Still Praying
There isn’t much change with Layla. She is getting weaker by the day. She’s refusing ice chips, juice chips, small bites of jello…basically she’s not opening her mouth for anything. She can no longer sit up on her own and can hardly lift her head when laying on my shoulder. This is much slower and much more painful than we could have ever imagined.
The past year has been one obstacle after another. We’ve had doctors and others that have walked this road, try to help us by telling us what to expect each step of the way. While it’s been helpful, until you’re put right in the thick of it you have no idea how to react. The past 3 weeks have been pure hell. Watching Layla go through this suffering has been pure hell. Being away from our other 2 kids has been pure hell. The only think keeping me sane is faith. When I’m holding her and just want to cry uncontrollably, the only thing that holds me together is faith. That’s all I have left to cling to.
She’s still very aware of what we say, and who is in the room with her, so she can’t hear me crying all day. I have to be strong for her. I have to be the one to tell her that it’s going to be ok. That I’m so incredibly proud of her strength and grace. That I will take her short amazing little life and tell the story over and over again. That she WILL continue to do God’s work and she WILL make a difference in the lives of children with cancer.
My relationship with God has grown so much the past few months. That is all Layla’s doing. I’m so grateful that I was blessed with this angel on earth. She has taught me patience, faith, strength, grace and love. She has continued to amaze me over and over again.
Today, I’m going to ask for prayers for our other 2 daughters. Jenna is 9 and Claire is 3. They have been at my mother’s house for 2 weeks now. We didn’t want them to see Layla like this. We want them to remember her as a happy, bubbly 2 year old. Claire is too little to really understand what’s going on. She thinks it’s pretty neat that she’s getting to stay with grandma for so long and sleep in a pink princess bed. Over time, it will become more difficult for her. She’s used to Layla being gone for weeks at a time, but it will be a shock when she finally realizes that Layla isn’t coming back. Jenna is really having a very tough time. She’s been working with a child life specialist from Texas Children’s Hospital, learning ways to express her anger and sadness. She’s also writing in a journal. She’s being given tons of attention from family members. She’s still deeply hurt. Please pray for comfort and peace for her. I can’t wrap my head around what’s going on, I can’t even begin to imagine how this must feel for a 9 year old.
I want to say thank you to everyone who has taken the time to send emails, comments, tweets, messages, cards and sweet gifts. I can’t even begin to tell you how much it means to us. It’s very comforting to know how many people love Layla and are praying for her.
2 Corninthians 4:7-12, 16-18
But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body. So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
Praying for strength, peace, and most of all NO suffering.
I’ve been reading and keeping up with your family for a few weeks now. Wanted to come out of lurking to say I’m praying for your family and specifically your oldest daughters.
Praying in NC,
Jennifer
My heart is breaking with you but Iunderstand that at time faith is all we have to guide us at times even though we do not understand. Our prayers are with you and your entire family. Please give Layla a kiss from us and tell her she has a special place in so many hearts seen and unseen.
Praying for everyones comfort and peace. God bless sweet Layla!!!!
All your daughters and family are in my prayers.
…….hi……my name is Gaby and I am reading your storie and watching all the cute pictures of your little angel…..word are not enought to let you know how much this is making me cry! I am from northern germany and telling people about sweet Layla Grace and her family so they can pray for all of you!! I am a nurse ,but can not imagen how this must feel for your whole family…..
….so sorry for my bad english, I wish I could let you know how much I am thinking of you every day…
gaby….
Your story has really touched me. Im so sorry for everyone in your family having to go through this and i pray for Layla. Shes such an adorable little girl that deserves more than 2 years. I know your family and Layla will make it through.
I will most definitely keep praying for Layla, you and your husband, your other beautiful daughters, and your entire family. I can’t imagine what any of you are going through and I hope nothing but the best for all of you. God Bless you all!
I don’t know exactly what to say. I don’t know whether or not to say that I hope you can keep her a long time, or that I hope she passes soon so that she won’t be in this kind of pain. I can’t begin to imagine what your family is going through. I know your little girl has touched the lives of others because she has touched mine. I know she has brought people closer to God and given faith because that’s what she’s given me. I know she will continue to touch the lives of others after her passing. Layla is a beautiful girl, and I wish her and your family all the best of luck in dealing with her disease. I will pass along her story to others in the hopes of showing them what I see. God will stay with her and your family in this time and after.
I have been praying for the entire family since learning of baby Layla Grace! I can not imagine what her big sisters are going through, only can hope they are at peace.
Layla Grace is a fighter and I oh so wish for a miracle for her! I think about her all day long and check in often for updates on her.
Mom and Dad you are doing a wonderful job caring for her and I am sure she knows it and loves you both with her entire heart!
I will continue to pray for strength for the family and peace and comfort for Layla!
Love and prayers coming your way. God bless you all.
Praying for your whole family. Layla is an inspiration to everyone. Praying for all the comfort and peace possible. Thank you for sharing the story and raising awareness.
I have 3 daughters too and every day when I look at them I seem to look at them differently since I learned about Layla Grace…I feel like we need to cherish every day that we have with them because you just don’t know how long you have with them here on earth…I am praying for sweet Layla and your family!!
I truly don’t know what to say. As a mother and grandmother I am so terribly sad for you. I have shared this story with my co-workers and friends on facebook. We are all praying. I am in awe of your faith.
My heart is breaking for you. Layla has brought me closer to God, too, like many others. I sincerely mean that – I haven’t prayed in YEARS and now I find myself praying every couple of hours… doing the dishes, folding the laundry, changing my little girl’s diaper – always praying. I’m grateful for her but ashamed that my faith had to come back at this cost. She is such a treasure, and I would do anything I could to ease the pain you all are feeling. I live in Indiana – far away – but I have told so many people about Layla. I’m still praying for time and comfort and I really hope those come to you. I’ll definitely pray for your other girls – you are doing a wonderful job with them and you have their best interests at heart – that makes a difference. I really wish there was more I could do, but I want you to know that in our little home in a tiny little town in Indiana, Layla is part of our daily lives, prayers, and thoughts. She IS a miracle. I just wish (and pray) that another miracle could come her way.
Keeping your family in my prayers.
I have shared your family’s journey with my husband and we are in deep prayer for you. We have never met you but your blog and tweets have made us feel like we share a kinship — and so we hurt not only for you, but with you, too. I also want to thank you for sharing this incredible journey with us. We continue to pray for Layla and send you our love and good wishes. God bless you!
You and your entire family are in my thoughts and prayers. As a mother to a 22 month old little girl, I cannot even begin to imagine what you are going through. I admire your family’s strength and faith in God, because I have no idea how I would feel if I were in your shoes. Your family has changed me in so many ways. I have become more of a petient parent and your faith has made mine stronger. I pray for your older 2 girls, you and your husband, but mostly, for Layla to be as pain free as possible. She WILL contine to change lives for a long time to come. She is a beautiful example of how God works through others and people are better to have known her. God bless
I have 2 daughters, 8 months and 6 years. Jenna, especially, has been in my prayers since I learned of your story. Know you are doing everything you can for her mental peace. You are giving her counsel through doctors and teaching her faith through your actions. God will take care of her. I have heard the past few interviews of you and your husband. You have both said you are not as strong as people make you out to be, but I have to disagree. You amaze me with the strength of your faith, and can only pray that mine would be as strong if I were in your position. The Lord is so proud of little Layla, of course. Please remember, through this difficult time, he is so very proud of you and your husband as well. my prayers will continue.
Hello Layla,
I pray for you all the time and I know you are going go be in a better place soon and look over all the sick kids out there. I have a little daughter (Tatumn) that is your same age and has Neuroblastoma. We are fighting as we speak and your story makes us see how hard it could be and got to keep are heads up high. We love you so much and we know you’ll be in a way better place soon and when are time on earth is done we will come see you and have some fun together.
We love all you guys some much and we will continue to pray for you guys and Layla,
The Carr Family
I’ve read your story and it was like reading my life all over again. Seven yrs ago I walked this same road with my 3 yr old daughter, Peyton. I too had a 9 year old son at the time not sure what was going on and why his sister was so sick. Peyton had Wilm’s Tumor, a tumor of the kidney. We lived at TCH and were blessed with many friends there. God has plans for his children, at the time we may not know why or understand but we have to trust in Him. The last prayer I said for Peyton was to ask God to just take her from her pain and suffering. I told her not to hold on for us, which I think she was doing, the next morning she took her last breath in my arms after she told all of us she loved us. So I know exactly how you feel and my heart and prayers go out to you and your family. May you find peace and a miracle for Layla, she’s a beautiful little girl! Praying for you, Layla and your family!
I have no idea who you are but I am diligently praying for you and your family. My heart aches for you. May the peace of our Lord sustain you throughout this. We will continue to pray for Jenna and Claire as well.
Your strength and faith are inspiring!
With a daughter only a few months older than Layla, this all hits home for me. Looking at the pictures of your beautiful Layla Grace and your family, and I cannot fathom experiencing all that your family is. I pray multiple times each day for Layla, for your family, for a miracle, for peace.
God bless you each and bring you strength and peace!
((HUGS))
No words…
Just prayers….continously for you all.
with love,
The Reisingers
Your posts are so beautifully written! I am part of the Knoxville, TN contingency that has your entire family suspended in prayer. We will pray specifically for Jenna and Claire (and wisdom for everyone who is caring for your girls). Godspeed.
My mom shared Layla’s story and I pray for her every night. I love her like my baby sister. I know she will go safely into God’s arms. I love you Layla Grace.
YOu guys are amazing on how you are doing. I am crying as I read this update. I have followed on Twitter and sent e-mails also. Faith sometimes is all we have. Layla has been thru hell as you guys have however, in that hell is the refiners fire. The impurities are going away. Layla will have a new body in Heaven. You guys will have a guardian angel as well as the growth that you have gotten in this. It hurts like acid on a burn I know. I also know too that through this many wil be changed, amy will be educatated and many will change how they live their lives just from one child. If Layla can do that, imagine what this whole thing can do for all of you? Take time to heal, vent, be angry, cry… all of those emotions. You will need it. Just know that there are thousands of us and especially God that you can cry to.
God Bless you guys.
Carol Andrews
I have been following your journey with Layla for several weeks now. I want to thank you and thank Layla. Just as you stated for yourself, my faith in God as been renewed because of Layla. She is one strong, powerful, graceful little angel. I have shared your story with others and asked for prayers. I will continue to pray for peace for sweet Layla, and for you, your family, and most of all, your two other beautiful daughters. God Bless all of you from the bottom of my heart. Thank you for sharing your sweet Layla’s story with us. We have all benefited from her gift.
Prayers from St. Louis, Missouri,
Nicole Gentilini
I continue to pray for sweet little Layla. As I lay my 20 month old to sleep, my 3rd daughter, I ask her to say ‘Amen’ for Layla as I pray for her. I cannot imagine your journey and continue to pray for your strength and family. I have not prayed this much as long as I can remember…you are amazing people and I pray for the Lord to continue to surround you with his love and strength in this difficult time.
Love and prayers,
Stacie Richardson
I found out about this blog just a few days ago… And I’ve been reading it again and again and looking at the picture of a little Layla and crying…
(( That gorgeous, innocent baby touched me so much and before that I could never imagine that I could feel so much for someone I never even met… She trully is an angel.
I still can’t believe that such a sweet child, full of life, is going through all this hell and dying…
My heart is breaking for you and your family. There are no words to express how much I wish things were different for Layla and for your family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers during this unimaginably difficult time. I am saying a special prayer for your other daughters, and I know God will bring them the peace and comfort they need so badly right now. Thinking of you and praying hard here in Arkansas.
Shana, I check on Layla everyday, and understand the pain you feel, not as a parent, but as Sophie’s auntie. It is surreal when reading about Layla, as I may as well be reading about Sophie, everything you have described day by day on twitter with regards to how Layla has been is exactly how Sophie is. I hope when both their time comes they can pass through those gates of Heaven together, what a comfort it would be to know they have a new friend in each other. I am so very sorry that we are having to walk this path. Much love to you , your family and especially Layla xxxx
Dearest Family of sweet Layla Grace,
Words cannot express the pain in my heart over this! I lost my little girl at 7 years old and I am very aware of the pain and road that you face! I can tell you that my faith is what carried me in the darkest of hours! God comforted us with his amazing Holy Spirit and I pray that He does the same for you! It is very obvious that many people love your precious one and they are all moved by her strength and your amazing faith! Please know that we are lifting you up to our Heavenly Father continuously and we pray for peace that passes all understanding to fill your hearts,but most of all I plead with God to heal Layla Grace!! I also pray for your other sweet girls! My other 2 children were 9 & 3 when Savannah went to be with Jesus,too! Sometimes,I felt like that was the hardest part of it all,seeing them in pain! Just remember that God will take care of them and give you the right words to comfort them!! You are amazing parents!
God bless your presious family!!
YSIC,
Daynia Carroll, South Carolina
I continue to pray for your sweet baby. My daughter is just about the same age ( she tunred 2 in Dec) to even put myself in your shoes would be unbearable. Your strength is amazing. Your daughter amazes me everyday I just found out about her a week or so ago but I can’t stop checking on her and I immediately fell in love with her. She will forever hold a place in my heart. Thank you Layla for making such a deep impact on this world you will never be forgotten!
Summer & family in California
Maybe take her off morphine and liquid chemo my family member was on her death bed same situation as Layla right now we convinced family members to stop it all cause she was refusing everything and there where no odds against trying it couldn’t hurt because the future was seeming obvious and we didn’t want to lose this family member and the family member herself did not want to go yet so they took her off everything it took a couple of days for the meds to clear out but she started coming around she got some energy back and went to holistic cure all dr there r alot of holistic dr’s around and would u know she is alive cancer free today and top medical dr’s who where very knowledgable claimed she would never survive she had one of the most viscious cancers but God put natural things on this earth for our good and in her case it worked I know ya’ll are so tired and so is layla but there is nothing to lose.my family member herslf said that the morphine and chemo made her feel like she was going to die and just the worst she ever experienced she took over counter pain med for pain.i know this is the worst ever I could not imagine but this is exactly what i would do.Morphine shuts the body down very quickly i bet just taking her off that would stop her refusing drinks ice jello etc I don’t care what any dr. says one of my family members is also a dr. and says that it does shut down the body… I know this maybe alot but if I was in this situation that is what i would try God bless ya’ll I could never imagine going through all these things w/my maybe girl. I love ya’ll in Christ
Lord I pray daily that you would heal Baby Layla, I hope and pray these are the plans you have for her. More time on this earth. But You, Jesus are our miracle, the one who died for our sins and because of your death and resurrection we get to have everlasting life . We don’t understand why she has to suffer. I pray she has no more pain and that she would find rest. But we can put our faith in you and know that when Lalya leaves this world that heaven is a much wonderful place than here on earth. No more tears and pain. She can dance, sing, and maybe even fly and see your face. Give her and her family peace. For you peace and love pass all understanding. For this is not goodbye. I pray in Jesus name Amen!
