Family of Five
We found out on January 22nd that Layla’s cancer had come back. The doctors told us to expect to have 2-6 more months with her. I started planning and making a list of all the things we were going to cram into the next few months. One of those things was a family photo shoot. I had tons of pictures of the kids, but had never had any taken of all 5 of us. So I added that to my ever growing list and set out to find the perfect outfits. I wanted to have the pictures taken in the spring so I was casually looking for the perfect dresses for the girls. Towards the beginning of February, Layla became very fussy. After a few days of this, I took her to the doctor. During the exam, the doctor felt a large mass that wasn’t on the scans 2 weeks prior. She had another scan done that day that revealed 2 large new tumors. We were told to prepare ourselves for only about a month with her.
Suddenly those pictures became a HUGE priority. Her “good” days were slipping by very quickly. One of our neighbors, Christie Lacy, is a fabulous photographer. We contacted her and set up a shoot for early the next week. Within 2 days Layla had deteriorated more and the doctor told us that we would lose her within the next 2 weeks. We called Christie on a Thursday afternoon and asked if we could move the shoot up. Her response was “Let’s do it now. I can be ready in about 2 hours”.
Great! But what do we wear?!?!
I rushed out to find something for the girls to wear. Did I mention it was 32 degrees that day? And had been raining all week so the ground was muddy? Also, it’s really difficult to find long sleeve dresses in February. There were already bathing suits on the racks!
I found the perfect dresses, rushed home to shower and throw some makeup on, and we headed out the door…down the street behind our houses. To the muddy bayou. But THIS is why Christie is SO amazing. She made the muddy bayou look gorgeous. Even though the kids lips were blue and they were shaking, you’d never know by looking at the pictures! After about 10 minutes (that’s all we could stand out there) we headed back to my house to take some indoor shots.
When your child is dying from cancer, the house is the LAST thing on the list. Dishes don’t get picked up, clothes don’t get folded, floors don’t get swept, toys the dog has drug around don’t get picked up…..to say the house was a mess would be an understatement. BUT, in the pictures, the house looks spotless!
Christie took beautiful pictures that day. Pictures that I will cherish the rest of my life. Not pictures I will walk by and glance at; pictures that will remind me of the last “good” day we had with Layla. The last day she was able to lift her head up without crying. The last day she was able to sit up and read a book. The last day she smiled. I am forever grateful to Christie Lacy. She has blessed our family tremendously by capturing a precious moment in time.
As if that wasn’t enough, she is still wanting to do more. If you live in the Houston area, check out her “Portrait Party For Layla” Benefit. Her work speaks for itself and this is your chance to get a session WITH prints for only $50!! She captures the beauty and personality in every child. See for yourself…
Gorgeous little girl and family. My prayers are with you!
such sweet pictures.
your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
It is clear in looking at these photos that Layla is no mere child but one of heaven’s angels. God bless you and your family. I pray for that angel’s peace as well as yours.
Heres a poem to brighten your mood
Layla Grace, you put a smille on every bodies face
The world shines on you, but to let you know i love you to!
I pray every night, let God shine a bright light
I know youve had 2 years of mercy, and all of us are feared with worry
But dont have fear, painless days are near
Layla will be taken to a happy land, using god as a helping hand
I just found your blog and wanted to let you know I am praying for all you! May God watch over you all and protect you during this difficult time.
Candace
Dallas, TX
These pictures are beautiful. Thank you for sharing them with us. In fact, thank you for sharing this entire journey. Layla has affected an entire world and we will be forever changed from knowing about her. Peace be with you.
Those pictures are beautiful!! I think about little Layla every day and will continue to do so! Much love to all of you during this tough time
Your family is beautiful. As I read your story and see your pictures tears are coming down my face. You daughter will be in my prayers and will also be part the the prayers of ther school tomorrow and until I hear that Layla is ok. My familys prayer is strong and I believe that if we all have faith layla will see 3.
Beautiful pics… praying for you and your family
Oh what precious pictures! I am a new reader and I am lifting y’all lovingly in prayer throughout my days. Prayers for you, prayers for the sweet sisters, and prayers for that precious Layla Grace.
Wow. Those are BEAUTIFUL pics! Extraordinarily so! And you’re right, no one would be able to tell that the weather outside was unbearably cold. God gives enough grace for all kinds of things, doesn’t He! He’s always so faithful and so GOoD!
As I said in my last comment. I’ll be praying frevently for you, your family, and mostly for your girl, Layla. May God bless you royally in all that He does.
What a beautiful family…
Shanna, Ryan, Layla and sisters,
Such beautiful pictures everyone took!!!!! ((((still praying for miracles))))
Love,
The Burk Family–Iowa
You are all beautiful.
These pictures are beautiful. I am praying for your family. Layla has touched my heart, through your writing, more than I could explain in words. My life has truly been changed by your sweet angel.
I am so touched by your faith. I know my Redeemer lives with you. I am praying for you all without ceasing.
A beautiful and treasured memory that you will cherish forever and always. Prayers continue
Praying for your family of 5. You have a gorgeous family. Laylas story has touched my heart.
so beautiful and bittersweet. Your family is in my prayers.
amazing! Everything about your family is beautiful! Layla and your whole family are in my CONSTANT prayers.
I stumbled on your twitter account a few days ago when Kim Kardashian retweeted a post of yours, since then I have begun to read your blog and follow your tweets, your story is truley touching. I just wanted to let you know that Layla and your family are in my prayers. You have a beautiful daughter and I will definitely be attending the benefit at the Meridian. Good Luck and God Bless, Brittany
God Bless You and your family. My daughter and I pray for little princess Layla several times a day. Layla has made me become a better mother to my daughter…now I make more time to make messes than to pick them up….thank you for reminding me to celebrate life…
I cannot see through tears as I type this to you. Those pictures are exquisite. You are wonderful, amazing people, and I pray for a miracle for Layla. I pray for your strength and her strength… there are no words to convey how my heart is breaking without even knowing your family. I wish for nothing short of a miracle for your little princess. Please know you all have touched my heart more than you will ever know. All of my love to you and your family and to your precious little girl.
You have a beautiful family. You are so blessed. These pictures will be a wonderful memory of your precious baby. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May the angels be by your side.
Those pictures are something you will cherish forever. My heart aches for your family. God Bless and know that we are always praying and thinking of you all.
Love these pictures…I know they will be cherished forever. Praying for your family and lil Layla. Maranatha!
Such beautiful photos of a beautiful and graceful family.
These pictures are beautiful. Layla is absolutely adorable along with your other two girls. All of the pictures show a happy family with three happy daughters. I saw the rest of the pictures on your flikr. I cry just thinking about it. What a strong little girl Layla is. Such a beautiful spirit that has captured the hearts of so many. I myself am a survivor of childhood cancer (retinoblastoma) and I can’t help bu wonder why miracles happen for some and not others. it’s horrible how it could have been prevented, if only people knew the tests needed. Layla will live on through memories. I am so grateful that you had this last day to be a picture perfect family. Stay strong anf fight for her and other children long after she can’t. you are an amazing family who has shown the world (twitter world) a story that is so often left untold. Be strong little Layla, and know you have touched the hearts and souls of so many.
these pictures are perfect.
She is beautiful. All three of your shes (I have three shes too). I’m so glad you have so much love and so sorry for all the rest.
These pictures are truly heartbreakingly beautiful, and I know you will cherish them. Even as a parent, I cannot wrap my mind around what your family is going through, but I thank you for sharing it with me. My life has truly been changed and blessed by Layla Grace. Because of her, I will take the time to truly cherish my son and realize how richly blessed I am. She reminds me that life is fleeting. May God give you peace and comfort as He provides the ultimate healing for Layla Grace and welcomes his faithful servant home.
I’ve been following your tweets, and reading your blog posts. Every time I do – my heart breaks just a little bit more for you and your family. What Layla must be feeling, and can’t voice has got to be so difficult. You and your husband are amazing for standing by each other through this horrible ordeal, that would normally break people apart. Your daughters are beautiful! You have wonderful family pictures that you’ll be able to enjoy, and reflect back upon. Those reflections will get easier as time goes on – though It won’t seem like it for many many months.
We’re praying for Layla and your entire family out on the west coast. Here’s a bunch of hugs from California!
Be well!
Michael (Pipe Mike)
What a fabulous thing to have of your family. The pictures are gorgeous. I love the one of Layla & Daddy reading! You’re all in my thoughts and prayers!
Those are gorgeous, thank you so much for sharing with us. Love and prayers to you all.
Angelique
Dear Friend,
I found you after MckMama tweeted about your sweet Layla. These pictures are beautiful and I am moved to tears over them, especially the picture of Layla hugging her Dada. Your family is beautiful and I have praying for you in the short time I’ve known your story. May God grant you a peaceful heart and may He bless and provide for your sweet baby girl.
I am so glad that you were able to take these absolutely beautiful photos with your family. They are amazing and I know that you will treasure them always. I will keep Layla and your family in my prayers tonight.
Beautiful pictures; Beautiful family. God bless you all.
Praying for you all. What beautiful pictures to have of your family all together.
absolutely amazing photos. i am so very glad that you will have photos of time standing still, moments frozen forever of your precious family together
I have no words. Nothing I try to say does anything she captured in the pictures justice, which is the beauty of good photography – no words are needed! I am smiling and crying and welled up with emotion, and I am so thankful y’all were able to have the opportunity to do this shoot. cherished moments captured for eternity.
I’m thankful for the picture that shows Layla’s personalized sippy cup in the foreground. It made me smile through the tears! Those cups seem to always be close at hand for her. All of your daughters are beautiful. Thanks for sharing these deeply personal family moments.
these pictures are absolutely gorgeous. you are lucky that you had someone to do this for you, this is something you can always treasure. theyre beautiful!
Such powerful beauty in your photos. Thank you for sharing such intimate and lovely pictures. Your family is beautiful. So beautiful. You make me want to be a stronger person as I watch you and your family go through this adversity. You are a role model for me in many ways. I don’t know if I could face this challenge with the class you exude. I pray for peace for Layla and continue to encourage others to
do the same thru Twitter. Love,
a stranger who cares
Your family is as beautiful as I could have imagined. You all have blessed my children with a better mother that I will be to them. I pray for you to have peace and comfort! You are loved throughout.
GORGEOUS pictures!!
Layla and your whole family are in my CONSTANT prayers
Thank you for sharing your story! Layla is beautiful and amazing! And you, her family, are just as amazing! I wish there were words to express how much my heart breaks for you, but is also so inspired by you and Layla at the same time! My prayers are with all of you constantly! Miracles do happen and I am praying for one for little Layla constantly!
Stunning pictures. I know Christie’s work and she is awesome. I’m so glad she was able to provide you with these wonderful memories.
Your family is beautiful.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
the pictures are beautiful im keeping layla and your family in my prayers
There are no words… Beautiful pictures of a beautiful family. Christine is amazing.
What a beautiful family – and beautiful portraits! Just remember, God is carrying you in the palm of His hand, just hang on tight…
These pictures are just absolutely stunning, they make me cry at how beautiful they are. I am sooo HAPPY that you were able to get these pictures and memories captured they will forever be there to see.
We are still praying!!!
I am so glad you got these pictures taken!!
These are GORGEOUS!!! What an amazing way to capture your sweet family!
I just found your blog this week and wanted you to know that I’m praying for your family. May God be ever-present in your home, bringing each of you comfort and peace. Layla is a beautiful gift from Him and we can be certain that she is precious to Him.
Your family is simply gorgeous. Thinking of you and keeping y’all in my prayers – - praying so hard that you all find peace.
The photos are stunning. You have a beautiful family. I’m glad you were able to get these photos!! I continue to pray for Layla and her fight with this horrible disease. I also pray that God gives your family the strength and comfort that you need in this difficult time!!!
They truly are beautiful. Your family is so strong and you all deserve to have each other for years. I pray for you often and still pray that God will work a miracle, and if that is not God’s plan, then to carry her softly Home. Thank you for sharing your painful journey with us. I am a different person because of your willingness to share. May you be comforted by God’s loving embrace. All of my love to all of you.
such a precious family!
I just read your blog and cried! Why do babies have to die? I guess Satan thinks he won, but when little Layla’s tiny hand is taken by the Angels and she is set in our Lord’s lap. Then Satan will realize.. he didn’t win after all!
I am praying for a miracle! There are miracles all around us all the time! Dear God cover little Layla with the blood of Jesus! heal her cancer Lord! Make it mysteriously disapper! in Jesus name I pray!! Amen
What a perfect family! Your faith and strength are so awesome and you make such a beautiful family together! Thank you so much for sharing so much of your journey- it really has changed so many people’s outlook on life as well as their faith. God Bless you all!
In Christ’s Love,
C.O.L.E. Prayer Team
http://www.colesfoundation.com
I love your pictures! I love your family and don;t even know you guys. I just joined Rufflebutts and read about little Layla. We are praying for her and have done so already several times tonight. May God bless you guys and little Layla with a sweet snuggly night.
Absolutely beautiful pictures!
Such amazing, beautiful photos…such a thing can’t be manufactured though, they are amazing and beautiful because that’s what your family is. Like someone else said, Layla really does have an angelic quality that she radiates. The photos of her with her daddy really touch me, her adoration is plain to see…and his too. I can see your husband’s pain underneath his love, but his love is first. I’m just so heartbroken for you. I’m so sorry is not enough, but I don’t know what else to say. You’re special people, I am blessed to have been able to witness your Layla’s & your familiy’s powerful testimony. I feel honored to be praying for you all…I will continue to do so for a long time.
Beautiful family! What a precious little angel Layla is. So glad you were able to get these done. Beautiful memories forever.
What a beautiful day that was and what wonderful memories for you! God bless you all in the tough times to come.
You guys are so strong and all so beautiful! I love the pics!
Absolutely beautiful pictures! They are so heartwarming. Keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers.
You have beautiful girls!
(((hugs)))
My husband and I just found out about your precious Layla. We have a little girl who is about the same age. Our hearts break for you and your family! Our silent tears have not stopped since we read your story! I pray for her peace and your family! She is a Beautiful Angel!
In our thoughts and prayers,
Your strength is beyond words
God bless your sweet dear Layla
Downey Family
Northern California
These are beautiful pictures, ones I know you’ll treasure forever. What a blessing to have Christie be able to take them for you. All three of your girls are beautiful. Praying with a heavy burden on my heart for your family today and tonight and every day as you go through this. Love to your family.
Gorgeous pictures. I’ve made everyone I know aware of Baby Layla’s journey and strength. Lets pray for a Miracle, it can still happen. I’m sure thousands will be praying tonight, especially knowing she’s sleeping with mommy and daddy. How exciting but scary at the same time. Layla has touched my heart more than any child I have ever came across. She’s a few months younger than my own daughter, and it really has had a huge impact on me and the way I feel towards my daughter. She has made my faith so much stronger. Still praying for a miracle or for Layla to rest in peace and for all her pain to be taken away so she can be an Angel for all the other children who need her. For her sisters who will be left without her. For her Mommy and Daddy who will forever have Layla in their hearts. For the millions she has touched. Let’s keep faith that this was His plan for her, and she has done what she was sent for! I’m sure I’m not the only one whose Faith and outlook has changed drastically. We thank Layla for that. She is a beautiful girl and will make a great Angel one day. Hopefully later rather than sooner. Praying for you guys! -Christine Striano
thank you for posting these beautiful photos.My son passed away 17 yrs ago next week.he was 2 months old and died from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.My favorite photo is of him and I that my brother took.Truth of the matter is no one knows how long any of us are here.Could be a day a month a year or a hundred years.Through my sons death I have learn to appreciate everyone in my life now.Yes my house is a mess because I took the time to go to my 10 yr olds soccer game!The chores can wait.Dont worry about the house enjoy your family now.Every night I get on my knees and Thank God for my children and while there Ii say hello to my special angel Brian.I will continue to pray for a miracle for Layla but if one does not come know that Her spirit soul and heart will live on in you and all the people that know of her story.I will pray for a miracle but at the same time ask God to ease her pain and give her peace and welcome her into heaven and grant you the strength to go on should that miracle not come.God Bess You all
My heart is breaking for your family right now. I can’t even begin to imagine what you are going through. Those pictures are wonderful and I am so glad you were able to get them!
Those pictures are so beyond beautiful. So glad you got to capture such precious moments. All 3 of your daughters are stunning.
You have a beautiful family and my heart goes out to all of you. I’m continuously keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers. I love your daughter and I don’t even know her.
With love,
Marie
Those pictures are stunning! What a beautiful family!!!
Such a blessing. I am so happy you have these pictures to remind you of your sweet baby girl. Much love and many prayers for your family today and in the days to come. Praying for peace for Layla, she deserves for this time to be pain free and peaceful, as do all of you. Praying for God’s comfort in your lives. My heart breaks for all of you.
Oh my god! God gave you a beautiful angel, and the reason why he wanna take it away is because he needs this beautiful girl to shine in heaven, my prayes are with all of you adn I hope you guys can find the strenght that you need!
Beautiful pictures of a sweet, sweet family. God has blessed you with a deep and abiding love. He knows your heart is hurting and He will comfort you and bring you peace.
she is a beautiful little girl its a same that a beautiful little girl has cancer youll have such a beautiful family my prayers and thoughts are with her and your family this story just breaks my heart god bless you
I have recently been following your blog. Layla is beautiful, I am in tears for her and your family. She is an angel. I’m saying prayers for your sweet girl.
Gorgeous kids and wonderful pictures. Your story is heart-wrenching. It is one that I will hold in my heart and think of on the days when parenting feels hard. My prayers go out to you and yours. God must have blessed YOU with this special little person for a reason. Remember to let the tears flow when you need to.
Wow…what a wonderful gift Christie provided your family. The pictures are amazing and your family is beautiful. God bless you all as you continue your journey and may He comfort you in your time of need. Your story has touched many lives. God bless you.
Thank you for helping me to appreciate my child so much. There isn’t anything in life that is more important than your family. I pray for peace for you and your family. I pray for a miracle for Layla.
All my hope and wishes,
Elizabeth
Sweet baby girl. You have such a beautiful family. We are praying for you all here in North Carolina. Much peace, Casey
I am speechless. There are no words to express for the sorrow I feel for you and your family. I am so thankful that you have shared this journey with us moms out there. I too have 3 kids, a 8 year old, 7 year old and 10 month old. I cannot imagine having to go through what you are with precious Layla. The pictures are amazing and she is truly an angel on earth. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
I just stumbled upon your story tonight, and it has brought me to tears. The only thing that can always make me cry is listening to someone speak of losing a child.
My parents lost an infant daughter, a Christmas baby, before I was born, and I can not begin to imagine the pain it caused them. I can only hope that I never have to go through what my parents suffered and what you and your family are suffering now. A day does not pass that Lily Anna, the sister I never met but who has still profoundly impacted everything about the person I am now, does not cross my mind in some little way. I have always tried to live my life in a good, honest way, trying to do everything and be everything that I can because she never got the chance. I know that Jenna and Claire will carry Layla with them forever just as I carry Lily with me.
The photos are truly gorgeous. You have a beautiful family. You are all in the thoughts of a family in South Carolina who have been in the same place.
I have faith but i wrote about her going to heaven in my poem, hopefully she sees the sunshine of her 3rd b-day
The Photos are stunning and to be cherished forever. They are beautiful. You have 3 Gorgeous Princesses! My daughter was on my lap while reading your blog and saw Layla and sent her a kiss. We pray for a miracle each night! Keep your spirits up. Maria and Sadie
The pictures are so gorgeous! Beautiful family!!
I’ve grown attached to many kids over the past year as I watch their journey on the same road your traveling. I’ve begged and prayed to the Lord to give them an earthly healing. I’ve sat helplessly on the sidelines for each. I am heart broken over Layla’s struggle and I am still begging for a miracle, and I am praying without ceasing for your peace and comfort as you travel these last few moments together.
Soon she’ll be in the arms of Jesus; a place we cannot fathom. She will be whole, healed, and perfect. Soon, we’ll all get to spend forever with our Father… AND Layla Grace.
Thank you so much for sharing your life with me. I will never forget the way I feel about your family and Layla Grace… and I cannot wait to meet her; whether it be in heaven, or here on this earth. I know I will meet her because she has melted my heart.
God bless each of you, and thank you once again. My heart, thoughts and prayers are with you.
COLEs Prayer Team
http://www.colesfoundation.com
Lindsay Manfull
Beautiful pictures and gorgeous family. I admire your strength and appreciate you sharing your beautiful angel with all of us. I pray for peace for Layla and your family.
Love, Letty
Menifee, California
Don’t even know you, but these pictures say a lot about you. What a beautiful family and such love and fun exude from these pictures! Praying for little Layla and your family. What a treasure these are and what a friend you have to take the time and have the eye to be able to come up with such wonderful pics. God bless you. Praying for His peace.
Layla is gorgeous! Your whole family looks great! Lovely family. Sending lots of love, strength and prayers your way. You’re blessed with such a pretty angel:)
xoxo
What beautiful girls you have! As a mother and grandmother, my heart aches for you and your family. In your darkest hour, may you always know that you are not alone. Your beautiful Layla Grace has touched the hearts of those of us who have never met her. God Bless you and your family!
I recently came across your blog and my prayers are with you and your family. Your photos are absolutely amazing! We don’t understand this dreadful disease, but I know one day we will see our beautiful children in heaven in the way we can only imagine. Until then, we will treasure the wonderful moments we have and rejoice in the greatness we have had. Our thoughts and prayers will continue for you and your sweet Layla.
What beautiful pictures of your precious family! Thanks so much for sharing them w/us!
What a awesome memory to share together!
Oh Shanna I hurt for your sweet family so much. Everytime I read a Twitter update I tear up and everytime I read a blog post I cry. I pray with my children for sweet Layla and your family several times a day… She is in my thoughts constantly and I am pleading with God to heal her. I am praying for peace and strength and comfort for Layla and your family. He will see you through this if He chooses to take her. My prayers are with you all.. With Love in Christ , Jodee..
My heart aches for you tonight… Peace be with you. Such a beautiful little girl, such a beautiful family. I will huge my three extra tight tonight!
You have a beautiful family. Layla is such a precious angel. May God be with you through this tough time.
The pictures are BEAUTIFUL!! You have such beautiful girls. we are continuing to pray for you and your family
Goodbyes are not forever.
Goodbyes are not the end.
They simply mean I’ll miss you
Until we meet again!
~Author Unknown
These photos are so special and GORGEOUS! You have such a beautiful family. I could not imagine more perfect looking little girls. And Christie is a fabulous photographer; no one would ever guess by looking at these that it was such a cold, muddy day! The first one of the entire family is one of the most breathtaking photos I have ever seen.
My fervent prayers are with you and your family and especially little Layla right now. I know it must be such a relief to know that so many prayers are being wrapped around your lovely family right now, but I also know that you are still very much in pain. Just remember, the Lord knows what is best, and He can work miracles. I have only been following Layla’s story for a couple days, but I can truly say that my relationship with the Lord has been strengthened. Layla’s purpose in life has been fulfilled by strengthening complete strangers’ relationships with Him; she has accomplished in her tiny life what most people never achieve.
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”
These are absolutely gorgeous pictures. Little Miss Layla is the most precious little thing i’ve EVER seen. Her little smile just melts my heart. To see an innocent little child taken over by this horrible monster is NOT fair. I don’t know Layla or your family personally, but have been keeping up with all of this. Please do know that we’re thinking of you all and especially Little Layla. Baby girl we love you and all are thinking of you.
These are a treasure! Amaizing pictures! Does she come to LA? Keeping on my phone bookmark always !!!! Praying for all I’d you and constantly sending you Angelesxxxxxxxx <3
My heart is just breaking for you family! Your family is absolutely beautiful and I can’t even imagine going through something like this. My life has been touched by your little Layla Grace and I am praying for you family as you go through this. Thank you for sharing your story.
Your family pictures are beautiful. I especially like the close up one of Layla with her head on her daddy’s shoulder. I hurt for your family and I pray often for Layla since I read her story a few days ago. Yesterday afternoon when I was praying, Chris Tomlin’s song “I Will Rise” came on the radio- incredible song that seems written just for Layla.
Breathtaking! Sending so many prayers your way….
Beautiful pictures!!!!!! Ones you will cherish FOREVER!!!!! Layla and daddy reading, just MELTS my heart!
As I read your blogs and see your beautiful family pictures I can’t stop crying . I can’t say I know what you are going through I am a mother so I know the love for a child and your I pray for god to give your family the strength to get this difficult time you truly have a beautiful angel .I will pray for layla and your family .
AMAZING pictures! Thinking of you all and your sweet Layla constantly.
Your pictures are absolutley beautiful and what lovely photos to be able to cherish. Your family is beautiful and I am praying everyday for Layla Grace. She’s a beautiful little girl and I do hope for a miracle for her and your family.
God Bless you Layla and may God keep you safe!
You all are in my thoughts and prayers. May God comfort you and give you peace that only he can give. Your pictures are beautiful and so is your family.
Theresa Lankford
Buford, GA
The pictures are amazing, and wow! what a memory. I check your twitter page probably 3 or 4 times an hour….I will continue to pray for your families peace and comfort in the coming days. You have poured your soul into this and God will reward you and your family! He only gives these special children to certain people and you and your husband have been blessed!!! I pray her pain will cease and you will find your rest as God washes his grace and peace over you and your family!!! Love y’all……..(And Happy Birthday, Jenna)
I pray that these final moments with Layla, and the memories you have created for your family, will offer you comfort. And I pray continuously for Layla’s painless passage into the loving embrace of God. Peace to you all…
I found your blog through the Safe Haven prayer site. I’m so sorry you and your family are walking such a difficult road. My kids are four and one years of age and thanks to Layla, I don’t take my days with them for granted anymore.
I will be praying for Peace for you in the days and weeks to come.
Those pictures are magnificent. Ur family is beautiful. My eyes water each time I see ur tweets. I couldn’t imagine going through what u r now. U guys found out on my daughters birthday that the cancer had returned. U and ur family r in my prayers… God bless.
Natia.
I feel so selfish writing this comment through tears. I cannot fathom your pain, but oh how I feel the joy and love you’ve had in this short time. I am so profoundly sorry. WHat a beautiful, wondrous treasure— the pictures and your sweet family.
These are wonderful pictures and ones I know you will treasure for a lifetime.
Continuously sending prayers your way.
I just found out about your family and your website and want to let you know that you and your family are in my prayers. Layla and your entire family are so inspiring and I will forever be touched by your story. May God’s grace and love comfort you during this difficult time. Your family is beautiful. God bless
Dear Shanna
Thank you for sharing your story with me. I am a better person, wife, and mother. I admire your strength and eloquence. Please know that everyday you and your sweet family help to make the world a better place! My heart goes out to you and your family. My family and I had a special prayer circle at dinner in sweet Layla Grace’s honor. We have you all in our prayers!!
May god bless you. Thank you!
I just came across your blog tonight after finding your twitter page. For the last several hours I have been reading about precious Layla and Kate McRae. Suddenly things become very clear what is really important in life. Thank you for taking time at this unimaginably difficult time in your life to share your experiences with the world. I have been thinking how I have wanted to volunteer at the Children’s Hospital here in Indianapolis for some time now, but I guess time has just gotten away from me. I am happy to say that I have filled out my application tonight and hope to start in the very near future. I am so incredibly sorry for what you and your family are going through and I will be praying extra long for you tonight. Thank you again.
The pictures are just beautiful. I am sad to hear the girls said their goodbyes. I feel so bad for them. I just hope they know it is just a teporary goodbye and its a see ya later thing. You family has become such a huge part of my family. I admire you so much. I pray for your strength and for Layla to be comfortable. With much love to your family. The Thornburghs
I just found your site and read the last 3 posts. I was given the opportunity had to do hospice care for my grandfather, a time I’ll always cherish; I sat in the hospital with my son while he had 2 heart catheterizations and 2 open heart surgeries. I cannot bear to imagine the pain you are in. I can’t even read the other comments that have been left. All I can do is pray for you the prayer that I say for myself to have a peaceful heart. I’m so sorry any mama has to go through this. Please know that your words have touched me deeply. I hope you find comfort and peace yourself in whatever fashion you can. Big hugs from one mama to another.
bless your beautiful hearts
Bawling. Oh, Sweet Layla.
These pictures are priceless, beautiful and breathtaking. I’m a recent follower of your blog and it has touched me deeply. I have asked the Lord many times over the last few days “why”? I may never know the answer, but I will never stop praying for your family. Because of your blog I cherish every second with my children. I take nothing for granted even the crying and fits are a blessing to me now. Thank you for sharing your story and your precious daughter with us. God Bless You.
Your family are in my prayers. I followed this from my wifes facebook page.
-Bryant
Those pictures are beautiful and bring tears to my eyes.
Praying for you all ~
Good Evening Shanna and Family , i believe in miracles with all of my heart. I believe in the same God whos rose up Lazorus from his tumb. I believe on the same God who opened up the sea to free his people and i truly believe he is the same God then and now. His name is JESUS CHRIST the all mighty God the King of Kings and i know that behind every struggle every prayer, he finds the perfect time to Glorify his name. He is never early or late he comes right on time and i know that right now he is holding sweet little Layla and i declare in the name of Jesus that right now there are angels around your daughter just belive and keep your faith and he will come through in the name of Jesus Christ Amen…….
