Thanks for your patience while I have been out and unable to post the messages below. (Nashville trip was successful) Happy to see you all together! Love, Uncle Brad Wow! Praise God for Jamie's progress! We will continue to pray for results like these. What awesome neighbors! A beautiful swingset and a great gift. All our love, Dan,Beth,Laura, and Anna Fox Hi Tom and Family, We will pray for you all and Jamie especially. I'm sorry to hear about this and am grateful Jamie looks so great and is doing well. We'll ask all of our church to pray as well! Love, Jodi (Keating) Steger. Hello Strakas - I'll keep Jamie in my prayers. Laura Trentz Dear Jamie, I heard from Grandma Judy you will be coming home this weekend for a visit. Enjoy being home with your family and friends. I have been praying for you and your entire family. They love you very much and want to see you home again with them. Our prayers are always answered. Keep sharing that big smile, it warms the hearts of everyone around you. Mimi Dillon a friend of Grandma Judy's My name is Stacy, we don't know the Straka's personally,but we do know some of the family in the Naughton's. We love Deb and Don and would do anything for them, especially what is so important to them, and this DEFINATELY falls in that category. We are sending a donation, as well as leaving our door wide open with any requests that we may fulfill. Many prayers for all of you will be spread within us and our church prayer chain, as well as anything else you may need that we can help with. Much love and Prayer. The Kruegers Teri, Tom, and Jamie, There was a healing service at St. John's Episcopal church tonight where the clergy had a "laying on of hands." Don't know if you've ever been to such a service, but I have and I went up tonight for Cousin Rose's husband, Dean, who had the strokes. And I also asked for prayers for my little cousin Jamie whom I've not had the pleasure of meeting - yet! Many of my church and Emmaus family stood behind me with their hands on me too, and they were praying for your family as well. It was very powerful accepting all the prayers and then being annointed on your behalf too. I hope and pray that things continue to go well. God bless all of you! Love, Nanc

7/18/05 - 7/20/05

Teri: It was great to see you and Jesse at Shelly's. You are a rock! Hang in there. We will continue to check the up-date and pray. The Noonans Glad to read that things are going better. Still in our thoughts and prayers. Remember stay strong...Always! Julie and Eric Dear Jamie: I hope you are feeling better! We all miss you in Linda's room! Love, Becca Hoefer (NICC Daycare) Dear Jamie: We miss you! I hope you are feeling better! When you come back, Jon and Riley will be glad to see you again! Love,Emma Hoefer (NICC Daycare) Sounds like "DD" is making head way with his goals. As he sneaks around the lake shores by day, he manages to fight harder than ever at night while us mere mortals sleep. He has shown the world that he is beating this thing in fine style. You go "DD". We are all very proud of you. The Ackleys Jamie- Looks like you and Jesse had a great time together. I bet you played hard together. That fishing pole that your cousin Trent brought looks neat. I bet you will catch some big fish with that. Keep staying strong. The Puetz's Hi Jamie It looks like you had a great time with Leah and Trent and your mom and brothers. I'm glad to see your numbers are up. Our family still says a prayer for you every day. The Kennedy's Hello Jamie and family! It is so heartwarming to see you outside and enjoying the summer! I love seeing the smiles on Jamie's face! You and your family are pulling through this beautifully! Your family is in our prayers everyday and we continue to pray that your progress will continue so that you can come home soon!! : ) I bet you really enjoyed the air show! I know Zach and Alex loved the one in Dubuque during the 4th of July. Take care and we can't wait for you all to return home for good! Dave, Jen, Zach, Alex & Emma Kapler Hi Strakas - glad to hear that Jamie is doing so well. We continue to pray for Jamie and your whole family. THE DAACKS Hello everyone, sounds like things are getting a little better...The pictures are great Jamie looks awsome and looks to be having some fun...We hope you are feeling better Jamie and hope mom and dad are getting some rest.....We are checking up on you all....If you need anything let us know....Good luck you are in our prayers.... Doddie Steve and Jimmie

7/15/05 - 7/17/05

Hello Jamie - Trent and I had a really good time with you the past couple of days. Stay healthy so we can come see you again in a couple of weeks. Riley and Russ will be with us next time! Love you -- Leah Great news. I was in DbQ last week. Sorry I didn't get a chance to see you. I will keep checking on Jamie. He looks great. Jill Hi Jamie-- My name is Julie (Hoerner) Lester and I have not had the honor of meeting you but wanted to let you know that my family is keeping you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. I grew up across the street from your Dad and his family in Dubuque. It has been a very long time since I have seen your Dad, but your Grandma Judy keeps us informed about how things are going with you and your family. We stay up-to-date with your progress on this website as well. We wish you continued success in your healing process and hope you are back to enjoying your everyday activities very soon. Keep that beautiful smile coming :)!! Best wishes, Julie (Hoerner) Lester Hi Jamie, Me & Julia sure do miss you, and can't wait to see you along with my mommy & daddy. Mommy says you are starting to get better and that make me really happy. Just keep getting better so you can come home and we can play superhero again. Love, Ryan We're on our way to St. Louis to see Dana and our spirits are now greatly uplifted by the greaqt news. Keep up the battle. Love, Aunt Sherri and Uncle Ken Teri, I am back from vacation and I am glad to see things are progressing very well. Hope Jamie gets back to RMH very soon. We are missing you at work, but all are pitching in to get things done. Please let me know if there is anything I can do. We are all praying for Jamie and your whole family. Hock Hey Jamie - Trent and I will be up to see you tomorrow. We have a little party planned -- I hope you are ready for it! Trent has been busy planning it! Can't wait to see you -- it has been way too long! I'm sure your Mom already told you that there will be no wrestling or playing TIGERS! I do however want to give you a horsey-back ride around the secret garden! I bet she will let us at least do that! See you tomorrow! Love - Leah Dear Tom, Teri and Jamie, Just wanted to let you know that I was thinking of you and that I am so relieved to hear the positive news! Keep up the fight! Lori (Hash) Koberg

7/11/05 Messages

Hey Jamie - Trent is really wanting to come up and see you. Hopefully we will be able to see you soon. Over the weekend Trent lost another tooth. The orthodontist said he will probably get braces this year. Your Dad will tell you what braces are. Riley has been sick on and off the last couple of weeks so we will keep her away from you for awhile. Hopefully we will see you soon! Can't wait to give you a great big hug and KISS-- don't say EWWW - I know you love my kisses! Love - Leah Hoping all good things keep coming your way. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Donna Strief Keeping you in our prayers! Love, The Foys Straka family - You all are in our thoughts and prayers. We are all hoping for positive results. Austin sure misses you at school. We will continue to think of you often. Mike, Kim and Austin Curl Hi Jamie, Tom and Teri, Prayers from North Carolina as we travel east....keep fighting! Love, Doug, Nancy,Matt, Alex,Bret ((((HUGS))))) Hello Jamie, Tom & Teri, we have been following the web pages and are hoping you all are doing well...Things will start to come around don't give up hope....We are all praying for you....Hope Jamie is trying to have a little fun....Good Luck we are thinking of you.... Doddie Steve and Jimmie Jamie~ Stay Strong and keep your head held high! I look at your website everyday just to see your smiling face! My thoughts and prayers are with you! Jewell Griesinger

7/9/05-7/10/05

Dear Straka family, My prayers are with your beautiful family, for all the happiness you all deserve. Tom-you helped my family through the toughest point in our lives-to keep my little boy a part of my family- and for that you and your family with be in our hearts forever. Sincerely, Shelly Hess, Austin, and Mikaylah Thinking of you and praying for positive results. Hang in there! Sue Troester Jamie- It was great seeing you on Saturday. I hope you are enjoying your Spiderman magnets and games. You are such a brave and strong little boy. Keep fighting and staying strong and you will beat this. Everyone is pulling for you. Tom and Teri, it was nice visiting with you and Jamie. I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers. Shana Puetz Hope this weekend was more fun than the last week. Keep your spirits high. The best case scenario will result, we just know it. Still have not heard if a new super hero name has been picked. How about "DD" desease destroyer? I will describe him for you. Littel Jamie, sits quietly through the day, described as a mild manner little boy. But at night while all sleep, he puts on his cape and his tatoos of spidey and become the avenger of evil deseases. He fights ferocioulsy and wins!!! He has help in his balltes from his trusted animals. His brother Jesse is his side kick, "Big J". Their parents are unaware of thier other identities, but know there is something special about the two little guys. When their youngest brother is over 3, he will also join the big boys. We will have to think up a name for him when his turn comes. So what do you think, should I submit the story to DC comics? I think we have a winner. We will keep looking for rainbows and praying for good news this week. Love, the Ackleys. Greetings from Connecticut, I woke up to a beautiful day and thought of you and your family. So glad you were able to visit the zoo. Polar bears are strong, beautiful, and powerful animals and you are strong, handsome and powerful too. Love your smile. Aunt Ellen Jamie, We can't wait to have you share some smores with us in the driveway. We are waiting for you to get better and praying for you every day. The Fords (The neighbors across from Trent, Riley and Russ's house) Teri, Tom and Jamie, Just wanted to let you know we are thinking of you and hoping and praying for good results! Lisa and Andy Z Jamie- Keep fighting buddy. We are all still thinking and praying for you everyday. I can't wait to see you today. I will wave to you through the window. Stay strong. God Bless- Shana Puetz

7/8/05 Friday

Just read the website. We're praying very hard that the best two case scenarios are the outcome. We're watching for the rainbow to come in. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and keep your chin up, we'll keep praying. Stay strong !!!! The Staners (Cascade), Greg, Madonna, Liana, Morgan and Carson Tom, Terri and Jamie- I am still thinking of you often, and you are always in my prayers. Jamie keep that beautiful smile :) Jerica Brown Thanks for all of the updates. We will be praying that God's healing hand will be present during this time of "cell battle." Just checked the website this morning. The odds are in your favor Jamie and with all the people praying for you, we know you're going to beat this thing! Keep smiling and enjoy those fun days outside! The Ludovissy's Jamie - It is great to see you enjoying the outdoors, you look like you are having a wonderful time. I bet you had a great time at the zoo. Our favorite zoo animal is the polar bear too. You are all still in our daily prayers. Stay strong and hang in there. Jeff, Stacy, Megan, Luke & Maci Kennedy Tom, Teri, and Jamie... As some tough times occur again keep strong and remember that all of us are thinking of you and keeping you all in our prayers! Alicia Hansel

7/7/05 Messages

Strakas - Please know that you all are in our thoughts and prayers. Andy and Becky K. Jamie, We all wanted you to know that we continue to think and pray for you, your mommy, daddy and brothers everyday. Keep smiling and be strong. Tell your mommy and daddy to do the same. Lots of love, Julie, B, Gregory and Peyton Bennett. PS: Peyton says HI and she loves looking at all your pictures on the webpage!!!! Just wanted to let you know I was thinking about everyone. Hoping for good news!  Love ya. Patrice Hello, Tom, Teri and Jamie, it has become a family ritual to check the website and see how Jamie is doing. My children love to see the pictures and hear that Jamie is doing great. We pray for all of you every night and pray for continued good news. Everyday your in our thoughts and prayers. Love the website and love the pictures. So glad Tom you were able to go to the Magistrate Conference. Take Care of Each Other and We'll continue to pray. Love The Staners (in Cascade) Greg, Madonna, Liana, Morgan and Carson Hang in there! You have so many positives. It's so wonderful to see the great pictures of Jamie outside- you have the bes smile Jamie! We are praying for you! Kim, Eric, Allie, Sophia and Lydia Foy Dear Tom, Terri and Jamie: Just want you to know we are thinking of your whole family and praying that Jamie has few, if any set backs. We haven't had a recent update because we've been out of town alot. Love to all, Phil and Joan Weber