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:28-29
God bless you, Layla, and your loving family! I carry you in my heart every day sweet angel. I love you even though I have never met you in person. I pray that your stroy will be countless people to know Jesus. Peace, love and rest dear child. Lots of hugs and kisses from North Texas.
Dear sweet Layla Grace and Family,
You are so right, you are in the middle of Hell right now. My prayer: May our God in Heaven send angels to comfort you in the midst of this pain. As a mom who held her dying son I recall so vividly the peace that surpasses all understanding one minute and the torture of losing a child in the next. Yet, God will give just enough strength for each minute here on earth regardless of what you face. You are in my prayers so heavily, my heart is breaking for you as Layla brings Christ followers and non-Christ followers to their knees. Her life has a purpose and a plan that will someday be revealed to you. Remember, we can only see part of the picture He is painting.
Love, Beth
I am keeping your whole family in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry that your family has to go through this. You are amazing and so strong. Thank you for sharing Layla’s story with us. Stay strong little one.
My family and I continue to pray for you all! I am in awe of your strength and faith!
Praying for your family….praying that Layla suffers no more.
Hi…I am Karen from Nebraska! My 17 year old daughter has been following you for quite some time on twitter. She told me about Layla a few weeks ago and ever since I find myself praying for her and your whole family many times throughout the day. I check the website often, hoping for a miracle. Thank you so much for sharing your story with the world. I, just as everyone else, have truly been touched. I will continue to pray for Layla and your family. May the Lord bless and keep you today!
Shana and family,
I have been reading your blog for weeks now having linked from MckMama. We live in Beaumont so each night when I crawl into bed and realize how close you are to us I pray on your behalf, asking God to grant his wisdom and mercy to you, your husband, your daughers and sweet little Layla. The blog world has transformed my relationship with Christ in a way I never could have imagined. “Meeting” people who worship the same God I serve and “meeting” them in their time of need. I count it a privledge to “know” you all and to be able to pray for your precious family. May Christ continue to work among you and may Layla’s life continue to have profound impact on those who learn about her and her time here on earth. Blessings from the Keffer Family in Beaumont
I check your blog constantly. It is such a battle each time I click. I take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ and push out the doubtful thoughts of the enemy and pray to see a miracle. I keep thinking that such an incredible stage has been set and the audience (including the likes of Ryan Seacrest and friends) has been drawn to experience a miracle on a grand scale…. I will keep praying for Layla and will also add the focus on the other two girls and you and Ryan. My infant daughter was sick with Whooping couch for the last few months and I saw how quickly my sleep deprived mind became fragile. I can’t imagine how much more you feel. A lot of prayers are coming from the Scott household to the Marsh household. You have an army of believers that is fighting with you and standing in the gap for you. Much love from the Scott family.
Have Just read Your story, You are amazing! In this constant turmoil You are so concerned for the rest of Your family.
As the Mother of six I do not know how I would deal with this.
As with everyone else My prayers will continue daily for You,Layla,Her Dad and Her very special sisters.
God Bless All Of You.
I heard about Layla through facebook and I have been keeping up with her through your blog. My prayers are with your family. Peace be with you all.
Praying for all three of your beautiful daughters. May God bless your family and be with you during this most difficult time.
Hi Marsh Family,
If you have not already checked into Bo’s Place you may want to. It is a bereavement center offering support for the siblings (and the family). http://bosplace.org/ I have helped out with several of their fundraisers and they run a fantastic organization. I also have a friend who lost their daugther to brain cancer and her daughter still goes there.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family.
My heart and prayers are with each of you this Sunday. I am now at a loss for words as I try to comprehend all of this. I only wish there was something we could all do to make this easier…please just know that you are loved by so many.
Prayers from Houston
God bless you and your family. I pray Layla’s suffering will be minimal – what an amazing child you have, and what amazing parents she has.
Shana-
I have been following your sweet daughters story on here, twitter and FB, and I must tell you how much she has touched my heart. I bought some hats to help your family out. I was reading your post today and I saw that you are trying to guard your other children from what Layla is going thru. As a parent that is what you want to always do. I lost my mother when i was 8 years old. My brother and me watched as she fell apart. We were there as she had her last breath. And as hard as it is for a child to watch, it helps in the coping. As painful as it will be for them to watch, it may help your daughters to grasp what is happening.
Bless you and your family and little Miss Layla Grace. What beautiful little girl you have.
Amy
Thank you for the update. I know everyone appreciates your taking the time to let us know what is happening.
Your little one’s life means so much to so many. I know it has changed the way I view every minute with my little guy.
Be thankful for your faith and knowing that this is only for this lifetime. You will see her again, healthy and laughing on the morning when pain and separation is no more for any of us who believe in Jesus Christ.
My prayers and thoughts for you and your so sweet little baby….
We are continually praying for your family. When I wake in the morning I go to my computer and check for updates on Layla. I continue to check during the day and I pray before I go to bed. Thank you for your continual updates. I know, as everyone prays and waits, I am not the only one that anxiously awaits the next word on her condition. You give so much of yourselves. God Bless you!
May God continue to watch over your family during this very difficult time.
Always praying for you family. My kids are even praying for her. They pray to take away her pain and for God to support you and your family. I think of Layla often and then I stop what I’m doing and go hug my kids. I share your story with everyone in hopes that they to will pray. I will continue to pray and check up on little Layla Grace.
My thoughts and prayers have been with you all for several weeks now. I feel as though I know you. I have Layla’s picture as my profile pic as do many people on FB and we are PRAYING!!!!! I hope Layla Grace finds peace soon. Also praying for Claire and Jenna! Atlanta loves you LaylaGrace!
praying for you and your family.
I have been so touched by your little Angel. I heard about her through facebook and have been checking your updates every day since then. My heart aches for her as if she was my own daughter. I am 32 and the first time mother of a 13 month old named Sayla Elise. What got me the most was looking at all of Layla’s pictures from birth and seeing all of the similar photos I have of my daughter. My daughter is also a very healthy eater, and in the 90th percentile. I just want to thank you for allowing people into Layla’s life and giving us all a reality check. I feel my life and faith has been improved because of her. My prayers are with you and your family. Thank you, God, for little Layla Grace. Her time with us may be short, but she will always have a place in my heart.
With much love,
Monica & Sayla
Praying for your babies, and strength for you and your wife. Sweet little Jenna, hope she finds some comfort, She must miss her mommy and daddy horribly. God bless all of you. Still sending tons of prayers your way.
We have been and will continue to pray for your precious girls and your continued strength during this transition. While I have not personally experienced your situation, you exemplify being the most couragous parent I’ve ever “met”. Thank you for sharing your up close and personal moments of the struggle of loosing a child, not everyone could do as you are. Jenna will thank you some day for not exposing her to Layla’s last days. You are doing what any parent would do. Remember, you are not alone. Many blessings over you all.
poor little layla grace she is so pretty!!! im still praying for her love, madison gothard from trenton GA ( 12 years old) i love layla like she is part of my family
I am praying for Jenna & Claire and you and your husband….and for your family as a unit, along with precious Layla Grace.
I saw a movie this weekend, called Letters to God and had your family on my heart as i cried my way through the entire movie. It is a true story based on the life of an 8 yr. old with cancer and the letters (prayers) he wrote to God. I was awed at the strength, courage, dignity, grace and faith of this child…..and how his life was such a “letter” of Christ every day. I have no doubt that Layla Grace is the same way…..and though your journey is a heart-wrenching one……so many lives are being touched.
Many prayers continually coming your way.
I cannot even begin to express how my heart breaks for you every time I read these blogs. Your little daughter has increased my faith and brought me so much closer to God. I could never imagine going through what you are going through, you are one of the strongest people that I have ever had the pleasure of reading about. I will continue praying for you and your family, and thank you for continuously giving updates. I always stop what I’m doing to read your tweets or blogs about Layla and then say a prayer. Thoughts and prayers for you and your little girl….
Natalie Grant – Held
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yk_y9204TBM
May your family and Layla find comfort in God’s loving embrace, as He holds you all tightly in His arms and in His everlasting love.
I continue to pray for a miracle for Layla. I pray God keeps the pain away from her physical body. I pray she is comfortable. I wish I could take away Layla’s pain and the pain you all are going through right now. I pray God calms your fears and pray that Layla will wake and want a drink, want her ice chips, want to be held.
I pray God gives Layla her strength back to keep fighting, I pray God renews and heals Layla. I know my prayers may not be answered in what I am praying for, for God has a plan for each of us, before we were ever born. I selfishly pray these things though, for Layla’s parents, for Layla’s sisters that Layla can continue on Earth to be a miracle of hope, of His love and His mercy and GRACE. I know His will be done.
I would give my life if I could, so Layla could have life with her family for many years to come.
Praying for a miracle and not giving up!
Love to you all, many prayers continuously throughout every day.
Love,
A Child of God, one of Layla’s prayer warriors.
Continued prayers of strength, peace, and comfort for you and your family and special prayers for Jenna and Claire as they are not able to be with you right now. Sending love to sweet little Layla Grace.
I have been following your family for several weeks now. Your strength is awe inspiring. Little Layla Grace has changed my life and my families lives. We are thankful to you for updating the world about neuroblastoma and Layla’s story. I will continue to say my prayers for your family and especially all of your daughters. In this very difficult time in your lives, I will continue to pray for peace. Thank you for renewing my faith in God and for allowing all of us to share in Layla’s story.
I will definitely be praying for your two older girls… I can only imagine what they must be going through… as you said, this is hard enough for a grown adult. What must a child be feeling? It is too cruel that they have to deal with this, but with faith and love, I know that they will get through it. They have such wonderful parents as models of faith and love.
I have been thinking about Layla a lot these days. She has given me so much to think about, and has already changed me… When my own child or nieces or nephews drive me particularly nuts, I look at them differently – I am much more calm, much more patient, much more appreciative for every little moment with them. Layla has touched so many lives in so many ways. She will never, ever be forgotten.
Praying for your girls and for strength…
We are praying for your entire family to be filled with the peace and comfort of Jesus, that Jenna and Claire feel God’s love surround their every thought and emotion and have such an understanding of this situation that they will come out of this journey even stronger than before it began. Layla has such an awesome legacy already- she has inspired so many, brought God to so many, what an amazing little angel. I can’t even imagine touching that many lives in my lifetime as she has in her 2 years. Thank you so much for sharing your journey with all of us, you really are one strong mother and Ryan a strong father. Layla has been blessed to have the two of you taking care of her. God Bless you both! We are Praying!
In Christ’s Love,
C.O.L.E. Prayer Team
http://www.colesfoundation.com
I pray for your little girl Layla Grace everyday. I pray that she is no longer in pain or suffering. I myself am a mother to 4, and learning about what your family is going through has changed me in ways I never thought I would. I am a better mother and find myself praying more everyday. I thank y’all for that especially little miss Layla Grace! May God bless your family at this difficult time! Still praying…
Cynthia
You and your family will always be in my prayers. I can’t even imagine the sorrow and heartache that you are going through. Wish I could give you all a big hug and take your pain away. I will continue to pray for comfort, peace and healing for Layla, Claire, Jenna, and Mom and Dad. I sit by my computer unable to move for fear I’ll miss a tweet about Layla. Thank you so very much for letting me know your beautiful family. Stay strong in your faith. Our Dear God will take care of all of you. Layla Grace will always be My Sweet Angel. Love and Blessings from North Carolina,
Terri & Ella
I have been reading and following on Twitter daily. My heart aches for your family. I pray every night for a miracle for Layla and your family. She is such a strong angel and she is just as lucky to have you as you are lucky to have her.
praying for your family…there is a place in San Antonio called the Children’s Bereavement Center that is especially for kids who have a sick person in their lives and also if they have lost someone close to them.. It is a wonderful place and would be of great help to you and your family. Their website is cbcst.com I think.
I found this site late, but I’m praying for Layla. A part of me prays for her to make a miracle healing, and another prays for her to go peacefully without suffering.
I can’t imagine the strength that you have right now. Layla has been blessed with a wonderful family and I hope you find continued love and strength as the days go on.
((hugs))
no words really…just prayers. your family is on my mind all the time…i pray for Layla to rest peacefully…just wish it wasn’t this way..stay strong…..much love
Ashlea
Brenham, TX
I’ve been praying for your entire family for several months now. I know how difficult this is for your older daughters and how much they must miss being at home. I pray for them and you each and every day and will continue to do so. The Lord bless you and comfort you as you travel this road He has placed before you.
To the Marsh Family,
My heart goes out to you and your family..Your story has sure hit home with me..my brother is a cancer survivor and was diagnosed with Leukemia almost 5 years ago…He underwent treatments for 2 years and from a “sisters” point of view it was so difficult to see him so sick..there are moments I don’t ever want to think about…I think of your daughters and I understand because I have been there..there were so many times I wondered why him? why couldn’t it have been me..but one thing that got me through it was the amount of love I was surrounded by and the many many prayers that were made for our family. They too will get through this. They may not understand it all now, but when your girls are older they will see what an influence Layla was to everyone and why this happened to Layla. My prayer for your daughters is that they will find peace with this difficult time now, and always..and that they will understand the will of the Lord. My brother had an unbelievable strength much like Layla’s that I know if it had been switched there was no way I could handle it…seeing my brothers strength made me realize why his illness was meant for him and not for me. Layla is such a special angel who is bringing all of us together, who is making such a difference to so many lives and it could only have been done by Layla Grace. Her Heavenly Father knows her and knows how special she is..and he would never make her suffer…he is with her every step of the way. Thank you for your updates. Your faith, strength, and love are such an example to me. Thank you Layla..for being one of Heavenly Fathers most special daughters, and for doing this for us so that we may all grow closer to each other and to our Heavenly Father. i love you!