So beautiful!!!!!!
As tears run down my face, I pray for your family.
Layla is an Angel. Jenna and Claire are gorgeous.
Those photos are priceless.
God bless you all!
My heart is just breaking for Layla Grace and your entire family, but especially for you as her mother. As a mother of a daughter just a little bit younger that Layla, I cannot even imagine the pain, anguish, despair, and utter heartache that you all must be going through. And for such an obviously precious child to have to suffer like she has with such a terrible disease is just simply not fair!! I only found your site yesterday after linking up from MckMama, and I haven’t been able to get Layla or your family off my mind. I absolutely lost it and just bawled reading through your posts. Your faith and outward strength is amazing. I will continue to keep you all in my thoughts and prayers now and in the hours, days, weeks and months ahead. I pray that you will feel the arms of our Lord and Saviour holding you close and comforting you in your hours of grief. Please know you and your precious angel have touched my heart and life like no other. And although I have always tried to enjoy every moment, I will strive from yesterday forward to cherish every moment I have with her, because we just never know what lies ahead. Thank you for being strong enough to share your story, as painful as it must be, thank you!
Beautiful pictures. So glad you were able to get those family photos. I’ve been sharing Layla’s story the last few days myself … wish I’d learned of her story sooner so that I could have added my voice to the masses in hope for your daughter. There is a quote I used on a scrapbooking page about miscarriages I’ve had … An angel in the Book of Life, wrote down my baby’s birth. Then quietly whispered as he closed the book, “Too beautiful for Earth.” It could easily be modified for your sweet angel. …. still praying for comfort, and peace … and for strength for you all.
What beautiful pictures. Thank you for sharing. I have been immensely moved by your story and the strength and courage of Layla and your entire family. As a mother, I weep for you and your husband, for I can’t imagine a loss greater than that of a child; I feel my heart heavy in my chest for your older girls, for the confusion and fear and sorrow they have experienced through this journey and will continue to experience in the difficult days to come; and I pray, more passionately and more often than I have prayed in some time, for Layla’s peace and comfort. I also give thanks for your sweet little girl, because her story has truly changed me as a person and as a mother. If a miracle is not meant for her, I pray that you will find some small comfort in knowing that her story isn’t ending…it will continue on in the hearts and lives of strangers around the world who have been changed by your angelic Layla Grace.
What a blessing!!!
I stumbled across your website today and feel that it was a blessing that it happened. I am a stay at home mom and your postings have reminded me exactly why I took this job. We should take life one day at a time and live it to the fullest.
Dear beautiful Layla Grace, today I played with my little boys longer than usual and took them for a bike ride to the park. I watched them play and took in all that I could knowIng that you will soon earn your wings. I am grateful that I stumbled upon your website and that your family is willing to share your journey with us. Please know that we are hugging you ever so gently from far away……may your beautiful face always remind me that life is precious and to take the time with my boys to just have fun. As I wipe my tears I wish your family much comfort in the days ahead.
I made a page earlier tonight about Layla … please forgive me for snagging one of your pictures to make it, but I wanted to share it to add on prayers for your little girl … http://mindys365project.blogspot.com/2010/02/praying-for-peace-for-layla-grace.html
You have a beautiful family! Your beautiful faith and ability to share has touched so many people. I think you could write a book. You have a gift for making people see what is important! I have a 2-year-old daughter and a 6 year-old son. I hug them, and thank God for them every day, and try to cherish them more fully because of you. My life is changed because of that. You truly have a gift! Layla will live on in many hearts.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your beautiful family. That portrait session is gorgeous, as is your baby girl.
Your family is beautiful. May God bless all of you.
love hug kiss smile love hug kiss smile love(,,) hug kiss smile
Audrey Hinkle
9 year old turning 10 in march
Caldwell, ID
You would NEVER guess that weeks of planning didn’t go into that shoot. The outfits you picked out are perfect and the setting is beautiful. What a wonderful blessing to be able to get some special portraits of your family. You have a BEAUTIFUL family. I pray that Layla, along with the rest of your family has peace and comfort.
the pictures are beautiful. she did a fantastic job. i am so sorry you and your family are going through this. i pray for peace and comfort for you all. God Bless!
ive silently followed your blog for awhile now. so glad you had this day together to take amazing photos. your family is beautiful and Layla looks so wise beyond her years! i can tell that she knows what a great family she has and how loved she is. im amazed by your strength. your family is in my thoughts and prayers, as well as my tears, because im incredibly affected right now.
CAN YOU PLEASE READ THE POEM IT IS THE 4TH COMMENT
Shanna–I have been following your story just for a couple of weeks and I am in awe of your strength and your positivity in the face of this terrible adversity. The Lord is truly walking beside all of you. No words I can say will help ease your pain just know that even though the times ahead may seem dark, the Light will always and forever be with you and your family. May God bless all of you.
You will always be a beautiful family of five, and you will be together again with the Father for eternity. Layla is such a strong little girl and she has touched more lives than people who lived 100 years. She has known love, kindness and family. She learned the most important lessons life has to offer. I wish you and your family continued strength. Your family has inspired countless others; your touching stories and Layla’s sweet smile will be carried on forever.
We are praying for little Layla and for all those who know and love her.
I discovered your blog last night and because of that today was a blessed day- thank you for that gift.
I hugged my 5 month-old son a little tighter..I bombarded his chunky cheeks with kisses every chance I got..I didn’t give a second thought when he sprayed rice cereal everywhere..again, thank you for that gift from you and Layla.
Your family is beautiful and that shines through those pictures. I will be a prayer warrior for God’s miraculous healing mercies and strength to be bestowed upon Layla and your family.
Amazingly beautiful!!!! Treasure these photography truly is a gift u can’t replace. Prayin for u and precious Layla Grace. Your story truly has inspired me to hug my lil love Macy Grace a lil closer and tighter…
((((hugs)))) prayin
Your family is absolutely beautiful.
PRAYERS**
Tears are streaming down my face as I read your post. What an incredibly beautiful family. You are all so strong and incredible. And Layla, what a beautiful, special, strong girl.
I send you all my love and you and your family have all of my respect.
I wish I could take her hurt away. may god watch over her always. my thoughts and prayers to your family.
I just found your blog from Mckmama, your family is beautiful, and Layla is such a beautiful soul. My Family is praying for you
What a beautiful family! The pictures captured such a lovely spirit in each of you, despite the horrible situation you all face. I am truly touched by Layla’s story. What I hope gives you some comfort during this time is knowing how many lives have been touched by your brave and beautiful little girl.
-Aimee
I just wanted to say that you have a very beautiful family and these pictures do bring that out in you guys. She looks like such a strong little girl. Your lil girl and family are in my thoughts and prayers.
What beautiful pictures. I am so glad that everything came together and you were able to not only get the pictures but have such a special family time.
OMG!!!!! Such BEAUTIFUL pictures!!! They r ALL beautiful but my fav is the one w/ Layla & her daddy holding her in his arms!! Sooo precious! There is not a day, hour or min that goes by that I do not think of ur precious Layla. I know there are no words that I say that can take away the hurt & pain that u all r enduring. I can only hope & continue to pray for a miracle from the Lord above.
God bless you all & Layla
Lisa, Hercules, Cody, Ryver & Rayven Villapando
Canyon Country, CA
Words cannot express how your story make me feel. I found the post on facebook and I have been following Precious Layla ever since. You, Layla are a true warrior fighting daily like you do. You make others smile although you sometimes cannot. Layla I will forever be a better mother and person because you my dear child have taught me the meaning of life. And for that I owe you. May god keep you safe as I know he will. From South Carolina WE LOVE YOU!
Dear Layla Grace,
I have been following your story with abaited breath, hoping and praying that God will grant my selfish prayers and go against his plan to bring you home.
Today I wept for you as if you were my own child. I am consumed by these beautiful images of your life. I possess a fraction of the STRENGTH your Mother has portrayed and I commend her for exuding it when weakness would be far more expected. As a mother, our instinct is to make it all better and in this instance, love will have to be your band-aid.
I can only begin to fathom the pain you have suffered and understand that there are no clocks in Heaven. So tonight I will pray, as I have done many times before, that God will patch up your familys broken heart with visions of your smile and fill your home with echos of your laughter.
YOU will be the wind beneath your Mothers wings when she forgets how to soar in the middle of a storm.
Love,
Gabrielle
What a true blessing those pictures are!!! And such a wonderful photographer and person!!
God bless and keep you and your family in this trying time.
I have been following your story for quite a while. I am so thankful that Judith sent me your way with her auctions on eBay for little Layla.
Such a beautiful family. Your portraits are amazing. You will cherish them forever, I am sure. We are continuing to pray for sweet Layla here in Kentucky. My own children said prayers down on their knees tonight as well. Your story has touched as in so many ways. Thank you for sharing it with us.
Lord, please bless this family and take care of them in their time of need. Please hold little Layla Grace close to you as she passes into your loving embrace. Please help this family to stay strong and lean on each other as well as You during this most difficult time of their lives. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
We have been praying for you and your precious little angel girl. We are praying for God’s comfort for you and that His peace that passes all understanding will guard your hearts and minds. (Phil 4:7) You are loved even by those of us that have never met you.
What beautiful pictures of your family. I found your blog through a friend’s Twitter stream. I don’t have words and I can’t imagine what you’re all going through. Your Layla is in my thoughts and prayers.
What a blessing it is to have those precious memories forever. What a beautiful family. You all are in my prayers.
Your story came to me yesterday through our church prayer loop in Houston. I’ve been following, praying, and crying for your dear family all the day long. I am forever changed by your faith, testimony and insights. My 2-year old girl is ‘Lila’. My outlook on her “interruptions” to my days has changed and I pray I never forget your words. Thank you. Praying unceasingly, Lisa
these pictures are beautiful and so is your family! we have been praying for you and your family ever since we heard your story!
much love to all of you
Shanna, Ryan, and beautiful Layla Grace…
~YOU ARE LOVED BEYOND MEASURE~ YOU ARE ALL IN OUR PRAYERS~
JENN
I have never seen such beautiful photos of a little girl looking into her daddy’s eyes. They are gorgeous photos. Layla is an absolute angel. I can’t get my tears to stop flowing. You are in my thoughts and prayers. My heart absolutely just breaks for you.
I’M LOST FOR WORDS AS I SIT HERE TONIGHT..I HAVE FOLLOWED YOU ON TWITTER ALLLLLL DAY HOPING THAT THE MIRACLE I ALONG WITH A LOT OF OTHER PEOPLE WERE WISHING AND PRAYING FOR WOULD HAPPEN…IT BREAKS MY HEART TO SEE THE WORDS THAT YOU WRITE ABOUT HOW THE TIME IS NEAR AND THE GIRLS ARE SAYING THEIR LAST GOODBYE..MY HEART ACHES..BC I AM A MAMA TOO AND HAVE A 20 MONTH OLD DAUGHTER AND LOOKING AT PICTURES OF LAYLA GRACE, I CAN SOOOO PICTURE MYSELF IN YOUR SITUATION AND THAT BREAKS MY HEART EVEN MORE FOR YOU!!! I DIDN’T HEAR ABOUT YOUR STORY UNTIL YESTERDAY..WISH I HAD KNOWN EARLIER SO I COULD HAVE BEEN PRAYING LONGER..BUT I HAVE PRAYED ENOUGH IN THIS LAST DAY TO MAKE UP FOR IT..YOUR STORY IS SOOO AMAZING…SUCH A BRAVE LIL’ GIRL AND HOW SHE HAS TOUCHED THOUSANDS AND THOUSANDS OF LIVES!!! YOUR FAMILY PITURES ARE TRULY BEAUTIFUL..I KNOW YOU WILL CHERRISH THEM FOREVER…MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY IN THE DAYS TO COME AND I PRAY HE HELPS YOU FIND PEACE..I’M STILL PRAYING FOR YOUR MIRACLE..BUT I KNOW GOD IS LOOKING OVER LAYLA GRACE AND IS SOOOO PROUD OF SOMEONE SO YOUNG AND THE WORK SHE HAS DONE ON THIS EARTH…GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY…WITH MUCH LOVE AND A SADDDENED HEART IN NORTH CAROLINA..STEFFIEJ
I’ve never commented before, but have been following since I saw the prayer request on safe haven.
The words are so haunting. I lost my daughter in May and it is a struggle every day. But, for months on end, my house was a wreck, I just could not peel myself away from her to do the dishes or vacuum..its just not a priority anymore.
We knew when Ella’s time was fading, and we just prayed for everything to be peaceful..for her to go peacefully and for us to be comforted in knowing she is healed..this is what we are praying for sweet Layla and your family..
SUCH a beautiful family <3
She really captured the essence~
I’m so glad you got your family pics! We had planned to have ours taken on a Saturday – our Ian stoppd breathing on Thursday night and passed away on Sunday. We got our family pics, but in the hospital with tubes and wires.
It’s been 3 years and I’m finally able to speak without tears, I’m praying for you and your family. If you need a “been there done that ear, I’m here.
There are no words right now…your family is so beautiful and what a blessing these pictures are! Absolutely stunning! We lift you up in prayer tonight as you say good bye! May God bring you comfort and peace and may Layla Grace be free from all pain and play freely and happily in heaven! I look forward to meeting that beautiful girl someday! Sending you lots of love-
Stephanie
I am praying for precious daughter. She has touched so many people and doesn’t even know it!
Sending prayers, love & support to you & your family. May God watch over you during this difficult time. Thank you for sharing your beautiful pictures. Layla truly is an inspiration to us all…
Looking at your family photos…what a beautiful family of five you have! All you you look wonderful. I have just recently became aware of precious baby Layla. She, and all of you are in my daily prayers. I am close to another falimly that lost their child at a very young age. I am so sorry to hear of your pain but, at the same time, happy that you have had this time with your sweet baby girl. May God be with you, and sweet Lalya Grace.
First time I have read about your family…I will keep all of you in my thoughts! And I will share it for more prayer.
Serena
Cypress, Texas
Beautiful pictures of a beautiful, courageous family. What a wonderful day of memories.
Your family is beautiful and amazing! I can’t even imagine the journey that you are on right now. I have so much more I want to say, but there are no words that could comfort you at this time. Thank you for sharing your pictures and story! God Bless!!
After reading about your family it makes me think how much I take my family & life in general for grantage. Your family is beautiful and inspiring. Its amazing strong you are, what you are going through is something I could never imagine having to deal with so my thoughts and prayers are with you & your family.
*Always In My Heart*
Your family is perfect and beautiful. Your daughter Layla looks so loved by you and your husband and her sisters. That love will survive everything, even death. God bless you and I will continue to pray for peace for you all.
I came across your story through facebook and wanted to immediately help, myself and many of my friends posted Layla’s story and Rufflebutt’s promise as their status updates. What a beautiful family, those pictures are so amazing. I was so touched by your story and was shocked to find out today you all are in Cypress. My family just moved from Coles Crossing to San Antonio in January. I was there for the blood drive, but due to the overwhelming support, some of us were turned away. How awesome is that? Many prayers and love to your family from an old neighbor, we hold you close during this difficult time. Jennie de la Garza
Thank you for sharing these photos with everyone. They are truly beautiful and touching. I can not conceive what you must be feeling at this time. My family is praying for you and my children ask for daily updates on Layla Grace. May God bless and keep you and send that miracle for you sweet little one.
God bless you and your family. May He comfort, protect and heal your sweet little girl.
Shanna and family, you are a beautiful family! Layla is lucky to be born into such a loving family. I recently discovered your story and am more than moved and find myself emotional thinking about you and your family and the journey you are on. My heart aches for the precious angel Layla and any suffering she may be enduring. I know prayer is powerful and like many people all across the country, I am praying for you and your loved ones. You are a beautiful loving family inside and out that will make everyone be thankful for the family they have. Love to you and Happy Birthday to precious Jenna too.
Beautiful pictures i am glad you have to cherish forever.
My heart is with you all tonight, i check on Layla’s page many times a day and she’s always in my thoughts. I’m sending up every prayer, wish, hope and dream i have in me tonight for Layla that she have comfort and peace and feel your love surrounding her.
Theresa.
My heart goes to your family and to that brave little warrior angel you have. Is amazing how a child can teach us lessons that not even in our whole lives we would learn. Im sure that God is beside each and every one of you fighting side by side, supporting you.
I just found your blog and wanted to let you know that Layla Grace and your entire family will be in my prayers. Thank you for sharing the pictures…they are absolutely beautiful!
My heart aches for you and your family. She is so beautiful. I admire your strength and courage. I will hug my boys a little bit tighter tonight and not take a moment forgranted. Thank you for sharing your story with us.
All three of your girls are so beautiful. I am so sorry for this difficult time you are going through. My thoughts are with your family…
My heart goes out to you, Layla and your family. Not just because I have a daughter named Layla but I know the pain. I watched my brother loose his battle to a terrible illness he was born with. My prayers are with you, your family and sweet beautiful Layla.
I love the pictures. You all look so beautiful!
Christie did a lovely job. I’m so touched by one specific pic of ryan & layla and can’t stop sobbing. I sat a long time with the close up of laylas face begging God to stop her pain, heal her, and give her peace & comfort. I’m sorry doesn’t seem the right thing to say right now, but really no words do except for prayers to bring you all some comfort and peace. I prayed for claire and jenna and for God to hold them tight. And I prayed for you & ryan, to give you some comfort knowing that you are joined in thoughts by millions right now who are praying for your peace. And I prayed to all the angels who have gone before me to welcome this special little angel & celebrate her arrival like they’ve never celebrated before. Lord, hear our prayers.
“Be not afraid, I go before you always. Come follow me, and I will give you rest.”
“I walked a mile with Pleasure, she chattered all the way,
But left me none the wiser for all she had to say,
I walked a mile with Sorrow, and ne’er a word said she,
But, oh the things I learned from her when Sorrow walked with me.”
-Robert Browning Hamilton
Your willingness to share Layla’s story has touched more people probably than you will ever know. Thank you again for being so brave and including us on rough road your family has traveled.
Our prayers are with you and Layla Grace–I just heard of your story today–thank you for sharing such wonderful pictures and your beautiful girls with us! Tonight I saw the most amazing sunset on my way home and all I could think of was that beautiful smile and those gorgeous blue eyes of Layla Grace. I pointed out the sunset to my son and he asked me why I was crying–all I could say was that I was glad he was with me! Your little girl and your story has impacted and changed so many lives–as the chosen family of a true little Angel your life has probably been turned upside down and totally crazy! our prayers will continue now and for a very longtime-thru spring when those first flower buds push through–and give way to the most beautiful flowers-the first rainbows of the year-the fresh spring grass–the hot sun-the baseball games and the collecting of seashells–the cooling of the days–the leaves changing and flittering to the ground to the first snow flakes our thoughts and prayers will remain with you and when you are having a not so good day –our prayers will hopefully be the arms that will push you through your tasks that day!!
I have tears running down my face. These are beautiful pictures. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Words cannot express enough. The angels are with her and I pray for comfort.
Absolute Beautiful Pictures of a Beautiful family… a wonderful way to keepsake precious memories.
You have been in our prayers and we will continue to lift Layla and your family up in prayers in the days to come. I keep praying for a miracle and will not stop, along with prayers for peace and comfort.
Layla and you all have been a true inspiration for all of us, she has touched so many lives and will continue to do so.
Counting our daily blessings and enjoying every moment has become very important in my life… Thank you for your strength, you are absolutely amazing. Layla has been very blessed to be a part of your family
Lots of love and hugs sent your way (you don’t know us but we have many friends in common, Christie and Michelle Imler).
The Carr Family,
Brian, Nathalie, Brandon (9), Gabrielle (6), Tristan (4), Jadon (23mos) and Juliana (1mo).
thank you for sharing your pictures and your story. my heart hurts for you and your family. little layla is in my thoughts and i am sending all of my wishes and hopes your way. and a giant hug to all of you.
About a week ago I heard about your little girl..went and read every blog since the first one you posted..a cried countless tears as it took me nearly 2 days to read through them all..and I want to take the time to thank you for sharing this battle of little Laylas with us..it tears me apart to know this is happening as its not fair..my God be with you all…You have a beautiful family and are all in my prayers..
I am praying for your family so hard right now! I pray that Jesus will comfort you.
I just learned about this horrible story a few days ago, but even so this beautiful little girl has already touched my heart. I stayed up late last night looking through your pictures, reading your blogs, and praying for Layla Grace. You are truly blessed to have been given such a darling child, and it saddens my heart to know she could be taken away from you any moment. Matthew 18:4 Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
God bless your entire family,
Karsen
I can’t even imagine what is racing through your mind…having Claire and Jenna say their final good-bye’s. I know it took so much strength for you to get through that moment. My prayers go out to you, your husband, Claire and Jenna…and of course “our” sweet and precious Laya Grace tonight. My heart is absolutely broken for you. But I can’t even put into words what your story has done and how it has CHANGED my life. Your post about regrets…always looking forward to nap time so that you could finally get stuff done…I am completely tuned into my children’s needs now, and living in each moment with them, rather than always focusing on myself! Thank you for sharing this heart-wrenching road you’re going down. You will never know the eternal impact it is having!
my prayers are with you and always will be i know very many people in my life that have had cancer my greatgrandfather died from sencond hand smoke cancer ( he never smocked a day in his life) my aunt died from breast cancer my best friend who is like my sister her mom died over the summer from brain cancer and my grandfather has had cancer numorous times and many different types i am only 12 and have watched all these people who are so close to me go through tis but i dont know how i could handle what you are going through you are very strong and God will always be with you and Layla
you are in my prayers sweet Layla, you are such an angel!
You do have a beautiful family. Know that you have people at TCH that continuously keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Give little Layla a hug from us all.
Erica
I love the pictures! I pray for all of you. I think about all of you everyday. I will pray for strength and God’s power to heal.
Thanks for sharing Layla with us and your family as well. God’s will will be done when it comes to little Layla. He will give all of you strength for whatever the reason maybe. Sometimes we ask why doesn’t Jesus heal today like as He did in the New Testament, He does in countless ways. Sometimes He uses doctors to do the preliminary work for Him. Miracles do happen each day. May there be a special angel wing spread over little Layla in the coming days so there will be comfort and a healing for her. God bless all and you are in my daily prayers.
layla’s mom -
what a beautiful family. what a wonderful, wonderful thing that christie has done for you. she must be a real friend. you are so blessed to have these people in your life. i wish you nothing but peace and contentedness in the coming days. i have never met you, but i love you. you have single handedly taught me how to be a better mother for my children. for that, i am eternally grateful to you. for many years now, i have been caught up in saying, someday i will not live in poverty, someday i will have a job, someday i will have more food on the table. and thanks to you, angel, i realize that this is not important. being thankful for what little we *do* have is important. i can make do with very little, as long as i have love. i cannot express enough thanks to you. i am so inspired by your strength and courage and most of all, your selflessness. god bless you.
Absolutely beautiful pictures. My prayers and heart goes out to you and your family each and every day.
Absolutely beautiful!!! The ones of Layla looking at her dad are just gorgeous. Thank you for sharing your story. Your family and Layla are in my prayers!
I am so sorry for little Layla’s illness, I don’t know how you feel becuase of the cancer but I know how you feel in the worries of loosing your child. I have experienced that kind of loss myself,,, There are no words I can say to you to make you feel better or take away Layla’s pain, but to just say that she fought her battle with a great attitude and she has made complete strangers on their knees crying..
The pictures of your family speak a thousand words for the people you are, the family that loves through a major crises.. Your family has touched my heart to the very core,,, God has a special place for little Layla Grace in heaven and please know that you have a world of unknown people who are praying for Layle, her big sisters and mom and dad..You were blessed with 3 great little girls and a great husband, and not to forget the great Dr’s and nurses caring for Layla.. I wish your family peace in this most difficult time.
Jill, “Angel-Superman Liam” and Keegan
I just learned of little Miss Layla through MckMama’s blog, and spent a few hours starting from the beginning of your blog reading through this journey with Layla — even looking through all your favorite photos of your little one, she is absolutely darling! The images of her will continue to live in my heart, as a timeless reminder of your sweet Layla. Your entire family has been in my prayers, the Lord has been guiding me how to specifically pray for each one of you during this time. xoxoxo
What amazing photos! What a beautiful family. Those photos of Layla and her daddy are full of so much love and emotion. They both warm my heart just seeing daddy and his princess together and looking at eachother with so much love in their eyes as well as break my heart for all that you are all going through. Your sweet Layla and your whole family are in our prayers for strength and comfot.
Praying so hard for Layla and her family every day. She is a beautiful child and has an amazing family. Thank you for sharing her story. I have a 9 month old son and know that every day is a gift – thank you Layla for reminding me of that! You are affecting so many lives in so many ways. Much love and prayers from Austin for a peaceful and pain free night for a brave and beautiful little girl.
I just learned about this horrible story a few days ago, but even so this beautiful little girl has already touched my heart. I stayed up late last night looking through your pictures, reading your blogs, and praying for Layla Grace. You are truly blessed to have been given such a darling child, and it saddens my heart to know she could be taken away from you any moment. Matthew 18:4 Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
God bless your entire family,
Karsen
Amazing photos! Am so glad you have them!
Know that I’m praying!
Psalms 27:1, 4-5 The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?…One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple. For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock.
Prayer Bears
My email address
I am so so sorry. I am here from Jen’s blog for her daughter Ella. I saw that you are at Texas Children’s Hospital from Twitter. I lost my daughter at TCH last May, she lived 13 days. If you need to talk or anything please email me
handprintsfromheaven@gmail.com
Prayers and love
We lost my partner, the man who raised my son as his own for 4 years, in a motorbike accident in July past. I sometimes wonder if it would have been easier, rather than the shock, to have had him with an illness, like Layla Grace. Then I found your blog, and I know it wouldn’t have been. You are all amazing. I rested on, lived on, breathed on Phil 4 13 when Rich died. “I can do all things through he who strengthens me.”
*hugs*
First of all, please know that we are praying for your beautiful baby girl, your other daughters, you, your husband and all of those who know you and your family. A friend of mine posted your info on facebook, and I’m sitting here catching up with Layla’s story in tears. Thank you for being a family who doesn’t say “why me”. Thank you for being a family who trusts our Lord and Savior with those who are most precious to you. I lost my first baby and i was beyond comforted with the thought that my precious baby would never have to endure the hardships of this world. As much as we think of this life as everything, it is in reality a glimpse of our eternity. Sweet Layla will never have to worry, never have to endure losing a child or anything any of us have had to endure. She will spend most of her life in worship. She will be far better off than any of us. I’m sorry that so far, God hasn’t chosen a miracle in her life . . . how beautiful would that be to see a miracle? His thoughts are not our thoughts. His ways are not our ways. Dear friend, I am praying. I lead worship in the Clear Lake area and it’s been a very long time since I’ve been moved by a family’s faith. I’m most appreciative of how real you are . . . I can’t say that I would be blogging with only one bottle of wine . . . I love that you are real enough to say who you are. So many Christians hide their thoughts from other Christians and most importantly from other people. I am proud of you. You have done so much good for the kingdom of God. May the Lord bless you and keep you. May His face shine upon you. May you keep your mind steadfast on our Lord so that He may keep you in PERFECT peace. I hope that others think you are crazy and that you’ve gone off the deep end because they cannot even fathom the peace that our God provides for you.
In Christ,
Crystal
Those photos are truly priceless…as is your precious angel. May God give you and your family and friends the strength to get through this hard time. Bless you for being such loving parents, may peace come to you all.
Such gorgeous pictures of a beautiful family!! I am so happy for you, that you were able to create this memory for your family to cherish!!
Dear Marsh family,
I have been following your family for a while. You truly have a beautiful family and the pictures capture that. They are incredible. I wanted to write because as I was reading your blog I could hear my own daughter in the background practicing the songs she will be singing with the HITS group at the Rock for Layla event. It felt very meaningful to hear her singing for Layla as I read your post. Ironically as I also read your tweet about finding neuroblastoma through a simple urine test it made me think about how my son (17 yrs now) was part of a clinical trial his pediatrician was participating in with MD Anderson. He was being screened for NB through a urine test – a simple pad placed in his diaper. I never heard any more about the test and obviously 17 years later they haven’t found a way to screen NB.
Here is a story I read a while ago and perhaps you’ve read this – if not – this is for Layla. She is a very special soul indeed.
By: John Alessi
Not too long ago in Heaven there was a little soul who took wonder in observing the world. (s)he especially enjoyed the love he saw there and often expressed this joy with God. One day however, the little soul was sad, for on this day he saw suffering in the world. (S)He approached God and sadly asked, “Why do bad things happen, why is there suffering in the world?”.
God paused for a moment and replied, “Little soul, do not be sad, for the suffering you see, unlocks the love in peoples hearts”. The little soul was confused. “What do you mean”, (S)he asked. God replied, “Have you not noticed the goodness and love that is the offspring of that suffering? Look at how people come together, drop their differences, and show their love and compassion for those who suffer. All their other motivations disappear and they become motivated by love alone.