7/5/05 - 7/6/05 Messages

great news, tom! I think about your family often. My thoughts and prayers are with you. See you soon. Karl Moorman Jamie- Awesome pirate costume. What a tough looking guy. Happy you are in the RMH. I bet you are excited to be out and able to do more. Jesse is being a good boy at school and talks about you. Keep staying strong. God Bless- Shana Puetz hello again for Nashville. Jamie looks great outside!!! I will keep praying Love, Jill Hi all. How exciting for Jamie and family. I've been reading your website regularly and have been so happy for all of the positives you've had. Way to go, Jamie!!! Keep up the good work. With love and encouragement from Grandma Karen's cousin, Mary Lou and family in Connecticut. Hi to Jamie and all the Straka Family. By tonight I bet you have your bags packed and are excited to head out. I hope things will continue to improve for you each and every day. We are praying for your complete recovery. Tom & Linda Culbertson Hi Jamie, Its great to see you outside enjoying the summer. Good to hear your numbers are good too. Keep it up little Dude, you truly are a super hero. Keeping you in my prayers. Deb Giese Jamie, It is great to see you outside enjoying yourself! I am so happy you will get to move to the RMD house tomorrow. Keep up the good work with taking your medicine and being such a good boy for mom and dad! You are in my thoughts and prayers each day. Love, Linda Mushrush Dear Jamie, Thanks to you and Dad for showing us around Ronald McDonald House yesterday. What a great place and I know you will enjoy being there with all the toys and the snacks in your kitchen closet. I'm glad you got to see Lake Michigan and enjoy the rest of your Sunday. Todd and Melissa are safely back in Maryland and Uncle Ken and I are recovering from the weekend. We don't do late nights very well anymore. Keep feeling better. We look forward to seeing more pictures of you outdoors enjoying summer. Once again, our thanks for being a good host to us. Love, Aunt Sherri and Uncle Ken Jamie - You look great on the beach! It is so nice to see you outside enjoying the summer day. I hope you had a nice time. We watched the fireworks last night and Trent was wondering if you could see them from your room. I hope you were able to see some. I am looking forward to seeing you soon! Lots of Love and kisses! Leah PS -- I can't wait to give you a horseback ride again!

6/30/2005 - 7/4/2005

Hi Jamie! Jesse has been telling me about the secret garden. So glad you will be able to visit it now too. Keep taking that medicine and you will be home before you know it. Love, Grandma Karen Hi Jamie, Great to see you sitting outside in the fresh air and so happy to read everything is continuing to go well. Hope you get to see some fireworks over the 4th!!! Hope to see you soon. Always in our prayers, The Ludovissy's It's great to read how things are progressing so well. Our prayers will definately continue. Julie & Eric Jamie, we are so proud of you. I know you are taking your medicine like a good boy and that will help you get better so you will be able to come home even quicker! Keep up the good work! I never thought seeing a little boy sitting in a flower bed could bring such tears of joy!! I know all the prayers and wishes from all over the country - even the world (Spain) are being answered. Thanks to everyone from Jamie's Grandma Judy! Can't wait for you to see Drew's new tooth - maybe by the time you see him he will have 2 teeth - then we will have to keep our fingers out of his mouth - they are pretty strong and sharp!! Keep up the good work, little super hero and we will see you soon. Love you all. Grandma Hi Jamie! I love the picture of you sitting amoungst the flowers. Isn't it wonderful to be able to be outside and smell and touch and see everything "close up" again? That alone will help you to get better so you can go home and get back to even more important things like swimming in the little back yard pool and playing baseball with your Peosta buddies and that all important job of riding on the fire truck in a parade. I will be sure to watch for you! Keep getting better. You are an inspiration to us all! And Tom, I'm so happy to hear you were at the Magistrates Conference. That is good news for all of us! See you soon. Deb Zenner Jamie- Looks like you were enjoying the outdoors. It is so great that you are able to go out and get some fresh air. Keep staying strong and hope to see you soon. The Puetz's Hello, Straka family--have been watching the site and keeping you all in thoughts and prayers. Glad to read the good news, and can imagine how the outdoor excursions are a treat for Jamie and you all. Wishing you strength and healing. Beth (Grandma Judy's cousin in northern Wisconsin) So sorry to have missed the benefit. Mom and Dad said you had a great turnout! Things are heading in the right direction...we'll continue to keep all of you in our prayers. Hang in there...so many are in your corner! Love, Nancy (Hoerner) Ronek Dear Straka Family, On behalf of Brian and I we would like to extend our heart felt prayers to all of you. We pray for your courage, patience, strength and spirit. May the pot of gold at the end of one of those infamous rainbows be full of happiness and joy. Keep cheerful! With much love from the Carpenter Family. Hello friends! Just wanted to let you know I am so happy to hear about the good news. I think of you often. We are still praying for you. The benefit was wonderful. It was sooo positive. Now that school is out, I don't have e-mail. Rick updates me. I came out to Rick's work to read the scoop myself. I'm so happy for your family. Keep reaching for the stars. Andrea Jochum Tom, Teri, and Jamie, Great to hear that Jamie will be able to go out and get some fresh air. Jamie, you will enjoy that. Jamie keep fighting and staying strong. Hopefully we will see you soon. God Bless- The Puetz's Hi Jamie,and Family We really enjoyed the bennifit last Friday. We have some exciting news to tell you. We have a new addition to the family, Shelby and Darren got a new puppy. She is a Sheltie (a miniture Lassie). She is 10 weeks old and her name is Avery. Shelby said she can not wait until you can come home and play with her new puppy. Keep up the good work Jamie, we wish you all a happy and healthy Fourth of July. God Bless, The Blums, Dennis, Vicky,Darren, Shelby and Avery Fantastic news! We are thrilled with the results. Keep it going, Jamie! Aunt Deb, Uncle Don, Moe and Brenna

6/29/05 Wednesday Messages

What great news from Milwaukee. It sounds like you are on the down hill slide. How encouraging. The benefit was a riot. KUDOS to all who planned, spoke and auctioned. You guys have a great family and great group of friends. God Bless, The Ludwig's Woo hoo!! Right on, great news!! Teri, you have officially learned more then I have now after a year of nursing school! They have not let me touch an IV yet. Anyway, very very happy for you guys!! Lisa and Andy Z Hi Jamie, when I looked at your website and saw the good news I was so excited. Hopefully soon you will be going to the Ronald McDonald house with mommy. You are doing such a great job in the hospital. I am sure all of the nurses love you. Remember Jesus loves you and wants you to be all better soon. I like your tatoos. They are cool.... Sue (grandma Judy's friend) Glad to hear everything is going well, keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers. Roger, Deb, and boys Hey Jamie. We continue to think of you, your mommy, daddy and brothers each day. We are so happy to hear all is going great. You are the toughest little guy we know. Lots of love, Julie, B, Gregory and Peyton Bennett Great news. I had been waiting to hear how things were going. I will keep praying - Jill We are so happy to hear the encouraging news and we continue to keep your family in our thoughts and prayers. Brad you are doing a great job with the WEB site, I check it everyday and give Bill and Ramona an update (they tend to shy away from the computer). They also wanted to let you know their thoughts are with you and your family, and hope each day brings better news. Stacy Lee Phelps Hi Jamie! This is Molly from preschool. I hope you keep feeling better. I have been praying for you every day. From Molly Mulert

6/28/05 Tuesday Messages

Oh, so happy for you all. It's nothing but downhill from here, hopefully. Just take one day at a time and soon you will all be back home together. God Love you. Pat and Donna Strief Jamie, I am so happy to hear the wonderful news of engraftment! I have been checking very frequently. You and your family are in my prayers. I know in my heart that God will heal you! Angela Fontenot mom to Brandon Good Morning Straka Family (to the beat of "Good Morning Vietnam")! I just checked the web sit and the update made my day. I'm so happy to hear the news. Our family has been thinking about you all and praying for good results. We enjoyed meeting Tom at the benefit Saturday. Tom, you were great when you gave your talk and recapped the events for everyone. I'm sure it was difficult for you. Stick with it; you're all doing a super job. Love, The Sweeney’s Tom, Teri, Jamie: Thanks for reinforcing my faith, you guys have ben so strong & positive while I was angry with God for letting this happen. Now, with signs of improvement, I see also that, God has allowed this & I've been restored as well. Thanks, I needed that. Grampa Tom! Great news ! Aunt Sherri and I are planning on seeing you this weekend if your schedule permits. Love, Uncle Ken Congratulations on the number increase!!!!! Jamie, your super hero powers are working wonders. We are so excited for you. Have you thought of a new super hero name for yourself yet? Keep us posted. Love and rainbows, the Ackleys WONDERFUL NEWS!!! :o) We are still thinking of you and praying for you every day. ~The Creans Tom, Teri, Jamie, Jesse & Drew We are so glad to hear that the counts are up and the transplant is taking. All the prayers have definitely been working. We continue to say a prayer for you every night and think of you often. Love - Jeff, Stacy, Megan, Luke and Maci

6/25/05 - 6/27/05 Messages

It is awesome to hear that the counts are going up! Those rainbows were really a sign of great things to come. Keep strong buddy! Can't wait to have you back at NICC! Alicia Hansel What great news!! Continue to stay strong - you have so many people praying for you! The daily journals have been so uplifting - you guys are all amazing!!! Love, Julie (Kaesbauer) Spelhaug & Family Tom, Teri, Jamie, Jesse & Drew- We are so happy to hear that the transplant is starting to take. We think of you guys often and pray for Jamie's speedy recovery. Stay strong and we hope to see all of you soon. Love, Crissy, Erik, Tait & Sydney Tom, Teri, and Jamie - Great news. So happy that Jamie's numbers are going up. This is the good news everyone has been waiting for. Another amazing rainbow. Definitely a sign. Keep staying strong. All of you will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. Mike, Shana, Cody, Cheyenne, and Caleb Puetz Tom, Teri, Jamie, Jesse & Drew- B and I just are so happy and, yes, we just exhaled. Jamie, you are so strong. Keep it up. Tom and Teri, we continue to pray for you and the boys and are thinking of you every day. Oh, the rainbows are definately amazing. Lots of love, B and Julie WHEW WHO!! That's a happy scream coming from the Ludovissy house after reading the great news about your WBC counts. Keep those numbers up Jamie - we want you back home soon! All our love and prayers, The Ludovissy's Hi Jamie, Mom and Dad got the Centralia/Peosta fire truck ride for 3 kids at any parade at your benefit Friday night. So when you come home, you can pick the parade and me and Riley will ride with you. Love Jon HI JAMIE, J0N AND I MISS YOU AT NICC. THANKS FOR THE CARD AND I'M GLAD TO HEAR THAT YOU LIKE THE TOYS WE SENT. STAY TUFF AND GET BETTER SOON. YOUR FRIEND RILEY SWEENEY Hi Jamie! I hit the ball out to center field today! And it was in the air! Also to the pitcher. I won that game. I have to play again today at DGIL. If I win, I'm in the Championship! Every day give Sidney and Paco a treat.  Love and miss you,   Riley and Sydney We just wanted to let you know that we have been praying for Jamie...and all of you.  Thanks for the web site allowing us to be truly updated on his progress.  We too hope that the rainbows might be a sign from the Lord of good things to come! Love, Dan,Beth,Laura, and Anna Fox

6/24/05 Friday Messages
	Hi Jamie and Teri!  We will all be thinking of you tonight and wishing you were here.  At least the video will be fun for you both to view.  Hang in there - everything will be better soon.  Love, Grandma Karen