Krystal from Houston, TX
My heart is so sad and heavy following your story.
I honestly can’t imagine being in your shoes.
I so admire your faith.
Praying for peace and comfort for you all.
I am praying for serenity for your entire family.
I cannot imagine the pain you are feeling for all of your daughters, this battle you are fighting is one that no parent or child should have to fight.
I hope that the comments here give you all some comfort in your days of need. Know that we are all thinking of you and wish that we could take away your pain.
Praying for you and thinking of you all daily,
Vicki & Delilah Seren.
Thank you for the reminder to pray for you other girls as well. I know I have been so focused on praying for sweet little Layla that it is easy to forget your other 2 beautiful girls. I will definitely be praying for them as well. I’m not sure if you’ve heard Collin Raye’s song She’s with me, and if you haven’t it is worth the listen. The song makes me think of Layla. That even though the road is hard, you would go through it just to have her. She IS a blessing!!!
There are no words really. I have been praying and crying with every post and picture since I heard about Layla several weeks ago. Just know that in your weakest moments, thousands and thousands of us and lifting each and every one of you up when you just don’t have the strength to do it. Keep holding your precious Layla so that she is never alone. Our tears are your tears when you have to be strong. May God bless all of you and give you the strength and the courage to put one foot in front of other as you finish this journey with Layla and the journey to come. Jenna and Claire will need you more than ever.
I wish it wasn’t to be, but may peace come soon and healing come one minute and one day at a time. Thank you for giving us this precious glimpse into your lives at this darkest hour.
Anna
Texas
I wanted to let you know you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I too have been where you have been. My sister Jennifer was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma 04/01/1981 at Texas Children’s. She is/was the longest living Neuroblastoma survivor on record. I say is/was because Jennifer passed away 4 days before my 30th birthday in 2007 at the age of 28 from a second form of cancer. I buried my daughter when I was just 19 from Congenitive Heart defect that was never picked up at birth. I believe they are in Heaven and that they were both here to teach me things to help others who are going through this same experience to offer an ear or empathy. I remember several times spending my birthdays in the hospitals, looking back, I am glad my parents took me to see my sister every chance we could. Growing up with a sister with cancer forced us to have a distant relationship. I encourage you to allow your daughters to spend time with their sister. This is a cruel lesson life is placing on you and your family. I believe my bonds with my siblings is stronger due to this. In the end, we are glad we got to spend every minute with her, even if she was in the hospital.
I am thinking about your family, especially Layla, almost all day these past few days. I am praying for all of you and trying to send strength your way.
As others have said, I know there are no words I can say to comfort you in this darkest hour. Please take whatever comfort you can from knowing your precious daughter has impacted me in such a profound, lasting way. There is something about looking at her pictures that has connected with me on the deepest level. We are all here on earth for but a moment in time and the most we can hope for is to leave an impact when we are gone. Your amazing 2 year old baby girl has done that, and will continue to do so – an impact that most people could only ever dream of. I just wish it didn’t come at such high a price. I have looked at my 2 daughters (4 years and 16 months) in a renewed light since learing about Layla, I can promise you Layla’s impact will be felt in my heart and in my home for the rest of my life and those of my daughters and hopefully for generations to come. May you find comfort and peace in knowing your daughter has made a difference. Bless you and your entire family.
Shanna and Ryan-thank you for sharing your precious daughter with us. I’m praying for your whole family during this unbelievably difficult time. You all are in my thoughts constantly. Still praying for a miracle.
Since I cant change G-d’s plans and designs, I simply wish I was there to hold your hand, give you hug, complete a gesture that would show you how much a truly care about your precious family. For days, I have been jumping on here- multiple times a day- hoping for an upbeat post- you are never far from my heart of thoughts. I have a daughter the exact same age as Layla and feel and pray so heavily. Whatever
G-d’s will, I pray Layla has no more pain or suffering. I am so very sorry. Thank you for continuing to update everyone in these dark hours. May G-d bless and keep Layla and bless your family.
My heart breaks for the pain you and your family are going though as you watch this life changing event unfold over days and days. I pray daily as I look at my two children one who is almost 3 and one who is 7 months that the blessing for Layla will come true and she will have no more pain and suffering. She is truely a God send and a living Angel here on earth. If her time is ment to be short at least she has touched so many lives and helped people find thier way back to God. Stay strong for your family, we may not be family but we are all here for your family.
Another beautiful post, Shana. I have always been praying for your other daughters, as I cannot imagine what they have been through. I can only imagine the guilt that you feel for their (especially Jenna’s) pain, though, of course, it is no fault of your own. God most definitely spared Jenna’s birthday in February. May he continue to spare her as much suffering as possible.
As you & Ryan have so wonderfully stated, when someone close to you is suffering or has been lost, you want the whole world to stop and take notice. I hope that knowing that thousands upon thousands of people are stopping to pray and to take notice of your family’s suffering will make a difference for you. It is amazing. For all of us whose lives have been touched by childhood cancer, for those who survive and those who don’t, Layla and your family are heros. You are a voice for what so many have felt but haven’t had the platform that God has blessed your family with and you have so willingly taken up. Thank you for taking up the cause in the midst of your suffering! It is so, so beautiful.
xoxo
Natalie
I can’t find the words to tell you how I feel. I can’t imagine what you all are going through. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
you precious precious mommy! God bless you and your sweet family. i am so sorry for how difficult this journey has been. Your dauther has touched our family and I am so encouraged by the strength that you have through God’s grace and provision. Thank you for sharing, each post helps us to understand what you are going thru and ground us in the prcious gift of everyday LIFE!!!
hugs from canada!
From the time I read your blog, approximately 3 weeks ago, Layla and your family have been in the my thoughts and prayers daily. I have grown to love Layla, I can’t explain how or why, when I’ve never even met her. I look at her pictures daily, look for updates on twitter and read her FB page several times a day. Layla has touched my heart and changed my life. I value more time w/ my children, I pray more than I have in a very long time, and all this because of a special, beautiful little girl…Layla Grace. I cannot imagine what your family must be going through. I find myself praying, crying, and even a litte angry, b/c I can’t understand why she, and your family must endure SO much suffering. As your previous blog notes, God will greet her with “Well done my faithful servant.” I only wish and pray she could continue serving God here on earth, with her loving family. My thoughts also turn to Jenna. I have prayed for her, to help her with the grief she is facing. I have two girls, ages 7 and 3. My oldest is a wonderful big sister and cries even her little sister gets hurt. I can’t imagine Jenna having to deal with the illness of her little sister.
I will continue to pray for a miracle. You have so many people that love Layla and your family.
May God bless you and give you strength and peace.
Praying for all of you, all day long. Praying for peace, strength and comfort at a time when no words can really help. You have touched so many lives.
Praying for peace and comfort for all of you today. It is so amazing how this journey of Layla’s has had such an impact on so many people. May God richly bless you for having the strength to share your life with so many. I suspect that you are only seeing the tip of the impact of her sweet life. The rest may have to wait until we are all together on the other shore. What a reunion that will be.
I have no words to take away your pain… just know that I’m praying for you all. My heart is heavy for you. God bless.
Prayers and love being sent from Monterey, CA. You are not alone and have so many praying for you all. Prayers especially for your daughters, that God’s love strengthens them, and gives them peace. May God help beautiful Layla in her suffering, and give you strength and wrap His arms around you all.
Bless your hearts… and the heart of your precious Layla! She’s won my own, and I constantly pray for her and for you as parents. I cannot imagine. But as you said, her story will go on, God will continue to use it to do His work. I will add Jenna and Claire to my prayers. I can’t fathom the heartache and hardness there either. May God strengthen all of you in ways you can’t imagine and use it all for His Glory!
sharon
montgomery, alabama
Mr. and Mrs. Marsh,
I think and pray for you all continuosly. I am Jenna’s reading teacher and I can’t imagine what she is going through. I am trying to be strong for and sensitive. If there is anything I can do, please let me know. I will continue to lift up prayers daily for your whole family.
As a mother, my heart is breaking for you. I think about precious Layla so often. Her life has been such a blessing to so many.
You and your precious little girl are in my thoughts. Wishing you peace and for sweet Layla to be freed from her suffering.
You, your husband, and daughters are in my thoughts from the moment I wake up to the moment I fall asleep. I am sending all my prayers and love to you.
“Though I walk through the valley in the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil; For you are with me; Your rod and Your staff,
they comfort me.”
May god bless you sweet layla, I take comfort in knowing you are in his hands every step of the way.
-Melly and family
I’m a newer follower of Layla’s story, only just reading it a few days ago. But like so many others, I check for updates several times daily. My thoughs are with her and your family all day, as I looking into the eyes of my own Nov 07 baby. I can’t even imagine the pain you all must be feeling.
As I sat in church this morning, my mind wandered to the Marsh Family and especially Layla Grace. Sunday’s are a day set aside to look to our Lord in all things. I lift up Layla and her family to the Lord today for comfort, love, compassion and wisdom for the coming days. Much love to your family.
Your story has truly touched my heart, and also brought me closer to god. Just imagining what you and your family is going through is unbearable, thinking about it beings tears to my eyes. It’s incredibly sad that this is happening to Layla, and prayers are sent not only to her, but the rest of the family to help you through this hard time. Best wishes to you all.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth
It is such a miracle that Layla has touched so many people. What she has done in her life is truly a gift.
Thank you for sharing her story, and for keeping us all updated. I check on your pages frequently, hoping that Layla is painfree and at peace.
You have already created a wonderful legacy for Layla. I will certainly never forget her.
You and your family are in my prayers everyday. I am so sad to think of Layla’s sisters and how they may be feeling.
Like Natalie said above, there are thousands and thousands of people who stop daily, hourly, every minute, to pray for your precious girl. When things like this happen, your life does stop. We are all praying for you, lifting you up with our love.
Beth
I have been praying for your family constantly – day in and out. Often I find myself awake at night thinking of sweet Layla and how her mother and dad are doing. At those times, I again pray for “peace that surpasses all understanding” for you all. Your faith and strength AMAZE me. I have a boy and girl who will be 2 in a few weeks. I cannot imagine having the grace you have all shown. Precious Claire and Jenna will be in my prayers as well. My heart breaks for all that you are having to endure. Please know you family is thought of and prayed for continually. God Bless sweet Layla – praying for her peace.
Praying for your whole family, especially your two older girls. Had no idea how difficult this would be on the oldest. I can imagine how hard it is being separated right now for all of you.
Love to all.
I have never cried so hard about anything. Not just for layla but more for you her parents and her sisters. You and your family are the ones who are suffering. To be able to let go and let God take the lead is very hard when it comes to your child and I cannot even start to understand what you are going through except as a parent I know I feel your pain of what is going on. I wish nothing but strength, faith and a miracle for your family. I truly pray that God sends a miracle, and if he choses the miracle of eternity for that gorgeous baby then I pray he helps all your family through this and for the future…Praying for you all
Wanted to let you know that I have been following your updates for a few weeks now. I wanted to tell you how much you and Layla have touched my life. I am so sorry that you and your family have to go through this. I can’t even imagine how painful this must be.
I think about you guys everyday. I pray for you all and that Layla has peace and is painfree.
I want to THANK YOU for sharing your story. You have brought me closer to my babies and gave me a different outlook on their childhood. Many times I would be frustrated too when I couldn’t get things done around the house due to interruptions. I appreciated your honesty when you said that you felt guilty and wished for those moments back….you’ve made me have an appreciation for those moments now…you’ve certainly touched my life. Thank you…I will continue to pray for all of you. Layla is a beautiful, special angel….
All of your girls are in our prayers. God bless and comfort you all.
My thoughts and prayers are consumed by your family every day. I posted a picture for “layla day” last week, and I can’t even bring myself to change it back because I feel like that’s giving up on her. I want her to get better as much as I would want my own child to get better in the same situation. You and Ryan, with your interviews, your posts, your tweets, you have allowed us all into your family, into what this struggle is like for you, and I will eternally be greatful. For you have let us all learn the lesson that, sadly, many only learn when they’re in your position. You have made so many parents BETTER parents, and so many people more faithful and prayerful. All the outpouring of charity, all these fundraisers, I’ve never seen anything like it, and it’s all for your sweet, sweet Layla. I know most feel just as I do, the money is nothing in comparision to what we wish we could do…heal Layla ourselves. Thank you, Shanna and Ryan, for sharing your story. Prayers for comfort, and of course also for healing, which I won’t stop asking for ever, as always.
Love,
Roie (Suwanee, GA)
I am praying for all of your family. I can’t begin to imagine how hard this must be for all of you. Just remember God is always with you. God Bless!
I am thinking about Layla Grace and your entire family, daily. Prayers for you all, from across the pond.
{{{{{{{Layla and Shanna and Ryan and Jenna and Claire}}}}
We will never stop praying for a miracle, but we know that if it is truly Layla’s time to go, the second she takes her last breath she will be held in the arms of Jesus, with no more suffering, no more pain, no more tears. :*)
There will be great joy for Layla Grace, but great grief and sorrow for all of us who have come to love and pray for this precious child.
Please know that we will be here for Layla’s big sisters, praying for their comfort and understanding and healing when they are missing their baby sister. {{{Hugs}}} And Shanna and Ryan, as a parent of a 9 y/o girl (Maya Grace) and almost 2 y/o twins (Sam & Sarah) my heart goes out in great compassion for you both and we will pray for the Holy Spirit to comfort you throughout all of this.
As I said, still praying for a miracle, in the Precious Name of Jesus Christ.
I just love your family. Checking up on you here and on Twitter several times a day. Praying my heart out. You are far from alone in this.
I have been reading, commenting, tweeting for a short while… and you have touched me so deeply. I wish I could do something for you to match the way you have changed me, my husband, the way we look at our 1-year-old son, my faith. No mother should have to go through what you are going through. You are a wonderful mother. You are so strong for Layla, and you’re doing an amazing job. For what it’s worth… a friend of ours always says that before they are born babies choose their parents… if this is true, Layla chose you for a reason. She knows how much you love her and how strong you are. God chose you for a reason. I have been thinking of her sisters, too, and praying for them. I am praying for all of you, for your different needs. With love and prayers from NY.