The little soul began to understand and listened attentively as God continued, “The suffering soul unlocks the love in people’s hearts much like the sun and rain unlock the flower within the seed. I created everyone with endless love in their heart, but unfortunately most people keep it locked up and hardly share it with anyone. They are afraid to let their love shine freely, because they are afraid of being hurt. But a suffering soul unlocks that love. I tell you this-it is the greatest miracle of all. Many souls have bravely chosen to go into the world and suffer-to unlock this love-to create this miracle-for the good of all humanity.
Just then the little soul got a wonderful idea and could hardly contain h(er)imself. With his wings fluttering, bouncing up and down, the little soul excitedly replied, “I am brave; let me go! I would like to go into this world and suffer so that I can unlock the goodness and love in people’s hearts! I want to create that miracle!
God smiled and said, “You are a brave soul I know, and thus I will grant your request. But even though you are very brave you will not be able to do this alone. I have known since the beginning of time that you would ask for this and so I have carefully selected many souls to care for you on your journey. Those souls will help you create your miracle; however they will also share in your suffering. Two of these souls are most special and will care for you, help you and suffer along with you, far beyond the others. They have already chosen a name for you.
God and the brave little soul shared a smile, and then embraced. In parting, God said, “Do not forget little soul that I will be with you always. Although you have agreed to bear the pain, you will do so through my strength. And if the time should come when you feel that you have suffered enough, just say the word, think the thought, and you will be healed.
Thus at that moment the brave little soul was born into the world, and through h(er)is suffering and God’s strength he unlocked the goodness and love in people’s hearts. For so many people dropped their differences and came together to show their love. Priorities became properly aligned. People gave from their hearts. Those that were always too busy found time. Many began new spiritual journeys-some regained lost faith-many came back to God. Parents hugged their children tighter. Friends and family grew closer. Old friends got together and new friendships were made. Distant family reunited, and every family spent more time together. Everyone prayed. Peace and love reigned. Lives were changed forever. It was good. The world was a better place. The miracle had happened. God was pleased.”
Believing in God’s promises . . .
” . . .For I am the LORD who heals you.”
Exodus 15:26
Praying God’s peace, comfort and strength upon your family. May little Layla enter into her reward as HIS good and faithful servant. May your family know HIS comfort and peace in the coming hours, days, weeks, months and years as you gradually learn to let go and live without precious Layla. Still praying for a miracle healing. My heart breaks and my tears flow for your precious family. She is beautiful child.
Continuing to pray ferevently.
I can’t stop thinking about Layla and your family. I’m praying for you constantly…
I pray that God will shower you with compassion and peace and mercy and grace in a spectacular way.
By opening up your lives and letting us glimpse in, you’ve CHANGED lives in a DRAMATIC way.
MAY GOD BLESS YOU MIGHTILY
i just stumbled across your blog tonight and haven’t been able to stop reading. i don’t even know what to say. what a beautiful family you have and what an amazing, strong, courageous mother you are. your layla grace is just such a precious, precious soul. she and your whole family will be in my prayers continually. god bless all of you.
What amazing beautiful photos! Thank you for sharing them as well as your story. I’m so heartbroken with everything you, your family and Layla Grace are going through. My prayers are covering you guys in every possible way.
I just heard Layla’s story today. I am sobbing and I am praying, not just for a miracle, but for strength and peace. I will constantly be thinking of her and of your family.
My daughter pointed me to your site from her blog site.
I have no words to pass along that meet with the compassion others have so eloquently expressed. All we can do is offer a few more prayers for Layla and your family, and everytime I hear her song I’ll think of her and your family.
It is with tears in my eyes that I read all of this. May God bless and comfort you and your beautiful family. I think of my two beautiful grand daughters and how blessed my family has been. You have opened my eyes and changed my life. I know that God has a plan for you. It is not for us to understand, but to use for his glory. I hope that you will find comfort and peace in his loving arms.
I just came across your blog a couple of days ago from a posting by Tobymac a christian artist. I have been in prayer for Layla and your family. God can heal as I’ve seen it in my own life! Everything is according to His plan and I’m asking him to heal Layla. It’s hard to see what this poor baby has been through and understand why this happens. As a parent to a 15 month old little girl, it’s been hard for me to grasp. However, God will heal her in His own way and I just pray that it’s through healing! She has so much more to give to the world! God bless you and your family.
Many years ago (i now have grandchildren) I made your journey and walked in your footsteps. We also had three children. Stephanie was also our youngest. She also had cancer, leukemia. You are correct that healing will happen when sometimes curing will not. Our loss is no longer painful, even though the sense of loss will never go away. The remembrance of our years with her (she was 8 years old when she was taken from us) brings much joy to our lives still. Be ever so sensitive to the feelings of Layla’s siblings. The loss of their sister affected our older children longer and more deeply than I realized for many years.
I’m sure that you know you have received the most wonderful care in the world at Texas Children’s. We were there many weeks, and Dr. Fernbach, who founded the Cancer Center, treated our daughter. You and your family will be in our hearts and in our prayers in the coming days. God WILL heal Layla, and your family as well. The greatest miracle is the strength and resolve and endurance He gives to children who must travel this road. They are the true heroes.
Blessings to you all, Connie
I have only been reading your blog for a few days and have not commented before, but I would just like to tell you all that your family and Layla are in my thoughts and prayers every day. I pray for peace for her and for all of you as your travel this journey that you never imagined you wuld be travelling. With love and hugs from the Lawson family in South Africa
We have a statue in our garden of sainte Germaine cousin, the saint of children who suffer. I have lit a candle at her feet for your precious little angel. You are in our thoughts and prayer.
Praying for your family. May the Lord comfort you and hold you close to His Heart.
I’ve been stopping by to get updates on Layla Grace and thought I would finally leave a comment. We’re praying for you guys constantly. Layla and my son Nathan are 3 days apart… it makes Layla’s fight and your family’s battle all the more real to me each time I hold my little man. I can’t tell you how much you guys have encouraged me to stop and enjoy each moment with nathan, even when he’s under my feet, or wakes up early, or needs a snuggle in the night. thank you for allowing the Lord to use you guys to minister to others. we are praying for you in NC.
Just discovered this site through Amanda Magee’s Tweet. My thoughts and prayers are with you. You and your family are awe inspiring-especially Layla Grace. What a brave little girl. Thank you for sharing her very special and important story.
What a beautiful family you all are. Phos are amazing. Layla will live on not only through the photos but in your hearts and mind forever and I am sure she will live on in everyone’s hearts who have have followed your story. I am sure many people’s lives have been changed.
Her wings are almost unfurled as she awaits taking God’s hand to be led to heaven where she will be completely healed and pain free. Loving thoughts to you all.
What a beautiful family. I am so glad you were able to get the family portrait taken. Your daughters are alllllll so beautiful and precious. I continue to stay up with you, praying for Layla Grace and all of you.
I am so glad Jenna had a nice Birthday Party.
I continue to pray throughout the nigth that God works a miracle in your precious little miracle Layla. I pray that he continues to breathe His life into her little body and keeps her at peace and without pain and with you both through the night.
I pray for your family and for Him to wrap you in His loving embrace, to let you feel His strength, I pray for Layla’s sisters to help them with their fears and to remove their worries.
I will continue to pray and stay with you through the night glued to your twitter.
Your neighbor did an amazing job with the photos, they all are so beautiful and memories forever captured, the five of you together, who will always remain together through God’s love.
I pray He continues to bless your family with a continued stream of prayers, monetary support and with so much love. God be with you and continue your faith and hope in Him, give your worries to Him Shanna and Ryan.
I have shared Layla Grace’s story, your twitter and blog with my Mother, my little brother to spread to their friends and prayer groups to continue praying over your family and God’s little angel, your precious baby, Layla Grace. I continue to share your sites with friends and encourage them to pass along and pray and help how they can.
Through following your story and reading Layla’s blog and following the daily, hourly tweets the last months, I feel like I know your little girl and your family, thank you for sharing her with so many, the faith it has brought into so many lives, the hope, the strength, the will to fight and cling to one another as a family through it all, the people who are dropping to their knees in prayer. The brothers and sisters we all are in one another coming together in prayer for her.
Layla is intertwining hearts and lives and connecting so many people through a shared love for her. Your little girl has no idea the lives she has touched, changed. I read to my own Mother your blog post about Valentine’s day, so touching and eye opening, how we can let moments slip by when we should be blessed for each one we are given with our loved ones and embrace every moment, how the house work can wait, how life is just re-prioritized to what matters most.
Thank you Shanna, for sharing your heart through Layla’s journey, for it is your entire family’s journey too.
This piece of scripture helps to bring me peace, I hope in sharing it, it may help you if you read this during the night…..
Jeremiah 29:11
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future.
From my heart to your hearts, through His love,
~Rebecca in ND
Isaiah 11:6 …and a little child shall lead them.”
Oh Layla Grace, you precious, beautiful, little girl. You have led us so far on this journey of life in such a short time! I have read the words of your parents and strangers alike and you have changed lives all over including mine. Just breathe baby girl~God is in control.
The photos are gorgeous, and I’m sure will be treasured forever! You are a beautiful family of five!! My 13 month old daughter hasn’t slept well this week, and has been up several times in the middle of the night and each time I get up I think of you rocking Layla. I used to sigh “oh great” any time she would wake in the middle of the night. Not anymore, beacuse of your blog I remind myself that shes up because she needs me. I am here for my daughter in a better way because of you. I’ve shared your blog with many friends and they all agree how well written and positive it all is. I don’t know how you find time to write, but Thank You from the bottom of my heart. I know I will be a better mother and treasure each moment of motherhood from now on. I have a better outlook and you to thank. While I was up at 3am I was thinking that Layla must be here on Earth not to suffer, but to heal. I think its so amazing this internet phenomenom thats going on. You have so many people following you on facebook and twitter its marvelous. Layala has healded so many, shed a new light for many, and we all want her miracle. Its 530 am and I couldn’t wait to read how your night went. As soon as I get to your page my breath catches and tears start, wondering if its news I don’t want to read. I truly hope she has a miracle and lives forever. I don’t know what it is about your daughter and your blog that is so touching but you are an amazing family and are on such a tough road. I do wish you all peace, and I hope Layla isn’t in pain. <3 My heart aches for you, and I do hope you have so much more time with her. <3
Meredith In Massachusetts
Such beautiful photos of the family of five! I know how you will cherish these forever. Storming heaven’s gates with prayers for sweet Layla Grace!
I just heard about your sweet Layla yesterday and have been reading your site. My thoughts and prayers are with her and all of you. Your family portraits are so very beautiful. I’m so glad your neighbor was able to do these for you. Layla is such a beautiful girl. Praying for a miracle. Thank you for sharing her with the world.
Beautiful. Just beautiful. It just about breaks my heart looking at these but these are beautiful photos to have of your family of five. Praying for peace and comfort tonight.
A beautiful family.
God bless you all, and especially little Layla.
Marsh Family,
The Family of Five Photos are absolutely BEAUTIFUL! Thank you so much for sharing them with us. My Family and I will continue to pray for Layla Grace, for Peace and Comfort in these most difficult days. May God Bless you all…….
Lisa John & Family
Boston MA
Amazing and precious photos for you to cherish!
The photo of Layla with her daddy and the book is the most precious photo I have ever seen. Your family is beautiful and I’m praying for all of you.
I also did not hear of you until yesterday, but you have been on my (our) heart(s) consistently since. I have added your family and Layla to our church prayer team and especially in our own personal prayers. God bless and keep you during this time.
Gary and Susie
Roseburg OR
Beautiful precious pictures of your sweet family. Praying for you in these last hours that they would be blessed…that you would feel God’s love all around…….and that you would find comfort from that. Bless you…bless you ….bless you!
The pictures are amazing. I have no doubt you will treasure them always. I am still praying for your sweet angel.
I’m continuing to pray for your sweet family and for peace for that baby Layla in these difficlut times with her. God bless.
Dear Layla and family.
My heart goes out to you and I’m thinking of you all so much.
I hope that God is compassionate and kind to you all in the coming hours, days, weeks, months and years.
Christine
I just came across your blog a couple of days ago and I cannot stop thinking about Layla Grace, you, and your family. Your portraits are beautiful…what a gorgeous family! I continue to pray for your sweet baby. You have made me realize how important each and every second is with my children. God bless you and your family. Praying for a miracle!!
I stumbled upon Sweet Layla Grace through Mckmama, and she has stolen my heart. I don’t know what your “supposed” to say to someone who’s child is dying. But I know if it were me…I’d be dying too. God bless you, her wonderful mother and father and her sisters. And may God hold her in his arms when her time comes. I have been praying for a miracle..now I’m praying for her peace and pain free transition to heaven. Love and prayers from Ohio!!!
http://www.anddontforgettofloss.blogspot.com/
Your family photos are so beautiful. My family and I will continue to pray for your beautiful Layla Grace and your family that you all will find peace in this most difficult time. May God Bless
I love the one of her looking up at Ryan when he is reading. She is just so darn cute. It is priceless.
You will cherish these pictures the rest of you life; I am so glad you were able to have them done. Your family of 5 is in my prayers as well.
May the grace and peace that comes only from our Lord and Savior be with you and bring you comfort today and always. God bless precious Layla and your whole family.
God bless you and your little angel. The pictures are such a treasure. I can almost see her little wings sprouting!
Your sweet family has been on my heart for the past few days. I saw your blog on a friend’s FB Page. You are in my prayers. Thank you so much for sharing Layla Grace with all of us!
The pictures of your family are beautiful. Thank you for sharing them. I know they will bring you comfort in the days and weeks ahead. I continue to pray for peace and comfort for your family. God bless.
There is something so special and unique about your sweet, precious Layla Grace. It is highly possible that it’s the similarity to my own daughter- like others have said.
Ever since you wrote about how you were wishing Layla wanted to be held and regretting the times you didn’t hold her because of other things…that really hit me in the gut. As Mommies with so many responsibilities, we are all guilty of this. Discovering Layla and reading that entry coincided with our church beginning to study the book “One Month to Live”…how would I live differently if I knew I had one month to be on this Earth, or I also look at it as how would I live if I knew someone I loved- more than life itself- had one month to live.
Because of sweet Layla, I am trying- as best I can- to let things go when there is something…someone…so much more important than housework, internet, etc., etc., etc.
I can’t imagine the pain you feel. When I think of it, I am filled with sadness, questions of why? that I’m sure you’ve asked so many times, anger that cancer takes anyone, let alone little babies and innocent children away from the people that love them so very, very much.
Then I think of the sacrifice…that Christ gave His life…that God gave His Son…for me- for you- for Layla. That pain fills me. That He did that for me…what am I doing for Him???
It doesn’t yet make me stop questioning why???
But I have faith- and I know you do too- that there is a reason. Layla fulfilled her purpose here…and soon will be sitting on His lap- pain and cancer free- smiling, playing, loving…and the assurance that one day you will see her again- I know not soon enough- that assurance gives such HOPE. Perhaps that assurance, that if one believes that Gods Son, Jesus Christ- died on a cross for our sins and rose again- and will come again one day- that they will see Him face to face too- well, perhaps that is part of Laylas purpose.
But it still doesn’t make it understandable…and my heart still aches.
Much love, prayers, peace to you all.
Sweet Layla- I will remember you. Thank you, little one, for reminding me to live passionately and love completely.
Susan Collins
Indiana
I’m sobbing as I write this comment. I worried about Layla all night and everytime I see a picture of her my heart breaks. The picture are so beautiful and I’m so glad you had the chance to capture your family in that moment. I continue to pray for Layla and you.
What a beautiful and strong family. I have 3 children of my own and I can only imagine what you are going through. To be so strong to be able to share your journey with the world, you all are truly amazing. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. Stay strong!
Kimberly
Wesley Chapel, FL
Your daughter must be an angel that showered you with her prescence during her time on earth.
You and your family are so inspiring and makes you realize that life flies by and we need to not let everyday life get to us, but enjoy the good things about each day.
Your family is in my prayers
I just came across your story this morning via a friend posting about Rufflebutts on FB, and I’ve spent the past half hour squeezing my wee girl and crying on her (she’s confused, but luckily letting me do it :S). My heart just breaks for your family, and you all are in my thoughts.
Absolutely breathtaking… Tears are streaming down my face. Thank you for sharing your love, your family, your faith with the world. There is hope because of Jesus, but oh this world is so hard.
Love and praying,
Kenzie
Katy, TX
I don’t know if you will ever get to read this message, but I felt I needed to share with you how much your story has touched my heart. You see, my husband and I tried for 6 years to have another baby and we were so blessed to have a beautiful, healthy baby girl almost a year ago! Needless to say, with a 7 year old boy and a baby, things can get pretty hectic as I’m sure you know! I found myself complaining that I couldn’t get anything done or didn’t have any time to myself. What I’m trying to say is that you made me stop and realize that the dishes can wait, the laundry can wait, the house cleaning can wait, but the time that we have with our children is precious and should not be wasted! You have made me be a better Mom and for that, I am forever grateful to you. May God bless you and your family during this unthinkable time. A special blessing goes out to Layla Grace. What an amazing little girl you are! You will always be in my heart.
You have an incredibly beautiful family. The pictures of Layla and her dad reading the books are completely priceless and really speak to Layla’s sweetness. This world is so hard- I pray for peach for Layla…and your family. Thinking of you constantly…
Meaghan
Atlanta, GA
oops….peace. Not “peach”
Thank you for sharing your pics. So hard to find the right words in times like these.
We are sending lots and lots of love and prayer your way!!!
What a beautiful family.. And your are correct amazing photos you will cherish forever. I am still praying for you guys.
Saying prayers for your beautiful family. May you have continued strength during this time, and you have a beautiful girl who is an angel! I am hugging my three girls (7 years, and 6 year old twins) harder today!
Our thoughts and prayers are with you!
I have been praying for your family. The pictures brought tears to my face.
I believe your husband was reading to an angel. She is an absolute beauty.
Beautiful sweet Layla Grace, so loved by so many…but especially by her amazing family. Her life has left an unforgettable mark on this world…thank you for sharing her with us all. Your courage & faith have also made such an impression on me – to always strive to be more faithful, courageous, loving. Thank you Shanna.
I’m still praying, I won’t stop. God Bless Layla, God Bless you dear Marsh family.
The pictures are so beautiful. Thank you for sharing them.
Keeping your family in my prayers and in my heart.
I read about Layla on Mckmama’s twitter, and have been fervently praying all week for your sweet family. These pictures are just lovely. What a beautiful gift your friend has given you. God is working through you all, dear ones. I just know it.
Katie in Spring, TX
Your family is beautiful. What wonderful pictures to always cherish. Praying for Layla everyday.
These pictures are so lovely. I love the one of your husband reading to Layla, and the two of them are looking at each other. It just took my breath away.
My heart is heavy for you all. Yet, I am praising the One who created her, and loves her most of all. Her complete healing will come, dear one. My prayers are that He will perform a great miracle and allow that healing to happen here on earth.
I am praying.
Kate
Your love is so true, and I am sure she feels that. I will be keeping all of you in my thoughts and prayers.
precious, precious pictures…….. you are in my thoughts and prayers often and I pray for a special peace from heaven as you enjoy these little moments with Layla
My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to your word. – Psalm 119:28
The pictures are breathtaking, absolutely gorgeous family! I have been praying for your family and sweet precious Layla Grace since the diagnosis. Her life has made such a huge impact on thousands of people. She continues to bring joy and strength to all who read about her journey. Your family is heavy on my heart and I will continue to pray…
Your family pictures are amazing, the love that radiates from those pictures brought tears to my eyes. I pray for you and your family everyday.
God Bless your family and God Bless Layla!
I found this website…thought I would share… http://www.2simpletrust.org/index.html
A friend on Facebook chared your struggles, I am lifting you up as you walk this road….from Jacksonville.
These pictures are a beautiful, beautiful gift. I now have a picture of your Layla Grace printed and posted on my desk. I don’t know your little family, but I love you all. Her story has truly touched my heart and it aches for you. I have the utmost admiration and respect for you as a mother. Your strength shocks me and brings me to my knees. I am in awe of you. I know the Lord is cradling your family and Layla right now, and I know Layla’s purpose on this earth is being served PERFECTLY according to His PERFECT plan. It breaks my heart that His plan is bringing on so much pain. The picture you painted in your last blog post about her being welcomed into Heaven brought me to tears.
Thank you for being the mother you are. Thank you for being the Christian that you are and having the faith that you have. Your story and your daughter have strengthened my faith, warmed my heart and opened my eyes to so many things. My heart will forever be touched by your precious daughter, Layla Grace.
Godspeed, sweet baby Layla…
We love you!
~From McKinney, Texas
She is just beautiful!
I am so sorry. My heart aches for you! Please let God comfort you through this difficult time and give you peace. May God bless your family you are all truly amazing. Again, I am just so sorry you are going through this.
Your entire family is beautiful. Layle is such a gorgeous little angel.
You have faith and strength I can only hope to find one day. I pray daily for you and your family. The pictures are absolutely amazing and will be a daily treasure for your family to cherish. God Bless you all.
The pictures are beautiful, Layla is beautiful!! Your family is in our prayers.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL!
I am a mother from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. My son, Harry, passed away from rhabdoid liver cancer 18 months ago, 3 August 2008, at age 16 months. I have kept a blog of our journey and a comment was left yesterday, pointing me to your story and asking me to give you my prayers.
Reading this post, I am instantly transported back to the last 2 weeks of July 2008.
I will indeed hold your daughter Layla Grace and your beautiful family in my prayers.
I am always amazed as I read the stories of other families who have walked this journey with their child. I can’t claim to understand why God choses our children to walk this difficult cancer journey, but I know they are very special children who give all those who touch their lives so many gifts of faith, hope, love and joy.
Never doubt that you have indeed healed your precious daughter – we of course think in the limited frame of this physical life – but I believe that the love you have given your daughter through her cancer journey has healed her soul in ways we can’t understand, but that will carry her through everlasting life.
I will hold you in my prayers as you walk through these very, very, very difficult days ahead. I will pray that when the time comes, your sweet daughter Layla is able to jump smoothly and cleanly into Jesus’ waiting arms, strong and brave without looking back.
That which makes us who we are never dies. Love never dies. May God hold you and give you strength and peace.
Peace and blessings,
Cynthia, Angel Harry’s Mum, from Winnipeg
As I pulled up to work this morning, I heard Mike from the KSBJ morning show pray for Layla Grace. It was so sweet and brought tears to my eyes. My heart goes out to you and my thoughts are with you and your family. I will continue to pray for y’all.
I have just recently been told of Layla. What a beautiful child! Your story has touched me in way I can’t explain. Your strength and faith in God are truly inspiring. I have a two year daughter as well and couldn’t imagaine losing her. I’ve been following Layla the last few days and have been sobbing for this gorgeous baby that I havent met but has taught me something so important through your words. Yesterday after work I went home and forgot the dishes and the laundry and just spent that time with her. Thank you for sharing your story and showing yours and Layla’s strength to us all. God bless you and your family and Layla during this heart renching time. The worlds hearts, thoughts and prayers are with you all today, tomorrow and always.
I love the pic of her on her daddy’s shoulder with her blanket- and the one where he has the book in his hand and it looks like she is asking him a question- her lips are pursed perfectly and so very cute- Those pics are outstanding! Praying that you can feel our arms around you today!
A beautiful family and she is a little Angel I will keep you all in my prayers.
As I sit here and read about your precious little girl, I have the desire to go and get my own child from day care and just sit and hold her. Layla Grace has changed my life as a mother. No longer will I take for granted the time that I have with my child. Your little girl is an amazing gift from God. I stand in faith and believe with you that she will receive her miracle. I thank you for sharing your life with the world and pray that you and your family have peace and comfort as only the Lord can give. God bless you.
So beautiful. Looking at the picture of Layla in her daddy’s arms just breaks my heart. You are all in our prayers. My son Harrison who is 5 was looking at these pictures with me and he said I want her to feel better & not be sick & he leaned over to kiss her picture. Our love to you all.
After reading some of the comments here, I’m glad I’m not the only one in tears while looking at them. They’re so beautiful. Your family is incredibly beautiful. And Layla truly is an angel amongst your family. You can see it in her eyes. Thank you for sharing these with us. They’ll have memories attached that will last a lifetime. God bless you all. I woke up this morning and immediately turned on my computer to check on Layla and your family.
These photos are so gorgeous. Ever since coming across Layla’s story yesterday in a tweet by Kim Kardashian nonetheless I haven’t been able to get Layla off of my mind. You are truly a strong and corageous woman for dealing with this the way you have..the epitome of strength and faith. I have been sharing the website with as many as I can so Layla can not only be in my prayers, but everyone elses as well. God Bless your entire family, xox
Continuing to pray for your comfort and strength and a gentle passing for Layla.
Truly truly beautiful!! Continuously praying for your family!!
I found your site last night through a random RT on twitter. I have beeth thinking about and praying for your family ever since. Although I cannot even fathom what you are all going through right now… I feel connected to you. I have a 2 year old named Layla but your little Layla actually reminds me more of my little Meaghan. I never experience childhood cancer but my husband was diagnosed with leukemia at 3 yrs old. He is one of those miracle stories… a little boy who wasn’t supposed to make it, but did. For which I am obviously very thankful. I will continue to watch for your updates and continue to pray for your family… no matter what happens today.
PS. the pictures are BEAUTIFUL… truly priceless. I have no doubt that you will treasure them forever.
May God bless you. abundantly.
A.
I have just started reading your posts and have been moved beyond words. I would like you to know that I am amazed by your family’s strength and faith. Your family and beautiful Layla Grace are in our prayers.
Praying for comfort and peace for all of you. You have an amazing faith in God that has inspired many. Thank you for sharing your most intimate moments with us. Peace be with you.
I absolutly love the pictures they are so gorgeous and just looking at precious Layla face brings tears to my eyes.. He story has touched so many people she is such an amazing little girl. I continue to pray that as she is sleeping our gracious God is giving her body the strentgh to fight back and defeat this beast… I pray that she gets the miracle we are all hoping for and that she deserves. I pray for peace for her while she fights and give all the glory to our father.
Beautiful beautiful family. These photos brought tears to my eyes. Your girls are all beautiful and Layla is a precious angel. God bless you all.
Your family is beautiful. Last week I was made aware of your story via an online group “the bump”, many people there are also following and praying and asking more people to pray. I am truly touched by your darling daughter and her strength. I have been praying with all my might for your sweet Layla Grace. Her story has touched me to the core, she is an AMAZING little girl and you are right her life has made a huge impact on so many people. I will keep on praying for her and for your family for that miracle that is needed now.
I am so sorry to read this. Your children are precious and beautiful. I am 39 and have just been diagnosed with breast cancer. I have a good scenario, but I have checked out a complementary/alternative doctor and am learning so much and I am being treated for all the things that are known to trigger cancer that my regular docs never did anything about. For instance, I was diagnosed seven years ago with an iodine deficiency. I have now learned that most, if not all, women who have breast cancer have an iodine deficiency. I use Dr. Schachter http://www.mbschachter.com. He immediately put me on iodine. Duh, why didn’t any insurance covered doc ever do that?
Other great alternative docs are Dr. Stanislaw R. Burzynski, http://www.burzynskiclinic.com and he is in Texas.
Dr. Gonzalez, http://www.dr-gonzalez.com is in New York City.
Please check these out. I know someone who has used alternative treatment for 10 years for her cancer and can point you in a better direction than I can. If you need any information, please feel free to contact me at my email address.
Your family will be in my prayers.
Valerie
Im praying for layla!!!!! poor baby girl, shes been through a lot!!! Every time i think about her, i cry. im so so sorry!
I don’t know you . . . and I just started following your blog, but my heart is WITH YOU. I am praying for the warmest, most Holy Spirit-filled LOVE to surround your family and especially little Layla RIGHT NOW. I’m praying for a peace and strength that passes all understanding to guard your hearts and minds in the love of God. I am praying for his kindness, compassion, and comfort to be made known to you in your time of need. You are on my mind, in my heart, and in my most heart-felt prayers. Bless you.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your beautiful family. I can’t imagine what you are going through, as I think of my own three children and am aware this could happen to anyone at any time. Praying for a miracle.
I can’t find the words to even begin. All I know is that Layla was sent from God…and her mission was to bring joy and light. You can see it in her pictures..gorgeous. I can’t imagine what you are going through. It’s not what is supposed to happen is it? I know that she is communicating with the angels now as she’s resting. I am praying for her and for all of your beautiful family. I claim the promises of Psalm 91 over you all and i will have you all before the very throne of HE who left us here and coming back to get us one day. Please know that my arms are around you all, my heart is beating with yours, as I pray for this…the most special of His Angels on earth. GOD BLESS YOU ALL……
Hi! I just discovered your blog yesterday and was sorry to read about the terrible things your tiny daughter has been going through. She’s a real trooper and so breath-takingly beautiful! I’m so sorry for what’s happened to her and hope that she gets peace soon. I hope that you get a miracle! Cuddle her lots and know that lots and lots of strangers are praying for her and sending her love. In the little time I’ve had here, I can see that she’s touched a ton of people. She’s beautiful and special and won’t be forgotten. Poor, sweet baby!