6/22/05 Wednesday Messages

10:19 PM Next update from Starbucks!: Jamie, I'm so glad Grama Karen told me about your web site so I can read about you. You are a brave little boy!  I had to take chemo too and lost my hair but its coming back even better than before and I'm sure yours will too.  You are in my thought and prayers. Love from your Grama Karen's Aunt Gladys Purcell Hi Jamie! I'm a friend of your dad's. My family and I are very glad to hear that you are doing so well! Your room looks super-cool. I bet it makes you happy to know that so many people are thinking of you and sending good thoughts and wishes for you to get well soon. Tom and Teri, we hope you are both doing well, too, through this difficult time. You must be very proud of your brave boys!!! Sending prayers and good thoughts, MaryBeth and Mick Fleming, Dan and Matt Hey Jamie - Nice picture of the helicopter. You should take more pictures - maybe you can take some pictures of your Mom & Dad and send them on the website. (We still like to your smiling eyes though! Riley was sick yesterday - I think too much sun. You know she doesn't like to be hot and it has been very hot lately. Take care - I love you! Leah Hi Jamie, We are so glad to hear you are doing so well. The boys have your box of presents ready & I will give it to your dad this weekend. We love to look at your pictures, so tell dad to keep taking them! We hope we can come & see you in person very soon. We love you ALL very much! Aunt Kris, Uncle Daren & Boys Hi, Jamie - just want to tell you what a great picture you took of the helicopter! It looks like it is going to land in your room! Hopefully that won't happen. Hope you are still feeling good and know you are looking forward to mom my coming back for a few days. Keep on being our brave hero. I love you and miss you. Grandma Judy

6/21/05 Tuesday Messages

Tom, Teri, and kids - looking at this website puts life into perspective. We admire and are inspired by your strength and positive attitude. Thanks for putting the updates out there so we can keep up with Jamie's progress. Hard to look at and read without a kleenex in hand. We will continue to say prayers for all of you. Hope to see you soon. Take care - Tom, Carrie, Brandt, Lauren, and Ellana Culbertson It's nice to see a picture of Drew!! He is such a doll! :o)

6/20/05 Monday Messages

Hey Jamie - Not much going on in DBQ but Trent and Russ sure miss you. Jesse was playing kickball with us on Sunday. I think he was having a good time until I threw the play at him and he ran to your Mom. I think I hurt his feelings when I got him out. Grandma even played and she can't catch a pop up ball. So when you get to play again - always kick the ball to Grandma -- she's not very good anymore! Love you! Leah Hey Jamie, We hope you are getting well and will be home soon. You need to get back to doing what all kids are supposed to be doing: driving your parents crazy. I'm sure your mom and dad are looking forward to that very soon. You are in our thoughts and prayers every day. Get well soon. God Bless Glen & Hasina Wiederholt Hi to all the Strakas, A brief note to relate that we are in constant prayer for Jamie and everyone. we will keep a light burning in our kitchen to remind us to "pray always". May this experience continue to draw your family closer together, in all things. Ron and Doris McAuliffe Tom, Teri, and family- It is great to hear that Jamie is doing so well. Stay positive. Jamie, it looks like you are a good helper when the nurses are giving you your medications. We are thinking and praying for you everyday. Hope to see you soon. Mike, Shana, Cody, Cheyenne, and Caleb Puetz Tom, Happy Fathers Day to you. Looking forward to seeing you on Friday. Jamie, Keep up the good reports. You must be a Super Hero to be doing as well as you are. Keep it up. :) We are all going to have to put our heads together and get Jamie, his own Super Hero name. Take Care, and my prayers are with you. Deb Giese

6/19/2005 Sunday Messages

Dear Dad, Grandpa Tom and Grandpa Larry: We hope you have a great Father's Day - you deserve it! We know it has been a rough couple of months - and know how much you have done for us. We love you very much! Happy Father's Day! Jamie, Jesse, Drew (Uncle Brad helped us type this) Tom, Teri and family,  just want you to know that our prayers are with you and we know what you are going through.  We have three children and when our oldest child was 4 years old (1995) he was diagnosed with aplastic anemia.  He lived with it until he was 10 years old (siblings did not match) and it was time for a transplant as things were getting worse.  He received an unrelated marrow transplant in Nov of 2000 which was unsuccessful and then a stem cell transplant from the same donor.  Nick is now 14 years old, he spends his summers with the Colts Drum Corps and played every sport in Jr. High.  He is not on any medications,  has no restrictions or limitations.  He is 100% healthy and growing, we see no side effects from the chemo/radiation etc. We thank God everyday.  We understand that most people do not realize what is really going on and that there is so much more to it than the transplant itself.  I hope this story gives you hope/strength in the months to come. Bob and Leigh Ann Lynn      Hi Jamie! How are you doing? We went fishing yesterday and caught 22 fish.We also caught a bull frog with a fishing pole!Grandpa came and didn`t catch any.Dad,Trent and me slept in the tent.It was fun!Grandma and me gave Sidney a bath.We went to Wis.Dels and it was FUN!I go swimming Mon. thru Thurs.I hope you get well soon! Love you and miss you, Riley Tom, Happy Father's Day! Hi, Strakas. Just wanted to let you know we're still thinking about you. We are enjoying looking at all the pictures. The one of the boys hugging is absolutely precious!!! ~The Creans All FIVE of Peosta's Tball Teams are behind you Jamie and thinking about you......we have some Tball things we want to get to you, cuz you're PART OF THE PEOSTA TBALL TEAM!!!!!      And we're ALL pulling for you, to "Hit a Home Run" and get better!!!! More later.........  Mike Sullivan and the 5 Peosta Tball Teams: Peosta Orioles, Peosta Phillies Peosta Royals, Peosta Astros, Peosta Padres, I truly enjoy the updates on this website and I am just so thankful for the positive progress that Jamie is making. Every day that passes with no "ill effects" is a step in the positive direction and a move forward on your path back home. I do have to say, though, that I do not think I have ever cried so much while scanning a site in my life! It is a good cry.... because I am happy for all of you just reading about the positive updates and the pouring out of support from family and friends. I have heard that sometimes crying is good for the soul, so please know that you are not only keeping us updated on your family, you are helping to cleanse many souls! Thank you for that. Best wishes to all of you. Deb Zenner

6/18/05 Saturday Messages

Hi Jamie Did You LikE The power rangers I DreW for Your BlanKet? I Miss You GeT BettEr Soon, Jon Tom and Teri, My family saved the article in the paper to share with me. I have visited your site and have enjoyed the pictures and journal entries. We will keep all of you in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult and scary time. I'm sure Jamie is a very strong boy and will come through all of this with everyone's love and support. Take care. I'll be thinking about all of you!! Love, Julie (Kaesbauer) Spelhaug Hi guys! It was so awesome to see the picture of Jamie and Jesse! What a pair of super hero's. I'm so glad they can play with one another. We miss you! Keep up the good work Jamie!! Love, The Decker's

Friday, June 17 Messages

Jamie,Jesse,Tom & Teri Love the photo... looks like two Super Heros to me. All of you continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. Deb Giese Uopn returning from a business trip, the first item I saw was the great picture of Jesse and Jamie's reunion. What a great scene ! Aunt Sherri and I have you all in our thoughts as do my co-workers and clients. Keep up the positive vibes! Uncle Ken Straka's- It was so awesome to see the reunion between Jamie and Jesse. You have three beautiful children to be proud of. Keep your spirits high and continue to have fun with all the new toys Jamie is receiving. Taylor and Isaac have been asking about Jamie and Jesse. They love to see their pictures on the site. We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Tracie, Taylor and Isaac Jamie: We think it is pretty cool to shoot pool with a mask on. We don't have those cool masks like you do for our pool table. We also like your water gun approach. We want some of those for our teachers. We got to see you with the quilt we made for you. We hope it is keeping you cozy with our warm wishes. All Your Friends at NICC

Thursday, June 16 Messages

Hi To all. We hope all is going well and we are keping you in our thoughts and prayers. We are going to try to make it to the benefit and are so happy that it looks like everything is coming along so well. It takes alot of special people to do something like this so you know how many poeple are so happy to help and how much love they have for you. If we can do anything please let us know. Pat,Amy,Shalyn,Kolton< Mckalyn Steward (Doug and Nancy's Friends) Hi Jamie and Jesse... Enjoy the time you guys have together to play, it is great that you finally are able to be together! Keep Smiling and Enjoy those new toys! :) Teri and Tom... So far the luck has held out and hopefully all continues to go well! I keep Jamie and your whole family in my prayers and thoughts. Keep your spirts up! We miss you all at NICC! Alicia Hansel Hi Jamie and Jesse, I am the aunt from Connecticut Jesse took a swing at when I visited Grandma Karen! :) I have a bunch of people out in Connecticut thinking about you and admiring your pictures. You have a beautiful smile, Jamie, and it makes many people happy when they see you. Have fun together and give your mom and dad a big hug. Hugs are great. Your aunt, Ellen Jamie- I talked to your mom today and she said you are enjoying the video. She said you watched it five times already. I'll try to make another video for you in a couple weeks. Then you can switch and watch two videos. I enjoyed doing the video for you and I am happy you are enjoying it so much. I hope you and Jesse are having fun together and playing hard. Thinking of you daily. Shana Puetz Hi Jamie, Just couldn't help but thank the good Lord for all that is going so right. When I saw the picture of you and Jesse I just cried, priceless is an understatement. Keep getting better, you are all in our prayers. Donna and Pat Strief Hello Jamie and Jesse- I'm glad you had a good reunion. I ran out of tissues in my office on the reunion picture! I am so very happy to see you two together again! We miss both of you - have fun and don't be too hard on the nurses - I'm sure the two of you are up to something to gang up on them! Love Leah It is great to see Jamie and Jesse together! Everyone is in my thoughts and prayers everyday. Jamie- your classmates miss you and are constantly asking when you will be able to come back. I keep telling them that you will be back, when the doctors tell you that you are all better! Keep Smiling! We love you! Linda Mushrush Hi Jamie, I am so happy to see you and Jesse were able to see each other. It looks like you had quite a few new toys to share. I'll bet that was fun. You are doing a great job in the hospital. I love to see your pictures. You are such a brave boy....Sue ( a friend of Grandma Judy) Jamie and Jesse, Uncle Ken and I had "chills and tears" when we saw that special picture of you hugging. I have the picture framed, next to my desk at work and will think of you each time I look at it today. Makes me think that we all need to cherish those small, special moments in our lives that we take for granted while awaiting the "big, special moments" that foolishly we think are so important. Enjoy each other. Play hardy!!! Love, Aunt Sherri and Uncle Ken Hi Jamie and Jesse! This is Grandma Karen. I am so glad you two boys are together again. Now you can play with all those toys, Jesse! I know Jamie will share them with you. Have fun and both of you give your Mom and Dad a big hug. Love Grandma Karen Jamie and Jesse- I hope that the two of you are having tons of fun together. You looked so happy to finaly see each other. Both of you and your family are always in my prayers Jerica Brown Hey guys! You look so happy to be together! I'm so happy that you two finally got to see eachother! Jamie, all of the children ask about you every single day! We all miss you! Love Jewell Griesinger