Hello,
I have followed your story for only a short time, just after Valentine’s Day. I send up prayers daily for Layla’s comfort and peace, for Jenna and Claire that they may have precious memories of their sister engraved upon their hearts and especially for Jenna as she is at the tender age between not knowing and knowing. I pray that God helps on her on her journey to understanding. And for you, Layla’s parents, I pray that God continues to forge your spirit and the iron will of love, peace, hopefulness and yes-even joy that it is going to take to for you to send Layla home to the arms of her heavenly father. Just as God is preparing Layla for her new and perfect heavenly body, he is preparing each of you to move forward and continue his work, to be amazing parents, and to glorify his name.
Your strength and honesty in sharing the journey is to be commended. I know that I will never hear the term Neuroblastoma again that I do not immediately see Layla’s sweet face. Many times the stories covered in the media regarding childhood cancer are of the survivors. Though I understand the joy and reason for celebration I think, it is just as important to have more people become aware of the heartbreaking devastation of this and other childhood cancers. I am guilty myself of not giving to a cause when God has placed in me the urgency to do so because I had so little to give and did not feel I could make a difference with my gift. Reading your story, following your journey has shown me again how God will take our offerings given in love and multiply them generously, if we will only step out in faith and give what we can. How many more people know about Neuroblastoma now that they have come to know Layla and her family, how many more people are have been moved to give to research a cure for this awful cancer.
My heart breaks for you. I admire you so much. I pray that God wraps your family in his love like a warm blanket and that you each find shelter there. Thank you for sharing your journey and helping others like me strengthen our own faith through your witness.
I watched pancreatic cancer take the life of my mother 4 years ago. She was only 57. We had a short 2 months from the time of diagnosis to when she went to Heaven. My experience does not come close to yours – even though it was the worst thing I have ever gone through. The only thing that I could hold onto was my husband and my then 6 month old daughter. My daughter is 4 1/2 now and I have a 2 year old son. Your sweet Layla Grace and the tragedy your family is enduring has changed my life. I am a better mother because of you. I hope that knowing how many people Layla has touched brings you some comfort. As hard as it must be to put your life into words on a page, thank you. Many prayers….
Prayers are always being said for your sweet angel and family. Please look into Bo’s place for your two little girls, this will help them understand their grief and the tremendous loss that you all are experiencing. Your post are hard to read I can’t imagine how hard they must be to live.
I have been reading this for a couple of weeks now, and my heart absolutely breaks for what Layla and her family is going through. I know it’s hard to keep a smile on your face and stay strong. I only know this from losing a mother. My husband and I have not been blessed with a child just yet, so I only can imagine what you are feeling right now. She is a angel on earth, and she has touched so many including myself. My prayers and thoughts are being sent your way.
Love,
Elizabeth
Lebanon, Tn
I wish there were words to comfort you at this time. I use to think about the things I would wish for if I was granted just one wish, I know after reading your story and following your blog on sweet little Layla Grace I know now I would only ask for her healing. As so many people have already said she has touched so many lives.
I pray God brings you and the family comfort and peace and I ask him to heal Layla.
God Bless You,
Darlyne Robbins Tulsa Oklahoma
The only thing I can say is….we continue to pray for you….Layla Grace and your entire family. We will uphold your girls. Praying a specail presence of the Lord for Jenna.
Praying also for your parents as they minister to your girls!
With love from someone you don’t know but does care, pray and love you all…….
I am keeping you and your family in my thoughts & prayers at all time! She is such a brave little fighter with the most angelic face and eyes I have ever seen. May God guide you and give you the strength & courage through this heart wrenching journey! I know first hand how it feels to lose a child…..something a parent should NEVER have to do. Just remember that God obviously has a plan for Layla even though we don’t like it or understand it. She HAS made a difference to many and I know that she will continue to do so. God Bless you and your family.
I am sorry you and your family are going through this. It’s tough seeing someone you live in pain and it’s just a horrible situation to be in, but I believe you are handling it the best you can and you are doing the best thing you could possibly do which is be there and have God with you. Understanding death and pain Is difficult for everyone especially the fear of the unknown. You can know that this is all part of God’s plan and he loves you and won’t leave you alone during times like these.
I know it’s tough so it’s hard to say any comforting words except that you are doing the best you can, hang in there, be strong, and leave the rest in Gods hands.
I have put your families photo up as the background to my computer, to continually pray for all of you throughout the day.
I have grown to love your entire family, and yet I’ve not met any of you. Layla Grace has touched my heart, your entire journey and story of her life and all that you two and your other two beautiful daughters have had to endure together.
I am praying for Layla, and both of you and her two sisters.
I am giving God praise for the way He has used Layla to unite so many together through His love, through Layla Grace. I thank Him for the many special people He is sending to touch your lives to help with monetary aid, the little clothing stores that have helped, the pizza place, now the bands playing today.
I ask that He watches over everyone going to the ROck for Layla concerts today and that He blesses the singers and bands participating. I wish I were in Texas I would have loved to have gone and ROCKED FOR LAYLA too!
She is so loved, you all are and God is so proud of you all!
I pray that the outpouring of hearts and hands continue to surround your family, continue to aid and help with prayer, with monetary donations, with spreading the word to share Layla’s story and to bring awareness to so many regarding Neuroblastoma.
I love you Layla Grace! I love your family too! Very precious and I continue to pray for a miracle for Layla.
God is great and He can work miracles!
Much love and MANY prayers,
Rebecca ND
I am covering sweet precious Layla in prayer as well as you, her father and sisters!!!! Praying, praying, praying on my knees and shouting out to our heavenly father!!
i heard about layla’s story for the first time today. i cried so much. i can’t even imagine. what really hit home for me was when you expressed regret over wishing that you had more peace and quiet to do your daily chores. i have a one year old and i too have felt like i was counting down til the next nap or bedtime or some peace, but when she woke up from her nap, i held her tight and thought of layla. i wish you and your family continued strength and pray for layla not to be in pain. it kills me to think of her pain
.
I’ve been reading about your family for several weeks now-maybe a month or a little more? Your family has touched our lives in so many ways. I’ve been praying daily for your sweet little Layla Grace, and also for your other girls. Our baby is almost the same age is Layla Grace, and I can’t even begin to imagine what your whole family is going through, what your other girls are going through. You are all regularly in my prayers and the prayers of my kiddos. I still pray for a miracle for Layla Grace, but above that I prayer for God’s will and for His hand to be over all of you, for strength, and for peace.
We do not know you and Layla, but we love you and your family as if you were our own. You all are in our daily thoughts and prayers.
Praying hard for strength and peace and comfort for all of you. You are in my thoughts and in my heart.
I cannot even imagine being a parent of a little one who has to go through this. I can however say that I have been through similar things. I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphositic Leukemia myself when I was 6. I went through 2 1/2 years of treatment and several years of checkups. I want you to see that there is hope. I am now 32 and I have no health problems. I have two healthy children and am happily married. I will have to say that I know for a fact that God had a hand in my past life. He is the ultimate reason why I am still here today and he has plans for your little Layla too. God Bless you all.
I know the lord is waitin for his precious angel to return home to him, In my heart I believe she fights now for her family and isn’t quite ready to go, I can’t imagine how you can cope with knowing at anytime you will lose your angel so i pray ” Lord I ask for you to poor in all the strength this family will need in this battle there facing, I ask for you to help especially the children to have the strength, courage and understanding that there baby sister is an angel that will watch over them forever. I pray for peace to be brought to layla grace. In jesus name Amen! I cant tell you enough how much i pray for you a day, layla is always on my mind and even more so because I have a 2 yr old lil girl myself ! Your strength is inspiring. With all of our love.
I am keeping Jenna & Claire in my thoughts and continuing to hope for Layla. XOXO
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. It’s 22yrs now since I went through the hell of neuroblastoma with my Son Andrew. He’s now 24 and has been left with many problems due to his fight with this cancer. I cannot believe that 22 years later awareness of this cancer ses not to have moved on! Since finding your blog and reading your incredible story I will be doing all I can to make peope aware………awareness means one day a possible cure! My heart goes out to you x x x x
As always the updates are moving and so painful to read. This little angel has touched the hearts of so many people all over the world. Our prayers are for the whole family, to give you all strength. Jenna and Claire must wonder why, why Layla, but they have such wonderful parents who will help them through. You will gain strength from each other, God will not forsake you, the poem “Footprints” comes to mind.
Layla is indeed an angel who will leave her mark on the world.
Cyber hugs to her and all the family.
Welshbunny. U.K.
This is the first I have heard of your story with your little angel. My heart is literally broken for you and your family. I have no idea how to even begin to understand the pain you are going through. I know at this point, there is nothing I can say to offer any kind of help for what you are going through. Your daughter Layla is one of the most beautiful little girls I have seen. I can only imagine how beautiful she will be when she is made into a perfect angel of God. Her story will bless people always. I am so sorry for her and your beautiful family. I am so glad that your relationship with God has strengthened through all of this. I know that must be hard too. I will have your family in my prayers and thoughts.
God bless you, Ryan and all of your girls. We are constantly praying.
God bless,
Michael – Maryland
I heard about your story through friends of mine on Facebook several weeks ago. Since then, I have continually prayed for you and your family. Having three kids of my own, I cannot even begin to imagine what you are going through. You have three absolutely beautiful girls and Layla’s story has been a touching reminder of just how precious children are. Continued prayers for Layla’s peace and comfort. Jenna and Claire have also been in my prayers, and I will continue to pray for strength for them as they face what’s ahead. Love and prayers to all of your family.
I’m so sorry your family is in so much pain. I wanted to let you know that we are praying for Layla and your family during this hard time. We have a little girl who is also 2 years old (will be 3 in May) and it is heartbreaking to think that someone her age is dealing with so much. I learned of your story through a friend and ever since have been praying for you guys and checking for updates. We will continue to pray for Layla and your family!
God Bless,
Amy Merson
Redding, CA
What a true testiment to everyone of all professions of faith. Even though my family and I have not known of Layla’s struggle for very long, it has been in our constant thoughts, hearts and prayers. We have shared Layla’s story as best we can, and continue to pray for strength and comfort for all of you. God must have such a special place in Heaven for His children and when Layla sits in God’s lap, His healing hands will have ended all of her pain and suffering. All of God’s precious children will embrace their soulmate and newest angel. Children truly are a gift from God, and they are our greatest blessings here on Earth. God bless you and your entire family. God’s plan for Layla’s life must be to bring as many people closer to Him as possible, even though this may be too difficult to accept for now. May Layla feel all of the strength and love everyone is sending on her behalf.
Layla’s story breaks my heart! Everyday I look for your tweets or blogs to see how she is doing! I pray that she isn’t suffering and I pray for you and your family to get through this. I am so sorry.. nobody should ever have to watch their 2 year old die like this. :*-(
Praying for all three of your Angels.
In our hearts as well.
Just found your blog a few days ago and just wanted to say that your beautiful little girls and your family are in my prayers. I truly admire your strength and your faith.
I’m soo sorry. I will pray for your other children. You all will get through somehow
Been praying for sweet Layla for a few weeks. I feel so deeply for you, Layla, your daughters, rest of your family. I have gone through my own hell on earth and can relate to an extent. Still kind of in it-I have seen though how close I have grown to God in this. Praying for your daughters comfort, your strength and comfort, and for sweet Layla to not have to suffer and feel all this love including the Lord’s.
Praying for you night and day.
Sweet Layla Grace is in my thoughts so much. Wishing you all love and strength.
A very real and touching post, Shanna. Thank you for sharing your heart with us. Continued prayers for peace and comfort for the entire family. Desperately looking to help in some small way through our fundraiser for your sweet Layla.
In God’s Hands,
Jen
Your bravery is remarkable. It is heartbreaking to read of Layla’s struggle and the effect is it having on you all. I wish her peace, sweet peace with no more pain. For you…. I only wish I knew what would help.
I cannot imagine. I have no words, but I will pray as you have asked. You are all very loved.
We will NEVER lose hope for precious Layla! God has her in the palm of his hand! We keep praying for strength and healing. Miracles DO happen. ALWAYS THINKING OF LAYLA!
The Bolt Family
Such a brave family your all my heart xxxx
You continue to amaze me day after day.. I find myself thinking of you everyday from the time I get up to the time I go to bed…. I will continue to pray for peace and comfort and still holding out for a miracle!
I was just wanting to know if yall have checked out St. Jude yet? I am from Memphis, Tn and I think about Layla several times a day. I can’t bare to think of this being the end. She’s such a beautiful 2 year old little girl!! It breaks my heart. I am praying for Layla and your entire family. I believe in miracles 100%!!! Love yall!!!
Have been following Layla’s story for a few weeks now. I find myself praying for your family several times a day. I will be sure to say an extra prayer for Jenna & Claire.
A very raw and touching post, Shanna. Thank you for sharing your heart with us. Continued prayers for peace and comfort for all. Desperately hoping to help in some meaningful way through our fundraiser for your sweet Layla!
In God’s Hands,
Jen
Praying for you Layla. I think of you all day and pray. I don’t understand but I know that the Lord has said that His ways are not out ways. I know he uses the weak and lowly for His glory. Your work here has been grand. Your incredible struggle has changed hearts. I pray for His grace and mercy to be upon you, your sisters and parents as they walk beside you. God bless you!
While I cannot imagine what you are going through, I do know that God is at work. Your little Layla has reached so many people across the world and brought them closer to Jesus. Not to mention that she brought you guys closer to Jesus too! I am so sorry for the pain your family is having to endure, for Layla physically and for the rest of you emotionally. You are right though, she is your little angel here on earth.
Once Layla goes to rest in the arms of Our Heavenly Father, her message will not stop there! Her life does have purpose! Just in three years she has reached out to so many. She has been through in those three years what some people never have to endure in their entire life. She truly is a warrior, and a light of God.
I will keep you and your family in my prayers. I know that you are trying to be strong for Layla right now, and I understand that. I will lift both of you, and all three of your girls up in prayer, as each of you needs his strength in different ways right now. Peace be with you and know that you are covered in prayer!
Thank you for sharing your journey with us. I am still believing for Layla’s miracle and pray for y’all to all have peace and comfort during this time. Layla is such an angel.
A very raw and touching post, Shanna. Thank you for sharing your heart with us. Continued prayers for peace and comfort for all. Also praying for supernatural understanding and discernment at an age appropriate level for the girls. Desperately hoping to help in some meaningful way through our fundraiser for your sweet Layla!
In God’s Hands,
Jen
I pray that Layla Grace & your family find the peace you have been seeking.