May God be with you and your beautiful family! My prayers are with you!
amazing…beautiful..gorgeous…please know we all pray for your family-thank yu for sharing!
Although you don’t even know me I just want to say that the pictures are very, very beautiful! Via the twitter-page of Alyssa Milano I came on this site and I was touched bij de photo’s of your little girl. From the blogs on your website I can say that Layla is a fighter, what an amazing little girl!
Carry the beautiful pictures, warm feelings and special moments with you in this though period.
Sanna
Netherlands
p.s. I hope you can understand what I wrote, my english is not so good, sorry for that.
Amazing how these pictures have captured such incredibly precious moments … a definite treasure to be cherished forever.
Your beautiful family is never far from my thoughts, and always in my prayers.
What an amazing family you have. Layla, you have touched so many lives. May your family be lifted knowing that they were blessed with you even though for a short time. I continue to pray for you. Lots of love and special prayers headed your way.
Thank you for sharing your story with all of us. I continue to pray for Layla, knowing God is in control and that he loves her so much. My thoughts, my heart and my prayers are with you.
God Bless you Layla Grace and your sweet family too. We don’t even know you, but we love you. You will always be a reminder to me to cherish every moment with my own family. Still praying for you baby girl.
I remember the last hours with my daughter…I knew when the end was near…I believe you, too, will be able to sense the end and not leaver her side. Thank you for sharing your story. I am sure it will be a source of strength to others and to you, in the weeks and months to come. You have a beautiful family. My prayers are with all of you.
I am new to your story, but have spent a great deal of time catching up — not just on your chronology, but on the blog comments as well. There is no doubt in my mind that Layla was sent here by God with great purpose. If she’d only touched the lives of those of us who stopped to comment on your blog, she would’ve accomplished far more than most of us ever will in a full lifetime.
But those who commented are just the beginning of the people she’s impacted. Learning of her story brings to forefront of all of our minds what’s most important in life: love. And the love expressed throughout the world either consciously or unconsciously because of her is immeasurable. We cannot even begin to quantify the importance and the degree to which the world will be a better place because of the time Layla was here amongst us. While unbearably bittersweet, there is no doubt that God is present in what’s happening here.
I will pray that the greatness of her legacy offers you great comfort in this horribly difficult time. Thank you for your strength and courage in sharing her story with us so beautifully. You could not have done a more amazing job of stewarding that little angel you’ve been given.
Since I have found out about sweet layla, several months ago, she and your family have been in my prayers. I find myself throughout the day checking your blog or twitter to see how layla is doing. There is never a dry eye after reading them. Your family has captured so many hearts from comments after your blogs, followers on twitter and all the people that became fans on facebook rufflebutts. The one thing that has stuck with me is you have made parents realize to take a step back from the everyday craziness and to just enjoy each and every moment with your children. Although we have never met, Layla and your family will forever have a part of my heart.
Thankyou for sharing those pics.. im so happy you captured them..Christe Lacy did a wonderful job…Your children are simply beautiful..God bless you all and be by your side…praying for a miracle for your baby girl
I saw your web site on facebook on some of my family’s page from TX and I just want to tell you that this has broke my heart. I also wanted to say I sure hope the the LORD brings you the comfort that you will need in the months and days to come. I also wanted to make you aware that people even in South Carolina are praying for you and your family also.
Layla Grace~you were just brought into my lfe, yet I feel like I’ve know you and your Family for a lifetime. You are a sweet beautiful precious child of God, and may your parents find comfort in knowing that you’ve changed the lives of people across this country and more likely thoughtout the world!
Shanna and Ryan, the photos are positively AMAZING! You both have absolutely gorgeous children, and your sweet baby girl has the most piercing blue eyes, and beautful china doll-like face. I believe that these photos will get you through times in the future when you just don’t think you can go on any longer……….May God Bless each and every one of you. May he cradle you in his arms througout these most difficult days.
With Much <3 and warm thoughts,
Lisa Mercer & Family,
Boston MA
These pictures are beautiful. I am praying for peace and comfort for Layla and your family during this difficult time. God Bless you all!
The Minkert Family
Cypress, TX
Dear Marsh family,
My heart breaks for you and your baby girl. I am praying for you, praying for a miracle, praying for comfort for Layla Grace. I know the pain of losing a child, but I have no idea what you are feeling at this point. I just pray that God continues to give you the courage and the strength to endure what is to come. I have never met you, but know that I love you. Layla Grace will live forever in your hearts. I pray that you will be able to celebrate the life of this beautiful child and all that she has brought to you in her short time on earth. May God be with you,
Lisa Golden
Priceless! Such beautiful girls!
Such a beautiful family, you are now a part of my prayers, May the Lord in His mercy hold, help, comfort and heal. God Bless you.
You have a stunning family. Those shots are priceless.
Praying for you all….
I posted a comment earlier, and then I got this. Thought it fitting and wanted to share:
On this day of your life, Tiffany, we believe God wants you to know … that there are only two ways to live your life: One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as if everything is.
That’s a quote by Albert Einstein. Don’t wait for miracles, your whole life is a miracle.
Your Layla IS a miracle…
So awesome! Thanks for sharing your story. I am reading you blog at work. Your courage, story and beautiful family has me choking back the tears.
You have such courage through this difficult time.
I am praying for you and your family.
What a tremendously awesome gift you have given me. Thanks.
I have been a fan of Layla Grace for quite sometime but only until now did I realize you had a blog and…a baby girl living with cancer.
Bless you and your family for having to endure this. Your post and precious pictures bring tears to my eyes. I can sense such sweet wisdom in that baby girl of yours. I’m just so sorry.
Your family is so lucky to have the gift of Layla. The few years of memories will touch your lives forever. I sat in a chair between my two little ones beds and read your story and cried. I am so thankful for my family and am so thankful to have met yours through your blog. Everyone who has been touched by your story is a better person for it and that alone means Layla’s journey has not been in vain. Keeping you and your beautiful family in my thoughts and hugging my kids a little tighter from now on. Thank you for your heartwrenching perspective on motherhood.
These pictures are beautiful and so is your family! I’m sure you will cherish them forever! Thank you for sharing them with us! My thoughts and prayers are with you all! God bless you!
What amazing girls you have. I have three of my own. Shanna you are a woman/mother/wife that I strive to be. Layla Grace has GRACED and touched so many people that she doen’t even know and I would love tell her thank you baby girl!!!! My 4yr. is a model and she has requested that the next photoshoot she does will be for Layla and she is going to wear a “Baby Layla Grace hat” or she will not do the shoot!!!!!! That really got to me because she does seem to understand even at her young age of 4. God bless ya’ll and may peace be with all of ya’ll
Tracy Frazier
Waller, Tx
(We are almost neighbors)
Beautiful photos!
I found your blog through twitter and will keep your family in my prayers.
God bless you all!
I’m so thankful you have these. Breathtaking.
One of my friends on Facebook posted a link to your site a few days ago and so I have made it a point to come in and read.
I am so glad that you were able to have these done.
First off, know you all are in my prayers each and every day!
Secondly, what gorgeous pictures!
You have such strength and courage and faith. That to me is simply amazing.
Take care and may God bless and keep you all…in whatever manner He sees fit!
I just wanted to say thank you for sharing your journey with all of us. I have been following you and your family for a while now and with every blog entry I read and twitter update I receive my heart breaks more and more. Your beautiful angel has touches so many of us and your strength as well. My prayers are with you and your family. Your family pictures are breathtaking; they truly capture the love that unites you all. Please know that even though we are strangers the love of our lord unites us all. You have my love and prayers. Once again thank you for sharing your little angel with all of us. I also want to thank you for posting Layla on YouTube. Saw the video of daddy making Layla giggle, and other videos while my 11 month sat on my lap and couldn’t stop sopping.
Love from California
What a beautiful and courageous daughter you have! Your story has truly touched my heart. My prayers are with you through this difficult time. God bless you and your family.
I just heard about Layla and your family. Today is my birthday, and you have given me a great gift in reminding me how very blessed I am. I will go home today and hold all my babies a little tighter. I can’t imagine how you are dealing with everything, and are still able to inspire others. Your daughter is a saint, and I will forever pray for her while she is on Earth and then in Heaven. Thank you for sharing her story. ((HUGS))
prayers …. oh so many prayers.
What beautiful pictures. You children are so adorable. I hope that you can find peace in what is an incredibly difficult experience.
I have wanted to post a comment for quite some time and have simply not had the words. I have been following Layla’s journey for quite some time. I too am a mother of 3 young girls & cannot imagine what your entire family has & will go through..the grief, the why’s, the heartache, the pain, and the peace I pray God is giving all of you. I must say it is clear from your entries God is near to all of you and has used you and your precious angel Layla to touch the world. I personally have reevaluated my relationship with my girls and husband and have become more patient & am learning it doesn’t matter if the dishes are all done and the laundry put away, what matters most is cherishing every moment God gives us with our families. God continually puts your family in my thoughts and prayers & it is clear He has given your family courage & strength to endure this. Know Layla & your words have changed my life in great ways and I will never forget you all.
We’ll never know why God has chosen Layla & your family to go through this but I want to thank you all for sharing & being used so mightily by Him. Your treasures are in Heaven.
I heard this song on the radio and thought of you all instantly –
Safe by Phil Wickham -
You will be safe in His arms. The hands that hold the world are holding your hearts. This is a promise He made, He will be with you always.
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Your family is so beautiful and my heart just breaks for sweet Layla. Im praying for her comfort.
I see this beautiful little girl and know that she is in Gods hands! You are a special, strong family and I will pray for you everyday! Your words are touching and uplifting in such a time of grief and I commend you for sharing this with all of us!
I found your blog after someone i follow on twitter posted about it.
I’m not a particularly religious person, but reading through everything Layla has been through and the gentle, kind spirit your little girl has maintained through what has undoubtedly been an extremely hard battle, has me rethinking things a bit. Whatever God there is, he is holding your little girl close. Such an angel would not be left alone in a struggle like this, and He gave this precious girl to a family that could love and care for her like no other could.
Keep your heads high, and know that you’ve done everything humanly possible to make Layla’s life as comfortable, fun and worthwhile as it could be. She’ll move on from the pain and you’ll have all the memories of her infectious smile and laughter to hold close to your heart.
My thoughts are with you and your family, and I hope life blesses you all with as many memories with Layla as possible.
PRAISE JESUS that her lungs are clear today!!!
PRAYING still!!
I found your blog through another I read. I’m so sorry for what you, Layla and your family are going through and I pray for strength for all of you as you endure this journey He has sent you on.
The pictures are beautiful and brought me to tears. God bless you.
Such sweet precious time with such a sweet precious girl. My heart and prayers go out to you. Your strength is amazing. Layla and your family are surrounded in prayer.
your blog has touched me! I am so very sorry for what you are going through. But your faith astounds me, excites me, reminds me, and replenishes me. I have been living in chronic pain for over a year and yet, that does not touch the fact that I have two healthy children who God for some reason has not chosen to take home yet.
i pray peace on your family and i pray peace for Layla as she continues to fight the race. when the race is over, she will be welcomed by those almighty arms into the gates of heaven!
i am reminded of the steven curtis chapman song, heaven is the face! listen to it! it is inspiring and beautiful, God knows where you are at!
Jesus name,
AMEN
I just learned about Layla on Monday night and have been moved beyond measure. From reading the Twitter updates to the blog entries, I am so taken by the love that pours from your beautiful and brave family. You have helped renew in me the importance of daily prayer and I have never prayed so hard for anything as I have for Layla and your family these last few days.
Choices are made out of love, or fear, and you have chosen LOVE every step of the way. Love, tenderness, and grace radiate the family portraits you had taken just a few short weeks ago. They are truly priceless and send a message that love is eternal, and that this kind of love never dies.
So many people are sending you their love. I pray that Layla feels so utterly loved by God, by you, by other family and friends, and by the strangers all over the world that she has united together through her fight.
Layla is LOVE.
Blessings,
Jennifer
What a beautiful family and such a sweet baby girl. The picture of her daddy holding her with her blanket made me cry. My prayers are with u and your family during this ruff time. May God be with little Layla and her family.
How awsome is our God, praying for your beautiful little girl & your family,
Have just read your comment re Layla’s lungs wow.
Will continue to pray for Layla she is such a fighter
I absolutely love those pictures. So glad you got those taken. I don’t know you, but my heart is breaking for you. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Just beautiful. Is that Pinkalicious she’s reading with daddy? I love it. Im glad you’ll have these pics to treasure. Thank you so much for sharing. God Bless your family.
Because of your beautiful Layla, tonight, I will cherrish my two daughters, their mess, dirty clothes, runny nose, music that is to loud, doll babies all over the floor, not wanting to eat their veg and refusing to take a bath! I will not ask them to “give Mommy a second”
Tonight and every night I will thank God for one more night with my girls!!
Your little Layla has changed my life!!
You have the most beautiful family. I found your website through Mckmama and check it several times a day. I have a 7yr old and a 2 yr old little girl. Layla has shown me that I need to cherish every minute and give all the extra hugs and kisses that I can. Sometimes this can be forgotten when we all get busy. Everytime I look at my children now I think of Layla. I love the picture of Layla and her dad just looking up at each other. It’s as if they are memorizing each others faces so that they don’t ever forget each other. My prayers are with your entire family.
Absolutely love the family photos. Stay strong because God answers prayers and doctors aren’t always right. Just a word of encouragement: My grandma was diagnosed two years late with her cancer and was given five months!! She lived FIVE more YEARS!! Your family is strong and through all of our prayers Layla is going to fight this!! She is an absolute beautiful sight!!
I wanted to tell you that your blog has touched my heart more than I can ever say. I commend you for the courage to document Layla’s life experience, an experience that no one should ever have to go through. I have shared in your tears, for a life and a beautiful family that I’ve never known.
The Bible assures us that the time will come when “death will be no more,” recorded at Revelation 21:4, “And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.”
I hope you find comfort in the fact that God will not forget Layla or your family…
Your girls are gorgeous! And what an absolutely awesome thing to have someone in your life that would drop everything to help your family make some memories to keep for a lifetime. Layla is always in my prayers. I hope her angels are keeping her smiling today
This song makes me think of Layla everytime I hear it, Earth is just her temporary home…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LraOiHUltak
PS your oldest looks like she could be a model.
I was sent your blog a few days ago, I am so so sorry! You are a very strong mother! Know that your family is covered in prayers. I came across this verse and I wanted to share it with you.
“We have small troubles for awhile now, but they are helping us gain an eternal glory that is much greater than the troubles. We set our eyes not on what we see but what we cannot see. What we see will last only a short time, but what we cannot see will last forever”.
~2 Corinthians 4:17-18
How beautiful they look. These are amazing pictures. Thank you mom for sharing Layla Grace’s story with us. She is a very strong, beautiful and inspiring sweet girl. I’m glad I read your blog. It makes not take things for granted. I have a 5 month old Baby girl and I’ll spend every second I can with her. May god bless Layla and your entire family. She is in my prayers every single day. The angels are definetely taking care of her.
Truth is this sucks….I can’t imagine what you are going through. My heart breaks for you and I don’t even know you.
I will pray for Great times and memories. The least amount of pain for your baby girl. And strength for you and your husband..To let her go into the hands of God. Where she will never again feel pain.
lovingly,
Crissy Hesch
I love the pictures! I found your link off of “my charming kids”. My heart hurts for you and your family but Layla will be healed soon. You are so strong and brave. hugs.
Jenny
Your family is in my prayers. I pray that Layla will be free of pain and aware of your unending love. I pray for your peace of mind and heart in the days and weeks to come.
My heart breaks as I look at your family photos and read of Layla’s journey with this awful disease. If anyone wonders why God would allow something like this to happen, just read all of the comments that have been left on this website and others and you’ll see. He does indeed have a plan and part of that plan has been to touch the lives of so many with Layla’s story and make them all the better for it. So many like myself have never had the pleasure of knowing this precious little angel and her family and yet we find ourselves saying prayers over and over for her and wanting to hold our own angels just a little tighter. God bless all of you as you go through this very painful time in your lives and never give up on a miracle. I’ve certainly seen a few in my lifetime. As I close this, I pray for that miracle so that you may have many, many more years with your precious little Layla. God bless and keep all of you.
There are no words to describe how reading this has made me feel. I just started reading your blog today and have cried off and on each time I read something new. I have 4 girls of my own and one who is the age of Layla. It is hard to imagine being in that situation. You are a woman of courage and strength and the Lord shines through it all. Our family is praying for you all. This has put a ton of things in perspective today. Who cares if I don’t get my children into the school I want. That is not important anymore. Thank you for writing this and know that we are praying for you and Layla. May the Lord comfort her and hold her hand as you all walk through this.
My heart and prayers go out to your family! I pray for a miracle for little Layla! You have a beautiful family and I wish the best for you! Stay strong and keep faith.
LUNGS ARE CLEAR!!! Thank you GOD!
Please God, let this be the beginning of many many more positive things in the days/ weeks/ months/ years to come!!!! You have and will conitinue to hear the cry of our hearts as we beg and plead with you to work your Miracle on sweet precious Layla! Many of us do not know this family, but we feel it all too personal as we too are mothers and fathers of children. Whether they be sick or healthy. Even those who aren’t parents see the pain and the love this family has! Please God, in your holy name heal this angel! Let her story be one miracle after another to be shared for years to come!
In your name, Amen~
Such beautiful photos! Your family is in our thoughts.
Your family is absolutely gorgeous. Your little girl is in my thoughts and prayers.
I came across your website and twitter page a few days ago and has a mother of a 2 yr old my heart breaks for you. Please know that you daughter is a truly a precious gift from God, and He will take care of her, watch over her when you are not there. Layla is a beautiful little girl and I have been praying and thinking about her daily. I can not even image what you are going through but please know that I am praying feverantly for your family. May the Lord give you strength in this time. May God bless your entire family.
Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not: for of such is the Kingdom of God.”
[Mark 10:13]
Jenny
Richmond, TX
Bless you and your family in this extraordinary struggle. I can’t even imagine what this feels like. I only hope that Layla’s story will heal thousands of other children.
I’m so sorry, your family will be in my prayers. I facebooked and tweeted this, hopefully, it will help spread the word
I stummled acoss your page just browsing the internet.
I wanted you to know that you have to be by far one of the strongest women I have come “meet”.
Your family is absoutly beautiful. your daughter is stunning.
I have never met you, but my heart and continues prayers go out to your family!
Your a mother who definatly inspires mothers!
God Bless
Breanna
I have only been following your story for a few days, but Layla Grace is already on my heart. I am a mother of 2 boys and I can’t imagine what you and your family are going through. I have dedicated all my prayers today to only Layla and your family. Hang tough little Layla and Happy Birthday Jenna.
those pictures are great thank you so much for sharing them and your family with us. I came accross you blog from a friend and I check it everyday. You are an amazing mother, thank you again for sharing with me as Layla has changed my life. So thank you again from the bottom of my heart and I will continue to lift up your family in my prayers.
There isn’t anything I can say that hasn’t been said by many other people. You are amazing and an inspiration… We have fertility issues and think its the worst thing that can happen… Then I read your story about your family and feel horrible for my thoughts and selfishness and I also am humbled all at once. Thank you for your pictures, they are amazing and I feel blessed to see them. Its not everyday that a story touches me like this one has. I am sorry for what you are going through, please know that you and your family are in my prayers.
Hugs and My God Bless You and Keep You
Christina & Kevin King
I am so touched by your precious daughter Layla and her struggles. I am encouraged by your steadfast commitment to the Lord and I know that His arms will rock her to sleep when yours no longer can. I am saddened and heartbroken for you and your story helps me to love and appreciate my little ones even more. I will be praying for Layla and your family.
Amber
Ft. Worth, TX
Although I have never met your family, your story has touched me greatly. You are in my thoughts daily, and I will continue to pray that you receive your miracle. Your story has made me realize what a blessing the daily trials of motherhood truly are and I thank you so much for sharing your life with us.
Absolutely gorgeous!! What amazing pictures of your beautiful family. What a blessing Christie is and her work is gorgeous. I’m so glad you have these family pictures!
I cried when I read your ‘about page’. Your family shall be in my prayers. I will pray for your dear sweet child. Miricals happen, right? Love
Sarah Elizabeth
I will diligently be praying for Layla and your family. I know things are hard but i have quite a few prayer warriors that i am going to call.. Our prayers are with you.
Hannah
Amory, Ms
I am a 14 year old girl from England. I found this link through Ryan Seacrest’s twitter.. i am totally touched by your story and i cannot start to imagine what you as a family are going through. I am now following you on twitter and will continue to follow your story. i will pray for layla and you all tonight x
Your family is beautiful and Layla is so very precious. Thank you for your story and I will cherish the lessons to be learned in taking the time to enjoy and love every aspect of “mommyhood”. I will be keeping you and your family in my prayers. I absolutely LOVE your photos and I know you will cherish each one.
Kara
We are praying for Layla and for your family.
My heart and prayers go out to you, your family and your beautiful little girl. I enjoyed looking at the gorgeous photos. You captured a precious moment that you’ll never forget.
The pictures are absolutly beautiful and priceless. My heart is breaking for you I will continue to keep Layla and your whole family in my prayers. God bless you all.
I just came across your blog today. My husband and I will be praying for your family. We have three little ones and can not even imagine what you are going through right now.
Beth
If God brings you to it he WILL bring you through it. PRAYING for your beautiful Layla and your family, We may not know God’s reason but I pray that God comforts Your family today and the many day’s that lay ahead. OH HEAVENLY FATHER I PRAY THAT YOU REACH DOWN AND TOUCH LAYLA WITH YOUR MIGHTY HAND AND GIVE HER PEACE, JOY AND COMFORT KNOWING THAT YOU ARE IN CONTROL AND THAT SHE IS YOUR PRECIOUS ANGEL. AMEN
Layla has been in my thoughts for so many months now. The last few days, she is the first thing I think of in the morning when I wake up and the last thing I think of before bed. She has touched my world like you wouldn’t believe.
I teach 7th graders and I’ve shared over the past few months about Layla’s fight. Many of my students showed up at the festival in the Fall at Warner. They ask for updates every day when they come into class and they have begun to ask how they can help. Many read about Jenna’s birthday and made cards for me to send to you guys.
Layla, you’ve touched more lives than you could ever realize. Shanna and Ryan, I wish I had HALF the strength that you do.
Your family is absolutely beautiful and I’m so very greatful that you shared these pictures with us.
You can tell, even by the amount of posts on this blog, just how many hearts Layla has touched. What a beautiful family you have! And although we search for words, for miracles, and for reason, I hope you find comfort in knowing you were blessed to have Layla in your life. None of us know what our journey will be like and when it will end, but Miss Layla must be one very special peanut for God to want her back so quickly. I am just one person, but please know that Layla’s story has touched me immensely and I am praying for you.
Keeping an eye on your udpdates many times throughout the day. Reading that her lungs are clear today is so great. Peace and comfort is what we all want for your precious Layla Grace. I am praying non stop for you and the entire family. Not sure where other family members are, but I am sure they are grieving too. God does have a plan and even though we dont know what it is for LaylaGrace, she has been such an inspiration already to so many. You are right, she has done more than some do in 80 years. GOD be with you always! Please reach out to those who love you when you need. We are all here for you. Hugs.
Thank you Mommy and Daddy of Layla for being so gracious and sharing your story with all of us. You are amazing!
One last thing, since I have started to follow your journey (just found out about you), I have watched over 2,000 people sign up on twitter to follow you. That is amazing power of God! Prayer works.
Stephen Curtis Chapman’s Song – Heaven is the Face of a Little Girl
A song for Layla and her family…..
A song for all parents…..
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5_pfytCE_4
Praying for Layla Grace, I just know God is working a miracle in your precious little angel, look at the hearts and lives she is stirring, and uniting us all together with the veil of His love, through your darling Layla!
Layla’s middle name GRACE is perfect for her! She is the grace of God!
Continuing by your side, to follow and pray throughout the day that he continues to breathe His life into her little fragile body to heal her and restore her, to give her His strength.
God have mercy on your angel, Layla Grace and watch over her two beautiful sisters to wrap them in your everlasting embrace. Hold tightly your other two precious children, Layla’s Mommy and Daddy, be proud of the undying devotion, love and faith they honor you with.
Please God, let us all continue together and through prayer, to ask you Dear Lord to continue working a miracle through Layla. The lives she has touched, continues to touch and the new lives she yet is to touch, watch over all praying and loving Layla, and I pray she continues these precious moments with her parents, feeling no pain, just love and peace and your gentle presence.
Layla is LOVE, she is God’s LOVE, and her story is such a testament to that as we all lift Layla to Him.
God is most certainly working here and Layla is a vessel of His love uniting many.
Little Layla Grace is, as all the precious children in the world, a Face of Heaven. I pray to let her parents continue many precious moments holding, loving on and being in Layla’s earthly presence throughout the day and days ahead, feeling your almighty presence in her breathing.
Bless Layla Grace with your continued grace and with the continual guidance of your loving embrace and your everlasting love, please hear my prayer Heavenly Father.
Amazing Grace, on Layla Grace.
Thy will be done. AMEN.
~Rebecca in ND
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5_pfytCE_4
This song by Stephen Curtis Chapman is beautiful, and is full of hope, peace, love and His AMAZING Grace and is a reminder of the precious children in all of our lives and the precious blessings they are, including Layla Grace and all children fighting for their lives around the world, to Him and through Him I also pray for them.
I have just read your devastating news and as I have walked in your shoes after losing my little daughter Helen to HLH aged 3 I know exactly how you feel. I can only tell you this is the hardest road any parent will walk and although it is something we never get over we learn to adjust our lives around it. It is only now I am able to focus on the healthy Helen I had and not focus on her sickness and suffering and someday you will all smile again and remember the precious memories you darling daughter has left for you all to cherish. Thoughts and prayers are with you all from the Kerr Family in N Ireland xx
Those pictures are absolutely gorgeous. I began following you after mckmamma suggested it and just read that you talked to Ryan seacrest today. You are in my prayers during the last days of laylas precious life.
my heartfelt prayers go out to your family
OH little Layla!!! How I wish I could meet you. I shed a tear for you today. I am a mommy too you see… and wish I could take your pain away.
Thank goodness you were able to have these beautiful pictures taken. She looks like an angel. Your family are in my prayers. Miracles can happen.
You have a beautiful family that is full of love and grace. We are praying for you. I saw your post about Ryan Seacrest. That would be awesome to get some attention on that type of cancer. There is a boy in our town with the same and has been fighting for a while. We will continue to pray for a cure…
Seriuosly have a lump in my throat and tears fill my eyes I just wish I could hold her.u truly are amazing and so bleesed to have this angel in ur life if only for a while.
My thoughts and prayers are with your family! My God give you comfort!
Shanna…as I continue to pray fervently for Layla, I have added a prayer for you! God is using Layla’s story to really SHAKE THINGS UP! I have chills watching the number of followers on Twitter just SOAR! And, Ryan Seacrest stepping up to help out…WOW! Girl, God is going to use you and that precious little charmer of yours to spread not only the word about neuroblastoma but HIS WORD! What a blessing to see so clearly Layla’s impact on the world!
In Him,
Cheryl
Thank Lord Jesus Christ! Her lungs are clear! Thank you your Heavenly Father. Please hold Layla close in your heart, and let’s all pray our heart and soul’s out that this lilttle girl is able to recover here on earth with her sisters and her parents!
I heard about your blog, and was blessed and humbled by your story. You are a beautiful family, and Layla Grace is a blessed little girl to have you both as parents! I will be praying for you during this journey. I do not understand how our God works, or why He allows these things to happen…but, I know that He gives peace and comfort and will see as through! As a parent of two boys, I know how much love you have for Layla and your other two daughters…May God give you much hope, peace, and joy in the days that you have with her! God bless you!!
We are praying for you; for God’s comfort and peace to be with you all. Enjoy loving on your precious girl.
A family in Dallas lost their son, Connor, to neuroblastoma in July. They have begun a non-profit to raise awareness and funds for pediatric cancer research. http://www.teamconnor.org Connecting there may at least give you strength and encouragement through some more parents who have been where you are.
May God bless you abundantly and do a mighty work in you and through you.
I don’t know you or your beautiful Layla, but her story has touched me. I do believe that God has a plan and that we will all see each other again one day. I will start a prayer chain for Layla and your family. May God bless you and Layla.
Praise God for clear lungs! Wow! Ryan Seacrest wants to help raise awareness- look at all the people who are wanting to help in the fight against this cancer monster. We are all still praying for that miracle- Father God please heal this little angel, let her work continue here on earth, she has touched so many lives and can touch so many more. We pray Jesus’ healing hands are holding Layla close to his heart!
In Christ’s Love,
C.O.L.E. Prayer Team
Mark Manfull
http://www.colesfoundation.com
San Antonio, TX
Wow. it honestly amazes me how many hearts layla is touching. im so so sorry about what your family is going through, but i that wont help. Little layla is an amazing girl, and she is very strong. Thanks for posting these pics! And i hope that youre all okay!!!!! Tell layla thank you for touching our hearts!!!! i cry several times a day thinking about layla, and i will continue to pray for her!!!!