Wednesday, June 15, Messages

Tears flowing at our house again tonight after looking at those priceless pictures! Thanks for sharing them with us!!! Always in our prayers and on our minds, The Ludovissy's Hi Jamie its Jon i HoPe you come Back soon Jamie and Jesse- Awesome pictures! Both of you look so happy and excited to see each other. Play together and have a great time. Enjoy all your new toys. I hope the two of you and your mom and dad enjoyed the video. God Bless Shana Puetz and family Awesome photos! (Just rip my heart out and stomp on it. . . ) Sorry for the delay getting them posted. Looking good Jamie! Keep it up! Uncle Brad TOM,TERI,JAMIE: MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU. DEBBIE NADERMANN Hi Jamie, Just wanted to let you know how very often you are thought of.You are in our prayers every day for a full recovery. We saw the article in the TH this week. Grandma Judy was keeping us posted until she was able to help me figure out how to get to your web site. Tell Uncle Brad thanks for the site!!!Tell Mom and Dad hello from friends of Grandma Judy and Grandpa Tom. Love, Linda and Bill Hey Jamie - I had supper with Jesse, Drew and Your Mom last night. I gave Jesse something to give you -- "I kissed his palm and gave him a big hug" He his suppose to deliver that to you from me! See if he rememebers -- you might have to remind him. Trent, Riley and Russ are anxiously waiting to see you! We plan on coming to visist in July - maybe when you can have visitors! Take care and enjoy Jesse's company - and NO FIGHTING! Love, Leah Our prayers are with jamie and all the straka family. Judy & Gary Neiman (Meliss'a mom & dad) Terri, Tom and Jamie, It's so nice to hear how things are going through this web site. We are thinking of you all everyday. Jamie, remember when you and Jesse, Drew, and your mom came up to see the baby Robins on our front porch? Well they have all grown up and flown away. Those baby birds grow up fast. Wishing you all happiness and we pray for you all always. Let us know if you need anything done at the house. We are always here to help. Love and God Bless, Dennis, Vicky, Darren and Shelby Blum Hi Tom, Teri & Jamie, I am so sorry I haven't written yet but I wanted you to know that I am thinking of you every day and I say a prayer for all of you every night. Jamie - you and Jesse are truly super heros and it is wonderful to see all of the great pictures of you and how well you are doing. I loved the article in the TH, you are such an awesome kid and should be very proud of yourself. We send all of our love and prayers to the whole family. Stacy, Jeff, Megan, Luke and Maci Kennedy Still thinging about you and praying. It's great to keep reading about all the positives! Would love to be there to see the Jamie/Jesse reunion. We hope this time they really get to play together. Julie & Eric We just wanted to let you know that we are thinking of you and praying for all of you, especially Jamie. Hope that all is continuing to go well. Jim & Kim Koetz family Glad to hear that the effects of chemo have not appeared yet. All I have to say Tom is that the photos of Jamie look very good... he is a handsome little dude. Think about you both alot... glad to hear that Mom and Jesse are visting soon that should keep spirits up. Hang in there both of you, praying for you daily. Deb Giese Hi Jamie, I hope your feeling better. School just isn't the same without you. I have my first t-ball game on Thursday in Peosta. Get better soon so we can play. Your Pal Riley

Tuesday, June 14 Messages

Hi, Jamie - just a quick note from Grandma Judy and Grandpa Tom to let you know we are thinking about you and love to see you playing and doing your "exercises" Grandma needs to do some of those, too!! Tomorrow I will be staying with Drew so mom and Jesse can come and visit you. I hope you have lots of fun showing Jesse all your new toys and showing him around the hospital. We love you and miss you. We are very happy to hear the good news for Jamie. We pray every day for him and that he will soon be 100% healthy again!! Love from Mabyn & Lorin dear Jamie, I hope you are feeling better. I like the helicopter outside of your window, it is really neat. I have been playing T-ball, can you play T-ball in your room? If you can practis so we can play when you get home. your buddy eric recker Hey Jamie- Eric typed that note himself, he thought it was really fun. Take good care of youself and of you Dad and Mom. The Reckers We love to see your pictures on the computer. So glad you are doing so well. You are a very brave boy. Love Larre and Joyce Hi to Tom & Teri - and to all the grandparents and extended family - and especially to Jamie & Jesse: We want you to know we are thinking of you and are praying for you every day. Brad, thanks for the web site. We have enjoyed the pictures and the progress reports. You are all doing a great job! Get well soon, Jamie. Jane & Jim Bradley Hello Straka Family, You don't know me and I dont know you but I just wanted to let you know that you are in everyones prayers,more in mine. I just wanted to wish Jamie a safe and joyful recovery. You are in my prayers. Alison 13, Dubuque Iowa Hello Jamie -You can look great in all the photos! Riley, Trent and Russ are sending you a care package with your Mom and Jesse tomorrow. I hope you like it. Grandma is taking Riley to the DOG WASH tomorrow to give Sydney and Paco a bath. She has been looking forward to it. Everytime we go to Grandma's house she has to get Sydney's brush out and give her a good brushing. Sydney will be very happy to see you! Have a good day! Lots of love! Leah I saw that same rainbow on Sunday and thought of you guys instantly! We are all praying for you daily and wish Jamie a speedy recovery! Dave, Jen,Zach,Alex and Emma

Monday, June 13 Messages

Jamie- Both you and Jesse are SUPERHEROS! Keep staying strong and keep smiling. We are thinking of you everyday. Shana Puetz and family Tom & Family... I was amazed and saddened to hear about everything going on with Jamie and your family. Quite an update after not seeing you guys for 15 years... You are in our prayers and we send our best to all of you. Thanks to Brad for putting together a site where we can send our prayers and support. Jay Weber - Denver Hi Tom and Jamie, we are planning to stop by tomorrow some time! Deven has an appointment and all three of us are going. Hope to see you tomorrow! Paul, Mollie and Deven Tom & Teri, I don't think it is possible to read through the diary of your past few weeks without shedding some tears. I love the "rainbow signs" and find hope in them also - as you do. I hope to meet Jesse at grandma Judy's on Wed or Thurs. She and I have traded stories of "our boys" for many years. And now it is our "grand baby stories." Thoughts and prayers are storming heaven for all of you. God bless. Kathleen Weber Tom and Teri- We all check on things everyday and pray for Jamie's continued progress. Don't worry about the office; all's under control. Bob Hi Jamie, You certainly are one popular superhero along with your superhero brother. Great article in the TH today. We are so happy that all the updates your daddy and Uncle Brad have been posting have been very positive. We are looking so forward to having you back home and playing in the neighborhood. Love, The Gasper's Hey, Tom and Teri, I just found out today about everything that has been going on, the minute I got home I came to this wonderful website. We will be praying for your family and I would love to come to the fundraiser! Stay strong, your kids are so cute,just like you guys! Lori Hash-Koberg (Cedar Rapids) Hi Jamie, You are getting to be a very popular guy! You made the TH this morning and what a great story about you and Jesse! Now all the tri-state area will be praying for you. Keep smiling (we can tell you are even with your mask on), The Ludovissy's P.S. Jon and Joe think it's pretty neat that you get to shoot water at people and throw balls around in your room. They're jealous cause we won't let them do that kind of stuff in our house!!! Hey Jamie - Your picture was in the newspaper this morning! They had a very nice article about you and Jesse. So very cool - the article says you like Super Heros! Well guess what -- in my heart I know Jesse and you are BOTH SUPER HEROES!! Talk to you soon - Love - Leah

Sunday, June 12th Messages

We were out of town this weekend and I could not wait to get back to see how our little angel is doing. The pictures look great. Hopefully he will be out of the woods with the chemo soon. His little face looks happy, which means you two are doing a great job keeping him occupied. Keep up the good work. We are with you in spirit. The Ackleys Jamie, once again glad to hear that you are doing well. It sounds like we need to turn your room into an exercise area. The only thing I could come up with to help pass the time was a darts set. Somehow, I don't think Mom and Dad would think that is a good decision. You are truly a remarkable young man and are loved along with your entire family. I am inspired when I read the messages written by people from all over. You all have touched many lives and for that you should be proud. When you are older, I hope all of these wonderful messages will be there so you can read and save them. I hope you had a good Sunday and that more rainbows will be in sight for you this week. Love, Aunt Sherri Hello from Cedar Rapids. We are the great aunt/uncle and cousins of Deven Strief. Just wanted you to know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. I agree with asking the doctor for a bigger syringe!! 60 cc should do the trick! Be sure to take care of yourselves as well as the children. All our love, Gail, Bruce, Ty and Sarah Maiers Hi Jamie! This is Jesse. Grandma Karen is writing this for me. I like to go to see your pictures (and mine too) on the website. Grandma places the arrow on the down arrow and I get to push the button to make the pictures go up and down. Can I ride the helicopter when I come to visit you? I can't wait to see you. Grandma and I made a blueberry pie for you. I will bring it up when I come. I got the idea from Snow White because she made pies for the seven dwarfs. I hope you like it! I will wear my mask that you gave me when I see you. Bye for now! Love, Jesse Tom & Teri, Good to see Jamie out and about. Gosh, I would go crazy cooped up in doors for a week. He looks good. Glad to hear everything is goind as good as can be expected. Saw a rainbow today and thought of you guys. Take Care until next time. Deb Giese

Saturday, June 11th Messages

Jamie, Tyler is on a trip to Washington DC but he wanted me to tell you he is thinking of you! He calls often for updates from your website. We all think of you often and hope you are feeling better soon! We were happy to see you got to leave your room! I'll bet that was fun! You look like your feeling better everyday! Take care, Jon and Krista Castro(cousin Tylers family) Tom, Teri, and Jamie- It was great seeing Jamie up and walking around outside his room. Jamie, you look like you are a pro at pool. Stay strong. Hope to see you sooner than later. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Shana Puetz and family So good to see you out and about Jamie! We love to see your smile. Brett says get strong! Love, Doug, Nancy Matt, Alex, Brett Hi Jamie We are glad you are starting to feel better. We missed you at Preschool the last couple weeks. We saw Jesse riding on the stagecoach at the Rodeo. Next year you will be able to go too. Andrew & Audrey Welty Jamie looks rarin' to go...I will pray tonight that the GVHD continues to stay away. Press on tiger...and hug your parents often! Even tough guys like you need to have lots of lovin'! Thinking of you, Nancy H-R I again failed to thank Brad for this great communication link...thanks, Brad! Nancy (Your old Tomboy neighbor)

6/10/05 Friday Messages

Hi Jamie, We saw your rainbow tonight, it was really cool. The syringe looks like it's a lot of fun, maybe you can sneak a few home, and we can get our mom's and dad's wet. We miss you a whole bunch. Your buddies, Ryan & Julia Hi Jamie, this is Grandma Judy. I was so excited to see you out of your room playing with new toys. You look like you are having fun and being a really good boy wearing your mask. We are very proud of you and what a good and brave boy you are. I am busy taking care of Baby Drew. He is fun, but does not like to sleep very much - I wonder if he is like you and your daddy!?? Today went to Grandma Karens so she could watch Drew for a little while and locked my keys in the car. Had to call Grandpa Tom to stop after work and get my keys out. We are all just too busy thinking about you!! Take care and I look forward to seeing more great pictures of you. Love to all. Grandma Judy Don't worry Mom & Dad - Drew was NOT in the car at the time! Thanks for the message Leah (wink). Uncle Brad Relieved to hear that everything is going so well! All the thoughts and prayers of the entire community are a true testiment of that! We will continue to pray that things continue to go extremely well for your family and that you will be home soon. Dave, Jen, Zach, Alex and Emma Kapler Hey Mask Man -- you look like one of those bad guys from the movies! I hope you are having fun squirting your Dad and nurses. Now is your chance to squirt Mom too because you know you wouldn't get away with it at home. Riley had a big play at her softball game last night. The bases were loaded with two outs and pop fly came toher at third base and she caught it. She was so excited! Actually I think it might be the only action she got on third base this year. Talk to you soon - Love and miss you! Leah We are happy to hear everything is going well to this point. We will continue to keep you in our prayers. God Bless, Brett and Jane Tom , Terri, & boys, Finally, got to see your web site. I had trouble for some reason getting into it but Madonna emailed it to me, so now I can keep up with whats going on. Jamie looks very good in the pics. I hope that everything continues to go well. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. Deb Giese Hi Tom, Teri, and Jamie ~ Please know you are in our thoughts during this difficult time. Jamie, you are a VERY brave boy!!! Tom and Teri, our hearts go out to you! Wishing you guys ALL the best!!! ~ Scott and Carrie Barker Tom, Teri & boys - We think of all of you often. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. The Daacks Just wanted to let you know your family is in our heart and prayers everyday. We keep up with this wonderful website. Hang in there Tom and Teri we will keep the prayers going. Take Care of Each other. The Staners in Cascade (Madonna @ Clerks Office) Tom, Terri, and Jamie- I want to let you know that you and your entire family are never far from my mind. I'm so happy to see that everything is going well! I can't wait to see you at school soon, I miss you bunches Jamie :) Jerica Brown