I pray for peace for your family, having my mother die of cancer i understand how slow and horrible a process it is for you all to go through. I will pray for your 2 older daughters, i know that i was young when my mom died and talking to someone REALLY helped me deal with it and move on. You are all amazing people. Please kiss sweet Layla for me. I wish i could do more….
Dear Lord please be with this family,give them the strength they need to get through this ordeal.Your courage is amazing, I cannot imagine what you’re going through.What a beautiful child and a beautiful soul!
The next time I see my three nieces I know it will be through different eyes and that I’ll hug them tighter.
Youre Faith is inspiring. I was brought up in church and love my Jesus, but I think if I were in your shoes, I would be shaking my fits at him asking him WHY!!!! I think I would be so mad, which I’m sure you are or have at least been through that phase, but I don’t know if I could hold on to my Faith like you have! My BFF and I were talking about Layla and the two of you and how you are able to keep your Faith in Jesus all this time. You are very strong and I am in awe of you! I pray that God will continue to be with you through all of this!!
My heart aches for your family and for Layla. I’m so sorry that God is taking her from you so soon, but you have to remember that this is all happening for a reason. Stay strong and know that my prayers are with your family and with baby Layla. God bless.
You are all in my thoughts daily. My heart is filled with Layla. I think of her and cry for her everyday, wishing her a peaceful journey…
A warm hug to you and all your wonderful daughters.
Eleni
Athens, Greece.
Continued prayers for you and your sweet angel.
Praying for all of you, but most especially your two older girls. I lost my brother when I was 3.
I just want you guys to know I’m thinking about you all, all the time. I’m checking twitter constantly. And I’m praying tons for you all. I pray every night for the Lord to call sweet Layla home. *gentle hugs*
I pray for Layla and your family everyday, I follow your blog and twitter. I feel like layla is my little sister and she has changed my life forever
Dear Lord please be with this family as they face this ordeal. Your strength is awe inspiring, I cannot imagine what you’re going through,what a beautiful child and a beautiful soul. I know the next time I see my three nieces it will be with changed eyes and I will hug them a little longer.
I cannot begin to express how much your little girl has changed my heart and is strengthening my walk with God. When I first saw this site I wasn’t prepared for the impact it was going to make on me. I truly love her! She is daily talked about and prayed about in my family. My husband and I pray for her and my 4 year old does too in his nightly prayers. I find myself waking in the middle of the night to ‘check’ on her. She has truly been sent here straight from Heaven. I believe that with all my heart. I take each moment of mine and each breath of mine with a different perspective now. I am a 4th grade teacher and it has even changed my approach there as well. I thank God for Layla. She came in my life when I needed it the most! I hope to make half the difference that she has and have that quiet strength, grace, and courage as her.
And of course her faith and your faith. We have been praying you and your husband and will now pray for your other daughters by name. God bless you and your family. You all will be in our prayers…always.
Since I learned bout Layla I’ve been following your story on twitter and on the web. I admire your strength and faith. I pray for you and your family. May God continue to give you the strenght to continue being strong for your girls and to guide you. You are doing an amazing job I truly admire you and the love that holds you together.
I wanted to send your family a message to let you know that ever since I found out about your daughter through a friend on Facebook, I have prayed for Layla every day. It’s amazing to see how much strength and courage she has. I will continue to pray for Layla, for you both and her siblings. I am a mother of 3 children ages 8, 5 and 3 and my heart aches for you all. It’s very hard to accept God’s decisions sometimes, but there is always a reason for everything. It appears that Layla has touched many lives in just a short amount of time and I continue to pray for a miracle as well. All my love and prayers to your entire family – Heather
My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this awful time. I pray for you all throughout every night when I am up with my own children, and I pray for you throughout the day whenever I see a twitter update.
There are no words to express my sorrow and empathy for you and your family. You and your husband’s bravery and steadfast faith throughout this journey has been an inspiration and an example to tens of thousands. I will continue to pray, through my tears for Layla, you and your husband and especially the girls. As one comment said, is it too late to try a holistic physician? Maybe God will work a miracle through that avenue. Anything at this point, Lord. I won’t give up hoping ……. …… I have followed your journey since October, and I want to thank you for allowing all of us to share in your lives, no matter how painful. We all cherish each day a lot more now, because of Layla and your family. May God continue to be with you all.
What an amazing family you are! Thank you for sharing Layla and raising awareness on this horrible illness. Layla is truly an angel sent from heaven for a short while. I will continue praying for comfort and peace in the Lord for all of you…and extra prayers for Jenna and Claire. Much love from Ohio…
Every day I follow you on twitter to see how the little angel is doing. As a mother to be for the very first time, I see the strength in both of you as parents and I can only hope I can be as loving and strong for my unborn child. My niece was diagnosed right before her 2nd birthday with stage 4 astrocytoma and after two brain surgeries, radiation and chemo she was one of the lucky few to overcome the odds. She is six years old now and thriving and every time I see her, I am reminded of those who aren’t as lucky. Regardless, we never would have been able to make it through without the prayers and we truely believe our angels protected Abby and guided her through these many obstacles. Every night before she goes to sleep she says her prayers and always asks God to protect those children who have the “sickies” and we all pray for you and your family every night. Thank you for all your hard work in vocalizing pediatric cancers. Layla’s mission on earth was to reach as many people as she could and spread the word, and she’s doing just that!!
praying for you all.
My thoughts are with you, may the Lord wrap his loving arms around you all and comfort you.
Em
from Australia
God bless you all as you go through this most difficult time.
God bless and watch over that beautiful baby as she makes her way into Gods loving arms.
Never has a story touched so many people as hers has.
May she enter into heaven with a smile on her face knowing that she is taking a little bit of all of us with her.
My prayers and thoughts are with you all, constantly. You are my first thought upon waking and my last thought upon going to sleep. I will, and have been, praying for your older daughters throughout this. This is a terrible thing for children to have to experience. It’s hard for a child to grasp the death of a beloved pet, much less a sibling.
I have never had a strong faith. I’ve tried and tried, but it’s so hard for me. I am awed and amazed at the faith and strength you are showing and it is helping me get there, too. I’ve tried and tried and tried to come up with an explanation for why God would allow this level of suffering in a child – it’s bad enough in an adult. But a child who has not even hardly begun life yet – it’s unfathomable. The only comfort I’ve been able to find in this situation – which is every parent’s worst nightmare – is this: Darling little Layla is too young to understand death, even know what death is, and is therefore not afraid of it. She only knows she “doesn’t feel good.” She is an innocent and is therefore guaranteed a place in Heaven – she has never had an opportunity to do anything to compromise that position. And, mainly, she has done nothing but bring the people, me included, who have followed her journey closer to God and their families. She has taught us to cherish each day with our children – despite the headaches, the noise, the messes, the undone chores, the stress, etc. Each day is precious and not guaranteed. I hold my children a little tighter, a little longer and a little more often. I tell my husband how much I appreciate all he does for us, what a great father he is – and Daddy, too. And I pray more, harder and longer – for you, for us and for increased faith that God, in His infinite wisdom, knows His plan for us and for your precious little girl, Layla.
I will continue to pray for Jenna and Claire. I will pray for healing and understanding for them. For peace and acceptance. And I will pray that they each will go on to do great things and that this will never be an obstacle or roadblock to happiness for them.
God Bless you all. My heart aches. I don’t want to say good-bye to Layla, so I can’t even imagine the despair and desperation you must be feeling. I will cry your tears for you – they are flowing freely as I write this. I will pray that you will continue to be able to maintain strength for Layla as long as you and she need you to. Precious Little Angel, Layla.
After reading about your asking for prayer for your other 2 daughters, I feel compelled to tell you about an organization that was started to help grieving children. You may have already heard about it, it is called The Cooper Foundation. Two of my good friends from the Cy-Fair area helped start this wonderful organization after losing a family member. It might be something you want to look into later down the road for your girls.
http://www.thecooperfoundation.org/
Praying for peace and comfort for your whole family during this difficult time. May the Lord put his arms around you and you feel the love that so many of us wish upon your family!
Praying daily for you and all your girls for God’s grace to give you strength and peace.
Just like many many others, little Layla Grace has graced my heart and the heart of my family. We pray for her daily, at dinner time, at goodnight prayer time, while washing dishes, folding laundry, anytime during the day we think about her we pray. We pray for peace for your family, strenth for Layla, we pray for a miracle. Your family has brought our family closer to God, closer to eachother, and more in love with eachother. I wish there was more that I could do, I wish I could find the cure, bring it to you and your daughter is all better. Unfortunately, I can’t. It hurts to hear of such pain and saddness, I couldn’t imagine going through it myself…but I want you to know I cry with you, I truely “feel” with your words, you are an inspiration. I know you are strong, I know you don’t feel like it, but please know there are many people who are here for you. Much love to your family from ours. Thank you for sharing. My 7 year old asks everyday “have you checked on Layla today”…and I tell her how she is doing…then we pray. Tonight at bedtime, we will also pray feverishly for Jenna…and her understanding and coping with this. Let Jenna know how much your whole family means to so many please.
I pray for Layla’s passing, may she go peacefully and with no more suffering for her and your family.
From the hearts of the weak from the shouts of the strong from the lips of all people this song we raise Lord. Throughout the endless ages you will be crowned with praises Lord most high be magnified.
be magnified oh Lord in the heart and extreme strength of Layla Grace. Be magnified in the power of prayer and the power of her family. Be magnified in the waves of knowledge and awareness that this little girl’s brave battle is going to bring to your people. Lord most high be magnified.
Oh honey! All of your daughters have been in our prayers and will continue to pray repeatedly for them. Lots and lots and lots of love being sent your way. Sweet, sweet baby Layla…allow God to lead you over little one.
Dear sweet Layla,
You are such a beautiful little princess and such a fighter. I know you are tired. Everything here will be fine. Your parents and sisters love you so much and they know you love them too. You can rest now…we will see you again soon.
Mom and Dad,
Keep holding on to God, to each other and to the love of Layla. Your hearts are broken and will endure more pain, but you both have such faith, such strength, such love that you WILL make it through this. You are being prayed for by so many. I spread the word as much as I can and will continue to do so.
Sisters,
Layla loves you!!! Remember the fun times and the love shared. She will be all better in heaven and you will be together again on day.
We are praying here in S. Caroina and will not stop!!
Love in Christ,
Lynn R.
My heart aches for you. I am so, so sorry that your family is experiencing this pain.
I have no words, only hot, heavy tears and prayers to offer you.
I pray for your strength and if it is His will, that Layla passes peacefully.
We are still praying with you.
Like so many (my goodness what a testiment to Layla that so many have been completly moved by her story) I have been praying for Layla and all of you. I too think about her and all of you many times during the day and lift a prayer for all of you.
One image that comforts me is the idea of Layla going from your arms to the arms of Jesus and he presents God’s precious daughter to him. I imagine Layla running into his arms and more love and peace that anyone can ever imagine.
This idea and image makes me want to be a better mother, daughter, friend and believer. I too want Jesus to present me to my Father.
This is Layla’s legacy and her gift to all of us.
Cancer won’t win because Jesus conqured death and all things associated with it.
JESUS wins!
God Bless and keep you all!
Amber
I have been praying for the whole family every morning and think of you many times a day. I have a 2 year old and can’t even imagine what you are going thru. Layla is for sure an angel!
I pray for peace and comfort for Layla and her family. A special prayer and hug for Jenna. Losing a sister is like losing a part of your self. God speed, Layla!
I have to tell you how BIG my smile was when I saw that I couldn’t log onto Layla’s page because too many other people were on! AMEN!!!! You are touching the entire world with your story, your hope, and your faith. Today, I am not just praying for Layla, but for Claire and Jenna too. God will see them through this also, and will provide you the wisdom, the words, and the love you will need to help them carry on.
I pray that God ends her suffering, and yours. That He wrap his arms around her and bring her home, out of the pain and the sadness. Lord, please be with Jenna and Claire, please give their grandma and grandpa the words they need to comfort them, help them know that YOU, Almighty God, are there for them. Help them know that this is Your will, God. Give them comfort and peace. In Jesus’ precious name I pray, Amen.
Still praying for you, in Oregon….
I am amazed at your faith and at little Layla’s strength. Wishing a neverending supply of both for you.
I am praying for you all.
I am praying so so SO hard for Layla and your family. I hope and pray more than anything that some miracle will happen and you will all be happy for the rest of your lives. I couldnt even BEGIN to imagine the pain you are all feeling, and confusion. She has changed lives, daily, little Layla has. She gives a new meaning to life and living. She is literally an angel on Earth. God loves her so MUCH and your family, and He will continue to bless you no matter what happens in the future. My prayers and my wishes and my dreams go out to you guys. You are so strong.
I think about you guys everyday and wish I could take away the pain, the sadness. I hate cancer, I am a cancer survivor, dx’ed first time when I was pregnant with my youngest who will be 8 tomorrow. 4 times later I am still dealing with it, and think it’s just an evil monster. You and your family are amazing, just know that tons of people are looking out for you guys. I wish you all the best…
Shanna and Ryan,
I am constantly in awe of your strangth and composure. I can’t imagine myself in your shoes. No need to cry now, I do that 3-4 times a day for you. There will be plenty of time for you to grieve when Layla is at peace. I pray that God continues to show you guys the way, that when this over your other two girls find themselves to be better more faithful individual and lastly, that he does not continue to let sweet Layla suffer.
Love and prayers,
The Thomas Family
On my knees praying for all of you. Asking God to give you the kind of peace, comfort, strength, and love that only He can give. Sending so much love to you!
I SURE HOPE SHE PULLS THROUGH SHE IS IN MY PRAYERS.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all, but I’ve had Jenna in my forethoughts since I’ve heard your story. I was about her age when I lost my brother to brain cancer – he was a year and 6 days old. It sounds like you have amazing people surrounding her to get her through this time and you have provided her with several outlets to help her to express herself. As the older sister, I carried a lot of guilt on my shoulders. I tried to rationalize a way that it should have been me. It’s just one of the many steps of grieving. I will continue to pray for everyone in your family – as always, a prayer for comfort, peace, and strength that passes all understanding. Your daughters have an amazing group to support them and they are being lifted up and encouraged – you’re an amazing family. God Bless.
Your little Layla’s strength an your faith are inspirational. I’m praying. God bless
Praying for Layla every day and every night.
Also praying for you, your husband and your two older girls.
Your faith in God is amazing and I am inspired by all of you!