Dear Layla and family. I know what you are passing trhough, I was in this situation a few months ago….for my sister. We were so close, she’s like my twin for me. I’m just 16 years old but I know how hard it is so I hope you have the strenght and that you know she’s an angel that will stand by your side ALWAYS. Don’t loose your faith and Im praying everyday for you from Spain. A huge kiss and I give you my little strenght. With love…..Aytana.
you and your family is on our prayers….Layla is a beautiful child…..god bless her and all of your family Just enjoy the time that you have with her and remember all the good times that she brought to you….god bless all of you
layla and you and all your family will always be in my prayers xxx
WOW! I can’t find words to express how I feel after reading about Layla’s fight. I, myself, am a cancer survivor (Stage 4 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma) and at the age of 28 I could barely deal with the pain I had to face. I don’t know where your lil angel gets her strength from but God Bless her and your family. I can’t imagine how it feels as you and your husband must prepare yourselves and your 2 other lil girls for this tragic loss. How do you “prepare” for such a great loss?! I will be sure to continue to follow you on twitter and check in on your blog.
I wish peace to your family at this emotional time. Layla Grace– You fought a spectacular fight and will continue until you can fight no more. When it is time for you to go “home” you will always look after your mom, dad and sisters letting them know you are always with them in their hearts!
Prayers & Hugs!
Your story breaks my heart. I have read every blog and keep a window open on my computer at work to check for Twitter updates. I have a 15 month old baby girl, Emma Grace, and your story has put a lot in perspective for me. I make sure to give her extra big hugs and kisses everyday! Layla is such a tough little gir! I cry rewind the blogs, Twitter post, and even just talking about it with others. I’ve ordered a few hats from If The Bow Fits and can’t wait to see Emma in them! I’ll always think of Layla when I see Emma in them! I really hope you can find peace. I’m still praying for you all and will keep posting prayer requests on my facebook page to spread the word! I’m so sorry for you all.
Your prose and pictures are beautiful! Thank you so much for sharing with us all. We are changed for the better for always. Your family is in the front of my heart and thoughts. Thank you Layla Grace and thank you to your wonderful family.
Layla is such a beautiful baby girl. Your family is in my prayers.
Ever since I’ve heard Layla’s story, I’ve wanted to help your family out. But there is one thing that is sadly holding me back. I live in WI and so having to find a way to travel would be an expense…however, if there is anything I can do that doesn’t involve trying to purchase a plane ticket, I’d be most happy to oblige.
Little Layla dear, we are praying for you!!
Happy Healing!
My prayers are with you, Layla and the family. Miracles do happen, I believe in the power of prayer and miracles, I’ll be praying non stop!
You do not know me-but my heart goes out to you..Please know you are in my prayers and may you find comfort from all the love that pours out to you..Layla is your angel..
You will forever love these photos. They are so beautiful, they are so perfect. I am so sorry for what you are going through. She takes beautiful pictures. Thank you for sharing these precious family moments.
Thank your for sharing the beautiful pictures, thank your for being real and sharing your heart.
xoxo
God Bless
Beautiful, and so poignant.
Layla and all of you are in my thoughts and prayers.
God Bless,
Becky
I read your tweets on twitter.I go to Baldwin Wallace in cleveland ohio and i tell everyone about Layla’s story and tell them to follow her! i just want you to know we are all thinking and praying for you and your family!
Maria Brown
I just came across your blog… and I wanted to say that I am praying for your family. I can’t imagine all that you are going through. I wish, that there was more that I could do to help.
Your pictures are absolutely gorgeous! They are amazing and showing the beauty of a good day. Cherish those forever! Thanks for sharing some of your families moments.
Don´t cry if you love me.
If you knew the gift of God
and what Heaven is.
If you could hear the angels singing
and see me among them…
If, only for an instant, you could contemplate,
just like me,
the Beauty before which all beauties turn pale.
Trust me.
When the day, which god has stated and knows, arrives
and your soul, which has been preceded by mine,
enters this Heaven,
That day you will see me again,
you will feel that I still love you,
that I have always loved you
and you will find my heart
with all its love purified.
You will see me in transfiguration,
in an ecstasy of happiness.
No longer waiting for death,
but walking with you
and holding your hand along new paths of light and life.
So, wipe your tears away
and don´t cry, if you love me…
Saint Augustin.
God bless baby Layla and your family.
These are absolutely stunning. Layla Grace and your entire family is in my prayers.
Beautiful pictures… so lovely! The girls are so pretty and the pics… well i will say it again – lovely!
Praying constantly for a MIRACLE – and if not – that God’s will be done and that you and your family would be comforted.
Hugs and blessings from Colorado
Charity
I found your blog through a friend’s. My heartfelt prayers go out for your beautiful little Layla and your whole family. My heart is breaking reading your story…I have 18 month old twin boys, and you’ve shown how we can’t take all those little moments with our kids for granted. God bless all of you.
I just don’t have words. What beautiful pictures and what a very special family and a very special little girl. All my love and prayers are with your family. I wish I lived close enough to come and clean your house for you. Prayers in Tucson, Az.
I started following Layla’s story on Twitter. First thing I do when I wake up in the morning is run to my computer to see your latest message praying that it’s going to be good news. Layla is a precious angel. So strong. I pray for Layla and your family. These pictures are beautiful.
God bless all of you.
I just found your blog and Layla’s story.
She is beautiful, what an angel! God has a place. Praying for a miracle…. Trust in God!!!!!
Praying so hard for you, Layla, and your family!
My heart breaks for Layla and for the whole family. I am part of a prayer list and I have been praying for all of you since I found out about Layla.
God Bless you All!!!
Renea Garza
Chico, Tx
We don’t know each other but I want you to know that I am praying for you and your family. I belong to the same sorority as Chris Briede and I saw her tweet about praying for you yesterday and it led me here. I have another sorority sister who is the mother of a 5 year old boy who has managed to survive this ugly disease. When I read your story I really begin to feel like God is calling me to DO something. I’m not sure what that is just yet… I am waiting to “hear” more from Him. There is a local group here that hosts an event to raise money for neuroblastoma research at MUSC called Chase After a Cure. I’m hoping to do something to help them. I have two healthy children (and I feel guilty for telling you that) and seeing what you and your family and my friend Lisa’s family have been through makes me realize how much I’ve taken for granted how lucky I am that they are healthy. The faith that you display is so inspiring. God is using Layla Grace to reach people – but he’s also using YOU!
May God give you peace.
May God watch over Layla during this difficult time. She is a beautiful little girl. I just discovered her story and I am touched. God Bless you all.
Praying for you Layla from Chicago!
My heart goes out to you, for god has given you such a presious gift. Layla is a very special little girl, god has given you such a gift. You have taken such good care of her, given her love, care and that special place in your heart. She will always be there in your special place in your heart. I pray that good with heal your precious Layla that he will do his will, and heal her. Let her become that special young lady she is to grow up to be. I pray for her healing and for all of gods will the be done. I pray for all your healing and gods will be done. Amen…
My prayers are with your entire family. May God be with each of you to help you through such a difficult time. Cherish and remember all the wonderful times and I hope you can all pull through as a family.
God bless you little Layla.
Michelle
What beautiful photos, thank you for sharing. My continued thoughts and prayers are with you. May God hold you close, may you feel his peace within. Surrounding you with Love Light and Blessings. Love and Hugs from Florida.
your family is beautiful. what a blessing all your girls are. i will be praying for not only layla but you, your husband and girls. May the wonderful loving Lord be with your family in your time of need.
She’s an angel. Prayers and hugs from New Jersey.
The photos of your family are just beautiful. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
I’m praying and crying for this beautiful family that I’ve only stumbled upon tonight. I’m praying that your beautiful little girl is held and protected, right now, under an angels wing. I pray for healing. A miraculous healing whether it is here on earth or a beautiful homecoming in heaven. I pray that your family feels His hand on your shoulders. I’m praying!!
He is Faihful. He knoweth the path that I take…Father let this cup pass from me never the less not my will but thy will be done…He ever liveth to make intersession for us…He poured out his life for us…His loving tender mercies abideth forever…His compassions they fail not…He knew you before he pressed you together…Before the foundations of the earth He knew all about this time and this circumstance. Father please accomplish what it is that you brought this circumstance together for your pleasure, honor and glory.
I read the story of your precious angel just yesterday for the first time and the tears have not stopped. May you find comfort in the time you have had with Layla Grace and with knowing she will soon be your guardian angel. I have shared Layla’s story with so many friends in the past day and a half and we are all praying for that miracle. Sending you love….
You seriously have a beautiful family. Words escape me tonight but know Layla has touched more lives than you can imagine.. my heart bursts with love for your baby. Praying, praying, praying..
Thank you for sharing the beautiful photos of Layla and your family. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
The pictures are wonderful. I’m glad you got them in.
I’m so sorry for what Layla is going thru but she sounds like she has a great family.
Our prayers are with you and hope that you can have as many good days as possible. The pictures are beautiful.
crying and praying as i read this. i am so grateful that you have these pictures. we never had pictures taken before cancer took our daughter from us. not professional ones anyway, and the end result is that we have 1 snapshot of us as a family. just 1 where my husband and I are both smiling at the camera with our daughter, and even in that one, our smiles are shrouded in sadness and terror. these photos are a blessing. i praying so hard tonight. praying for a miracle for sweet layla, and for strength for you all.
I’m praying for your beautiful family and Layla. I hope you find peace.
Amazing photos. My heart is with you and your entire family
you have such a beautiful family. thank you for sharing your story with us. my prayers are with you and your family.
Those are truly priceless! All of you are just beautiful! our prayers will never stop till peace is found. How could 18 tiny little pounds change thousands of peoples lives so quickly. Truly precious. God bless your whole family.
I do not know you, but this story was passed along by a friend. In my profession, I see people with a particularly horrible form of cancer that strikes later in life, so I have seen what this disease can do. As I read your blogs (which I appreciate took a great deal of time and strength to write) I was struck by the courage that your beautiful daughter, like so many children hit with cancer, show. They are truly so much stronger than adults. I cannot give you any advice as to how to handle this, as I would not insult you by saying I understand, having never been through this. However, you should know that whatever short time on this earth God has given to Layla Grace, she has served it well. It is not the amount of time we spend here, but what we do with it that matters. Your other beautiful children have witnessed her strength, and have gained a true appreciation for life — something that the young do not always have. I am not terribly religious so I will not quote scripture, but I do believe that God must have a purpose for her that we cannot understand. I have lost ones close to me and still feel them around me — they are that voice in my head — she will be that voice in all of your heads — the voice that tells you to keep fighting, to keep going, the voice that stops you before you make a huge mistake. I do believe that our bodies die but our souls live on and grow wiser, and stay close to those they loved on earth. Her love and wisdom will stay with you, and yours with her, for nothing in this world is ever truly lost.
My love and thoughts are with you all.
Thank you so much for sharing these pictures! Your daughters are absolutely beautiful. My younger brother is a Nueroblastoma survivor, and I can’t even imagine what your family is going through. These pictures will be cherished forever, I am sure of it. God bless your family
Precious Pictures! Thought and Prayers are with yall <3
I’m not sure what I can say but I feel I should say something…you, your family and Layla are in my thoughts and prayers. Peace be with you all during this hard time.
Your family is beautiful.
God’s little angel, soon to be restored, you’re story, an inspiration and testament of God’s grace and presence that accompanies each one of us if we choose.
Layla is Eternally His and yours xxx
You do not know as I don’t know you except from this site and facebook. I cannot imagine the pain you are going through but I know you are in God’s hands. You have such a beautiful family. I can see you are all strong. I lift you up in prayers and have placed you on my church bible study prayer list. I have also sent your info to all my friends and family and we will be praying. I’d like to say a little prayer with you now.
-Our most gracious Heavenly Father, we come before you now as your humble servants with gratitude for all of your blessings. Lord, we pour out our hearts and lift up our burdens and lay them at your feet. Lord, we lift up this beautiful angel that you have sent down to us, heal her Father. Lord, take away her pain and suffering and reach down and take the cancer out of her ailing body. Father, please keep family and friends strong as they support eachother. Comfort her and family and friends alike. Father, we as for your strength. We come together and humbly ask for your miraculous hands to touch her. Our most gracious Savior, we pray for guidance as we try to come to grasp with your will. Heal your angel sweet Lord. We pray this in your Son Christ Jesus’ name.
Amen
we are praying all the way from manila, philippines. i read your blog entries and i broke down. such a sweet little angel sent by god to make a difference and touch our lives. god bless you and your family.
My heart is breaking for you and your family. You and Layla are in my constent thoughts and prayers.
I’m just another mom in Cypress and have 2 girls myself. I have heard about your precious baby through friends and started reading your blog few weeks ago. Our entire family has been praying for sweet Layla and all of you as you go through this journey. You are beautiful, your family is beautiful and the way God is using you to glorify Him is beautiful. You have touched so many lives with your strong faith as you share what your family is going through with others. I will continue to pray for you, one mother for another for peace, strength and joy that can only come from God during a time like this….. I will continue to pray for Layla’s healing…in God’s will and in His perfect way.
Richele Ramsey
What gorgeous, gorgeous pictures. Layla and your family are in my prayers….I wish you all the best. I only learned of your story recently but already it has touched me so deeply. God bless.
Your family has touched the depths of my heart and soul. I am praying for your beautiful Layla Grace. I will be asking my church family to intercede on her behalf. And I will stand in for her every service at my church.
Got up out of bed, sobbing, pleading with God, again. I have come closer to him because of your sweet baby. When I lost a baby to miscarriage without even knowing him/her, I was distraught. Even though it’s cliche, the nurse told me quietly, “It okay honey, Jesus has a rocking chair.” Thank God Thank God Thank God she has a home to go to and she will not have cancer there! I can go a little easier knowing what will be there. What joy what joy what joy to see this baby, who not knowing, I love, in heaven. But if not, as so many have said, I am pleading with the heavenly father even tonight for a miracle.
You have a gorgeous family. Reading about sweet Layla touches me so deeply. I’m a first-time mom to an 8-month-old baby girl and I can’t even imagine what you are going through but I feel for you. I pray for your family constantly and that God gives Layla extra measures of strength and comfort. She has touched so many lives in her short life. Prayers and love to your beautiful family.
All three of your girls are just beautiful! I am in awe of your strength and faith as a family. May God bless you and watch over sweet Layla Grace.
What a beautiful, perfect family! My heart just continues to ache for all of you. I don’t know how you’re so strong through this all but I admire your strength! You have dealt with this in such a manner that is truly inspirational to us women who aren’t having to deal with anything even remotely like this. Everything you are going through as a mother has put my life and problems into perspective. I continue to pray each day for a miracle b/c the world just doesn’t seem right without Layla Grace in it. I know I don’t know her but I feel like I do through your blogs and pictures. She’s such an angel and has been an inspiration to us all! God Bless your family and your beautiful baby girl!
Love,
Amber Jessup
College Station, TX (from Clear Lake in Houston though)
You have a beautiful family. You will always cherish these photos. Your family is in my prayers. Thanks for sharing your families journey and what layla grace is going through. You all are such strong people. May God answer your prayers.
Angela
Stratford, Oklahoma
Even at work I can’t get your family off of my mind. I’m constantly checking for updates and lifting little prayers to God for Layla and for your family. You are all a blessing to the rest of us. You have not pulled any punches with what you are going through, and yet, you still see the humor in things, as well. It is so obvious that your faith is strong – I’m not sure mine would have been in light of all of this. I still pray that God takes the cancer from her, and if that is not to be, then I pray for a peaceful passing for her.
I am just amazed at her strength – it obviously runs in your family. My heart just aches for all of you. May God bless you with his love and comfort.
Prayers are going up in Kansas. Bless you and your family. Jesus wants that baby well…Find refuge and strength in HIM. Thanks for sharing your story and reminding us to cherish every moment.
I am honored to read the story of your family. Your walk with the Lord shines in your posts. I have two girls and I am so amazed at your strength. As you know this life is only temporary and you all will see your precious angel without pain when you get to Heaven … hold to that in these difficult moments and know that He will comfort you as he is holding your angel in his arms … I shed my tears for you … she is beautiful and you are an amazing mom !!
God bless your family through your ordeal.
Thank you so much for sharing sweet Layla’s story & her amazingly BEAUTIFUL pictures. I’ve been following her story for about 3 wks. now & I’ve been praying for a miracle ever since. I wake up every morning & check my computer to see how Layla is doing, I check all throughout the day & before I go yo bed. I’m praying all throughout the day for sweet Layla & your family. As a mom myself, my heart just breaks for you all. It’s so amazing just how many people Layla has touched during her life so far & most of us she has never even met. She is a gift from God & I’m honored to have followed her journey. I’m so sorry you are all having to go through this, no child should have to fight the battle that she has, & no parent should have to watch her child go through all of what Layla has, it just is not fair. I will continue to pray for Layla & your family. I look at her beautiful pictures that you posted on Flicker & I just cry & cry, she is so precious! Layla has touched my heart so deeply, thank you again for sharing sweet Layla with us all. She is loved by so many. Please Jesus hold her in your arms & keep her comfortable, pain free & at peace. Please keep Layla’s mother & father surrounded by your heavenly angels. PLEASE dear God grant Layla her life saving miracle.
Kristie
Cypress, TX
Continuing to pray in Seattle!
Psalms 27:7-9 Hear, O LORD, when I cry with my voice: have mercy also upon me, and answer me. When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, LORD, will I seek. Hide not thy face far from me; put not thy servant away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation.
Prayer Bears
My email address
I wanted to say God Bless you during this time. I have twin 15yr old sisters and the oldest has (had) cancer. She was diagnosed with Rhabdomysarcoma. She is currently in remission. Please feel free to email me if you need someone to talk to. (tabathahenry@ymail.com)
Still Praying for a Miracle!! Layla is such a fighter!! We are praying…praying…praying in West Virginia!!
[...] In light of the fact that I am so very, very lucky and blessed to have two happy and healthy girls, albeit teenagers, I want to show my gratitude with the first 5 Star Friday blog of the week being dedicated to a baby girl named Layla Grace Marsh. This sweet cheeked little sprite of a thing is not expected to reach her 3rd birthday let alone her 15th. She was diagonsed ten months ago with a stage 4 neuroblastoma tumor. My heart aches for the family of this little girl and they need help. You can read more about this family and baby Layla here at Layla’s blog. [...]
The photos are really beautiful. You had a genius idea there and Christie caught you all so well. I have only read this single post, as I came across your blog on Twitter via Ben Mclean, but it broke my heart – I am too afraid to read any more.
I truly hope a miracle happens for your family and Layla. My warmest wishes and lots of love your way.
x
I saw Layla’s story on a tweet of Askjillian from good day LA in California…as I write this I have tears streaming down my face…my heart is breaking for you and your family…you show such Amazing Courage and strength..my kids are all sound asleep and I want to go wake them up…give them a hug and kiss and tell them how much I love them…Thank you for sharing your story with the world…you remind all of us how precious life is and to never take one day for granted…I’m praying that the power of prayers will bring a miracle to your family…all our love
The Raven/Torres Family from Moreno Valley California
Layla Grace is one of the most beautiful little girls I have ever seen. She is so precious. I found your story online about a week ago and I check here and read you twitter constantly. I’m a 20 year old from California and all i think about is Layla now. It makes me so sad knowing all that she has gone through. Its not fair at all. Ive been telling everyone i run into about her and telling them to pray, pray hard. I pray that a miracle happens and that she survives. I pray for your family and that you are all okay during this time. I pray that when she does go to heaven that she has angels leading her in. I cry every night thinking about her, it is so sad. One day when I have a daughter of my own I’m going to name her Layla Grace. Its such a beautiful name and its because of the strength she has shown as well as the strength you and your family have shown. Even though its such a sad story, she has touched so many people and has made so many people strong. She has touched more people in the two years then most people will in their entire lives. Shes taught me not to take things for granted, to enjoy life, worry less, and to be thankful for the family and friends i have. I pray for you and your family and will continue to pray for a long time. God bless your family, especially Layla Grace
You have a beautiful family…. I am lost for words & in awe of your strength…. xxx
Beautiful family. My heart is racing from reading your stories. I will pray for you and Layla and your entire family. Stay strong and know that God is in control. Give it to him, he will help you through it. Anything you ask the Father in Jesus name will be granted to you. Ask and have faith for what you ask, have faith that it will be received. God promises this to us. Please visit gotquestions.org for any spiritual questions you have. I find this site extremely helpful when navigating my bible. God bless you all.
I have tears running down my face. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Still praying here in NY… I am praying so hard and hoping for a miracle.
Praying for her comfort and for yours along with your husband and her two sisters! God Bless you all!!
Layla is beyond beautiful! What a brave little girl you have! I absolutely love the second picture where she is looking up at Daddy while reading a book – I have come back to that beautiful picture so many times! My heart just hurts that you need to prepare to give her back to God and I admire your faith more than I can say. God bless you all – I hold you all in my heart and in my prayers. Layla has taught me to leave the laundry and housework for awhile and snuggle my 3-year old instead.
Layla became my hero, I think about her, pray for her and all of you… I live in Europe, in Poland but my thoughs are with you and your adorable and brave Layla.
Layla is a very strong little girl!!!!!!! it amazes me that shes still hanging on so tightly! GO LAYLA GRACE!!!! I post frequent updates on my facebook about layla for my friends (basically i tell them what you twitter) and it amazes me what my friends say!!! Layla touches their hearts too!!!! Layla is a sweeet litttle girl, and shes truly amazing!!! i will continue praying for little layla grace and yoour whole family!!!!! THANK YOU LAYLA GRACE!!!
BTW- a little off topic but i love the name layla grace!!!!!
GO LAYLA GO!!!!
Hi, first I wanna say that all the photos look amazing! Your family is absolutly gorgeous, but I also want you to know that I commend you and your family for all the strength you all have. Never giving up, always looking for a brighter tomorrow. Especially little miss layla, for being 2 she is such a strong willed little girl. Some older people can’t even touch her strangth! As I write this my eyes fill with tears I’m a mother of a 2 year old little girl as well and I can’t even image what I would do if this was happening in my family. I don’t think I could handle it, seeing her hurting and there isn’t much to do for her. But I give you soooooooo many round of appaulse for handling this situation the way you do! It’s amazing truely amazing! I have never been one for praying but after finding out about layla (thru tweeter somehow lol) I have prayed so much for her. My daughter saw me on my phone on laylas site and I was looking at pics and my daughter said “ohhh mommy pretty baby! I kiss I kiss” so she took my phone and gave Layla like 20 kisses! To say my screen was all wet and smudged lol. I recently just lost one of my bestfriend feb 14,10 and that broke my heart. I found out about layla the next day, I think that my bestfriend was chosen by god to watch over your daughter. Because he was an amazing guy could bring a laugh and a smile to whomever needed it. Even when no one else could, I know these last few days you have been preparing yourself for yet another trying time. But in this time if you see her smile and hear a small giggle just know that it’s my bud watching out for her. I know that what I’ve written is probably all over the place and I apoligize. And if anything I’ve said upset you I deeply apologize…nothing I said was ment to be upsetting. I will keep praying for layla and the rest of you family. I send warm hugs and kisses your way.
Your pictures are beautiful! What an amazing memory you will have forever. Your family, especially your beautiful little Layla, are in my thoughts and prayers each day. Thank you for sharing her with the world.
I am so sorry that you and your family are going through this!! I don’t even know you guys and it just breaks my heart!! I will be praying for you guys through all of this!! Those are beautiful pictures!! I will now never wish for those quiet few moments because you never know what will happen!! Thank you for sharing your story with us all!!
Melissa
Albuquerque, New Mexico
You have an amazing and beautiful family!! The photographs are simply amazing, and I wish I lived in the Houston area so I could take my family to Cristie Lacy!
You and your family are in my Prayers! Praying not only for a miracle but also for OUR LORD to give your family all the strength you need to carry you through this time. There is no doubt that you and your family have the LOVE OF OUR LORD AND SAVIOR in your hearts and HE is all you need!!
You surely have reminded me how blessed I have been with my wonderful children and now my first Granddaughter!! My Mom told me when I gave birth to my first child to love and care for her to the best of my ability because she was a gift from HIM, that she was HIS and HE could take her back when ever HE wanted and we were only there to raise her in HIS LOVE. I lived with those words since then, dedicating my self to my children. She is now 23 and a mother of a beautiful 8 month old. And yes, I told her the same thing, and she is a wonderful Mommy!!
You are an awesome Mommy yourself, we can all see that you pour yourself into your children, by the feelings you post on here. Thank you for sharing your family with us!!
Praying for Layla, you and your family continually here in Oklahoma!!
May GOD bless each of you!!
Thank you so much for sharing your life and your pictures with us. Thanks to the world of twitter I was able to find out about your family and beautiful Layla Grace. The rest of your family is beautiful as well. Please know, even those of us who live in other states and may never meet you this side of heaven are praying for EACH of you…parents and children. May you find HIS peace and may your beautiful girls know that as well. Please know there are people praying still for the miracle! With love and prayers!
These pictures are absolutely stunning!!!!! These will be priceless in the years to come!!! We love you!
Just found you through rufflebutts on facebook. Thank you for so beautifully sharing Layla’s story. The photographs are GORGEOUS.
Sending you love and strength and hope.
Bekah
What a strong little angel and a strong Mommy & Daddy, you are all amazing! My heart has been aching for you and I continue to hope and pray for a miracle. Prayers for your precious Layla & the rest of your family. <3
TODAY is the 1st day I have even got on the floor (hands and knees) with my premature daughter. She is only 18 months old (we loss her identicle twin sister before birth to Twin to Twin transfusion Syndrome.)
I want YOU to know that WE prayed for your daughter! I showed my daughter how to close her hands and I prayed and prayed for HEALING! You have a BEAAUTIFUL family of 5! I KNOW that GOD works wonders and performs MIRACLES….. I AM PRAYING FOR A MIRACLE TO HAPPEN RIGHT NOW FOR LAYLA.
I will ALWAYS remember YOUR family as this was my daughter’s FIRST prayer experience!
Layla is a true beauty inside and out. Those pictures really show how precious children are. Thank you for sharing with everyone. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
There is nothing more powerful than the bonds of family, to pull you through the the worst of times. Cherish your last moments with Layla Grace.
She has tattoed the hearts of the world.
God Bless,
Nancy T.
i have a little gril. she is almost 2. i dont think anyone ever thinks something like this will happen to them or their family but it does. your Layla is so beautiful. i could not stop crying while reading this. my little girl has good health and she drives me crazy all day because she is always underfoot and I wish I could give you that same gift.I know things happen for a reason and God gives us each child and each child has a purpose on earth. your Layla is a beautiful inspiraton. I won’t ever forget her and when I think my little one is driving me crazy I will love her more than I ever thought and I will think of Layla every time I kiss or hug her. May God bless your family. I will pray for your Layla and your family!
Amazing pictures. The one of Layla laying her head on Daddy’s shoulder brought me to tears. Praying for a MIRACLE for Layla and your family!
absolutely gorgeous. pictures of other people have never brought tears to my eyes until looking at these. i am so happy for you that you were able to capture these beautiful moments.
Prayers for ease of pain and a peaceful passing for Layla, and for your comfort. I am so, so sorry for all Layla, you and your family have gone through.
Praying for peace!
Thank you so much for sharing your story. It is because of you and Layla that I will hug my kids a little tighter now and I will make sure that I tell them how much I love them every chance that I get. I find myself like you did wishing for a moment of peace just to get the dishes done or make a grocery list, however those things are so insignificant compared to spending time with my children and I thank you for making me realize that. God bless Layla and your entire family. For her little life has touched so many…she is truly an angel on earth.
I found your story last night and I have not been able to keep my tears away since then. I have prayed for you over the past 15 hours harder than I think I have ever prayed for anyone in my entire life. I think your sweet girl, Layla, is simply amazing and glory be to God for her precious life. You may never even see this comment but I want you to know that I am praying so hard for you and your family. I pray that sweet Layla get the peace she so much deserves and that your family continue to look to the Lord for peace and strength. You will remain in my prayers for a long time to come.
The pictures are stunning! My and my family’s thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time! God Bless
Your family has been in my thoughts ever since learning of your daughter’s neuroblastom and the posts you’ve shared with all of us describing her, and your, torment. Thank you for telling the world your intimate details – it made me reflect on how fragile, strong, unpredictable, and fleeting life can be.
It’s impossible to imagine what all you must be feeling, and I’m not sure what to pray or wish for, but I send wishes for peace to Layla and your family
Hello, I wanted to say thank you for sharing your story with all of us. Layla is an absolutly sweet and beautiful child! I came across your blog just 2 days ago, I was at work and though it was making me cry, I could not stop reading. I thank you for reminding me that those little imteruptions are not that bad and I have been easier on my kids since reading your blog and taking every oportunity to enjoy them even more.
I pray for peace for Layla and your family
Hugs to all
Continuing to pray for comfort, an end to her pain and a peaceful passing.