6/9/05 Thursday Messages

TOM, TERI, JAMIE AND JESSE LOOKS AS THOUGH JAMIE IS IN GOOD SPIRITS TODAY AND SEEING JESSE LAST NIGHT IN A PLAYFUL MOOD WAS GREAT! TERI IT WAS SO NICE TO MEET YOUR MOTHER LAST NIGHT. SHE SEEMS LIKE SUCH A WONDERFUL PERSON. SHE SEEMED TO BE HOLDING UP PRETTY WELL ALTHOUGH STILL SHEDDING A FEW TEARS IN TALKING. WE WILL CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR POSITIVE RESULTS AND FOR A SPEEDY RECOVERY ALTHOUGH A LONG ROAD LIES AHEAD. CAN'T WAIT TIL THE KIDS GET TOGETHER TO PLAY AGAIN. NUTSY, CRYSTAL AND MEGAN AHMANN Hi Jamie - I was just looking at your picture with my mom. That "water shooter" looks pretty cool! I bet it's fun to shoot the nurses and your dad!! I like going on the website to see you in the pictures. I hope you are feeling better real soon so I can come visit & you can show me how to shoot water at my dad - that would be funny. Love, Cousin Logan Tom, Teri and boys - There are lots and lots of people thinking about you and reading this site for the updates. Wishing you all the very best- Madelin Fuerste/Fuerste Family Hi Jamie! It's Mrs. Kuhlmann again. I forgot to tell you that I really love the picture of you holding the syringe. It looks like it is only a 10 cc syringe. Ask Dr. Margolis if he can get you a 60 cc syringe. That way you can really get the nurses wet! Hi Jamie! I'm so glad to hear that things are going well for you and Jesse. You are both brave boys. Congratulations on losing your first tooth. I hear that the Tooth Fairy in Milwaukee is very generous! I really have to thank your uncle Brad for setting up this site. It's so nice to be able to check to see how you are doing and see your smiling face. We are all praying that you will be able to come home soon and play with your brothers and all your friends! Love Mrs. Kuhlmann Lots of things going on today - so sorry I didn't get these all posted sooner. Glad you are having a good time with the water fights! Thinking of you! Uncle Brad Jamie & Jessie and all Straka Family, You are in our thoughts and prayers. The web site is a great way to keep us updated. God bless you! Grandma Judy's St. Joseph Key West Church friends--Bob and Corrine Schatz Just visited with Doug. My daughter and I are the ones that visited with you at Amber's visitation. We are so sorry you are going thru such a difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. There is a very special great-grandma up there that I'm sure has an inside track so I'm confident things will be better for you!!! Bless both your little boys and you two and your families & again we pray for a full recovery for Jamie. Carol Galloway, Grand Mound, Iowa Left work early and checked the Web site countless times so was so glad to get your update when I arrived home. Glad Jamie is thus far doing well and I'm so impressed that he is blasting people with the syringe. I hope he's laughing as he does that. Mom, Dad and Jamie...we are pulling for you all. Look forward to your next update with continued good news. Love, Aunt Sherri Hi Jamie, I hope to see you soon, I would like to take you and Kyle fishing sometime this summer. keep your chin up and smile. We will pray for you every night and day until you are well. Hang in there big guy you have many fun times ahead of you. Love Ken, Sherry, Kyle, Tyler and Emily Meyer Teri and Tom I am glad to hear things are going well. We all have been praying for you guys here in Nashville. Lots of love, Jill To Tom and family - how brave and beautiful you are...thoughts, love, and prayers from Spain - Marianne Hoerner Choquet Hi Jamie I just saw your grandma Karen this morning and she is so proud of you and said you are such a good boy for what you have gone through! Keep being a toughie Jamie and the time will go fast and you will be outside playing before you know it! Love Karl and Cindy Millius Hey Jamie - Russ and Trent loved the post card you sent with the tigers. They both can't wait to play tigers and wrestle with you again. Take care and give your Mom and Dad a BIG hug for me. We love you! Leah Our prayers are with you...great relief to see their smiles. Hang in there, Tom and Teri...if you need anything (especially with us right in Peosta), don't hesitate to call 583-7938 at any time. We're thinking about you and the prayers will continue. Love, Nancy Hoerner-Ronek & family Hi Jamie! It was so good to see you the last few days. You are a brave little boy and Grandpa Larry and I are very proud of you!!!! Stay strong and you will be well soon. Love Grandma Karen Dear Straka Family, So happy to hear "so far, so good"! You have been in our thoughts and prayers constantly. God Bless! Valerie Peckosh and staff Hi everyone, Daily thoughts and prayers come from us each and every day. The pictures are very endearing, too. Barney and Barb Bishop The boys look GREAT! Hope all keeps going well. Love, Julie & Eric Jamie it is so good to see you on the net. I'm so glad your fealing better and I was playing out side with Jesse, Jake, and Ryan today and I fealt so proud to be playing with your little HERO! Hope I can play with you soon outside. Love you always Shelby Blum Tom, Teri, Jamie, and Jesse- So happy to hear everything is going good. Your family is always in my thoughts. Awesome pictures of the two little men. Jamie looks so good smiling in the pictures. They are both missed back home here. I check this site daily and both cry and smile. The pictures make me smile. Stay strong and remember you are in my prayers. God Bless- Shana Puetz Hi Tom, Teri, Jamie, Jesse and Drew. I'm so glad everything has gone well with the transplant and everyone is doing okay. You guys are all in my thoughts every day. Stay strong Jamie (you too Tom and Teri). And Jesse, you keep milking it, you deserve it! Love you all, Ken Volpp Dear Teri, Tom, Jamie, Jessie, & Drew, Words cannot express the shock of how I felt when Leigh forwarded news of Jamie’s illness to me at home. I had no idea of the trauma your family was going through. Then I heard about Great Grandma Mickey’s passing. I told Grandma Karen that Mickey and Jamie’s other Great Grandma made it to heaven just in time to be guardian angels for Jamie and Jessie through their surgeries. I gave Grandma Karen a picture of a double rainbow to hang on your wall to give all of you hope. And God did one better, He painted a rainbow in the sky right there at the hospital for you! What an awesome sign of His love, grace and hope, that He would deliver one personally to you on the day of the transplant! Clarence and I spent many hours in Milwaukee Children’s Hospital and the Ronald McDonald House back in 1991-1992 when my little cousin Brett, from Virginia, went there for a bone marrow transplant for leukemia. We visited every other weekend from Thanksgiving 1991 into Feb. 1992. Brett colored a rainbow for me in the hospital and it still hangs in my home office today with our pictures on it. The memories of those visits are some of the sweetest ones I have. It was there that I learned the importance of family, of caring, and following Jesus’ commandment from John 13:34, “Love one another even as I have loved you.” In the toughest time of Brett’s parents’ lives, we took the time to reach out to them in human kindness and we forged a forever friendship. Our family learned a valuable life lesson – never take any relationship for granted – our partings, whether on the phone or in person, always end with “I love you.” I am sure that as you go through this valley, you will also learn these same life lessons and build forever friendships with those that support you through this trial. It is God’s way of taking the most horrible life experience and using it for good. Our God truly is an awesome God! I have contacted two of my prayer groups: my church, Lord of Life in Asbury, and the Ecumenical Emmaus community in Dubuque and asked them to lift your family in prayer. (I noticed that one of my friends has already dropped you a prayer on the website!) Between these two communities that should be well over 100 people plus all the friends that have responded to your website. There is no doubt in my mind that God is listening to all our pleas on Jamie’s behalf. May you feel the loving arms of your Creator holding you up in these next weeks and months. Let His loving care nurture and heal your aching hearts. God’s love and peace be with you always, Clarence & Nancy

6/7/05 Wednesday - Recovery

Jamie, Good Luck with your transplant. I will be praying for you! My little boy also has aplastic anemia. We have four other children, but no one matched, so we are doing the immunosupressive therapy. We will be following your website and checking on you! When my son Brandon who is five gets home from the hospital, he will send you a message. We also have a website at www.caringbridge.com/mo/brandonbear. Maybe you guys could be pen pals! Anyhow, you stay strong and we are all praying very hard for your success! Angela Fontenot (I linked to your web-site through Deven Strief's site) [NOTE: Brandon's website has been added to our "links" page under "Jamie's Friends". Please use this link to check out Brandon's progress. --Brad] Hi Jamie, Me and mom see you on the computer every night and today you look awesome! I like all your cool pajamas and I really miss you. Love Jon Hello Strakas-Just wanted to let you know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. I was just made aware of the situation of your family and was immediately stunned and was able to catch up with this wonderful website. Sounds like things are going well at this point. I hope the road to recovery continues and remember we are all pulling for you. Keep your chin high! Thinking and praying for you- Shelly Lawler (old neighbor) Teri, Tom and boys: Glad to read that things went well yesterday. What a tough little bunch you have! We will keep checking and praying! The Noonans Hi Jamie and Jesse we all are thinking and praying for you here at home. I hope to see you both riding on the street in your cars soon. Caityn Tekippe We are glad everything went well. We are thinking about you all. Hope to see you soon. Cousin Matt and Ashley Terri, Tom, Jamie and Jesse, I was just reading your update page and it was great to hear that both the boys came thru so good, so far. When it was mentioned about Jesse swinging at someone, that he was on the road to recovery, that was right. Good to hear everyone is doing okay. I'll keep your family in my prayers and hope to see all of you soon. Love and Prayers to all of you, Kim Willis Teri, Tom and boys, Even some of us who don't know you are thinking of you and "rooting" for the boys. I am a high school friend of Karen's and have been following your great website, with care and concern. It's wonderful that things are progressing well and that both boys are coping. What a big undertaking but with lots of love, support and prayers, things will go well. The best to all of you. Karen Jennings Dear Tom, Teri, Jamie, Jesse, and Drew, Know that we are praying for you and that each one of you is a hero! God bless you all. The Foys Tom, Teri, and the boys. That's great news that everyone is doing well and hopefully the worst part is past you. You have been in our thoughts and prayers ever since we heard the news. Tell Jamie and Jesse they are indoubtedly the bravest "men" I know. I'm sure they are drawing on your strength and courage. Let us know if you need anything now or in the future. Take care. The Kelly's - Mitch, Julie, Reed, and I am glad to hear that everything went as well as it did on day zero. The boys are greatly missed at NICC. I am keeping your whole family in my prayers! Alicia Hansel So glad everything went well. We are thinking of you and we will keep in touch. Larre and Joyce Tom Terri and Boys, We are so glad everything went as well as it did yesterday, you had our prayers all day. Jamie and Jesse, you guys are just amazing, God sure knew what he was doing when he made you two brothers. God Bless you, The Recker Family We all feel so involved in your situation - and so pleased with how things are developing thus far with those cute little guys! Your family is amazing (we see where Brad gets his positive outlook on . . everything!) You're in our thoughts as we send you more rainbows from Florida! The Sunbeam Team My family and I are praying for you and thinking about you often. Let us know if there is anything we can do to help. Sincerely,Caryn Cox It's great to see the boys happy and "being brothers". It's amazing to me how two little "men" have touched so many hearts. We're happy to hear that they are doing so well. The Sweeney's Tom and Family, Watery eyes here as we keep with you on the site. Of course, you remain in our thoughts, prayers and hearts. The office/Linda&Jeanne Tom,Terri and boys- We are so happy to hear that everyone is doing well. Jamie has been a major topic in our home this past week. We will continue to pray for all of you. Stay strong and know that you are in our hearts. Taylor and Isaac both say hi. Love, Tracie, Taylor and Isaac The boys look great in the pictures. Hopefully they'll get the meds worked out just right so the mood swings aren't so great. Again, it is so wonderful to be able to check in several times during the day to get updates on the boys. Hope you and Teri are hanging in there!! ~The Creans Just a note to let you know that even those who don't know you are praying for a full recovery for both boys. They are Gods' blessings to us. No signature What a great picture of Jesse and Jamie! So good to see them both ...especially to see Jamie up and about today. Glad Jesse is not experiencing any pain. I know this must be very hard to explain to both boys. Some day they will understand. Thinking of you all as usual. Hang in there with the mood swings. Uncle Ken could probably give you some advice!!!!! Not that I've ever had mood swings.... Looking forward to your next update. Aunt Sherri What a GREAT photo of those smiling boys!!! They are truly amazing and inspirations to us all. Tell Jamie and Jesse they are our "Super Heros!" The Ludovissy's Tom, Teri & family: We praise God for the answers to prayer you have already experienced and continue to pray for a successful result to the procedure, speedy recovery for Jesse and complete healing for Jamie. "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will." Romans 8:26-27 God Bless, Lisa & Kelvin Wold and Family To everybody reading this: I haven't posted a message, not because I didnt want to, but simply because I couldnt get it to work. So... Third time's a charm! My thoughts and prayers have been with you throughout this whole ordeal and especially today as all anyone can do is "wait and hope" I visit this web site at least once a day and often find myself checking it by the hour. It's really great to be able to stay posted. If there's anything we can do please don't be shy to ask! God Bless all of you! I love you always! Brenna Naughton (Tom's cousin/God daughter) Teri, Tom, Jamie, Jesse & Drew, We want you all to know that you have been in our daily thoughts and prayers. I called Shelly for an update and remembered this website. It is awesome to see the photos and have a recent update on the boys progress and recoveries. We are looking forward to a very successful fundraiser on the boys behalf. We send our love and best wishes. Suzy, Greg, Elyse, Elly & Anna Hi, Very happy to hear things are going well!! Lisa and Andy Z We just want you to know that you have been in our thoughts ever since we heard about Jamie. I also took part in his prayer vigil and also called Tina in Omaha, so she participated in her own way out their. You will all be in our prayers daily. Hang in there, as there is another rainbow out there for Jamie and Jesse. Joan and Phil Weber The Mays will keep you in our daily prayers. We have a special relationship with St. Anthony as we are always calling on him to help us find lost articles. He has never let us down, and so we will be asking for his intercession on your behalf. Hang in there Mom and Dad, and let Jamie's guardian angels do the work. God Bless, The Mays Way to go Straka boys. We absolutely cannot wait for the return of everyone's health. We are constantly thinking of your family and praying for you. The website has been incredible. I will admit it is tough to see those boys in that hospital. The end reslut is what we keep in mind. Love, The Ludwigs Hope everything is going well, we are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Roger,Deb,and boys Jamie and Jesse: Awesome report; you are such brave little men. It sounds like things went well today. Not a moment went by wihtout you in our thoughts. Just loved the rainbow!! What a sign from God. There were so many people praying today, I think God had to put the answering machine on. Keep your spirits high and your thoughts positive. We will keep the chain of prayers going. All out love, the Ackleys Tom and Terri, We are have been thinking about you and the kids all day. We are relieved to hear everything has gone well so far. You and your family are in our prayers. Somehow in these times of such hardship we find strength we never knew we had to get us through the most devastating times in our lives. Stay strong. Brett and Jane Tom, Teri, Jamie, and Jesse, You are constantly in my thoughts and prayers. The class is missing Jamie. I try to explain the best way that I can,what Jamie is going through. I tell the kids to say extra prayers for Jamie. I know in my heart that God will continue to keep all of you strong and that he will cradle Jamie in his loving arms throughout this whole procedure and treatment. Love, Linda Mushrush Prayers sure are powerful! We're glad to hear that everything went well with Jesse and anxiously waiting to sign on tomorrow and read more good news about Jamie. Sending more thoughts and prayers your way. Julie and Eric