With lots of love for Layla,
Tammy
(in Singapore)
Just learned of your story and wanted to let you know I’ve been praying and will continue to pray that God would be so very close to all of you…so close that you can feel His breath of peace as it whispers through your hair. Blessings to each of you, and especially to Precious Layla as she prepares to meet Jesus.
Nothing seems fitting to say.
I am compelled though, to leave my note to let you know prayers are coming your way from California.
I hope good memories from her little life will always warm your heart.
With love and strength,
The Stevens Family.
Your family is in our prayers at all times. Sweet Layla Grace is on my mind at all times. Everyone I talk to has heard about your struggles. We will continue to pray for Layla, Jenna, Claire and your entire family. We are praying for strength as well as for the pain to go away.
You are in my thoughts and prayers always,
Brittany from La Porte, TX
Holding you all near and dear to my heart and sending love and strength your way. Layla Grace has touched my life in a way I will never be able to express but I am squeezing my girls a little tighter and loving a little harder. {{{HUGS}}}
I just heard your story, and I am deeply saddened by it. However, like you have said God is using Layla Grace’s story to do great things. I will be praying for your family.
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.
I have been through the very thing you are going through. It is so hard to watch your child go so slowly from here to there. My thoughts and prayers will be with you all as you continue this journey.
I know, it’s not my place to say this, however, I’m going to anyway-you can take it in any manner you wish, and believe me, I’m not trying to tell you what to do; just speaking from experience.
When my son passed he was just barely 8 years old. My daughter was barely 9. We were not given much notice that he was going to pass. We brought him home where he could be surrounded by those who love him. We kept our daughter home from school for the last two weeks of his life. Yes, it was tough for her to watch him deteriorate, but we believe it would have been tougher for her to accept his passing if she hadn’t seen it for herself. Yes, it was hard; yes, she had a lot of adjusting to do afterwards. Now, just over three years later, she remembers his passing but she remembers his life much more and she retells her happy memories about him all the time!
May peace be with you….
My heart goes out to you and your family every second of every day. Reading your blog Shanna I just want to come and give you a hug and tell you that you are such a good mom for your little Angel at this time and I can’t even imagine the pain that you are feeling but from your blog it is evident that the pain at time is deeper than we can imagine. Keep asking God for his guidance and help because he loves you deeply. My prayers are also for your other daughters to help them with their pain. Your little sweet Angel Layla will be comforted with God holding her and giving her peace and joy that we can only imagine. I tell everyone I know about sweet Layla Grace and her family and ask them to also pray for comfort and peace for all of you. Thank you for sharing with us all over the world and believe me….we are all touched deeply and wish we could take it all away. My thoughts and prayers are with you all and I will keep special prayers for your other little girls also.
man this is sad….ill pray for her…yea it must be hard for the 9 yr old…i waz young when 1 of my brothers died at birth…its sad to think about it
Dear Marsh Family –
Your amazing daughter through all her suffering, and yours has changed the lives of so many. I am in awe as I read everyones comments on fb, twitter, and your blog of what she has done in her short life. I know I look at my children in a different light, I don’t let my patience run out with my 22 month old, I talk to God constantly, pray for all of you constantly and don’t think a moment passes that I don’t think of you all. You all are amazing angels that have been sent here to change all of us. You are all an inspiration. I will continue to pray for Layla, Jenna and Claire and for you and Ryan and hope that you will all find peace.
You and your family are amazing. Precious little Layla is a beautiful little girl, and I hope that she can be at peace. She is such an amazing little angel, and you and your husband are people I admire. For your strength, love, and faith. I wish only peace for your family and sweet baby Layla. You are in our prayers and hearts.
God continue to be with you. Your sweet family is in my thoughts.
I HAVE BEEN PRAYING FOR SWEET LAYLA AND YOUR FAMILY FOR A FEW WEEKS ASKING GOD TO BLESS YOUR FAMILY AND GIVE YOU PEACE AND STRENGTH I GET UP AND LOOK FOR YOUR TWEETS AND SEE HOW LAYLA AND YOUR FAMILY IS DOING AND THREW OUT THE DAY ANY HOW IM ALWAYS PRAYING FOR YOU GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY AND YOU SWEET LITTLE ANGEL LAYLA
I have and will continue to pray for your sweet baby Layla! May God bless you all and give you each the strength you need! My prayers will keep going up for Layla and your family.
I want you to know that I think of your entire family throughout my day. I have a 2 yr old, 3 yr old and an 11 yr old. I just can’t fathom what you are going through. I think of Layla when I look at my own 2 yr old. I think of Claire looking at my 3 yr old. And I think of Jenna when I look at my 11 yr old daughter. I also want you to know that you have helped me to appreciate my life. I will not take my blessings for granted another day. You and your husband are such an inspiration to everyone. You will never understand the lives that have been touched by your family. God Bless You!
Layla is showing her strength day in and out! I am amazed that you guys, her parents, are also as strong as well. You are all in my prayers and seeing Layla’s status is the yearning of my day. Lots of hugs and prayers coming your way!
still praying with you and for you and your family. <3 hugs & prayers
I cannot imagine what you guys have gone and are going through. I continue to keep you guys in my thoughts and I pray that this ends a peacefully as possible for your sweet princess.
HEY SHANNA AND RYAN..I’M LOST FOR WORDS AS I AM SURE LOTS OF PEOPLE ARE..I HAVE BEEN PRAYING FOR LAYLA GRACE’S MIRACLE FOR WEEKS NOW…I WANT SO BAD FOR YA’LL…FOR HER TO LIVE FOREVER!!! I’M STILL GOING TO HOLD ON TO HOPE AND PRAYERS THAT GOD WILL STILL PERFORM THAT MIRACLE WE ALL ARE WANTING..BUT I ALSO WILL PRAY FOR WHAT YOU ASKED..FOR YOUR OTHER TWO CHILDREN..ESPECIALLY JENNA..IT’S GOT TO BE SOOO HARD FOR YOU TWO TO BE AWAY FROM THEM AT THE SAME TIME WITH DEALING WITH WHAT YOU ARE GOING THRU WITH LAYLA GRACE…TODAY AT CHURCH, ONE OF OUR MEMBERS WHO HAS BECOME A REVEREND, PREACHED TODAY ON GOD BRINGING YOU OUT OF THE ASHES YOU ARE IN…HOW WHEN YOU ARE AT YOUR LOWEST LOW IN LIFE..HE IS STILL THERE..STILL STRONG..STILL HURTING FOR YOU AND WANTING YOU TO ALWAYS TRUST IN HIM THAT HE WILL BRING YOU OUT OF YOUR LOWEST LOW AND BRING YOU BACK TO WHERE YOU CAN BE HAPPY AGAIN AND FEEL HIS BLESSINGS..IT WAS TRULY A POWERFUL SERMON MAINLY BECAUSE I THOUGHT OF YOU TWO THE WHOLE TIME…I AM SURE EVEN THOUGH I DON’T KNOW YOU PERSONALLY, THIS IS YOUR LOWEST LOW…GOD IS THERE THOUGH THRU THE LOWEST TIMES..HE WILL HOLD YOU IN HIS ARMS AND WRAP HIS LOVE AROUND YOU AND BRING YOU BACK TO THE TOP AGAIN…I AM SOOOOO GLAD THAT LAYLA HAS HELPED DEEPEN YOUR FAITH..KNOW THAT SOOO MANY PEOPLE LOVE YA’LL ARE ARE PRAYING FOR YOUR FAMILY..ALL OF YOU…LOVE FROM NC…STEPHANIE
I recently began following Layla’s journey and it has touched me in so many ways. We have a 23 month old little girl and have been saying nightly prayers for your family and for Layla. What a beautiful gift you have been given, although her time on Earth is too short, she is truly an angel who has touched many hearts all over the world. May the love and memories carry you through the difficult days ahead. Layla, you are so loved and have blessed each of us who have gotten to “know” you. May God Bless you sweetie.
I am sorry that this journey with Layla is causing so much pain for Janna. I can’t imagine how difficult it is to hold your child as she dies and to be seperated from the other two children who also need to be held. This is truely a test of faith. I have spent many hours on my knees praying for you and yours and hoping that healing comes quickly. I am grateful to have found Layla’s story even if it has been a painful one.
I to dont know what to really say. But wanted to say something. I have been following the story for about a couple of days or lil longer. I check for updates like every 15 minutes. She has really touched me. N I look into my childrens eyes n I cant even imagine what your going through. My friend did die from Leukemia at age 16 n I was by her side all the way so I understand the pain n hurt n all those feelings just couldnt imagine that feelings as if it was your own child. My thoughts n prayers go out to all the family n close friends of Layla. That is such a beautiful name..
Sending Prayers N Thoughts From KC!!
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Marsh and family,
I am deeply touched by Layla Grace and her courage and strength, and also your own. I wish you love, peace and courage. Please hug Layla Grace for me and be sure to tell her how many hearts she has touched. When I engage with my own family I try to practice more patience and love. I can’t even imagine what you are going through, although I did lose my mom last year. It was a terrible loss, but I have my dad now to help through this. I know my mom would have wanted that.
May God bless your family and keep you safe.
Sincerely,
Doreen Colonello
Toronto, Canada
Sending lots of prayers and love your way!
You and your family have traveled in my heart everyday for the last month. I especially have been praying for grandma.
She is doing a wonderful thing comforting her grand girls but her heart has to be torn. I am a nana. I can only imagine.
If faith is all you have, hang on. Thank you for sharing Layla’s Story and let gramdma know, she has a prayers being sent up for her. Bless you all.
I am praying everyday for Layla and your family. Reading your tweets and bolg has changed my life. Layla has changed me for the better and I’ve never evne met her. I wish the best for yor family. \
Alison
My prayers will not stop for your sweet baby Layla and your entire family.
Have been praying about Layla Grace and your family since I heard your story. There are no words that I have that can express how deeply I feel for your family, but know that I will be praying for you, your husband, and your beautiful children until the end of my own days. I’ll pray for all of your happiness, and your healing.
I pray every night that Layla will be peaceful, and wish I could take some of her pain away. I know most of us would if we could. We love you and your family, even though we don’t know you personally. And please know we will always be in your life, like guardian angels, sending you prayers and happy thoughts. I hope that it can find its way through the pain, and give you comfort.
We’re here with you.. praying for Layla non-stop.
my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God will wrap his arms around your entire family in comfort and stregnth………….i am a mother of 2 girls and i can not imagine your pain. Layla and your family are true inspirations for me. The stregnth you have is amazing!!! My prayers are with you all.
Lifting y’all up from waco. Layla you are so loved!
I think about Little Layle and your beautiful family everyday! I’ve been following you on twitter for the past week and a half and in that short amount of time Layla has taught me to be a better person! She’s taught me to cherish my every minute and to be patient. I pray for your family and that God will continue to be with you and keep you. :]
I think about Little Layla and your beautiful family everyday! I’ve been following you on twitter for the past week and a half and in that short amount of time Layla has taught me to be a better person! She’s taught me to cherish my every minute and to be patient. I pray for your family and that God will continue to be with you and keep you. :]
Your story is a one with patience, faith and love. It is truly a eye opener. With God all things are possible. I just pray that God’s healing hand would be upon your family and those all around you. I can not even imagine the aches and pains that you all must be going through. I have a grand daughter about the same age as Layla and I can’t imagine life on earth without her. We know with prayer all things are possible and I am praying for God’s healing of this child of his and the rest of your family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Continuously praying for sweet Layla & your family.
I’ve been following your blog for a few weeks now. My heart really goes out to you and your family. Sending love, prayers and hugs for each of you.
I just wanted to let you know how much my family and I care about Layla. I pray for her every night and I feel that she’s a part of my family now. Hugs from Alabama! God bless…
I don’t know you guys~but I love you guys!! I love layla!!!! My youngest son who is 2, loves looking a Layla’s pictures!!! He loves pointing out her hats!!!
I don’t know what to say~ I’m happy that you and Ryan have been able to spend this last 2 weeks with Layla, but so sad that she had suffered so much.. You are right about Layla touching so many people!!! I love the video of her in the dark and you are trying to get her to sleep~ her voice and the way she says No, sounds similar to my son~ and when she says “come in” it is the greatest!!!!
Always in my thoughts and prayers!!!! I admire your courage and bravery!!! Stay strong and enjoy her!! I’m still praying for a Miracle!!!
I’m not sure what to say as I am sure you have heard it all by now. Your whole family has become such an inspiration for so many people around the world. Layla Grace is a gift from God……he has given her to us all for so many reasons. This is her temporary home. If everyone following Layla Grace were ask to share what they have learned from her….each of us would have a different story to share about how she has touched our life. ……Because only something as precious as a child…could bring the world together…We love you Layla Grace……..and we are waiting for his miracle
Those llyrics is all i can think about when reading about LaylaGrace, this song is for her and I’m sending you all my prayers.
( Fly ) by Celine Dion
Fly, fly little wing
Fly beyond imagining
The softest cloud, the whitest dove
Upon the wind of heaven’s love
Past the planets and the stars
Leave this lonely world of ours
Escape the sorrow and the pain
And fly again
Fly, fly precious one
Your endless journey has begun
Take your gentle happiness
Far too beautiful for this
Cross over to the other shore
There is peace forevermore
But hold this mem’ry bittersweet
Until we meet
Fly, fly do not fear
Don’t waste a breath, don’t shed a tear
Your heart is pure, your soul is free
Be on your way, don’t wait for me
Above the universe you’ll climb
On beyond the hands of time
The moon will rise, the sun will set
But I won’t forget
Fly, fly little wing
Fly where only angels sing
Fly away, the time is right
Go now, find the light
I have thought often of your two other girls and how they must be coping. God bless them and I will certainly pray for them. I know they love their little sister and even Claire must sense something is terribly wrong. Your family is in my thoughts often and my prayers always…tried to tweet to you yesterday that we have been listening to Eric Clapton’s “Layla” and thinking how the part that says “You’ve got me on my knees” is so perfect…Layla has SO MANY people on their knees, praying for her. I don’t think I’ll ever hear that song again without thinking of precious Layla Grace. God be with you all and know of our prayers from Alabama!!
Leigh
You all are such an amazing family. I’m so proud of you for hanging onto you faith, it can be so easy to be angry with God at a time like this, and yet you are steadfast in your love for him. I know you may never get all these comments read, but if you read this please know that we are praying for you and loving your family so very much. We have a two year old family member also with the name Layla Grace, we all love our children with every fiber of our beings, it’s hard to wrap our minds around the fact that God loves them even more. Layla is truely an angel on earth and we are praying for her peace and comfort as well as the rest of the family. The bible says “blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted.