You are an amazing mother who has shown the world what unflinching, unconditional loves looks like.
Praying for Layla Grace. Praying for you Shanna & Ryan. I cannot verbalize how sad & heartbrokern I am for you right now — for the pain & sorrow you are feeling. I pray for our Heavenly Father to hold all of you.
what an absolutely gorgeous little girl & family! my heart goes out to you all in the very difficult time, sending lots of love, prayers, & hugs your way. stay strong babygirl! you’ll be perfect again soon!
I do not know you personally but saw this post from a friend on facebook. The picutres are BEAUTIFUL. My heart is aching for you all. My thoughts and prayers are with Layla, her family and friends. May she be released of all the pain and rest comfortably.
I’m following Layla on Twitter, holding my breath and praying constantly for your sweet Angel. She truly is such a blessing to so many who don’t even know her!
I have been following sweet Layla’s story for awhile and praying constantly. My mom got this message from her pastor via email this week and we instantly thought of you and Layla. What an amazing promise!
Instant Heaven
I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me.
2 Samuel 12:23
Recommended Reading
2 Samuel 12:16-23
After the 9/11 attacks on the Twin Towers in 2001, Dr. John MacArthur was asked to appear on the Larry King Show. “What about the two-year-old baby crushed at the bottom of the World Trade Center?” asked the television host. The question came without warning, but MacArthur responded with two words: “Instant heaven.”1
That knowledge comforted King David when his infant son died. He had grieved, fasted, and prayed for the sick child; but when the boy passed away, David changed his attitude, washed his face, and set his thoughts toward heaven. He understood that his separation from the child was temporary. While the child wasn’t going to return to this temporal life on earth, David was certain of seeing him again and being with him forever.
It was David, after all, who wrote, “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
We don’t always understand the ways of God. But we can wipe our tears with His promises and find comfort in the assurances of Scripture.
David knew something that we now know, that when little children die before they understand the Gospel, they go straight to Heaven.
Dr. David Jeremiah
1John MacArthur, Safe in the Arms of God (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2003), 1.
Shana,
I just found your blog and heard about Layla two days ago. It’s touched my heart deeply. I can’t imagine what you and the rest of your family are going through, so I just want to send my thoughts and prayers for you all, especially Layla.
The pictures of your family are beautiful and so very precious. I … just don’t have the words… You are an amazing woman to be willing to share your life and your hearbreak with the rest of us. Thank you.
Laura
What a gorgeous family of five. I’m so glad you’re family was able to do this photo shoot. Hope today is a good day.
Praying for Layla Grace and your family. God Bless.
Absolutely beautiful! Made me tear up! Christie, you are wonderful!
God Bless you and your beautiful family.
Words are so inadequate but I just had to thank you for sharing your story and testimony of your faith and how that is what will get you through the pain and grief. You ask in one of your blogs, “How do you prepare your heart for the loss of a child?”. I don’t think you can. Layla Grace is so beautiful and such a gift, even if for a short time. “Every good and perfect gift is from God.” -James 1:17 Thank you for reminding us to treasure each and every moment with our loved ones. I am praying without ceasing for Layla, for Claire, for Jenna and for you and your husband. Draw on His strength.
What a beautiful set of memories for you to treasure, my heart goes out to you all and I keep Layla in my prayers God Bless you all x
Your family has a light that shines from your faces. Your baby girls are all so special and beautiful. Little Layla has been on my mind for weeks. Because of your blog, I am more patient and grateful for every moment I share with my babies. Because of your sweet Layla, I am forever changed and have renewed my FAITH because her strength is a witness to me of GOD’S powerful work. She is so precious and innocent & yet has made such a huge impact on me. I will lift you all up to God and pray for peace for each of you.
My husband knows the photographer that took the photos. My, for 32 degrees, you all looked beautiful!
It brought me peace seeing you all as a family. Little Layla is beautiful even in her weak state.
What a beautiful family you have. Thanks for sharing the pictures. Layla looks precious in her little dress and hat. What a special gift to enjoy for the rest of your life. I know after reading your story, I am in tears, and holding my children much closer today than I was yesterday. Thank you for reminding me how precious of a gift they are to me. May God’s grace shine upon you and give you peace. Praying for you all.
In Christ,
Julie in VA
Beautiful!
Still asking the angels to help you all in this journey.
Such is the Kingdom of Heaven
“And they brought young children to Him, that He should touch them: and His disciples rebuked those that brought them. But when Jesus saw it, He was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God”
(Mark 10:13-14).
Dear Heavenly Father,
Please give little Layla Grace peace, help take her pain away today and let her rest peacefully in the arms of her parents. Be with her parents and siblings today and give them the strength and faith to continue to fight for Layla. Wrap them in your loving embrace. Layla Grace is Amazing Grace! Thank you dear Lord for blessing her family with the precious moments they have and continue to have with Layla, and thank you for having her parents open a window into Layla’s precious heart and life to share this with so many, let Layla’s family rest in peace knowing their little girl, your little angel, has changed lives.
Today mothers and father’s are going to take time out of their day to put their children as a priority, to go play with them and put the work down. Because of Layla, parents are hugging their children more, and re-prioritizing matters and being more patient and loving to their children. Layla is showing how quickly the blessing of a child on Earth can all be taken away and how important it is to never give up a moment with their child or children.
God bless her and keep Layla at a place of peace today and rest. I pray you continue to breathe your life into her little body dear Lord if she can remain at peace and without pain, so that her family can continue to cradle her in their arms and spend these moments with her.
Thy Will Be Done
Amen.
~Rebecca, North Dakota
What a beautiful family. Praying for peace and comfort for sweet precious Layla. Praying for ALL of you.
Stay close to Jesus in your time of sorrow. Look to him for help.
Pray for a peaceful passing in his hands.
I just heard about Layla Grace for the first time this morning. I have been reading your blog and I just wanted to tell you my prayers are with you and your family. You are such a strong woman and I know that God will give you even more strength. I will be praying for your family and your precious sweet Layla.
May Layla be healed!
Praying for your sweet Layla Grace and your beautiful family. May God give you the peace and understanding that surpasses all understanding in the days and hours that come. Your Layla has reminded me to spend every minute in gratitude and love for my family, to live in the moment. THank you for sharing your daughter with this world and I can’t wait to meet her someday in our heavenly home!
Those pictures are amazing, and capture all of your family beautifully. I wish you peace during this difficult time. I lost a younger sister to cancer almost 5 years ago, and while it is incredibly difficult, I know that she is finally happy.
I just came across your blog today and I have been simultaneously uplifted and heartbroken by your story. I just wanted to let you know that there are perfect strangers praying for your family. You have the most beautiful children. Those photographs are so beautiful and your Layla is so gorgeous (as are your other girls). I wish you, your family and your beautiful baby peace in the future.
I will be holding my daughter extra close tonight. Thank you for sharing your story.
Peace be with you.
Jessica, California
In my thoughts and in my prayers.
What beautiful pictures! May God give you strength and give Layla peace. She doesnt need to feel pain anymore. Your angel has touched so many lives and is such a fighter. Thank you so much for sharing your journey. She is an inspiration to so many.
God bless you! and little Layla Grace.
I know from our families personal experience, there really are no words that any of us can say to make this journey any less painful for you & your family.Know you are loved by so many, you are not alone…even in your darkest moments. I remember driving home so many times from the hospital at night,having to leave my own baby girl….So damm mad,asking myself if God is so great & so good,then why???? I learned later, the saying is true “God has a reason” you may not see it now,but one day it will dawn on you and you will smile again. Be proud knowing how your lil princess has touched the lives of so many & know that this journey is more than anyones words can ever explain, bounded the strength of your family.I wish I knew you & your family,but this message will have to do…You are all in my prayers & Send Love xoxox
Heather Jacksonville,FL
I am praying for Layla Grace and all of you. I only just found this blog today but already I have read all of it and I can’t help but cry so many tears for your beautiful baby girl. She is the same age as my own daughter and I know just how heavy your heart must be. I pray for a miracle for Layla and I pray that you will continue to find the strength to smile for her even when you feel like breaking down. I am inspired by your daughter, who smiles with such hope and joy that one cannot help but believe that she will make it. She is so brave and I admire her. Now that I have read Layla’s story she will never leave my heart, and I will always think of her and you.
What a precious family. Tears flood my soul, from mother to mother. God is faithful and even though we don’t get our way His way must be honored and ultimately this isn’t forever. We as a body of believers will all live together in the kingdom in His time.
Hang in there!
Bittersweet Tears!
Jenny
I found your blog on a friends website. I put it on my facebook so my friends and family can send out prayers for all of you. Layla is a beatiful angel !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I just ask God to be with yall at this time and to take her pain away I so wish I could do more !!!!!!!! Layla I know you dont understand but theres alot of us out here even thou we have never met you we have fallen in love with you sweet angel just reading your story has made you part of us !!!!!!!!!!! The pictures are beatiful as well !!!!!!!!
Tears! God will heal your wound. Trust in him. Lots of love!
Praying for a miracle!
Praying for your family and beautiful Layla Grace.
I just stumbled upon your story a few days ago and I wanted to say something but I’m not sure what. I don’t really think there are words. I just wanted to tell you that I am the mother of an 18 month old girl and because of your beautiful girl, I will hug my little one tighter, and tell her that I love her more. God be with you.
- Melissa
Words can’t express how sorry I am for you all- you and your family are in my constant thoughts and prayers!
I am in awe over the amazing photos of your family. You are all so beautiful. Layla is breath taking. I couldn’t help but cry as I looked at the ones of her and daddy. They are just so timeless.
Your friend is a stellar photographer and captured everything so perfectly.
I can’t even imagine how much that photo shoot must mean to you all.
We’re still praying for a miracle for Layla. I know the Lord can hear our prayers. There are people across this wonderful nation praying for your little Angel. She has touched so many lives. She has taught so many of us a valuable lesson. You have a strong little girl and she is a true fighter.
I pray that the Lord continues to breathe life into her little body so that you can have her with you that much longer.
Layla is never far from my thoughts….and I’m sending prayers up countless times everyday.
Beautiful Family! I am praying for peace and for each of you to feel the touch of God….
I heard about Layla Grace through a co-worker. Thank you for sharing her with all of us. Her story is one of true courage for such a young soul. When the Lord takes her home, angels will truly be rejoicing to have such a beautiful soul with them!
When I first found out about your story, I put your family on our prayer chain at my church. I get asked every day for news, but just found out about this website and have forwarded it on to my church family.
May the Lord shine his face upon you, may the grace of God be with you!
Love,
Brenda
what precious girls you have!
You have not been far from my thoughts and prayers since I learned of your story a few days ago. My heart breaks for you but your faith is amazing and a lesson to me personally. I pray for peace for your family and sweet Layla.
Today God used you and your beautiful daughter to remind me of where my focus needs to be. To love my daughter more selflessly and to focus my eyes on Him who provides for us.
The courage and faith that you show through your writing is a testament of your faith. We will be praying for you, Layla and your whole family.
Thank you
Kelsie-Lynn
Praying for her pain to be taken away, for comfort and peace for sweet Layla.
And, of course – I am still praying for a miracle of healing here on earth, I just can’t stop believing that it could still happen. God willing.
God Bless you Marsh family, I know you must be so tired and weary and I cannot imagine how hard it is to be your precious Layla in pain. I am sick at the thought, so I cannot imagine what you are going through. I’m praying for you, as are so many. Much love to you all.
What beautiful pictures & a beautiful family! You are in my prayers every day!
Your family is in my thoughts.
The pictures are absolutely gorgeous. These photos and the poem you posted one or two journal ago are so poignant and beautiful. My heart is breaking for your family. God bless all your hearts.
Our prayers are with your family. l hope the prayers take her pain away God puts in these situations to tet us but for the test to be with such a beautiful little gil is at times unbearable I know.I recieved the info from a friend and your family has so much strength and your strength is for sure a lesson to us all out here that times may be rough but make life the best everyday as it may end tomorrow. I am a frm believer that make sure you tell your kids regardless of age and family members that you love them when they go somewhere as you never know it may be the last time you are able to talk to them to tell them that you “Love them” God Bless you Layla Grace and your family ……The pictures are beatiful as well
Photographs are beautiful, I see the same sadness in daddy’s eyes as my husband. Our 14 year old is terminally ill so difficult to Coe. Stay strong and love each other x
A friend of mine shared this link on Facebook. On there I could read the first few lines and my heart just broke for your family. Layla seems like such a precious, sweet baby girl and I am heartbroken for you as you go through this. The pictures are gorgeous and will bring such wonderful memories to you every time you see them. I am so happy that the photographer could do them so quickly.
I too am praying that Layla’s pain will be taken away and for a miracle to happen for her and your family. I can not imagine what you are gong through. I can’t even begin to fathom the depths of your pain, but your strength in these posts is amazing. May you all find the peace of God in such a difficult time. I will continue to keep you all in my prayers each day.
I just recently found out about Layla’s battle through a friend, we live in Kentucky, and want you to know that you have God’s Family praying for you and your family during this time. Words can not express the heaviness of my heart as I think about what it must be like to be going through this trial. I do not have any children yet, however I do have a nephew and it pangs me greatly to imagine what life would be like if we were in your shoes. I want you to know that by reading her story and her battle, and your post about regretting the times that you wish you could do the dishes without a little one at your feet has really made me step back and take a look at the things that I take for granted. I’m reminded of the blessing in my life each day, and I hope that if I am ever faced with a trial like this that I could be half as strong as what you and your family seem to be. I’m sure you have your moments, but we all do, and that’s when we can rest on the shoulder of our Creator and know that He has everything in control. It’s hard to let the ones that we love go, but just know and remember that God is a God of peace and through each storm He provides us shelter.
I’m a worship Pastor and just about everything I am revolves around music, and I like to find music to help me get through things. And I heard this and thought that you would enjoy it!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIIAf2lS_Us
Kentucky is praying for you!
I have just found your blog through a friend and I just have no words to convey what I am feeling for your family as you endure this. Your family is beautiful and count me among yet one more life Layla has touched.
God bless you all, I’m praying for you.
Your family is beautiful, and I am thinking of y’all. I wish there was some way to help take the pain away– as a mother myself I can’t imagine your pain…I only want to help take it away. I still believe in miracles… best wishes and tons of hugs to the whole family
I’m praying for you! I shared this story with my three year old son Bode. Last night as I was working on the computer he was laying in my bed next to me. I heard him telling god “Hey man please take care of my friend layla. She is sick and I need her to play with me. Make her feel better.” I let the tears roll down my… cheek as I listened to him. We are not a very religious family but I believe that god was listening to Bode last night and I am going to pray every day for her!!! Lots of love and thoughts Layla. You have a best friend here!!! I promise to hold my children tighter and longer each day. XOXO for Tooele, Utah
Shanna and Ryan – I wish there was a way for you to physically feel the love and support that surrounds you now as you go through this. Please know that you are not alone, people care, people are hurting with you, even though we wouldn’t recognize each other on the street we are bound together by one hope and by prayer for one little girl, your angel, Layla Grace.
I have never admired one tiny little girl and her family so much. You are the embodiment of love, faith, courage and strength. You will be forever in our hearts for graciously sharing Layla’s journey and for inspiring us to love more deeply, to be more faithfilled and to live our daily lives with more appreciation for God’s grace. Praying for peace for Layla. She is a super hero!
I just came from a friend’s blog, Zack’s Gang and I wanted to tell you how beautiful your family is. The photographs are breathtaking, I am sure something you will treasure forever!! I will keep your family in my prayers.
As in the Poem one follower wrote: “Layla had spread more of Gods Love in 2 years than most will in 80 years”. I keep up with you all day every day and thank you for sharing this story with the world and your proactive role. Know that Layla has touch the hearts of millions of people and set the stage for awareness. Her work is nearly done. She will Live on with us all.
Your in my prayers constantly and not only for Layla but for YOU! each member of your family. Know that God is with you. I know at times it seems unfair but find peace in knowing she has fulfilled Gods wishes through touching the hearts of millions! She has single handedly, in the course of her short days, accomplished what most never will.
I bawl my heart out every time i read your updates and have linked your story every place I can.
Much Love and Prayer,
~The kennemers
she is truly beautiful! reading your updates bring me to tears but i know that when she earns her angel wings god will care for her 100%
she is the most brave and amazing little girl and she is a blessing to you!
god bless.x
I just read about your family on another blog, and wanted to come and tell you that I am keeping your loved ones in my prayers.
The close-up of Layla and your husband reading the book literally took my breath away. What a precious capture of a beautiful moment.
Little layla is so cute!!!!! Layla is so strong, stronger than we could even imagine being in our greatest fantasies!!!!! Im praying for your whole family!!!!
What a beautiful and most precious baby girl! I’m praying for your family.
Heard your story on the local Christian radio. Something brought me to look you up and I cried while I read about your little one. As I am sitting here at my house listening to my two boys play with their friends they have over I can’t help but cry for you. I can not even imagine the pain that you and your husband are going through. Life is so short and precious! She is a beautiful little girl especially with the hat on! She is truly a blessing from God that has graced your life! May you find comfort in our Lord and with your special times that you have had with her. God bless you and your family. May God wrap you in his embrace and comfort you. Lots of hugs your way! I will continue to follow your story and pray for you!
I have no words that can deliver the beauty found in these photos. My favorite – the one with her pink blanket and her dad. That image is so powerful.
I cannot fathom what you are going through and my heart truly breaks for you and your family. Children and cancer is an unfairness in this life that I will never understand.
I hope the power of love from around the globe is felt by you and your family and I hope it provides the cushion your heavy hearts need to rest on at this time… for at this time, that love smothers the feeling of helplessness and fills your home with beauty and light.
I found your site today from a friend. I have been praying and thinking about you and your family all day. I have a little two year girl, and I can’t imagine the pain your are going through. I just wanted to say that you are amazing. Your posts are so honest and sincere. I really respect your faith and patience. Your really reminded me to slow down and love every minute that I have with my, Miley Kate. Thank you for sharing your story. Your family is so beautiful, and Layla is truly a blessing. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
I found your blog by reading a friend of mine who asked us to be praying. Your precious little girl and your family has touched my life. I am constantly praying for all of you as you go thru this most difficult time during the days and weeks ahead. May God give you the grace as you take the steps with Layla and hold you in HIS arms to comfort you.
Your family is so strong. I am in awe of how you have dealt with such an awful situation. Such grace and strength. I am thinking of you and wishing you and your girls peace and strength in the difficult days to come.
Your little girl has been in my thoughts for the past few days, your website and twitter pages are the first place I go as soon as I get up and the last place I go before I go to bed, I’m praying so hard for you all, she is such a brave little girl and those pictures are beautiful, may god watch over you and give you the strength you need to get through this, may he wrap his arms around little Layla Grace and comfot her. I’m sure there are angles around you right now.
Keeping you all in my prayers
xx
She has got to be the cutest little baby in the intire world! Ive heard a lot about her and A TON of people are praying for her. I will def. do the same. Layla is going to win this battle, the odds may look slim but miracles happen everyday. Especially when it seems all hope is gone. God bless the little princess.
What a beautiful family! Lord, I pray for your Mercy on Layla and your peace to fill and surround her family and all those dear to her. She touches the lives of so many and brings Jesus to the forefront. You can see Him in her eyes. May you feel teh arms of God surrounding your family. Praying for Layla, praying for you!
What a beautiful family you all are! Thoughts and prayers being sent your way. May peace be with Layla.
I cannot stop crying and I can’t get your precious angel out of my mind. I pray she is out of her pain and discomfort soon- however that may come. I pray more than anything for your peace- and when I think to myself how I just need a BREAK, ANYTHING from my 3 kids… this changes my perspective. Your family is nothing short of amazing and the strength you are exhibiting right now is incredible. Layla Grace truly is an angel here on Earth, and she has really affected me so I can only imagine how you all feel
). My 4 yr. old son just walked in and said “who is that cute baby girl??” LOL! I will continue to pray for your strength and peace during this journey, for a miracle, and for Layla Grace to no longer suffer. God Bless you and your whole family!!
It is not kooky to follow the directions in God’s word. Do you have any friends who are “full gospel?” If so, it would be totally OK to have them come lay hands on and pray for sweet little Layla. It seems like you guys have lost hope at this point and I don’t blame you if you have. I have been praying for Layla and your family and I believe, even now. Here is some scripture to back this up. Mark 16:18 (Amplified Bible)
18They will pick up serpents; and [even] if they drink anything deadly, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will get well.
Also, and elder from church could anoint her with oil. Again, this is not kooky. It is straight from the bible.
James 5:14 (Amplified Bible)
14Is anyone among you sick? He should call in the church elders (the spiritual guides). And they should pray over him, anointing him with oil in the Lord’s name.
We will continue praying and I hope I have not offended. God bless you and sweet Layla!
My heart is absolutely breaking for you and your family right now. I found your blog via a friend a few days ago, and I haven’t been able to get sweet Layla off my mind since.
My prayers.
Wow, those pictures are beautiful. The story behind them, touching. This is the first time I’ve read Layla’s story and I want to tell you that my prayers are with your family. I pray that God will give you all understanding, strength, and peace. May the days that you do have with Layla be ones that you cherish forever. God is still the great physician, praying that He comforts sweet Layla.
Blessings to Layla, you, and your family!
My heart breaks for you and your family. May God bless you and keep you and yours. Layla Grace is absolutely beautiful and you are so very brave. I cannot fathom being in your shoes. Thank you so very much for sharing your story and for allowing your experiences to be a reminder of what is truly important in life. Please know you are in my prayers as is Layla Grace.
She did an amazing job with the pictures of your family. The one with Layla and her dad is just breathtaking. I am truly sorry your family is going through the heart ach, I cannot image what it is like to have to watch your child suffer in the manner that she has. I pray for you and your family and pray that the treatment helps prolong your sweet babies life so you can watch her grow into a beautiful young lady.
Peace be with you during this very difficult time, peace be with you all.
Thank you for sharing your beautiful family with all of us to see. Your girls are so precious and I am praying for peace and a miracle for you and Layla.
These pictures are amazing and all of your girls are so cute! May God be with you during this trying time. I have all of you in my prayers and I hope that Layla will once again show us what a miracle she is. God Bless.
I happened to stubble across this blog that was posted to another friends facebook page. I want you to know how blessed I was to even see such sweet pictures of this wonderful girl and amazing family. Like you, I have gone through some really hard family times and losing ones that you love. I also again, like you, was waiting for a miracle! God does miracles but I just can’t seem to understand the timing or to whom they are given. What I do understand is that God uses people like you with such a wonderful and amazing story of faith and love to help people like me and so many others who are going through day to day struggles. I believe that she has touched so many and will always continue to do so whether here and with our Father. Thanks again for sharing. You truley have been a blessing to many you do not even know. “God thank you so much for this family and thank you that your purpose for us is not yet filled!”
-Nicole
Dallas TX
I have a family of 5 myself, 3 boys as a matter of fact- your story touches my heart, and I will continue the prayers for you and your family, GOD will be with you during this time, HE will give you the strength that you need even though you guys may feel like you can’t handle this trying time He has plans for your little angel. I will follow this story and I am praying for your beautiful family
So glad the pain meds are working again. I am praying constantly for peace, comfort and God’s grace to surround all of you.
Layla Grace is a gorgeous angel! I’ve followed your twitter for the last week, first thing I see in the morning and the last thing I check before bed each night. You have truly made a difference in my daily life. Your families strength is amazing. May God bless you and your beautiful family.
Praying for peace for you and your family.
I just became aware of Layla Grace tonight, because a Facebook friend had posted something about her. I am heartbroken for your beautiful family, and yet I know from looking at these gorgeous, precious photos that Layla will never totally vacate her spot in the lineup…she will always be your little angel in heaven and there will always be a Layla-shaped spot in your family and in the hearts of all who know and love her. God bless you all and know of my prayers, from Alabama.
God be with you and your beautiful family!
My heart just aches for you and your family. I keep checking back for updates in hopes that Layla begins to improve and is not in so much pain. I’m glad to here the meds are working. Please take care and know you are in my thoughts.
Your family is so beautiful… I am still praying for you all.
Your family and faith are such an inspiration. I am praying for peace for you and your precious little girl. May you be comforted in knowing that Jesus is holding her in the palm of His hand. Your family pictures are beautiful…I’m so glad you were able to get them done.
Along with our constant prayers, I hope you can feel all of us keeping vigil with you, and hope in some small way, it helps. Thank you for sharing your story and another day with us.
Praying for your sweet baby!!! It is true a picture IS worth a thousand words…the pictures of Layla, and her Daddy looking at one another are some of the most beautiful pictures I have ever seen!! They speak volumes of the love they share! Such love and heartbreak in your husband’s eyes…God bless you all!
Sweet and beautiful Layla Grace. As a mom of three little girls, I am so touched by your story and inspired by your strength. You are a strong, kind, compassionate and loving mother. I am praying for you, Layla Grace and your loved ones.
My heart is aching for you. I can’t stop thinking about and praying for your little girl. I’m pregnant with my third girl. Seeing your three girls touches me in a special way. Praying for peace and still hoping for a miracle!!
Hi! I found your blog when my friend, Jill Johnson, published a link on Facebook. My prayers are with you all! I have a 2 year old daughter and a 5 year old son. I am grateful for every day I have with them, as I am sure you are, too. Lots of love!!
Praying for your family….for peace, for comfort, for calmness for your whole family. These last few days your whole family has been in my thoughts and prayers. Good night miss layla grace. May God give you peace and comfort. You are a blessing from God to me and to many people around the world. God be with you and your family now and always. God Bless you all.
My heart and prayers go out to your family. You have a beautiful family and Layla is such a blessing. May God continue to give you peace, strength and love to carry you.
Those pictures will be a cherished gift forever. They are beautiful! So thankful God gave her the strength to get the photos done. Everytime I read all these posts I am amazed how much Layla has touched peoples lives. I am reading about people that never prayed anymore that are talking to God again! Praise God and thank you for sharing your journey.
I just wanted to stop by and let you know that we are praying for Layla Grace and the rest of your beautiful pictures. I have two little girls and Layla’s big blue eyes and sweet smile remind me of my 2 year old. My heart is breaking as I read your blogs but I know that God will allow Layla to have peace soon and make her whole again. In the coming days I know that things will be hard but we all will be praying for you and holding you close. God Bless you all and may God give each of you peace in knowing that Layla will no longer have to suffer once she is back in his arms. My love to you all and please give that precious angel a kiss and hug from the Bucknam family!!!
I stumbled on your blog through Twitter late last night and I’ve literally am exhausted from reading, crying, interceding, crying, reading more…i’m simply at a loss for…thoughts even… When I first began to read about Layla, I was devastated and sick, then angry at the Devil, then saddened again at her struggle, your pain, the chaos that has disrupted your family. I have an 18 month old daughter. I got her out of bed last night and held her, kissed her, prayed over her….but wept for you as a mother. I started my day with a different prayer, a deeper desire to walk closely with the Lord, to let the small things go and truly begin a journey of loving others more than myself, giving, doing, creating, sacrificing more.
Whether God chooses to leave sweet lil Layla here or take her home, her purpose is being fulfilled right now, all over the world! What a powerful message! This tiny soldier, this little dear lamb is GOING TO CHANGE thousands, if not millions, of lives. And it will change your family! Her life will become your’s, your daughter’s, your husband’s testimony!
I can’t imagine your grief. I pray diligently for a miracle! I believe and agree with you, all those believing and asking in the name of Jesus, that God CAN AND WILL heal Layla.
These are priceless pictures! I don’t know what else to say that everyone else hasn’t already said. There are no words that can make it make sense. I have a 2 year old daughter too and I just can’t imagine. I am praying for any and everything from a miracle to peace and strength for Layla and all of you. My main wish right now is that she be pain free and have as many good snuggles with you as she can. God Bless from North Carolina!
I found out about Layla a couple of days ago and since I read her story, cried for a while and called people to start praying I have not been able to get her off my mind. She has truly touched my heart in so many ways and made me appreciate every moment with my children even more!!! She is truly and angel and will hopfully get the peace she deserves soon!
Praying constantly from Kingwood, Texas
I have been following your story and as I read the update my heart aches and tears are running down my face, as if she were my child. I can’t imagine what you and your family are going through. I pray that your family will continue to enjoy everyday that you have with your lil angel and that she will be in no pain. I am a believer in miracles and she is a miracle in itself. No matter what remember only he knows whats best for her. Layla is a precious child, your whole family is beautiful and I pray for peace for all of you. Layla and the family will continue to be in my prayers and thoughts. Thank you for sharing your story with us…….
I found your Twitter site and started reading about Layla and your family’s story. Please know that your family is in my prayers. My cousin was diagnosed with neuroblastoma a few years ago. Let me just say that as hard of a journey as it was, I learned more than I would have ever imagined. Now, it is stories like Layla’s that inspire me to live to the fullest potential possible. I pray that God gives you peace, comfort, and strength. You are an amazing family – you are the definition of strength. GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
“What is life if not a chance to make a difference, What are days if not different chances to live, What is time if not a season for renewal, What is renewal but another chance to give love…to the world.” -David M. Bailey, glioblastoma brain cancer survivor/musician. (I think anyone who has had to deal with the awful disease can relate to his lyrics.)