6/7/05 Tuesday - Day Zero

Wow, Teri, Tom, Jamie, Jesse and Drew--you are all heroes. We got to meet Jesse and Drew in Iowa at Grandma Mickey's funeral. Those boys are so sweet! I noticed Jesse's cough when I went with Leah to see her house on Friday afternoon. I was praying that it would not postpone the surgery. Thank God, that went well. We'll be anxious to read about the update on Jamie's surgery. I pray that it is good news. Love, Aunt Mary and Uncle Mark We have been reading all the information you have posted on the web sight. Sounds like your prayers are being answered. We are praying for all of you and wish Jamie a speedy recovery. Also for Jessie. We will keep in touch.Love Larre and Joyce We are so glad that everything thus far has been going well. We miss you in the "hood" and hope to all the Straka's out playing soon. Take care, The TeKippes God Bless all of you. I came to know about your son through Sandy Ludovissy, a co-worker at McGraw-Hill. My 17 year old daugher, Kristy has Leukemia and begins her chemo treatments tomorrow and will have a bone marrow transplant on June 17th. We are at Iowa City Hospitals. I know how you feel and the emotions you are going through. I am grateful to hear everything is going well. I'm sure you have come to know that the people of Dubuque really know how to pray, and you will feel their prayers giving you strength every day. Our family will keep you in our prayers as well. May God Bless all of you and keep you in his care! Tom and Terri, Rick told me about your son. My prayers are with you all. Margy Schulte Tom,Teri, and family- My family and I are thinking and praying for you and your family daily. Both of the boys have been so brave and strong. We really miss the boys at school. All of Jesse and Jamie's friends ask about them. Today at circle Jesse's friends asked where he has been and when he is coming back. We are anxious for Jesse and Jamie to come back. Stay strong and God Bless. Mike, Shana, Cody, Cheyenne, and Caleb Puetz Dear Tom, Terri and Little Men: This is my first visit to this website and I think it is wonderful. You have been on my mind all day as you go through the surgeries. Keep your chins up and know that we all hold you in our thoughts and prayers. I will light a candle of hope and thanksgiving tomorrow at St. Patricks and ask Fr. Barta to remember you in his prayers at the noon Mass. Keep a positive mind. Best wishes to all of you. Deb Zenner Teri & Family - My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family today. Babet Reynolds - Acosta Hi Teri, Tom, Jamie, Jesse and little Drew (whom I just met last weekend)! I am keeping you all close in my heart and in my prayers. You have a very special family and I hope we can see each other again real soon. God bless you all, Teri deLorimier (Teri's cousin) Jesse - I just saw the pictures of you & Drew sitting in the bed. It looks like you had a GREAT lunch! We are so proud of you - you are a true "hero"! Give everyone a hug & kiss from us. We love you all!! Uncle Daren & Aunt Kris Tom and Teri, Thank you Tom for keeping us all so updated on today's events. I cannot tell you how much you and your family have been in my daily thoughts and prayers. Jesse and Jamie are such troopers!!! Tell Teri that the Vaassen girls are praying for all of you. Lots of love, Julie Bennett Straka family- We are so glad to hear that all went well with Jesse's surgery. We will continue to pray for Jamie and Jesse. Everyone here at N.I.C.C. has been reading the web site. Please continue to keep us informed. We love you all! N.I.C.C. Staff Tom & Terri: We have just learned of Jamie and Jesse. God must be looking out for little Jamie with the match of both of his brothers. Please know you will all be in our thoughts and prayers. Kurt, Patti, Spencer & Delaney Behning Hope everything goes as planned today and that Jamie will be on the road to recovery shortly. Just let us know if there is anything we can do. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you everyday. The Butcher's, J.J., Monique, Zack & Jacob Teri, Kathy and I have been getting updates from Amy Gilligan. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. I have some friends and family in Milwaukee and know the area pretty well so please call me or e-mail me if you need anything. Your friend, Ken Meisinger (614-239-7025) Thinking of you all today as the surgeries are under way. God bless you. ~The Creans Jesse: How nice to see your cute (if somewhat groggy) face appear on my computer when I got back from lunch. Dad says it's a good sign...so keep swinging. This Web site is a wonderful thing for those of us who are far away but feeling some angst as we try to plow thru this day. Hope you are feeling better very soon and can be back playing tonight. So glad all went well. And now you will become a part of Jamie. Thanks to the wonderful Drs. and staff who are caring for my great nephews. Jamie, our thoughts are now with you. Love to all, Aunt Sherri Haven't spent too much time working today because all of you are on my mind. Thanks for taking the time to post the frequent updates - I'm checking in often. Praying for you all today and always, The Ludovissy's Hello all, We just wanted to let you know that you are in our prayers. Times like this are VERY hard. Please let us know if we can help. We hope all went well the the BM transplant today. We love you, Valerie, Rick and Tripp Schulte Have every hope that today will be one of the first great strides toward bringing a thoroughly healthy Straka family back to Iowa! We are thinking of you all and are thankful that you are surrounded by family and hopefully bolstered by the thoughts and prayers of the many people who are cheering for a fast and complete recovery. Love,Todd & Melissa Tom, Teri and Family, Just a quick "hello" to wish you all well. We've been thinking about you constantly. Riley often asks "what is Jamie doing right now". He misses Jamie! We hope and pray that all goes well. We'll keep checking the web site for updates. Take Care. The Sweeney's, JR, Jodi, Riley, Ricky & Nicholas It is so difficult to work today as you are constantly on my mind. Be strong. I love you all. Aunt Deb Thinking of you guys today .and hope things go smoothly! Love you, Patrice Hess Jamie, We will be thinking about you and praying for you today and the days to follow as you start day "zero" on the road to recovery. Jesse, we will be thinking and praying for you too, what an amazing little boy you are able to help your brother in such a great way. You two are the bravest little boys. Love, Dean, Becky, Ryan & Julia Just a brief note to relate that we are praying for all. Tom Meyers and I had conversation last night about the progress and he reminded me of this site. Way to go Brad Ron McAuliffe Today is "the day" and we will be thinking of you all throughout the day. We hope that Jesse will be up and running this afteroon. I know it is hard for him to understand at 3 1/2, but someday he will know just how important his gift to his brother was. Jamie, stay strong and brave. Let Mom and Dad hold you often. Love, Aunt Sherri & Uncle Ken Just want your family to know they are in our prayers. Thinking of you today and praying for complete success, and that Jamie will be his old self soon. Jim & Lorene Hynes Jamie and Jesse (and Mom and Dad and Drew) we're praying for you today that all goes well. Jim & Cathy McAuliffe Tom, Teri, and family...my prayers are with you for a successful transplant tomorrow and a speedy recovery for both boys. May you feel God's very real presence as you go through these trying times... Sue Troester Jamie and Family tomorrow is a big day I am keeping Jamie and Jesse in my prayers and I have asked my church to pray that everything will go well. every one back home here is waiting and praying that every thing will go smoothly and that you all will be back soon playing in the streets and riding all those little jeeps you guys ride around. Please let me know if there is anything i can help you with. love always Shelby Blum Hi again guys - You will be in our thoughts and prayers even more so on Tuesday. Stay positive! Stay Strong! Love ya, Julie, Eric & family