God bless you all, Love, The Massee Family
I have been thinking and praying for your family all weekend long. You have all taken up my whole heart this weekend, quite seriously. Love love love and most of all strength to you all. xo from CT, Amanda
I have Layla and all of you in my heart and mind on a daily basis. Layla is the first thing i check on when i log on to my computer. I pray that you have peace & comforting. I pray that your daughters find a way to comfort themselves w the path of the little sister. I will continue to pray for Layla and for you & family. Our thoughts and prayers, our energy from our family to yours.
I just heard about Layla on Friday night and have had her in my constant thoughts ever since. I pray for strength and peace for you all
My heart breaks for you. To watch your little girl go through this must feel impossible, yet you carry on… minute but minute, day by day. She is lucky to have you. And you are lucky to have her. We all are. Your words will forever leave a lasting impression on me. I will hug my 22 mo. old daughter tighter tonight and continue to think of your family everyday. I wish Layla comfort and sweet dreams. She is the meaning of life. I empathise deaply with your daughters as I lost my 23 yr old little sister a few years ago. I hope they will be strong and surprise you as I surprised myself. The pain doesn’t go away, instead we rise inside to beat it and turn it into strength. Layla’s story will continue to be told forever. We will never ever EVER forget her.
Take care of each other. You are an amazing family.
What more can be said? Your tweets and blogs have made me appreciate my 4 boys even more, just so sad and sorry that it took a poorly angel to realise it. Thoughts, hopes and wishes from Devon UK
I am praying for Layla and your family, especially your 2 eldest daughters during this time. I have been a lurker for some time but wanted to come forth and let you know that I am thinking of you and all that you are going thru.
May the grace of god look over all of you.
~Julie B in Wisconsin
I have been following your story and wanted to let you know that I have had your family and Layla in my prayers. You have really been on my heart. Thank you for helping me not to take any moments with my children for granted. When I start to feel overwhelmed or even angry, your story comes to mind and I remind myself that we never really know what tomorrow brings. I will be hugging my kids for just a moment longer, reading one more story at bedtime…May God bless and keep you all. While I in no way truly understand what you are going through, I know well God’s grace and how many lives can be touched through his servants. Layla is a true angel and I know that when she sits in Heaven with Jesus, she will find joy everlasting and peace beyond what this world can bring her. Keep your faith and know that you have touched the hearts of many.
Praying for Layla and your whole famiily. God Bless you all.
I pray for you everyday and always check your twitter page.
I am a senior in high school and we pray for your family everyday in my theology class.
I hope God grants your peace and you know God has a reason for everything.
Your family is a true inspiration.
We continue to Pray for you ALL daily. I just dont know how you manage to hold it together. Im glad you still are able to spend time with her and hold her but i also hope she wont linger in pain for much more. She is a fighter for sure as she amazes me everyday she hangs on. You will never know what a HUGE impact Layla has made in my life. I will NEVER forget this sweet little Angel and all that she has been through. It breaks my heart that something like this can happen to anyone let alone a child. Layla you little sweetie , let go of this awful fight and go be with God where you will be eternally healed…..you have left us here with work to be done to spread the word about this terrible disease and we will make you proud!
Lots of love ,
Jennifer W
Oh sweet Layla, your strength and grace amaze me. Praying for you, your mom, your dad, your sisters, and your whole family. You are a blessing to us all.
Your families story has captured that hearts of thousands in this world. As we all watch in horror, we admire your strength. We pray for a child none of us have ever met and cry for a family that is facing the worst possible thing that a human can imagine. But from this incredibally horrific story has come a compassion that I would have never imagined. People from every walk of life, all over the globe, reading this story and being drawn in. Some admit they have not prayed in years! What a powerful message and maybe this is the miracle. Little Layla Grace has opened the minds and hearts of many a parent around the world and have made them stop and really think about how blessed they are to have healthy children. It has made many a parent realize how insignificant, little things are and that they should just give an extra hugs. Last week my little Granddaughter decided to make Nana some wine by stomping grapes all over the laminate flooring. Papa got angry and started to get a little loud. I looked at him and said, “I bet Layla’s parents would love to see her get up and stomp on some grapes”. Now get out of the way and let her finish making her Nana’s wine!
I made this video and posted it to my site to share your story with others. I hope you enjoy it. I made it from the heart. My love and prayers to all, MOM, DAD, Grandparents, Sisters and especially our little Angel, Layla Grace.
Pam Mathis
I am praying for you and your family! I hate cancer I have watched it destroy so many people. and I rebuke this in Jesus Name. Lord I pray you give them peace and grace. Lord never the less we say not our will but your will be done. We ask it your mighty name the name of Jesus. Amen
I’m glad that scripture meant something to you ! I thought it was a perfect example of God’s witness in her. I lost my brother to Cystic Fibrosis at 16, I wasn’t prepared or did I understand fully then. I was mad, frustrated and just overwhelmed. But realized, I knew he was hurting and not feeling well. I was able to get some joy that God wanted him to play in heaven without pain. I will certainly pray for Layla’s big sisters, that they will find peace and understanding, maybe not now but in time. They are very blessed to have a wonderful support group to walk them thru this. I hope someday that our paths run across each other. Thought it was awesome that layla warriors crashed the KRBE website !! that is a WOW! Lord, thank you for Layla’s witness to us all and that she has much yet to do, if not in flesh but eternal witness.
Because you are making her eternal body to perfection. Amen.
cyber hug and kisses to you all.
Teresa
Thinking of your family and your sweet baby girl. My heart breaks for what you all must be going through. Lots of thoughts for peace and understanding for all of you.
Mary Ann
Praying for all of you!
Jennifer in Arkansas
I honestly don’t know I can add much that has not been said except We think of Layla often and pray for he serenity and peace in time for the rest of the family. I look forward to the updates and read them with tears in my eyes, which is not common for a 40 year old police officer……God be with you all!
Your hole family is in my prayers, Layla story has change the way i live my life. When my son ask me for something i get it right away no matter how busy i am. I coulnt imagin what your family is going through but GOD IS GOOD and DOES THINGS FOR MANY RESONS! I AM HONORED TO HAVE SEEN LITTLE LAYLA’S STORY, SHE IS A BLESSING TO YALL, ME AND OTHER PPL! THANK YOU GOD FOR LITTLE LAYLA♥
STAY STRONG………
My heart truly hurts for your entire family… I can’t even begin to imagine how you feel at all… I’m constantly praying for Layla and the family and constantly checking twitter and Facebook for updates on Layla. She is in my prayers and your family will continue to stay in my prayers.
Praying for you and little Layla in Louisiana.
Praying for you and your family. My heart goes out to each and everyone of you for what you are having to go through. Layla and your family have touched so many lives. Your story has brought me closer to my children and remind me to be patient with them a little more. Thank you for sharing your families story and raising awareness. Hugs!!
Little Miss Layla Grace, I pray for you and your family daily. I am a nursing student and I work in Tulsa, Ok. Some of the nurses and I have been following your story for quite sometime now. You have such an amazing spirit. We all affectionately call you our little baby. After reading your story, I have decided to become a pediatric oncology nurse. Keep up the good fight. You are one amazing little girl. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
God bless Layla and your beautiful family. I think of you daily and pray for you. Layla has brought thousands of people together. I’m a mom and my heart breaks for you.
With love
Kristine in Massachusetts
Although I don’t know your family, my heart is so heavy for you and all that Layla is going through. I just wanted to tell you that in church this morning we sang a song and the chorus is “Oh how He loves us” and it repeats several times. In my heart I was singing Oh how he loves Layla and clinging to the truth that He does love her so much. My husband and I pray for Layla each night and we will continue to do so. Love to you all.
Your story has touched our family deeply. Precious Layla keeps me thinking everyday about how precious life is. Your family will carry on her legacy and live out your lives for her. She will be forever young. Bless you all from Colorado.
Jenni, Josh, Sophie, Jack and Lucy
Layla darling you have the whole world praying for you, I smiled when I couldn’t get onto your website, you are speaking to the world and the world is listening may god bless you and keep you free from pain and when the inevitable happens just know that you will go straight to heaven where you will play with the rest of the angles.
Ryan and Shanna You are both such an inspiration to me and I’m sure to others, your faith is solid, I know you must have your moments, you were chosen to bring Layla into this world, you have a beautiful, beautiful child, god will give you the strength when you really need it, he’s giving you strength now but he will see you through, we are all here, all praying and although I can’t begin to know what pain you must be going through just know that the whole world is praying for you.
Jenna and Claire Please heavenly father wrap your arms around these two little girls give them the strength and comfort they need at this time.
To family and friends of the Marsh’s may god give you all the strength to help Shanna, Ryan Jenna and Claire
x
I have no words….
Sweet Layla Grace and your family has been on my mind and in my thoughts and prayers for 2 weeks now. I will pray God’s comfort for all of you, especially Layla’s two big sisters. Your story has forever touched my life and I will continuously lift you all up in prayer.
Everyone who has read Layla’s story is so blessed to have been able to share this journey with your family. You are teaching us all a thing or two about love, life and our children. We all take so many things for granted and the moments you share with all of us are amazing, wonderful and so real and true. Hang in there as a family and keep up your hard work for so many causes.
I just read your story today….we baptized my 4mth old niece today…seems unfair. I am not sure if you will ever get a chance to read all these posts but if you do…if for some rare chance you read this…I hope you know that I think you are AMAZING AMAZING parents and your two other daughters will no doubt find their way through all of this pain and become greater people because of it….and that, Mom and Dad, will be because of your amazing ability to parent and love beyond measure. Layla has fought this battle bravely because you both have wrapped your sheild of love and protection around her. God has blessed you so deeply..so so so very deeply! In the coming days I hope and pray that you find the strength to read this and know that if God gave you the strength, grace, love and insight to walk this road with your daughter he will will doubly bless you as you continue to raise your family….you are an inspiration to all the Christians in the world….you have shown me the way to see joy in the pain….GOD BLESS YOU FOREVER AND EVER!
Your family and sweet Layla Grace have been on my mind and heart nearly nonstop since i heard about you all. I pray for your peace, for Layla’s peace… for no more suffering. I am heartbroken for you all. Your daughter has touched more lives than you will ever know… precious Layla will live on forever, in the HUGE awareness she has brought to NB! I pray the Lord calls her home soon, so that her suffering can end and your healing can begin!
God Bless You All!
Your daughter has captured my heart and I continue to check in on her daily.
Dear Layla, Shanna, Ryan, Jenna & Claire,
My thoughts, prayers and heart are with all of you as well as your family and friends. My heart breaks every day and I literally cry thinking of how strong lil miss Layla is and how she so much wants to stay here as I can tell by how long she is sticking through all of it. Her pictures prove the baby girl she is… full of life. She still has life left here. I have written y’all and said how your baby girl has a piece of my heart that I know my own 3 kids (16 yrs, 3 yrs and 16 mos) are willing to share with her and y’all. I get my son Riley (3 next month) to repeat after a prayer to God regarding Layla at least once per day. He saw the pics of her a few minutes ago and called out “Sister” because my lil miss wears hats like Layla. It made me smile yet tears flow even harder.
I am going out on a limb here to say that I have to agree with the post “please read! God Bless!” I do not know this person or who it is at all… however this seems to be what I emailed about the other day. It may sound harsh but what could it hurt to try. Layla would be off the meds that are making things worse on her. I have never had such strong medication but my brother (who has Lupus), has…and lost of it. He started the alternative meds and his doctor has said that he is now cured of Lupus. I know that may sound crazy but I have seen it with my own eyes. What if your precious baby girl was given her life back??? Wouldn’t that be amazing? I say that it might be harsh but the doctors have already told y’all what was happening with Layla. Could it be the answer? You will never know until you check into it…to me, it is worth a try. I do understand if you do not but if I were in your situation, I would have to try it only because I watched my 41 year old brother where he was unable to get out of bed some days… and morphine does incapacitate and not allow people to function. I know she is in pain and that is supposed to be helping her but I can’t imagine how she feels.
My family and friends pray for Layla and your family. I know I pray at least 3 times per day… there have been days where it has been up to 6-7 times. She has captured my heart as well as many others around the WORLD.
Please keep your strength up as you all are an inspiration because of that.
Love, hugs, & PRAYERS,
Vanessa
Thank you for sharing your story and Layla’s life.
((hugs)), love, and prayers for Layla, the 2 kids(your family)
COLE Prayer Team
I am praying for you and your family. I am so sorry for the pain you are feeling. I admire little Layla for her courage and strength and you for your amazing spirit and faith. How do you do it? I am amazed by you. I am sending all my love and much love from my family to yours, always. May God be with you forever.
Prayers being offered up from the Abilene, Texas area for each of you. As a parent, I can’t imagine the emotional roller coaster each of you are on right now. Wanting your child to be healthy and whole is something each of us want. Wanting your child not to suffer is another thing we all share. I pray for each of you to have the peace you so deserve, the grace to handle the end with strength, and the love you all so deserve!
I have been following Layla’s story for about a month now. I just want you all to know how touched I am. I pray throughout the day for Layla’s peace and your family’s comfort. May God bless you all!
~Nicole
From one mother to another…my heart goes out to you and your family and I think about you all constantly… I don’t know what else to say, I wish there was more I could do… Please know that being exposed to your story has brought me closer to my precious toddler, Harrison. May peace be with you…
I’m so sorry. You’re baby is beautiful, she is such an angel. Me and my family are praying for you.
I’ve been following your story for a couple weeks. I learned about Layla on “Layla Grace Day” through a lot of my church friends on Facebook. Then I heard about it on Ryan Seacrest, through the Twitter, and finally was SO happy to hear you guys on Roula and Ryan. I listen to them all the time, and am SO happy they were able to help you raise awareness in that way. I admire your faithfulness so much as I read your blogs and tweets. I check both several times a day for updates. My fiance and I both have you in our prayers. Thank you for keeping us updated.
You are an amazing family.