Praying!
Psalms 27:13-14: I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.
Prayer Bears
My email address
I can’t write too much for I am crying too much.. Layla, I don’t know you but I love you all the same for everything you must go through. You are a little glimpse of heaven. Just looking into your eyes I know that there is a God because you are the most beautiful little person I have ever laid eyes on. Life isn’t fair but that’s why you have the most amazing parents in the world… so that they can hold you rhand through it all! You are one of heaven’s Angels……
Sweet little Angel! Oh how God has moved through your little girl!! She will NEVER be forgotten.
I was sure by now
That You would have reached down
And wiped our tears away
Stepped in and saved the day
But once again, I say “Amen”, and it’s still raining
As the thunder rolls
I barely hear Your whisper through the rain
“I’m with you”
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away
I’ll praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
Every tear I’ve cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm
I remember when
I stumbled in the wind
You heard my cry
You raised me up again
My strength is almost gone
How can I carry on
If I can’t find You
As the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain
“I’m with you”
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away
I lift my eyes unto the hills
Where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord
The Maker of Heaven and Earth
-Casting Crowns
praying for your precious little girl and asking God for a miracle…
Layla Grace is in my prayers, as is her family. I pray for a miracle, and for peace and comfort during this time. I will keep her in my prayers. She is absolutely beautiful!
Praying Layla has a peaceful and pain free night. Praying for the entire family! I love you Layla Grace for all the beauty and love that God made that shines through you and has shared you with the world., pleasant dreams.
I’ll keep praying, you are such a courageous and strong little baby girl you are! God bless you, your sisters and your Mom and Dad!
Rebecca in ND
How heavy my heart is for your family and Layla, but how uplifted it also is by your strength and faith! Thank you so much for allowing us into your lives. Many prayers for sweet Layla, for comfort and peace. Thank you for providing her such a wonderful, love-filled home. You are all such an inspiration to me!
Many, many prayers from St Louis!
Prayers said for this sweet little girl and for her family. I want to share this website with you, it’s about having faith, I hope it will help.
http://www.foundationsforfreedom.net/Topics/Abiding/Abiding15.html
Praying for Layla. Praying for your family.
It is so good to hear that Layla Grace had a good night. We are continuing to pray so very hard for Layla and the rest of the family. James 5:13-16 “Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise. 14 Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the lord. 15 And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up… 16… and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.” There is power in prayer!! I pray for a miracle for your family in the healing name of Jesus!
In Christ’s Love,
C.O.L.E. Prayer Team
Mark Manfull
http://www.colesfoundation.com
San Antonio, TX
I just found Layla’s story about a week ago. The first thing I read was Sleep Valentines Day and Regrets. It hit such a note with me that I couldn’t shake it. I tend to be an uptight kind of person but your families journey and your strength have changed me. I have found myself enjoying the little things we all take for granted on a daily basis. Last night we went out to dinner and as usual my youngest had to be silly. Instead of worrying about what others might think of me for letting her be goofy at the dinner table I just let it go and laughed because there is no guarantee I will have a chance to see her being funny again. It felt so great to just be a family laughing and I have you to thank.Thank you for opening my eyes and bringing me back down to earth. I will continue to keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
My son was sent home to die of stage 4 Neuroblastoma. He was 3 yrs old and given 3-4 months to live from the Mayo Clinic. We followed a complementary and alternative healthcare program to turbo-build his immune system. He was cancer free within six months!!! He is 18 years old today and in college. I’ve authored two books on what we did and want to send them to you for free. The books have helped thousands of cancer patients and their loved ones left hopeless. Please contact me if you’re interested. leannewoodland@hotmail.com
My prayers to all of you for God’s strength and wisdom.
Leanne
I first learned of Layla Grace last fall from Bob & Sharon Calvert. At the time, I was on the board of directors for 290Cypress.com, a non-profit networking group in Layla’s home town. As a board, we decided to make a donation to Layla’s cause just before her Thanksgiving Day surgery. I have followed her story since. Each time I read the Tweets or Blogs, I cry. I have two little boys (3 & 5) and I hurt for the family.
You are all in my family’s prayers.
Christine Holloway
Cypress, TX
My husband and I found out about your story last night. Facebook is FLOODED with pictures of your little angel today! We cannot begin to imagine what you have been through, but we receive comfort in knowing that God has been there with you every step of the way. We know that Layla has done more for Christ in her short time here than we will probably do in a lifetime! We have a little girl of our own Layla’s age. We will be praying without ceasing for all of your family.
From Houston, MS
My heart bleeds for you and your family. I lost my 7 year old to lymphoma last month and I can say that i know what you are going through. Forget any and all chores and cherish every moment and smell. Tell your precious daughter everything you need to tell her. She will be missed beyond imagination. I will keep you all in my hourly prayers.
Gods peace to you,
Melissa
precious, precious, precious!
what beautiful photos you have there….amazing.
your family is beautiful. i am praying for peace, comfort, and strength for all of you…
first of all i like to say that i pray for youyr child my mother told me to go on the internet and read this I was surpised. with what i was reading. So I like to say that my prayers are with you
May god be with you all. I came over here via Facebook where Melissa Micheals has posted a link to you.
I have grandchildren ages 6 down to 1, so very much in my thoughts.
God bless and prayers for you xx
I just found out about Layla today from a post on FB from a friend. My prayers are with you and for you and Layla. As I look at this recent photos and look into Layla’s eyes I see a mission in her eyes. A purpose in her eyes. A life cut short but a life with so much purpose. Her short life will leave lasting impressions and purpose on so many, near and far. God knows this about Layla. I pray for sweet peace for precious Layla and for you, her family, to have comfort during this time. God uses all kinds of people in all kinds of circumstances to accomplish His will…even your precious two year old Layla is touching the world through her circumstances for His purpose. God Bless You Sweet Layla – may God and His angels bring you healing.
I just learned of Layla Grace from Amy Merson. Your story has inspired me. And my heart aches for you!
I want you to know I will pray for your precious family.
Jesus loves you so much!
I will continue to pray with you for a miracle of physical healing for Layla – you are so right to realize that sometimes the answer is yes and sometimes it’s wait. Jesus will give you emotional and spiritual healing as you continue to trust in Him. Don’t give up on praying, even if the answer for physical healing is wait until Heaven. God let his own Son Jesus die for us, to demonstrate how much he loves us, and to make the way possible for us to live eternally with Him in heaven. Don’t let Satan tempt you to think God doesn’t love you when you are suffering with pain.
My daughter suffered from severe anoxic brain damage at birth. She is beautiful and 9 years old now, but her body and brain function at a 1 month old level. We prayed for a miracle for years and our answer was wait.
God has answered with spiritual and emotional healing and the joy of two healthy children age 7 and 3. And I trust Him to guide both our families to be faithful until He comes again. We can wait with hope and trust in a God who loves us and will never leave us!
Thank you so much for sharing you story online! What a beautiful testimony of love.
Hugs to you,
Laurelie
I have only known about your story for a few short days, but every time I check back tears of joy run down my face as Layla has been given another day of life. As a new mom I can not phathom what it is like to be in your shoes, but Layla has made me cherish every moment I have with my own baby girl, Grace. I pray that Layla and your entire family are filled with peace and comfort, that you feel the love of our Heavenly Father surround you and embrace you. She truely is a beautiful angel, a precious gift, and an inspiration to all.
my love and prayers with you alwaz..!!
I will continue to pray for your family and Layla. Your story has truly touched me and made me realize how I need to live in the moment with my 18 month old son so thank you for sharing. You have a beautiful family.
You are in our thoughts and our prayers constantly. This little girl has touched so many hearts and will go on touching peoples hearts for a very, very long time. God bless you all x x
I am so sorry for what your family is going through, I am sitting here just staring at your beautiful daughters…I don’t know the “right” words but all I can do is pray for your family to get even more strength from god than you already have…god bless her she is just a doll!! Just heartbreaking!!
tina
from canada
I came across your daughters website by stephaie leight’s facebook page. I’ve read all your latest blogs and my heart immediately dropped. I know the pain and hurt that your feeling. My son was born with a congenital heart defect. The doctors kept telling my husband and I that they can be repaired but my son’s little body kept getting more and more sick. When he was 2 months old and 4 open heart surgeries later, they told me there was nothing else they could do…except to have a heart transplant done.
I remember, on many occasions, falling to my knees begging for the Lord to intervene. I wanted my child to live…a long and healthy life. I also remember wispering in his little ears that if he wanted to go meet Jesus, he could, despite the pain my heart would feel. So many emotions run through…mad and yet grateful for even the short amount of time we may had been granted.
My son received a heart when he was 3 months old from who we now know as Wendell, but we call him our little angel. My son is now 3 and although he lives a life of doctor visits and hospital stays, I cherrish every second I get with him. These children are gifts from God…pieces of Heaven. And I plan on making his Temporary stay here as wonderful as I can.
If you ask my son…”who gave you your heart, he answeres, “Jesus….and baby Wendell, our angel.”
If my son died today, although my heart would ache terribly, I would KNOW in his short life, he has touched so many people.
I believe that layla grace has done the same.
God Bless you and God Bless your entire family…..ill keep layla in our prayer that God heals her body.
I just saw Layla’s picture on two FB pages. I’m so sorry that you have had this happen. Your story is one of hope, strength, and resilience.
Please know that I am praying for you. Your baby girl is precious. I pray for peace for you and your family.
Beth
Destin, FL
My heart prays for you and your family and for your precious little one. The photos are absolutely amazing and I know you will cherish them always. I am praying for your miracle.
Blessing to you all~Bonnie
Your family is in my prayers. I pray for peace and strength for each of you. She is a beautiful child and I’m happy you were able to get those gorgeous photos to help remember her by. God be with you.
In Him,
Tina
Sweet Layla Grace!! So much love for you and your family. I am praying every day for you.
Shanna – Your family is inspiring in your love and strength. Please know how many people you have touched through your blog and sharing Layla’s fight against cancer.
We continue to pray for Layla Grace, for your entire family, and for God’s peace and presence to surround you.
Precious Layla Grace and family,
I am lifting you all before the Father and trusting Him alone to give you the grace, strength and peace that only He can give. Your pictures are lovely and I know you will treasure them always. God bless you all and hold you in the very palm of his mighty Hand.
“The Lord is good, a stronghold and He knows those who take refuge in Him.” Nahum 1:7
I just heard about sweet Layla yesterday, and she has been in my thoughts and prayers everyminute since.
Your blog has inspired me as I read about your trials and joys. I’m amazed at the amount of faith you portray despite your circumstances. I’m praying for all three of your little ones and for you and your husband. I can’t imagine how difficult it would be to go through such pain. Praying your marriage is strengthened out of this heartbreaking situation.
Love,
A Sister in Christ
My heart hurts for this beautiful baby girl! Since learning about Layla, I have been keeping my eye on your Facebook page and Twitter, for updates. I pray that absolutely beautiful baby girl is not suffering and I pray for her strength (mom & dad too)!
My heart breaks everything I think of Layla and what she has had to go through. I so wish there was something I could do to help her!
I will continue to pray for her and the family as I can not even begin to imagine the pain everyone is suffering with right now.
Like so many others, I am praying for your sweet family today.
Your story has changed my life and many others….
Sending you strength and hope from Washington State.
Molly
Wow…I just read through your families story. Such a beautiful familly and the pictures are truly amazing. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers and thank you for sharing your story with the rest of us it truly puts life into perspective and I will remember to enjoy the little things…thank you for that.
my friend had told me about this off of facebook.
im so sorry for what yall are going through i couldn’t even imagine. i hope everything goes well. and just looking at the pictures and reading this it brought tears to my eyes.
such beautiful photos and beautiful memories!! prayers for your darling girl and you and your precious family!!
Marsh Family,
I am in tears after reading about your sweet baby girl. My heart aches for you all. NO ONE should have to endure this kind of pain, and yet many of us do. My aunt just lost her son (my cousin) and I do not think there is anything worse than losing a child. Your daughter is so brave and so strong. And the strength that you, your husband, and your daughters have to exhibit is tremendous.
My prayers are for Layla, that she may be pain-free and enveloped in the love of all those around her. I pray for your family that you can put one foot in front of the other and continue on.
Much love.
These pictures are beautiful and will be treasured not only by you and your husband, but by your daughters as well.
the photos of Layla Grace with her daddy are precious! Very obviously a daddy’s girl. Thank you for sharing these with us.
I will continue to pray for your family.
My prayers are with you! What a beautiful family. We will never understand why a little child has to go thru this…such pain and sadness. She is a beautiful girl….she is already an angel! I just lost my husband and best friend to cancer 2 months ago and know to well the pain you see her going through. I am glad she is resting and may God take her pain away!! Love to your family!
I’m crying as I write this. My heart breaks for you, Layla, and your family. I don’t know where your strength comes from. I am praying so hard for a miracle, and for God to save her.
You have such a beautiful family! I lost a son a few months ago and know first hand how much family photos are cherished…Wishing your family and Layla Grace much love, you will be in my thoughts.
Your beautiful family has been in my thoughts and prayers for the last few days. I pray first and foremost that a miracle will happen for Layla Grace. I also pray that she rests comfortably and that God will ease her pain. You’ve made me a better mother, and I will cherish every single day that I have with my precious little girl because I know that life is too short. I love Layla Grace with all of my heart. She has touched my life like no one else ever has. Thank you and God bless you, your family, and sweet Layla Grace.
I am praying for your peace and for healing for each member of your family. We lost our precious little girl five years ago and the healing is ongoing. My heart and mind is with you and your family. I teach with Jamie in Mason and she and her family are so great. God Bless you in your needs.
You are an amazing woman and Layla Grace is an amazing little girl. As a mother of three, I felt the most impact from your blog when you stated how she would be under your feet all day and it would take 45 minutes to unload the dishwasher. As a mother of three (6, 2, 1) I too feel like that hoping they would just sit still. Your story will help me to cherish these times instead of wishing them away.
I thank you for sharing your story with everyone. How many people you have impacted probably cannot be fathomed; however, Layla Grace is receiving more prayers than you know.
Tonight and moving forward, I will pray that you and your family can create more lasting memories during Layla Grace’s stay here on earth. During the last hour, I have shed more tears than I have in the past year. Every tear though was just a little prayer sent your way. May God bless you all.
What a beautiful family! I will keep you all in my prayers.
I am so touched by your story. Thank you for sharing. I lost my dad to lung cancer 2yrs ago. Cancer is such a robbing disease. I pray for your peace & comfort. IF ONLY LOVE WERE THE CURE!!! Keep the faith-He will sustain you.
I’m so sad to hear she’s been very sick today & is getting weaker…I was hoping that no news on her condition was good. I just keep thinking that a post is going to come that tells about how she just sat up and said “Hi mommy, I’m hungry, can I eat & then can we play?” I am going to keep praying for that moment. Praying for our Heavenly father to comfort Layla & you all.
We are praying for you here in Ohio and let me tell you my mom is a Power prayer! May God have His hands of love all over you all and your situation. God Bless and Keep you. You are wonderful and your children are lovely.
I have followed your blog for a short while and am very touched at the outpouring of support for your beautiful Layla and your family. I pray for G-d to give you the strength to get through this incredibly difficult time. Your story is a testament to love and to family … It puts everything in perspective – that we should love fully, cherish time with our families — and just appreciate- for tomorrow is never promised. Love to you and Layla!
What a little fighter, I will continue praying that she gets stronger, not weaker, and I know pain meds can cause constipation, it is an ugly side effect on top of all she is fighting already.
I pray for her to sleep peacefully through the night and is stronger tomorrow. I pray that the pain stays away and managed. I pray for her sisters and her parents.
Please God wrap Layla in your loving arms, protect her through the night, heal her and restore her. Let her entire family feel your presence through her and find comfort in your arms and strength in your words.
God Bless!
Rebecca in ND
I have been following your site from Mississippi and praying daily for precious Little Layla. May you find comfort with God in the days ahead during this very difficult time. She is the most precious, adorable little girl I have ever seen. Her sweet face touches my heart and will always be in my prayers. God bless you all.
Hello my name is Brooke and I found you on twitter! I’m now a follower and I just wanted to say I’m praying for your sweet little Layla and praying God gives you all strength!!! Your story has touched me and I just wanted to say thanks for sharing!!! You have a beautiful family!!!! Wishing you all the best!!!
Brooke
Your family is so beautiful and Layla will be in my prayers!!!!!
Praying for you and your family. My heart breaks and tears roll down my face for your little girl.
May God lift her up and give her comfort.
You are in my prayers
Your daughters are absolutely beautiful!! Layla looks so precious resting on her daddy’s shoulder. I pray to God that a miracle happens and Layla recovers from this horrible disease and is stronger then ever because miracles do happen. I pray for your family and your other daughters. I pray that God gives you the strength to stay positive and support Layla. My heart aches for you and I can’t imagine the pain. You seem like such a strong family.
xoxo & God Bless you,
Brittany
I don’t know you, but your words have touched me. Your daughters are beautiful. Layla is a precious child, not too much older than my youngest son.
As I read your story, I was struck by how I sometimes take for granted the little things. How sometimes I lose sight of the miracle I see everyday in my children. Reading this has changed my perspective. Tonight as I laid my son to bed, I held him a little longer, and smelled his sweet baby scent that I know will be gone too soon.
My heart aches for your pain. If all of us could take one tiny piece of that pain and ease yours, we would. You have a lot of love around you.
All of my love, thoughts, and prayers are with you and your family tonight. I pray for a peaceful night for Layla.
Continually praying for you and your family. Your story touches me so much. Before I found out about precious Layla, I had been praying for Katie, the niece of an old high school boyfriend. She was diagnosed with Stage 4 neuroblastoma about the same time Layla was. She has finished planned treatment and has been home for a month or so. They just got new scan results back and the news is not good. Here is her blog: http://ourturkey.blogspot.com/. Thought you would want to know about another precious little girl fighting this huge monster. I pray Layla sleeps well tonight and the Prince of Peace holds you tonight.
Praying for you little Layla Grace, you havent left my thoughts since I read your blog. You are a gorgeous, strong little girl and I hope for a miracle for you. Your story has changed my perspective and I will be a better Mommy to my children in honour of you. I hope for peace for you and your family. xox
I just found your blog tonight and although I do not know you personally, I hold you in my heart. Your little girl shines like a light even though she is ill. I wish you and your family peace.
Praying for you all.
we are all pray for layla , she is such a beautiful little angel a little girl layla ages souldnt be suffing like this its such a shame i will pray and hope that she will fight this horrible dissese i send all my love and prays to ya all god bless xxxxxxxxx
our prayers continue for layla, mommy, daddy, and sisters. i continue to appreciate each minute i have with my baby girls. the dishes are semi-washed, the clothes semi-put away, the toys semi-picked up… again i thank you for sharing your experience…. it has made be a better mommy…. it has made me a better human…. God bless you…..
I just wanted to say that I am still thinking and praying for you… we’ll do so in church this morning. I also keep waiting to read that she sits up and runs to play. I keep asking God for a miracle. I’m thinking of you.
I am praying for peaceful, comfortable pain free days for Layla and prayers for the entire family. Such beautiful photos for you to cherish!!
My thoughts are with you and will continue to pray for Layla and your family. I admire your strength and your courage, may you always have faith.
Thank you for sharing this with us. Your family is beautiful.
I hope God will shower you with His miracles and hold you in His arms to comfort you.
May god bless your whole family. This is totally heartwretching and my thoughts and prayers go out to your whole family. Your family and you have shown strength, courage, and bravery in times of adversity. We will have a Relay for Life in my area I will plan to be walking for courage and strength for all those who have been affected by cancer
My name Is Natalie Saldana
I am 14 yrs old and i have been following Layla’s Twitter Updates &nd Blogs constantly since around Christmas time.
MY teacher introduced our class to Layla’s battle Around that time.
Before that i didnt know the effect of childhood cancer and how big it was.
I’ve lost people to cancer but i dont belive i know what it is your going through… But i know how it feels to want to help someone and you cant.
I read the updates and blogs, and i cry. No baby should have to go through this. Layla is strong and i believe that she is going to make it.
I have had my pastor from church pray with me about her as well as my friends and family.
Miracles DO HAPPEN
when i read “Valentines Day, and Regrets”
I teared up alot. Layla Grace is my HERO. She is doing something i could never dream of doing, she is strong!
I wish your family & Layla Grace the best.
There is a soft spot in my heart and Layla’s situation hit it.
She is very lucky she has two WONDERFUL parents.
I wish my parents could just forgert about the problems and come together the way you and your husband do. & that’s why she is so lucky to have ya’ll.
I will continue to pray & check on Layla’s updates.
“When life gives you a hundred reasons to cry, give life a million reasons to Smile:]”
-Natalie Saldana
My thoughts and prayers are with your family and Layla. Thank you for sharing and letting us in your lives during this time. Your family is beautiful. I will continue to pray for all of you.
Stumbled across your blog ~ lifting Layla and your entire family up; asking God that His presence be and peace would just rain down. Thank you for sharing your faith. Will continue to pray………….
I am continuing to pray for little Layla’s comfort and a peaceful passing, and I pray for God to comfort you during these difficult times. Layla, you and your family have been true beacons for God. I certainly find myself praying more now than I have for a long time, and I certainly don’t take my kids for granted. Thank you for your witness and your strong faith. You are an inspiration for all.
Shanna – you’ve probably heard this so many times, but your strength amazes me. I know we’ll never know what your heart is feeling but all of us who read your blogs and tweets have such heavy hearts – I can’t even begin to imagine what you’re going through. You are so strong to share Layla’s story with all of us…she’s a fighter and so are you! I keep praying for peace and comfort for your whole family. I pray that you and Ryan stay strong – even when the moments get rough – God bless.
sweet layla is in my prayers, i am praying for her and she is in my thoughts all day long, thank you for sharing her story with me as well as the world. i want you to know that because of layla and you i hold my daughter bailey a little closer now, i play a little longer and stopped worrying about the little things. thank you for your daughter, she is a gift to me, and my family. i will never forget miss layla. please give her a kiss on the cheek for me. god bless layla and your family. may your days be filled with love and peace.
I have been thinking about you a lot lately and want you to know that. Praying that this time with family is a special time for you.
When Layla Grace loses her fight, my angel, McKenzie will be waiting to show her around heaven. McKenzie lost her two year fight with neuroblastoma on December 8, 2009. She was four years old. I will be praying for you. I am walking your same walk. With love, Jeri
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this trying time.
The pictures are gorgeous.
We continue to pray for your strength and for the comfort of Layla. Just as I know your heart is broken, I know too that Jesus and His Angels are there with you all.
Thank you so much for keeping us all posted … we care about you and want to be specific in our prayers.
Thank you for sharing your beautiful family pictures with us. I live many thousands of miles away but feel so much for you and for little Layla. My thoughts and prayers are with you all for some peace and hope. You are a wonderful and beautiful family.
I am feeling so incredibly sad thinking about the pain you are going through watching Layla in pain and so much discomfort. I am praying for Laya – for comfort & peace. I am praying for you & Ryan, for strength & peace…and of course, I am still on my knees praying for a miracle of healing here on earth…God Bless & hold you all.
Much love to you.
Tracy Johnston
Florida
My heart is shattering into a million pieces for your family. I know the process of passing and the not eating is so upsetting to me. It breaks my heart that you are having to witness it. Please know that although I am still praying for Layla’s miracle, I am also praying that God will go ahead and give her peace, if that is his will.
I hope you feel all of these prayers and the outpouring of love, sweet Layla.
Íf I am saddened by ´Layla’s story, how must you feel? I cannot even try and comprehend what you feel, and I think it is an absolute injustice that she has to leave this world. Your beautiful girl’s story made me cry, and she made me happy. Seeing her smiling, seeing the joy she brought to your family, it is true love. I hope from the bottom of my heart that she will be better soon, that she will feel well, without pain and any problems.
The best ones leave first. And she honestly is brilliant, judging by the love she showed you.
I feel very. very sorry for you, and these awkward words cannot coordinate the thoughts in my head. Feel blessed by her presence and what you experienced. And I know this will not make anything better at all and that the amount you hear the phrase does not make anything better: cherish the time you had with her. She won’t ever be forgotten.
You do not know me, and I know we will most likely never meet. I just wanted you to know how touched I have been by your blog, and by your sweet daughter’s struggle. I am heartbroken for your whole family, for her beautiful sisters, her sweet-looking father, and for you, the one I, of course, most identify with and understand.
Your strength is amazing. Love to you all from someone you have never met. Please know there are probably so many of us out there, thinking of Layla right now.
GOD BLESS YOUR STRONG FAMILY!!!
Our family’s prayers will always be with you and Layla…GOD BLESS…TRULY…
AMEN!
Your story came to me just days ago and yet I can’t stop thinking about your sweet little girl who is about the same age as my own daughter. It breaks my heart to think about everything Layla and your family has gone through and everything you are going through. Please know Layla is in my thoughts and I pray for peace for you, her father and her dear sisters.
Precious Marsh Family,
I cannot imagine what you’re going through, and at this point, I’m sure not much can make it any better. But I do want you to know that your daughter is changing lives everywhere. I am a teacher here in San Antonio Texas, and last year taught in Oregon. I have studnets in Oregon and students in Texas who have fallen in love with Layla Grace. They are only middle school aged kids, but their hearts have become so softened because of her. Not much can get a 14 year old to stop thining of themselves and only themselves, but Layla can. Thank you so much for sharing your story with all of us. You will never know just how many lives have been changed and how many little childhood cancer advocates and Lord serving warriors Layla has created. What an amazing child she is. I can firmly say I’m not the only one that has fallen in love with her and I cannot wait to meet her. I know she is, as all of you are, a sibling in Christ, and until we all meet together and the footstool of God, you will all always be in my heart.
God bless you all and bring Layla peace and comfort. May she reach for the hand of Jesus and know that she is home….
COLEs PRayer Team
http://www.colesfoundation.com
Lindsay Manfull
Began following your story recently – My daughter and I are praying for your family and for Layla’s comfort, from Canada. The photographs are incredibly beautiful.. the picture of Layla looking at her Dad while reading the book is very moving – amazing. God Bless. And, may Peace be with you.
May you and your family find great happiness and peace during these days.
I can’t even begin to imagine your feelings. Such gorgeous pictures. May He make the sun shine upon your face and give you peace! One love!
Your family is beautiful
And, what special pictures you will always cherish. God bless Layla. May she find peace and comfort and you strength in all your memories as a family of five.
I have just found your site about Layla Grace tonight from a friend on Facebook. I will be saying prayers for a miracle too. She is so precious and the family pics are awesome. My heart goes out to you all. I’ve not been through this with any of my own children but have been through similar situation with a friends daughter. Their daughter had two heart transplants and neither took for some reason and she was probably 11 when it started and she died at 15 years of age. She was my youngest son’s girlfriend so we spent alot of time with her in Children’s Hospital in Little Rock. So please just hang in there and keep your spirits up. She is an angel. God Bless you and be with you along this journey. Love you all.
Stunning, stunning photos. All your girls are simply beautiful. And I love how in the middle of a freezing, muddy bayou, the photos show only the promise of a coming spring.
Blessings to you all and praying for relief from pain for your sweet Layla.
She is such a beautiful girl. There is so much beauty in all of them. It’s like Layla shines.
I got all emotional when I saw the pics, and I don’t even know her, in real life. This must be so hard for you guys, and I have tons of respect for you guys for keeping strong and having faith.
You’ll be in my thoughts and prayers
Love, Julia
Your family is so beautiful. My prayers are with you.
I awoke during the night to pray for you all. Praying for peace and comfort as you go through this time. Your beautiful daughter is such an insipration to us all. Soon, she will be completely whole and will never feel pain or fear again. Oh, the LOVE that rescues us from darkness. Jesus knows and cares so much for you all. My son has neurofibromatosis and has brain tumors. He is a wonderful young man and knows that the Lord makes no mistakes. Another MRI soon to see where we are heading, but God already knows the end. It is in this we place all our hope!
Your family is absolutely gorgeous. Praying, praying, praying for Layla’s return home and her joyous, spontaneous healing when she crosses over.
Layla is absolutely beautiful! Thanks so much for sharing these wonderful photos. You will have these to cherish forever! What a great family… I can’t even begin to imagine what you are going through but in reading your story it just makes me cry! You are all wonderful people and Layla is lucky to have you all. She will be welcomed by God with open arms and will be so peaceful. Treasure the memories that you have made with her. She will always be with you! Sending lots of love your way!
Love the photos of your family. They are gorgeous! Praying for sweet Layla, and for her body to have comfort. You and your family are a HUGE inspiration to us…
Beautiful portraits of your beautiful family! Prayers and hugs to Layla and all of those close to her.
~tracey
Words cannot do the pictures justice. They brought tears to my eyes. Your girls are all so gorgeous. I will keep you all in my prayers. May Layla’s last few days/weeks be as peaceful and serene as possible.
Bridget
Georgetown, KY
You have a beatiful family. You have all been in my prayers. I will continue to pray for her comfort and your peace. God bless!