6/6/05 Monday Messages

Hi there! Just wanted you guys to know I think about you all constantly!! We all continue to pray and know that you are in great hands! Jamie looks very good, he and Jesse are such amazing kids! Tell Dr. Margolis "salute" from Deven! God Bless, Mollie and Paul Strief Tom and Teri, we are keeping you and the family in our prayers and every thought as you venture into tomorrow. Hold on tight to their little hands and let all of us do the praying for you. We know God is with you and we are all rooting for a very successful outcome for both of the boys. All our love, the Ackleys Hi Jamie and Jesse! It is so neat to see all your pictures and the the box of stuff your classmates sent you. We will be thinking of you all day Tuesday and you will be in our prayers. I know God is watching over all of you and will help you to start feeling better really soon. We miss you! Love, Ann, Rick and Jakob Tom, Teri, Jamie, Jesse, and grandmas, You are in our thoughts and prayers. I will check this site during the day tomorrow. Remember Grandma Mickey is smiling with you. Love and kisses, Ellen Tom, Teri and the boys, Our thoughts and prayers will be with you tommorrow..We will pray for a fast recovery for Jamie . Stay strong and keep the faith. Jay and Carolyn Gottschalk Hi Jamie, You're my bestest friend in the whole wide world. Thanks for the postcard. Me and Riley hope you get better soon so we can play together again. I'll say a special prayer for you and Jesse tonight. Love, Jon :) Hope you do well with fixing your blood. We will pray for you. Hope to see you soon so we can play volleyball again. Keep working on that spike. You are the bomb. Nick and Andrew Ackley Tom, Teri & the boys: We've been thinking of all of you and checking the website regularly to keep us posted on Jamie's progress. We'll say a prayer that tomorrow is a complete success and that Jamie will be out playing in the sunshine soon. Take care and stay strong! Love, Crissy, Erik, Tait & Sydney Hey Jamie-Tait thinks your Batman PJ's are cool and he loved your balloons:) Tom,Teri,Jamie,Jesse and Drew... Best wishes to you as the big day arrives. I am keeping you in my prayers. I check the site daily to keep updated on how Jamie is doing! Praying for you with faith, hope, and loving care! Alicia Hansel (one of Drew's teachers) Just wanted you guys to know that you are in our prayers. Paul and the gang at the Clerk's Office. Been thinking of everyone today as you gather at the hospital to prepare for tomorrow. Sending positive thoughts and prayers to my brave little boys! Thanks to everyone who has sent all of these thoughts and wishes - my in-box is bursting. And thanks to all who have continued to send in raffle prizes (I'm looking forward to thanking you all in person on the 24th). Good luck all. I'm thinking of you. Love, Uncle Brad Hello Jamie, we hope that you are feeling well soon...Take care of yourself and tell mom and dad we are thinking of them....if you need anything call us.... Steve Doddie & Jimmie Gremmel Sending our very best for a quick respond to the transplant. You will all be in our prayers. We saw Deven this weekend and enjoyed every minute with him, he was just fine. Be strong, all of you. Donna & Pat, NICC Daycare Cook Teri: this site is awesome. We copied the fundraiser page for all employee’s so they know what you are going through. I know I can't be there that day since I am on vacation, so we are doing a fundraiser here at the office to help out. Good luck tomorrow. We are praying for Jamie and your whole family. -- Hock We are thinking about you and praying that everything goes well with a fast recovery. Gary and Linda Nyquist Hello Jesse and Jamie, We are thinking about you and wanted you to know there has been an all day prayer vigil scheduled for you at St. Joseph the Worker Church starting at 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 7th. If anyone is interested in signing to participate in this vigil please call Meggan Kramer (563-583-3871)to schedule a time. Thinking of you and your family, The Kramers You are all in our thoughts and prayers. We are very concerned. Please do not hesitate to let us know what else we can do. Dave & Jen Kapler Tom, Teri, Jamie, Jesse and baby Drew: We have been checking the web site everyday to keep us posted on the latest developments. So far, everything is looking good. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you enter into the day of the transplant!! Jeanne Tom, Teri and Family. Here's a big Texas sized greeting from Houston. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Your friends and family will be with you through all of this. We will be home the weekend of the 24th, so we look forward to seeing you. Our love to you always. God Bless, Glen and Hasina Wiederholt Hi Jamie you do not know me but I have heard so much about you. I work with your Aunt Kris and she talks about you all the time. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Chris Hi Jamie! I hope you are feeling better soon! That is really cool you lost your first tooth! I didn’t lose my first tooth until I was 7! You are lucky! I am going to Washington DC on Tuesday for a school trip. I will try and send you a postcard! Love, your cousin...Tyler Wishing a safe journey to the Grandmas today. Know it will be great to all be together again. I'm certain that Jamie must be missing his brothers. Continued best wishes to you all. Aunt Sherri and Uncle Ken Ken (Kelting): Molly just shared with me her conversation with you about Jamie. You have my family's sincerest wishes and prayers for Jamie and his family. We will be checking the website regularly for updates. Thank you for sharing this with us, Ken. Craig You are all in our thoughts and prayers. We will especially be thinking of you tomorrow. Love, Luke and Melodee Dolan Best of luck on your transplant and our thoughts and prayers are with you. Todd & Susie Tom, Teri, Jamie, Jesse and Drew, You all have our best wishes, and we'll be praying for all of you. We know everything will turn out great in the end! --Tony and Marla Quinn Our thoughts and prayers are with you and we pray that all will go well. With Love, Aunt Rosie and Uncle Larry Hi Teri and Jamie, This is Colleen Ross. I work with your mom. Just want to drop a note saying you are in my prayers and your are a VERY brave boy! Hope all is well and take care! :-)

6/5/05 Sunday Messages

Hey Jamie- How's everything going. You must be very busy with all your new toys. Trent gets disappointed when you don't have time to talk on the phone with him. He misses you something terrible and asks about you daily! We miss you and can't wait to see you again. With lots of love, Dan, Leah, Riley, Trent and Russ Jamie, Hey buddy! I've been thinking about you every day, and I can't wait to see you! I can't believe you lost your first tooth! How much money did you get from that tooth fairy? All of the kids at NICC miss you horribly! Expecially Riley and Jon, they can't wait for you to come back! You are always in my prayers and I wish you and your family the best! Jewell Griesinger (teacher at NICC) The O'Brien's have you in our thoughta and prayers. We'll keep them coming for you throughout the next days and weeks. Will especially misses his friend Jamie and hopes his recovery is quick so he can come back to NICC to play! God bless you all! The O'Brien's, Dave and Melissa Jack, Patrick, and Will Hey Jamie! This is grampa Tom letting you know I've been following your every move and finally realizing I'm the only one who's not sent you a message of good will. Well, we can't have that. So, buddy, please keep your chin up because things are going to start getting much better in just a few more days/weeks & I want to be there for mom & dad and you, to help when & if I can. Love you very much! Hi, guys. Glad today was a better day. Jamie, your food looks yummy!! Love the updated pictures of the boys!! Drew is such a little doll! We can't wait to meet him. Take care and know we're thinking of you! :o) ~The Creans T.Thomas Teri and family, Just found this amazing website and wanted to send you our love support and prayers. It sounds like you are in very capable hands. We are praying for Jamie's speedy recovery every day. Love Jeff Jodi Taylor and Alec. P.S. While it will be difficult to address you as "Your Honor" knowing what I know about the years we spent together in Omaha and beyond, I will respect the office and do so reluctantly when necessary. Congrats buddy!! Jeff.

6/4/05 Saturday Messages

Tom, Terri and family: You are in our thoughts and prayers daily. Werner and Michelle Tom,Teri, and Jamie: Tom and Teri, I met you two shortly after Jamie was born. I have always respected you two as parents, watching you go through this challenge I cannot express how my respect for both of you has grown. I think every decision and reaction to this situation on your part has been incredible. It seems as though Jamie is in the best hands possible. Hospitals, Doctors, and especially his parents. Have Faith this feeling will not last forever. Watching your family go through this experience is making all parents appreciate our children a lot more. Keep up the excellent work. I know the roughest days are ahead of you. When Tom and I spoke before you left on Tuesday we have decided a cure for Jamie is the only option. We are still sticking to that plan. We absolutely cannot wait for Jamie to return to NICC. We miss him so much. We do feel blessed to still have the other two boys to help us through. God Bless your family Rick, Ann, Sophie, Robbie and Jude Ludwig Hi Jamie-We have been thinking of you everyday and we all think you are a VERY brave young man. Your cousins Alex,Tyler,Dalton & Logan are getting a package of fun things ready to send to you. We saw the pictures of you with your lost tooth. That is so cool!! Logan was jealous that you got to go to the zoo and he didn't. Tell mom & dad that you are all in our daily thoughts & prayers. We love you all very much!!, Uncle Daren, Aunt Kris & boys Hi from Minnesota! Brad, awesome site. Teri, Tom, and Jamie we are thinking of you daily. I plan to light some candles for you all on the 7th, my Mom and Grandma swear by them. Hang in there! Lisa and Andy Zelinskas P.S.--I am working on getting some Viking's tickets for the raffle. Get well soon Jamie. I miss you at school. I hope you come back soon. Riley How exciting that you got new toys and have such good friends that are thinking about you each day. We think you are very brave! We will be thinking of all of you and hope that everything goes well this weekend. Love, Aunt Sherri and Uncle Ken PS Dana is home this weekend and she is also thinking about you all. Tom, Teri, & Family: We are thinking of you as you face this great challenge. God chooses only those who are able to handle His greatest challenges. Keep this in mind on some of your more difficult days. Your family, friends, and even those who do not know you are praying for Jamie and supporting your family. The McDonald family will offer up a special prayer at our dinner table each night for Jamie. Rob, Leann, & Family Jamie, I am Peyton Bennett's mommy from preschool. I just saw the awesome box of toys and goodies that you got from school and hoped you liked it. You are being so strong. Teri & Tom-just wanted you to know that you and your family are in our daily thoughts and prayers. I love getting on this website to get the latest update everyday. Lots of love, Julie and B

6/3/2005 Friday Messages

We're checking your site daily and also praying a lot!!! Stay strong and know that God will help you through all of this. Jamie has so many people on his side. Julie & Eric Great picture of Jamie!! I really enjoy being able to see all these pictures!! Just wanted to know we're thinking about you all. The Creans :o) Hello Straka Family! Sam, Max and I just went on the computer and saw the super smile and "really" cool haircut you got! Sam thinks you look like one of those Super Hero's!! Like Spiderman..because he can fly with webs and has spidey powers. That's what we all think...you have spidey powers!! Stay strong!! Love Ka, Sam & Max Link Hi, Jamie. I am so glad that I can see your pictures on my computer. I am glad you got some neat balloons and new toys to play with. I know you are being a brave boy even though it is hard. Grandpa Tom & I think about you and your mom and dad all the time. We miss you and look forward to seeing you soon. Jesse misses you and gets your picture off the shelf and puts it on the couch by him. Soon you will be home to play with him and be his big brother. I love you all. Grandma Judy Teri and family: Please know that all of us at Acosta will be thinking of Jamie and your entire family over the next few weeks. Teri, we are here to help! Sincerely, John O'Brien Tom, we all hope and pray that everything goes well for Jamie. The John O'Connor family. Tom and Terri: The Gau family (friend of Tom's) have heard of the circumstances and our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. We'll be keeping posted on your progress and praying for your speedy progress and recovery. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to assist. Good luck to you all -Mike, Mary Anne and Madeleine Gau Jamie: First tooth lost! Wow. What is the Tooth Fairy paying these days? I just heard about your Dad being named a Magistrate. That is excellent as you now will get to visit him at the Courthouse when he is wearing a black robe just like Judge Ackley's. He will make a great judge. When he performs his first wedding, see if he can bring you and Jesse home a piece of wedding cake for you. Not only are you lucky to have a brother like Jesse helping you out, but now I see Uncle Brad is making plans for Disney World. I hope that you will be better by then. Say hello to your Mom & Dad for me. Ask your Dad if I have to call him "Your Honor" now. Do you? Keep up the fight, Jamie, becuase you have so many peole that you don't even know thinking of you and your parents and praying for your whole family. Mary Lynn Neuhaus, a lawyer friend of your Dad Jamie: I'm sending you your handshake over the internet today, we were thinking of you over the last few days. Losing a tooth is so cool! and the zoo looked like fun. I said an Our Father for you last night, but sometime I forget the last part so I just had to make some up. Take care and God Bless, Eric Recker Hi Jamie! This is Grandma Karen trying to post a message for the third time. We are taking good care of Sydney. Sydney and Paco are great pals now. Sydney even went to a walk with Paco and Grandpa Larry at the Dog Park. Sydney didn't even run away. Maybe when you come home we will take both dogs to the "dog wash". Riley can help us wash them both!!!! Take care of yourself and be good to your parents. Love Grandma Karen

6/2/05 Thursday Messages

Congratulations on the first tooth loss. We hope the tooth fairy was very generous! Have a great weekend and we will keep our prayers going strong for next week. We love you, the Ackleys T&T and boys: Sorting and sending raffle prizes! I snagged you a toaster as I know yours is terrible. Least or your worries today, I know - but it gave me something else to think about then what you must be dealing with. Looking forward to some good news tonight in my in-box. Been thinking about you all day. Stay strong - I love you! --Brad Teri and Tom: Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Congrats on the new Magistrate job Tom. You will do a great job! Love, Susie and Brett Noonan and family Jamie: You are in our thoughts today as you begin your journey to feeling better. We are so glad you had a good "zoo day" and loved seeing the pictures. Hope the Tooth Fairy was good to you. We will be up to see you and Mom and Dad sometime soon. Our love and concern, Aunt Sherri and Uncle Ken Dear Jamie, Jesse, Teri, Tom & baby Drew: We are praying for you all and wish you the best during this difficult time. You have a lot of support and love! God is with you! Love you, The Dunnes Jamie and family: Keep your spirits up. Lots of people are praying for you all. I am Deven Strief's aunt Linda. I know that you are all facing an incredible journey. Hang on!

6/1/05 Wednesday Messages

Teri, Tom, and Jamie, I've been thinking of all of you often and wish you well as you begin this journey of treatment.  From the messages and updates it sounds as if you are as prepared and up to speed as you possibly can be.  Your strength and courage for Jamie is inspiring.  We wish you every blessing at this time and always!  Kelly Tom, Teri, Jamie, Jesse, & Drew: Our hearts and prayers go out to you as you start this long a painful road to recovery.  We can't wait to see all the boys and you out and about the neighborhood again.  It was great to see all those little boys, dad, and uncle shaving their heads for Jamie, it brought tears to your eyes.   Ryan is still rubbing his head and wants to keep it that short.  Ryan and Julia send their love and prayers and a great big hug.  Give Jamie a big hug from us too!  Tell Jamie way to go on losing his first tooth, I hope the tooth fairy was good to him. God Bless You. Love, The Gasper's Hi and love from Uncle Doug, Aunt Nancy, Matt, Alex and Brett Hi Jamie, Tom, Teri and all: We wanted you to know that we are all thinking of you and praying for you. We have added you to our prayer chain at church and have asked our friends and relatives to pray also. With everyone's love, support and prayers, you will all pull through this. Just hang in there and look for the rainbow ahead. Love Marge and Rich TeKippe Brad - Thank you so much for setting up the website. It lets us keep in touch. Your Mom sent us an email but know she is busy to keep sending on to everyone and this is perfect. Hi Judy. Take care. Love Marge TeKippe Hello Jamie - I know the tooth fairy will find you in Milwaukee -- Please send us a picture without your tooth. Trent can't wait to see you toothless! We are thinking of you! Love Leah, Dan, Riley, Trent & Russ Teri, Tom, Jamie, Jesse and Drew: Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. The Daacks Tom and Teri: My prayers are with you and your entire family! I hope all goes well. Tina Hartig CA's Office Jamie, Congratulations on losing your first tooth!! Glad you found it. Did the tooth fairy find you okay? You must be ready for kindergarten if you're losing teeth already. You're certainly getting to be a big boy! By the way, I love your new hair cut. It looks great on everyone. We are thinking about you every day! Take care, Jill Crean Hi Jamie, We think about you all of the time!! We are putting our boat in the water and can't wait until you are able to go for a ride!!! You hang in there. We are praying for you. Aunt Deb, Uncle Don, Moe and Brenna Jamie and family: We are all thinking and praying for each one of you! We know you are all wrapped in the arms of the Comforting Savior as you go through these challenging times. Quinn has another quick message: "Hi, Jamie. I wish you feel better!" All your friends and neighbors will be anxious to see you all when you are back home again!! Prayers from Quinn's Gramma Mary and all the Baumhovers!! Hi Jamie: This is Jon's mom. We just found out about your website last night (very COOL!) and Jon wanted me to tell you he misses you and prays for you every night. Keep smiling and be brave - we're all rooting for you! All our love, The Ludovissy's Hi, Jamie, this is Grandma Judy. Daddy told me you lost your first tooth today. You really are getting to be a big boy!! Can't wait to see you smile at me with a missing tooth. God bless you all and stay brave. In my mind's eye, I see you all surrounded by Angel Wings representing God's loving care. It gives me comfort on the bad days. Love you all, Mom

5/31/05 Tuesday Messages

Please know that we are all praying for each of you.  Hang in there guys!  On good days have a blast and when the bad days are at hand, sit back in Mom and Dad's arms and just let them love you.  Mom and Dad; In the quiet times hang onto one another and just let God love the both of you.  We are holding all of you in our hearts as He holds you in the palm of His loving hands.  God Bless!  Love, Carol Coates (Nancy's friend)   Hi Jamie and Jesse!  I had a lot of fun yesterday playing and buzzing my hair.  I am going to miss you while you are gone.  I will say a prayer every night before bed, that you get better really soon.  You are my bravest friends!  See you soon!   Your Friend,  Jakob Decker Dear Jamie, We hope all is going well in Milwaukee. We are all thinking of you. We miss you very much. Jon and Riley can't wait until you are back. Don't worry about your brothers, we are taking good care of them while you are getting better. Everyone loves Jesse's new do. We can't wait to see yours. Be strong Jamie and get better soon. We love you and miss you very much. All your friends at NICC Hi Jamie, this is Quinn Baumhover from pre-school. I've been thinking and praying for you. I stopped at the statue of Mary at mass on Sunday and said a special prayer for you. I hope you feel better soon so we can play Star Wars together. Hang in there buddy! Love, Quinn Baumhover

5/30/05 Monday Messages

I've been so caught up in posting messages and photos that I realized - I haven't sent a message! The photos Kris sent today were so very special and made me feel like I was there - even though I'm so far away! Good luck this week with everything - my thoughts are with you all. I'm looking forward to next Summer when you will all be here and I can take you to Disney World! I just came up with that plan - but now it's posted on the internet - so it's an official event. Thinking of you! Love - Uncle Brad. Hi, Tom, Teri, Jamie, Jesse, and Drew!! We are thinking of you and pray for you all every day!!! We miss you and look forward to coming to visit you when you are all feeling up to it!! The Creans~James, Jill, Jackson, Jared and Julia Wishing everyone the best for a speedy recovery...we want you to visit us on the farm very soon, to ride the 4 wheeler and see the cows! Love Uncle Doug, Aunt Nancy, Brett, Matt, and Alex! Teri and Tom, We are all thinking of you in your days to come. Our prayers have been heard and Jesse will be so strong to help his big bro. All our love to you, The McMurrays

5/29/05 Saturday Messages

Hope all is going well.  You are in our prayers. The Kaufmann's (Eric & Julie ) Hi Jamie. This is Peyton Bennett from preschool. I hope that you are having a good weekend and are feeling really super. I have missed you a lot in preschool. Everyone has. We have been saying lots and lots of prayers for you to feel better at school and at home. My mommy, daddy and brother say HI too and hope you are feeling better really really soon. XOXOXOXO Peyton Bennett Hi Jamie! We sure do miss you at school - Riley and Jon especially! We have made a book for you and will be sending it to you next week along with a few other surpises! You and your brother Jesse are tough guys! I bet it makes you feel good to know that he will be there to help you fight this. We pray for you every day at school and can't wait until you are ready to come back home. Love Mrs. Kuhlmann We will keep Jamie in our thoughts and prayers. He is a brave little guy. We are friends of Judy and Tom's. My husband was in the Navy Reserves with Tom. Again all our best wishes and prayers for Jamie. Don and June Grass

5/27/05 Friday Messages

Hi Jamie, Jamie you are my best buddy and I am praying you get better real soon so we can play at each others houses. Get well and I will come and visit you as soon as mommy and daddy says it's ok. Ryan I worked with Grandma Karen at the Dubuque Schools. I just wanted you to know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Stay strong!!! Family, friends and prayer are there for you and you will get through this! Amy VanderMeulen Dear Ken (Kelting): Every note I sing will be in prayer for your great nephew--life stops in its tracks when something like this happens and every parent should pray that this dear child heals quickly. Blessings to you and your family, Diane Dear Jamie and family: I feel so badly that this is happening but I know that you will beat this. You have a wonderful family to love and help you. I had to laugh and cry at the same time when I read the comments under "Brothers". Jesse may bribe Jamie but I can only imagine how close these two will remain with the bond that will be formed during treatment. My prayers are with you all each and every step of the way. By the way Jamie, did you know that your Grandma Judy and I are best friends? She shows me all of your pictures and we get to talk about how cute you and your brothers are! That's what Grandmas do! -- Love, Sue Troester Everyone in the County Attorney's Office wish Tom and his family a safe journey through this difficult time. We will continue to pray for Jamie and Jesse to have a speedy recovery. Just wanted you to know that I will add Jamie and all of you to my prayers. I will also pass this on to other TM staff members to help keep the prayer chain going. Sandy Clark You and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers. I will pass on this information to my family and I know they will pray for you also. Barb Aird We just heard about Jamie and will keep him in our prayers and will let our kids know about the web-site. Rosie and Larry deLorimier

5/26/05 Emails forwarded from Ken Kelting

Ken, thanks so much for the site. Barb and I are with him daily... ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Ken, thanks for including me. I have put your family's situation out to a few of my strong Christian colleagues to make certain that Jamie and Jesse along with the rest of you are included in prayer chains that they participate in. -- Mary ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Thank you, Ken, for providing me with the update website for Jamie and his family. What a special boy and what a tremendous family. It is a privilege to be included among those who are praying for Jamie and Jesse. -- Molly ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Hi Brad, Ken told me about your nephew. I'm really sorry. I pray that Jamie will get well.---- The website is a great idea---and very well done. --Nancy McKnight

5/26/05 Messages

Dear Jamie: This is your sort-of-auntie Patrice, Uncle Brad's friend for a long time. I hope you are feeling better soon so that sometime when Uncle Brad is visiting Dubuque we can get all the nephews together to play. My nephews, Landon (almost 5) and Caleb (just 1) would love to meet you, Jessie and Andrew. They live in Dubuque not too far from Grandma Judy! I'm sure we could find many things to do together and Uncle Brad and I could make sure you are on the right track to making the lives of our brothers and sisters-in-law...let's say..."challenging" by teaching you how to have "fun". Tom, Teri, Judy, Tom...as you know my parents are just a few miles away in Galena and Hope, Nick and the boys are there in Dubuque. If you need some extra grand-parenting assistance or a play date I'm sure they would be happy to help! And I'm not too far away, either; let me know if there is anything I can do to help!! Take good care, Patrice Hi, Jamie, this is Grandma Judy. Just want to tell you how much fun I had yesterday at our picnic and playing with you. I love you very much and will see you soon. Love, Grandma

5/17/05 Messages

Dear God, Brad, I did not know this was going on.  Please keep me posted on this, I am not able to give blood, but I have many friends and family that will be there for you and Jamie should you need us.  If there is anything else I can do, please do not hesitate to call me at any time to help.  Know that you and your family are in my prayers and thoughts.  My niece Lauren works at that hospital in the ICU or cardiac unit, she is doing EKG's while going to Marquette.  Please let me know when they arrive there, she has a way with children like you would not believe, she would be more then happy to stop and see them and offer any help she can.  She works for Easter Seals as well one weekend a month in the Dell's, she has some pretty heavy connections and works with some amazing people who are always more the willing to help out when it comes to the kids.  School is over for her, but she stays there for the summer since she is working so she will be around.  I will send her an email and give her a heads up that they are coming there. Love to you, Bon (Bonnie M. Czarny) Oh, my my my my. I'm so very very sorry to learn this. Having been there (with Mark) I can only hope that Tom and Teri are up for the fight they'll have these next months. It's so good that they have strong family support and I'm hopeful that a bone marrow match can be found in one of his sibs or other family member. Poor little guy. I'm so sad for him and all the pain he'll have to endure at his tender age. No one ever said life was fair but when little children are stricken with the horrors of disease, it makes it almost impossible to understand. If you're looking for a way to help, donate blood to your local blood bank. We relied heavily on that when Mark was sick and needing transfusions of platelets. I'm sick at heart for him and his little family and all of you who love him. But thanks for telling me because you're right -- we're all in this together and strong connections strengthen us all. -- Barbara Johnson