You don’t know me, but I just want you to know that my heart aches for you and your beautiful family. I wish you all the strength in the world as you go through this unimaginable struggle.
Stunning images. Your family is in my heart and prayers. God bless you and little Layla.
beautiful, the pictures are great. The one on her daddies shoulder, melts my heart!
I am so so so sorry I had to see you at the end of your journey.
But your family is so beautiful, and your grace is unfathomable to me. I wish you all the best, and I pray for your family’s peace.
This is a really HARD time for you and your family. Just remember alot of’ people including myself are praying for Beautiful Layla. I can’t even imagine the rough time you are going through right now. Be strong and put your faith in God because he is listening and watching over the family. Please give baby Layla a kiss for me. GOD BLESS YOU ALL. The pictures you have posted are just beautiful. Thanks for keeping everyone updated on this journey.
God Bless,
Sandy
Wow! What beautiful pics! A forever treasure!
I will pray for your darling little girl.She is so beautiful.I wish the best for her.My heart has a love and a special place for families going through this. God Bless Your Little Layla Grace.
I am so happy to read that she is feeling better!!! That is great news, I will keep praying that it continues. God is good!
Thank you God, for continuing to give Layla life on Earth with her amazing family and for sharing her with all of us. Thank you for bringing Layla some comfort after the last several days of discomfort. Please continue to make your precious angel comfortable, peaceful and pain free. Continue to give her strength each day and renew her energy, restore to her her health so that Layla can grow up with many more moments spent playing with her sisters, her mom and dad, her grandparents, and friends. Please give Layla more time to be such a miracle on Earth. This little girl that you created and blessed her parents with, is an amazing, courageous testament to faith, hope, and to your unending love Lord.
I pray for Layla a miracle to take her cancer away, so that she can continue to be a beacon of hope for her many friends fighting this journey of cancer too, and so that Layla and her family can continue to share the awareness of her Neuroblastoma to educate us all and help save other children catching it sooner so they have a better chance to fight it.
I’ve asked so much of you Lord, and now I want to thank you and show you my gratitude, for bringing her comfort. Wrap Layla and her family in your healing arms Lord and work a miracle in Layla and rid her little body of the cancer.
Continue to breath your life and love into Layla, so that Layla can continue to breath so much life in so many others as she has, so that she can show so many your love, for Layla is God’s love.
Layla Grace, is Amazing Grace!
If they will be done, Amen.
~Rebecca in ND
These are the most beautiful family pictures I have ever seen. Thanks for sharing! Praying for Layla.
You have such a beautiful family!!!! Our prayers are with you all !!!
I found your blog and I just wanted to say your family is in my prayers!!!!! And to tell you Layla is a beautiful little girl!!!!!!!!!!
[...] Anyone else here following sweet Layla Graces life? This sweet angel, I feel like if I dont share her, you will miss out on something so amazing. The world is praying for her as she battles nueroblatoma stage 4. She is on her last days but the love she is spreading around the world is so profound. Please say a prayer for this beautiful angel on earth. Layla Grace Blog Archive Family of Five [...]
I’ve followed Layla’s story for a short while now and said prayer upon prayer for healing of her sweet body. I’ve wondered how you are so strong. I’ve hugged my babies tighter and praised God for the blessings I have. But I hadn’t shed a tear until I saw these pictures. They are really worth way more than a thousand words aren’t they? Now? I can’t stop the tears. My heart breaks for the day when your arms won’t be able to hold her anymore. My baby girl (I have 3 of them also) will turn two this week. I look at her and I see Layla. I am still praying for healing, but also praying that the God of peace and comfort invades your home as well. That when your arms ache to hold her, you will feel “held” instead.
MY HEART AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOU, I CANT IMAGINE WHAT YOU MUST BE GOING THROUGH…SOMETIMES I JUST DONT UNDERSTAND THIS LIFE ESPECIALLY NOW IN THESE TIMES OF GREAT SUFFERING….DEAREST LITTLE LAYLA…I AM HOLDING YOU IN MY HEART AND PRAYERS AND BATHING YOU IN THE HEALING ENERGY OF GODS GRACE…I LOVE YOU ALL…………..PEACE JAI
i love you Layla! i will pray for you every single day
I have been reading about precious Layla Grace on Facebook. I am a fan on her page. I just found this sight and I have said prayers for you and your family, cried my eyes out, and counted my blessings all at the same time. I pray for Layla’s recovery and for God to take her pain away. I also ask Him to take yours and your family’s pain of having to watch your precious daugter and sister in so much pain. I have 2 children ages 21 and 17 and I just couldn’t imagine what you must be going through. If I lost one of them, the only thing that would keep me going would be the other child. Please know you will continue to be in my prayers. God bless you all.
Dear ones, If the doctors’ prognosis is correct, your family of five will soon become a family of four. The emptiness and loss will be overwhelming; but you will survive and must learn to become a family of four again. I once was a family of four; but became a family of three. We had to learn that we were not broken or incomplete. We were a new family unit. It took time to adjust; but God works wonders in those left behind and creates an entirely new family. Please know that your family will continue to be in my prayers through this journey in your life. I so wish you did not have to walk it; but I also know God will bring good out of this for those who love Him. (Romans 8:28) God bless you.
God’s blessings to all the family…..she is the most beautiful child I have ever seen and will Be in the hands of the Lord who will give her comfort and constant love. She has been so bleesed to have you all as her family as you have been blessed to have her a part of yours!
I am sure that everyday God and His Blessed Mother watch over her with so much pride and are preparing a place for her in her heavenly home…where we all will meet some day! But in the meantime have faith in miracles and prayer because miracles do happen…and I will be praying for one for you!
I wish i was a magician n I could make all pain go away, i myself lost my grandmother to cancer and like you i know that God brought us even closer thats all you need is to be together that will help!!
I am so so sorry for your pain and anguish. The photos are absolutely beautiful, and so poignant. My thoughts are with you.
I have been following your precious Laylas’ story for a while now. I can’t begin to imagine the pain you are all going through. I can tell you how much it has touched my heart. Instead of going through this privatley, through your blogging, twitter and maybe sometimes a bottle of wine
you have put yourselves and your raw emotions out there to raise awareness of this terrible cancer that takes these tiny lives. What you are doing will do soooo much good for years to come. I pray for comfort for little Layla. You are all on my mind 247 and I am terribly sorry for all that Layla, her sisters and Mommy and Daddy have had to endure. Your new photos are just gorgeous and will be a beautiful reminder of the gorgeous family you were blessed with. I once heard a story about someone who lost a child; they said given the choice they would choose to go through the pain and heartache of loosing their child again rather than never knowing them at all. Big hugs and love form my family to yours. XXOO
These lovely photos are just as precious as can be. My heart goes out to all of you and my prayers are going up! {{gentle hug}}
I absolutely love your daughter and family. I was 9 when my 18 year old sister was killed in a car accident. I can remember my Dad telling me thru his tears that God must have really needed her in heaven to hold babies or teach a Sunday school class or something to have taken her so young. Remember that it is all in His plan for whatever reason we may never understand or agree with but Layla will be in the Master’s lap holding his hand and she will feel a love so amazing.
I know that this just stinks and it even makes me angry but I pray that you can and will seek peace when everything starts to return to your new normal. Reach out to friends and openly cry and have some temper tantrums. They won’t know what to do but just ask them to be around-closely. Pease let them do things for you even if you think you can do it all yourselves. Let them surround you with love during this time by walking the dog or getting the mail or just anything. Don’t try to stay busy-just let it all out. You have obviously been soo strong for all of your girls that you need time to have some fits of your own. Its ok to do that after what you have been thru and what is to come.
Ashley Hall’s husband is my deacon and posted your web add. on something that allowed me to know you and your adorable Layla.
Tears,love and prayers from Nashville
I will pray for you Layla Grace. And your family
My heart is breaking for you all! I spent some time in the pediatric oncology ward of our Stollery Children’s Hospital this week to visit my mom’s godson, and I couldn’t believe the wee children fighting this disease. There was a little one about two with a raggedy blanket over her in her stroller and her tiny little thumb in her mouth. That vision will stay with me forever. The other thing I noticed was the amazing strength I saw in those parents, making every moment count.
The portraits are wonderful! I am an amateur photographer myself and have often think about, but never get around to, checking with one of our hospitals to see if I could volunteer to capture these family photos before they lose their loved ones. You just confirmed my need to do this.
I will be praying for you as you cherish every second you have left with this beautiful child!
You have an amazing beautiful family! I admire your strength! God is so good, and He will bring you through anything! I have 3 little girls myself (5, 2, and 10 months). We will all be praying for Miss Layla and your family. You are a shining light for the Lord through your faith in Him!
Bless you and your faimly,prayers are with her,
What a beautiful family……. When i heard about Layla grace and i read the websute i amediatly started to cry! Prayers for Layla and may the lord be with u all!
~laura~
i hope for your family. as layla is a wonderful child witha story that will touch ppl hopefully the doctors can help her
Layla needs god to heal her pain make her strong and stay with her family.my littel brother is cloes to her age and if i would see him that way i would do everything in my power to help him just as you are doing with Layla .i hope and will pray for you and your family god shall help you
Praying for peace for Layla and her sisters. Many, many prayers from San Antonio. -Katy
I just read the 1st two blogs and started to get tears in my eyes, as soon as I seen those pictures I immediatly started to cry. Layla Grace is such a beautiful child and no child should have to go through what she is going thought. May god bless your family and keep that little angel strong. My prayers are with your family.
~Kristen
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Thank you for sharing these wonderful photos that will be cherished forever. Your family is beautiful!
I admire your stregnth and courage. May God take away your pain and suffering. For only in Him do we find peace and comfort. God bless you and your family.
~Nicole
What a gorgeous family.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God bless.
Mellissa
Jacksonville, FL
I am so sorry, she is so beautiful, here is a lullaby, is in spanish (I am from mexico) and is about a girl, i listen to this songs, and it look they describe your daughter….
the big flowers on her head, they are so pretty, like her, that is so.. i love it, please, put this son to her…
here is the link.-… it is called “muñequita linda”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lX7zBATd3ho
I have some friends in TX who keep mentioning little Layla Grace on their Facebook page… I finally decided to check it out. I’ve never met you and probably never will, but seeing your family’s first and final pictures with all 5 of you brought me to tears (and eventually a full cry). I can’t imagine what it would be like knowing those would be the last pictures you’ll have with all of you together… and what beautiful pictures they are!! My God be with you and create a sense of peace as you go through what the next days & weeks bring. You are in my prayers.
These are gorgeous pictures. Your daughters are all so beautiful. My heart is breaking for you all. I pray that God grants you peace and is with you during this incredibly difficult time. I will be praying for you. I am so sorry you are having to say goodbye far too soon.
what a gorgeous family! the pictures are beautiful! you are all in my prayers.
Just discovered you yesterday. My heart breaks for you, and I ache for Lyla’s suffering. I am hopeful for the faith I see that you have. I prayed all last night and I prayed all today…..just can’t stop praying for you all for comfort, miracles, mercy, grace for the very presence of God to be palpable to each of you.
to the Loving family of Laylagrace,
thank you for sharing this angel child with me. truly made my life, and i do mean that. Hope all is well, keep up the fight and stay strong! love to you all! xxx <3
I am only 14 years old and I just wanted to share my thoughts of this truly stressful and painful experience that you are going through. My heart is breaking for this beautiful angel,she is one precious little one and I will keep her very near in my thoughts. I just wanted to say that i understand the emotions you all are in right at this moment. My grandfather just passed away about 2 months ago from sarcoma cancer, I truly understand your pain. This is never easy and for me my life feels lonely, until I think about the great times i had with my grandfather. I hope you all can watch this music video called “precious” by Depeche mode. i thought of laylagrace when i heard it, so I thought i would share this with you. the link is: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ts2DXY0zfLs. please check it out when you get the chance and please email me, i would love to hear from you. I know you all are busy right now, but when you have a little time please email me.
Love,
Bella M.
I just saw a post for Layla Grace on FB and found this post! What a gorgeous family you have! What a PERFECT photo shoot! You and your family are in my families prayers!!!! May God Bless You!!!!
Shanna and Ryan,
What BEAUTIFUL BEAUTIFUL GIRLS and these pictures are PRICELESS. My LOVE, THOUGHTS and PRAYERS are with you all ALWAYS AND FOREVER. GOD BLESS YOU AND COMFORT YOU and I LOVE YOU SWEET SWEET LAYLA GRACE…..
Absolutely priceless pictures.
I’m sitting here at work, fighting back tears as I see these pictures and get caught up on your story. I’m praying for your whole family now.
Im sorry for your loss.
We all loved her.
Shes in a better
place now.
I miss so much.
I’m so sorry for you.
I know it’s hard for you
hey no doubt she was an angel ,,it,s so hard for u PARENT,S but no feel,s the pain the one ur going through im really sorry for that i wish i could be there with u Faimly i, loved her so much
I am so sorry for your loss. It is so overwhelming, but knowing that she is in the arms of Jesus is more comforting, and that she is pain-free! Know that my fiancé, Marc, and I are praying for you guys and am really glad you got this photo shoot in! You will treasure them forever, I am sure! Blessings and peace to you!
I have just visited your site for the first time tonight. Your children are so beautiful. I will be praying for Layla’s peace in heaven above. God gives us so many challenging, painful quests in life but we must always stay strong. Layla was such an incredibly beautiful little girl, and heaven now has another angel.
Many prayers and love to your family.
My heart literally breaks for you and your family. Layla is the most beautiful angel God has ever created. I have only been following for a short time, but have read so much on your blog that I feel like I know you. I know this sounds redundant to all the other comments and posts you receive, but I can not stop crying and praying for you all. I can’t fathom the pain you are feeling and give you all my thoughts, prayers and heart wrenched strength to you, your husband and little girls to get through this. There will forever be a whole in your hearts, but memory that will live with you all forever. I am so sad for you guys, that I have become consumed with this in every thought of my day. You have touched my life forever. What a beautiful family and photos…Layla is stunning.
Heather
Long Beach, Ca
I just randomly came across your blog, and have sat here reading every word with tears. You are truly an amazing family for having to deal with all this. I will pray for you all… xoxo
I learned about your loss today and began reading through your story and looking through the pictures. I sit here absolutely captured by the words you’ve written, the beauty of your love for Layla and the grace you display. My heart aches for you and the tears continue to roll down my face. I have a daughter named Riley who is only 4 days older than your precious Layla. I can’t express the pain that I feel for you as I truly have no idea (other than what you’ve written) what it must feel like. I may never meet you, but I truly believe God led me to your story tonight so I might pray for you…as a mother and as a sister in the Lord. I pray peace over you, comfort, and the deep unfailing love of our heavenly Father. May His love for you reach the deepest part of your being. Thank you for allowing us to love you and your little girl from a distance and to grieve with you tonight.
Beautiful pictures!
I am so deeply sorry that Layla is gone. I have been praying for you momma all morning.
A big HUG from Ontario.
I do not think I can put into words how your family has touched my heart. Layla was such a sweet little princess, and without even knowing it, touched so many lives. I have three boys, and at times find myself just wanting to get the dishwasher unloaded without my sweet Gavin at my feet, like you said making that task take 45 minutes:) After reading your post, I thought about how lucky I am to have him at my feet. Life is so fragile and taken for granted many times. I pray for your family! I pray the pain starts to not hurt as bad as the days pass. Keep your head up and know there are so many people who are pulling for your family!
The Jones Family
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this unimaginable time of sorrow. As a mother of a beautiful and precious 4 yr old girl, I don’t know how I could go on. I wish you all the strength you need to carry on for your other 2 beautiful children.
I once found this prayer and I hope it can be as meaningful to you, as it has been to me.
I give you this one thought to keep -
I am with you still – I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sunlight on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush,
I am the sweet uplifting rush,
of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft starts that shine at night.
Do not think of me as gone -
I am with you still in each new dawn.
God Bless
Kristen, Ontario Canada
I am holding back the tears. i am so sorry for your loss. she is such an angel. the pic of her daddy holding her on his shoulders just tears me up. that is the sweetest thing. he will cherish that moment forever. you are in my prayers… little miss layla grace, sooo sweet!
Prayers and healing to you all. Gifts so small and precious are fragile. I believe Layla choose you for parents and choose this challenge in life and the lessons it would bring. Cherish the gift and release and let the pain go. Ask for angels to come down and comfort you. It is not the challenges in life that define us, but how we handle them. Hold each other close and love all the precious gifts in your life as you know how fragile and beautiful they are. I am sending you love to fill your void and healing to release your sorrow. May you find nothing but joy ahead.
My prayers are with all of you. What a beautiful little girl who touched so many. Another Angel God needed with him. She’s happy and healthy now and watching over all of you. God Bless you all.
God bless you. May you always be the family of five that has touched my heart forever. Love you like family and dont know you, but am there for you always. Precious Layla Grace has changed my life forever, I am a better person for knowing your story. Shanna and Ryan, you are amazing and God will get you through this difficult time. Blessed love and hugs to Jenna and Claire.
Cassandra Ferder, Salem, OR
hello layla i pray for you all the time but i wish are to you and have the best time playen with the angles rest in peaces layla i love you godd bless your family and good wish to them=)xoxox
my wish are to you layla
As a mother who has lost a child herself, words are never enough. Please unite as a family and talk about your grief. Don’t blame anyone or anything. We don’t know why God takes our children so soon, for all we can do is have faith in him. My heart felt sympathy to your family.
Rest in Peace Layla, for no more pain, or sorrow…You have touched many lives across the world.
i’m young and so deeply touched by story I have been following you since day 1 and I want you to know I am praying for your family.. Layla has done her work here on earth… she has touched the lives of many within the short time she was here.. but God has called her home to do is work… and I admire you guys for allowing god to be in the mist because he is the SAME god who was there in the good times and he is the same god whos going to be their in this trying time. this is a test of your faith… stay prayerful and may the lord give you peace within…He’ s a God that has never lost a patient.. and you mourn but celebrate sheis no longer in pain.. but at peace. gone in the flesh but not in spirit celebrate her life and let peace be with you!.
My prayers go out….
what a lovely family. i am very sorry for the passing of your little girl. know at least god is looking after her so you know she is safe.
God bless you and give you strength during this hard time in all of your lives. I only learned about your daughter’s struggles today but she has now touched me for a lifetime. I look forward to the day you will be able to raise her in heaven without any fear or tears. God bless you all!
We are very sorry to hear of your loss. She has touched our lives forever with her strength and love.God speed angel.
I am a 29 year old father of three daughters and I’ve been a minister for 9 years. Nothing has put me in prayer more than your daughter Layla. I cannot even begin to imagine the pain and sorrow. I have prayed and will continue to pray for the peace of God and the comforting of the Holy Spirit for your family! I want to say thank you to you and Layla for teaching me to pray like I never knew to pray before. I want to remind you of the scripture 2 Corinthians 5:7 “For we walk by faith and not by sight” If we were to walk by sight we would be utterly destroyed in times such as these. But this is when we close our eyes and walk in the faith of our Master, knowing He will lead us and direct us. Psalms 34:18 tells us that “God is near to them who have a broken heart.” Remeber God has not left you, it is in these times He is closest to you! God bless you and grant you peace in this storm! Thank you again so much for the gift of God you shared with the world, I am forever changed because of Layla’s work here on earth!!!
Praying for you always
Thank you for sharing your story with all of us. My heart aches for your loss and I send you all big hugs all the way from Australia. May Little Layla Grace’s light continue to shine in your hearts and every time you look at a sunrise and sunset, there she will be. Big hugs……
hi i have read the blogs and cant help crying i can just imagine all the pain you are going through, i have been there, my chilid was diagnosed with a very rare blood disorder n 2003 the doctors had no idea what it was, i was scared and mad at the same time i would ask god why is this happening to our family? but every one would just tell me have faith everything will be okay. i did i had alot of faith and i grew closer to jesus and i just put everything in his hands. i lived at texas childerens hosp. for mor than 2 mths and had to go to weekly visits for 3yrs. it was very hard, at that time i had 2 smaller childeren a 4yr old and a 2 yr old so beeing away from them was the hardest thing.But i had to be strong for all of them, they didnt like mommy crying and they would ask me what was wrong and i would just break down with them and my husband that to me he was my hero cs her never cryed in fornt of me and he would always asure me that everything would be okay. I just want to tell u that my prayers are with u and your family she was a precious little girl so i am truely sorry for your lost and only a mother knows the pain and the hurt that your heart must be going through. My daughter was 5 mths at the time this happened but she is now6 yrs old and i just thank god and jesus that we had another chance and i and truly grateful for all this days we have together, but i was so scared to lose her and more cs the doctors could even tell me what was wrong with her and to me that was the scariest part. But god will make you stronger and all those beautiful memories you have will her will forever be in your heart, god bless you and you family and your baby is with the lord flying with her huge and beautiful wings……..
I have a friend on facebook who posted just the other day that Layla Grace had gone to meet her angels and I of course was saddened to hear any precious child leaving this world. I decided to go on the website and I have sat here for the past hour and read your journal from start to finish. Im still wiping away the tears this very moment. Even though I do not know your family personally, I feel I do now reading your journal. I am AMAZED the strength you guys had throughtout this ordeal, especially Layla Grace. What a beautiful child, inside and out. Although it is very sad that she has left your family and this world, it is with ease to say that she is not in anymore pain. Bless your wonderful family and may you all have peace now and through the years to come.
Sincerely, Angela
I am a mother of 3 2 of whom are special needs. Layla’s story has changed my perspective on life forever. Thank you so much for shairng your heart with the world. I have been praying and will continue to pray for your family. I can’t imagine the pain you are going through now. Be strong and again thank you.
What a beatiful family! Just few days ago I came across the blog, facebook page, and twitter. This story just breaks my heart. I cannot stop thinking about little Layla and everything she has been through in her short life. My deepest sympathy goes out to her family. I pray for her and your family through this difficult time.
Thank you for sharing your story, your pain and sorrow and also your happiness. May Angel Layla rest in peace.
Monika, mom to a 5 year old Julia
I tooted out my ear i a turd came out my nose
I am a pakistany…..named felipe andI’m a banana
Hola SE~Noe\r
My heart goes out to Layla and her family. I am sorry for your loss and I pray that you may find peace and strength. She has touched many people, brought mothers closer to their children, made me charish my children even more than I thought possible. God bless
oh my goodness, layla is beautiful, i am so, so sad for your loss.. yet thankful she is not hurting any more- i pray for strength for you and your family to continue living…
Your Daughter is sooooooooooooooooooooooooooo Beutiful, she showed so much life in her photo’s and joy! I know you were so proud of her and she touched my life just seeing her face and reading a few lines from your blog, just reading about it today, I cried my eyes out. Yes Faith is def what is going to hold us together!! The lord is our strength and refuge. Cast all our cares and worries on him! Be strong, she was beautiful and just be at peace that this little beautiful girls story has def made an impact on me and will forever make an impact on others!
There are NO earthly words~a huge lump in my throat~trembling lips~tears streaming~~my heart and all that I am hurts for you….
All I have to offer are prayers~
prayers for you to receive a peace
that goes beyond all understanding
the kind only God can give,
and for your one day..not today, not tomorrow…
but a one day….the day when you will find your smile again….
I cannot imagine the living hell you are growing through with the loss of your precious Layla. Thankyou for sharing your beautiful girl with the world, she has taught many of us some very important lessons on love and appreciation. I must say also….Jenna is a model in the making, absolutely stunning! Love the family photos. Yours to treasure forever.
RIP sweet Layla.
Layla Grace rew up to be a lovely little girl and very beautiful. I am praying over Layla Grace fo you and your family. I am so sorry. All you need to know is when u miss her or need her she is always right their in your heart and no one can take that away.
My prayers are with you at this sad time. May God continue to give you the much needed support to endure the days ahead. Hold onto your memories and Layla Grace will live eternally in your hearts.
I will continue to pray for you and your children.
Sincerely
It truly breaks my heart to hear about your loss. Your precious little angel is in awe and amazement at all that Heaven has to offer her. I am sure she is up there playing with my two children! (one stillborn son and a miscarriage). The hardest part is now we have to wait to see them again-but what a day it will be!!! You continue to be in our thoughts and prayers. Sadly, there are so many of us that have been where you are at now. Please feel free to reach out to us!
I read your story about your beautiful little Layla Grace! I learned about her thru the news on the internet and it touched my life and had a powerful impact. I have been praying for her and your family! We will continue to pray for the parents and daughters for the healing process to begin
Pictures say a thousands words: In your case you all have the glorious shine of God’s happiness in your family. Your daughter are gifts from God and no one can take the “Love” you have endured with them.
Keep God with you always in your heart. {Exodus 33:14 And He said, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”}
Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. {Matthew 11:28}
Praying for comfort,
Mari & Alan Pagan
Mom and Dad you both are amazing parents! Bless your family.
sitting here falling apart after listening to you talk on the radio. I have posted once before but am here once again to tell you and your wife how incredibly strong you are. My daughter is 21 months and battling cancer. She was diagnosed with leukemia at her 18 month well baby visit. She was just looking at Layla’s pictures with me and said “pretty mommy, pretty” I just sobbed. Layla reminds me so much of my own daughter especially after listening to the clip of precious Layla at bedtime. We pray at bedtime for Layla and your family. You have touched so many lives. I wish i lived closer so myself, my 3 daughters and my husband could meet you. Thank you for teaching me to be strong for my daughter. God bless you and your famiily.
Layla was an angel on earth. I am so sorry for the struggles you had to go through and I am so, so sorry for your loss. God bless your family.
There is nothing that can be said to make the hurt or pain that you are feeling go away. Just know that she is at peace and no longer suffering. You will see her again one day and until then cherish your family and children and look forward to that day when it comes. Remember the happy times with her and comfort your children. My prayers are with you and your family. Be strong and know that she is in a better place until you see her again.
God bless your family so much in your time of mourning. May the lord be with you, to get y ou through this. God bless little Jenna. May she find peace in all this confusion. We love her and your entire family. Continusouly praying for your beautiful family.
What a beautiful family…. I am so sorry for your families loss.. May God be w/ you @ this difficult time… My Prayers & thoughts go out to all of you…
My heart and prayers goes out to you and your beautiful family.
I’m writing this to share with you something that happened 2 weeks before I lost my son in a fatal car accident.
I had fallen and my lawyer was preparing me for my deposition this one day. He had never said much to me but this day, she turned and said” Hey Jackie, we never talked before, if you have the time, sit down..”
Well to make a long story short, he went on to tell me that he had almost died some years back. He shared the fact that he was jewish but his wife was a christian and when he was rushed into surgery, she had prayer groups praying for him. He told me how, while he was under at the table he experience this light and the most wonderfull sensation/feeling a great undescribable wonderful thing that just drew him closer and closer into that great light! All of a sudden he was woken up by his doctor who went on to inform him that he had lost him at the table 3 times and he had not been the one who had save his life.
When the police came to my door to tell me that my oldest son had been killed in a car accident, that came to mind. I am convinced that God sent me my lawyer that day, to help me accept my son’s death. I was console by knowing that he had gone into that wonderful welcoming light! I hope it helps you even if a little bit. Like you I have 2 other kids and our family has never been the same as an important part of it is still missing, even after 11 years. But we accepted and are happy to have had him in our lives, even if for a short while. God Bless you and keep you strong! If you ever feel like talking, do not hesitate to “call on me”.
May god be with your family today. During this very difficult day for you. Prayers are constantly be said for your family. God bless
I think of Layla every single day, and i am so sad for all that she had to go trough and your family. Even being very far (Portugal) Layla is very close, she is my heart and i will never forget her.
with all my love, and god you all
I just wanted you to know that we hurt for you. OUr hearts hurt for you. We know you sorrow not as others who have no hope, but yet you sorrow. We sorrow with you. Our daughter attended you Celebration of Life yesterday. She has followed your story. She lives near Bear Creek, so, although she knew it would be difficult she wanted to be there to support you.
We are grandparents in Tucson, AZ and we have shared your story as the testimony it is of God’s faithfulness.
That little angel will never b e to far away, Mommy and Daddy! she loves you far to much. God bless your entire family. I will always send prayers your way. Praying for comfort, and peace. Love the Wing family
First I want to say sorry for your loss…i have 3 kids as well with the youngest being three and I couldn’t even imagine your loss. As I sit here and read your story and look at your pictures withought even knowing your family, I have a knot in my throat trying to fight back the tears. I did want to let you know that I saw a beautiful portrait a few years back of a family that loss their daughter to a brain tumor and thought how beautiful it would be for you too. What you would do is take another family photo and in the place of precious Layla Grace you would have angel wings! It really is a magical thing to see…I pray for strength for your family to get throught this unimaginable time.
with warm thoughts,
Kristin
Lancaster, Ca
i looked at those pictures yesterday too……….i didnt relize how beautiful her eyes were…..blue, just like mine…… i miss her…..she is a beautiful angel even though not here on earth.
P.S. Maybe you could write about your time with Layla and how you handled everything. Everyone would enjoy another tribute to Layla….WE ALL LUV HER!!!!!! Maybe it would be too hard at this point to right about your child but pls think about it……