Layla Grace has been in my thoughts ever since I read your blog and heard about your story. She is a true angel. She has inspired me. I think about her all the time. I look forward to your Twitter updates. I am a mom of a 3 1/2 year old little boy and 2 year old little girl. I see my daughter in your daughter. Her love of flowers and pretty clothes and Hello Kitty. Her big blue eyes. I pray for your strength and may God continue to bless you and your daughters. I know there are many other Moms like me out here praying and hoping that Layla finds peace very soon. Please know that Layla has already touched so many of our lives and that will continue on.
Romans 8 : 38-39
38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to aseparate us from the blove of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
————————————————
Our family is praying for your family.
As I cry tears for you and your family I am amazed at the precious gift your family has given the world! I pray for all of you and want you all to know that I’m thinking of you daily! Layla Grace is so precious and God will guide you all through this journey! God Bless!
Love you!
Amy
We are still praying as well. I told God today that I would gladly take some of Layla’s suffering so she could experience peace in her last days on earth.
I pray for your other two girls as well. May their pain be lessened by the knowledge that their sister will always be watching over them from Heaven.
Layla Grace, the gift from God, is in my prayers along with mommy, daddy, Jenna and Claire. You have touched my heart. The lyrics posted above to Celine Dion’s Fly have always been special to me. I find comfort in it. I wish I had enough faith to not question the whys of all this for one so young. Layla, sweet little one, you are strong and I pray you find peace and an army of angels in the light.
Marsh family~
Reading your posts over the last several months has done something to me, to my family, that I honestly can say we have never experienced before. Faith….we individually, I believe have had faith but the faith that has been instilled in our hearts from your sweet angel Layla is a different kind. It is the right kind. My daughters are three and 8 months. We live here in Cypress, in Longwood, and each day as we drive the area to and from school, to work, and home….I think of Layla and your family. I wake up in the middle of the night thinking about her, I can’t go to sleep for thinking about her, and we pray each night for her peace and comfort in her last days. My husband and I have cried over her and I believe have become closer to each other and God because of your angel Layla. What amazing things she has done in her short time here. We remarked tonight how tough she has been and how hard she has fought…..my thoughts…..she still has work to do here on earth. She has another family’s life to touch, another prayer that needs to be said, and another heart brought closer to God. Thank you….thank you for sharing YOUR angel with all of us here in Cypress, and all over the world. It is a better place because of her.
Love,
Kelly, Justin, Kylie and Jordyn Mock
Each day I think of each member of your family, especially sweet Layla. My heart breaks for your family yet your strength is amazing. I will continue to pray for each of you.
i know that all people tent to say is sorry because its hard to know what else to say but we mean it Texas Children’s Hospital is amazing with great doctors and sweet nurses i know this because my sister was there for a year before she was transferred back to el paso and as the oldest sister i know what you daughter is going through for i thought my sister wasnt going to make it she would loose hope she no longer felt like fighting for they never knew what she had apart from the water in her lungs they just said it was like the bird flu but as a mother im not sure if i would have been as strong as i was if it was my son instead of my sister i pray for your family everyday and night for your daughters for you and your husband for no pain for layla and peace to your hearts for i know they must be aching now more than ever
my email is hyppe101@hotmail.com if you wish to know how we got through this and how my sister survived
my heart breaks for you and your family. I could not imagine the heartache you must be feeling. I have been following your blog for a few weeks and have been praying that your family find peace through your faith. I pray that Layla will be at peace and suffer no more .
Layla’s story has touched so many lives and has brought so many of us closer to GOD. Her life and her suffering has not been in vain. When our father in heaven takes her in his arms her suffering will be no more. My prayers will continue to be with you and your family each day.
I have no words of wisdom, nor can I ease your emotional turmoil, but what I have is a stronger faith and constant prayers for your entire family. Layla Grace has become my Angel of renewed faith. Her photos were the vehicle for her to etch herself into my heart. I pray for all of you. I still hope and pray for a miracle because the world is suffering this tragety along side of your family.
Heartfelt prayers to all of you.
Debbie – (Ohio)
Dear Marsh family,
Like so many others, I have been following your story. In the days, weeks and years to come, my prayer will be that you know how dearly Layla is loved, not only by thousands of strangers and her family & friends, but most dearly by Jesus. When I think of your baby running, playing and giggling whole and healed, I smile and think of the day that you get to see her like that again in heaven. Your sweet Layla has tugged at my heartstrings, thank you for sharing her with us.
Praying for Layla as if she were my own. I feel lucky to have found her and read her story. She has TRULY changed my life. She is and always will be in my and my family’s heart! We love you sweet Layla Grace!
I just can not imagine how terrible this road had been. God bless sweet Layla. She is hanging on so hard. She and your family are doing such a great job in raising awareness for Neuroblastoma and childhood cancer. I am so thankful.
I am praying for your precious family and that God would give you all comfort and peace as you await Layla’s date with Glory.
“So we’re not giving up. How could we! Even though on the outside it often looks like things are falling apart on us, on the inside, where God is making new life, not a day goes by without his unfolding grace.” 2 Corinthians 4:16
Love ya!!
C.O.L.E.’s Foundation
(Caring Openly, Loving Eternally)
http://www.colesfoundation.com
Email: sandy@colesfoundation.com
24/7 Prayer Line 888-365-COLE (2653)
Sandy Daron
My daughter in law sent me an email a couple weeks ago that simply said Layla Grace needs your prayers. I went to Layla’s website and read your story, and have followed it ever since. I get up in the middle of the night and come to my computer and check to see haow you all are doing. I pray for your entire family all through the day and night. I hope you know how much each of you have changed lives. I know this as you have definitely changed mine. God Bless you all!
xoxoxo
I have faith in god and praying for a miracle for this little angel.
Sweet Layla,
You are such an inspiration to me. I have been following your story for about 3 weeks now and I check the blog several times a day to see how you are doing. I cry every time I read the updates and look at your pictures. You are such a precious and beautiful little girl. I am praying for you. You are an ANGEL!
Mom and Dad,
Thank you so much for your updates. I just can’t imagine what you are going through. You are such an inspiration to me also. I pray that God will wrap his loving arms around you and that He will give you the strength that you need to care for one of his Angels!
Love & Prayers,
Carole L
Alabama
Thank you for your post today. I’m one of so many that want so much to offer peace and strength and comfort for your family. I appreciate the time you take to tell us what’s is happening and hope you can find some small comfort knowing there is love pouring your way. With each kiss you give Layla you are kissing her for all of us.
Jill, Steve, Brooke, Carter, Krista and Baby
(our youngest is also 2, her nickname is Baby)
Layla’s story and this website have gone out to everyone I could send it to…. you all are in very much in our thoughts and prayers. We are not promised we’ll understand everything in this life;
But I know that your testimony and willingness to clutch and grab on to God in spite of this awful time are transforming lives that only Layla’s story could possibly accomplish. It may be that you won’t understand until you leave this world….and then have dozens, perhaps hundreds of people come up to you and say, “I’m here because of Layla……Layla’s story brought me to the feet of Jesus”
As far as the suffering goes, the one thing I offer to you is to remember is that even Almighty God Himself suffered the loss of the One Who was most precious to Him…..He watched His Son endure the most unjust, inhumane treatment….He was completely separated from His only Child at His most desperate, needful moment. So He does understand pain, He understands watching the one most precious to you endure agony, and even death…..but ultimately, just as He did with the precious Lord Jesus, so He will do with little Layla: He absolutely will work it for a good. The suffering of the righteous is never trivial or wasted to Him or unnoticed by Him.
“I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken….” – Psalm 37:25 May the abundant grace of the Lord Jesus Christ Himself richly fill you all!
We are praying for you!!!
In Christ,
Chris and family
I found out about sweet Layla a couple of weeks ago. I’ve checked up on you daily ever since. I’m praying for Layla and your sweet family, especially your other two daugthers. May your faith continue to be strengthened and may God’s peace surround and fill you. God bless.
Please know that your angel Layla is in my thoughts and prayers as well as the rest of your family. I check this site several times a day. Please know that your 2 other angels, Jenna and Claire are in my prayers as well.
I’ve been praying for your family and for peace and no pain for sweet little Layla since I’ve been following your blog. My heart goes out to your family and the tears flow every time that I read your words. I know that y’all have said that you aren’t strong, but you are really are – far stronger than you think you are. I commend y’all for keeping positive around Layla, as I know that make such a huge difference for her. I will continue to pray for your family and for little Layla. May y’all find peace and comfort during this difficult time. *hugs*
Praying for all of you!!! I think of your family all the time. There are no words that can take away the weight you feel at this time. May God send you a miracle and may He help you all find comfort and peace.
Layla is truely an Angel, she has touched so many of us without even trying! God bless you Sweet Layla, Jenna, Claire, Shanna, and Ryan! May God watch over all of you and stay close in your time of need.
Lots of love & prayers!
Danielle
I am so inspired by everyone and think of Layla everyday. She has truely changed who I am and how I act on a daily basis. I know that lots of kids and people go through cancer and sickness everyday but for some reason Layla has touched my heart so much, I feel like she is apart of my family. My faith is stronger because of you. Everyone of you are in my prayers. Thank you for taking the time to tell us about your journey.
Every tweet about Layla brings more prayers your way. I pray that God’s Grace will surround you now and everyday.
Love & Prayers,
Liv
Still praying with you and still hoping & praying for Layla’s miracle!! Keep cherishing every minute with her!
P.S. Teagan said “Hi” to Layla.
Shawndell & Teagan (Illinois)
I am crying and praying to Jesus for you all right now. I cannot imagine what you are going through. I have a 15 month old son and reading about Layla makes me cry for you because I know how it feels when you love your child. I am so sorry Layla is suffering. I’m still praying for a miracle. But, God’s will will be done and either way he is still good even though it is so hard for us on Earth. I will pray that Layla will not have pain while she is still here on this Earth. I’ll be praying for strength for you and your husband and for peace for your daughters.
In Christ’s love,
Heather
Your precious family is on my mind constantly. From the moment I wake up until I go to sleep at night, I stay in a constant line of communication with God for Layla, for you and your husband, for your children and for your other family members. As a mother of a 17 month old, I simply cannot imagine what you are going through right now. It brings me to my knees and makes me sob. I sob for Layla, and I sob for the grief that you and your husband are put through on a daily basis.
I can’t tell you how much precious Layla’s story has touched me – has touched the world. I will continue to lift your family up in my prayers.
Dearest Marsh Family
Praying for Layla Grace, you are in my thoughts daily.
Susie K …. in North Carolina
My dearest Layla…beautiful angel….you have touched my life and my heart.
I pray ongoing for your peace….to lift this pain your little body does not understand or deserve.
I pray for your Mommy….ALOT…
I pray for your Daddy….ALOT…
I pray for your beautiful sisters…as I know they are struggling for understanding….
God bless this family….sending you my strength….
I have been following your story, and cry with you! I can’t imagine your pain and suffering. This morning in church it was an amazing service, there was a mass baptism, and about 50 babies, young children, men and women chose to be baptized and washed by the blood of Jesus!! It was an awesome sight, I cried and prayed. I thought of your sweet family, and prayed especially for your older daughters today. There was one family in particular, they have a son that has cerbel palsy, and have had many struggles in life. Today, as I witnessed the mom, the dad and the son be baptized, I realized that their difficult journey is not with out the most amazing reward!! This sweet little boy has brought them to a loving church family and so much closer to God. It has strengthened their relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ beyond belief. You will always ask “WHY?” and though you may never get a true answer, you know it is for a true purpose!! God’s plan is devine, and bigger than any one of us!! Many blessings and prayers!!
In Christ,
Tanya
My prayers are with you and yours. My words can not exspress my sorrow for you. I pray that God takes Layla’s pain away and gives you and your family the strength to make it through this time and to carry on. As a mother of 3 I can not fathom having to watch one of my babies go through something of this magnitude. I have been holding them close and counting my blessings since I started reading about little Layla. I have had more patience and understanding. I have not been rushing bedtime. I think more of what we can do together, rather than when I will get alone time.
I am grateful that my eyes have been opened to how precious and unset llife is. I am ashamed that it has taken your daughter’s story to make me realize how much I should cherish every moment rather than rushing through it.
Layla, you are a amazing little girl and even though it doesn’t seem like it you are Blessed and you have been a blessing in many ways for people all over the world as you have fought your battle…
Hugs and much Love from my family to yours.
M.
Texas
Thinking of your precious family.
Your family has been on my heart and in my prayers since I heard of your battle many weeks ago, now. My heart breaks for you that you must all live through this, watching your darling baby struggle. Just know that there are more people out there than you know, all of us sharing a small piece of your burden, and carrying it to the Lord in prayer. I especially pray for a peace that passes all understanding, and that you will feel God as He holds you all through this time. There are miracles happening from this- Layla will be loved and remembered always. We all want to put into words our thoughts and feelings, but there aren’t enough words. I will especially send up prayers for comfort for little Jenna.
I pray daily, I think of Layla Grace constantly and I think of your entire family. I will say a prayer for your other children. I cannot begin to imagine what this would be like. Layla has touched the lives of so many. No parent should ever have to go through this. In our prayers constantly. From New York we are thinking of you.
I’ve only been following your story for a short time now, but I wanted you to know that you’re all in my prayers. May God continue to hold you close through this journey. With love,
I am so sorry for what you, your family and Layla is going through. I don’t understand it and I can’t even begin to imagine it.
I will pray for you all.
Much love from Australia.
I’ve kept up with your updates and have been praying and hoping for a miracle. Like others, Layla has touched my heart and changed my life. I pray for continued strength and peace to you, Ryan, and your girls.
God bless you all, We love you Layla,
the Thompsons
I can’t begin to tell you the profound effect your daughter has had on my life, even though I have never met her. I have 2 young children of my own and can’t imagine what you are going through. Stay Strong! God loves children and will take care of her. I constantly pray for Layla and she is constantly in my thoughts. The first thing that I do in the morning is check to see how she is doing on Twitter and its the last thing I do before going to bed.
Take peace in knowing that you daughter has accomplished more in her short life than many will. I know that personally, she has made me a much better mother and my husband a much better father and for that, I am eternally grateful. I will continue to pray for your other girls and for the rest of the family. Take comfort in knowing you are not going through this alone…..the whole world is crying with you.
Dena in NC.
Thinking of you and your family daily. Layla reminds me to soak up every moment with the people I love. Thank you for sharing your experiences and for allowing Layla to be a messenger of God’s love and the gift that life is. Know that Layla will live on in each of us who will carry her story and have been changed by it.
With love for your family,
Susan
My heart breaks for your family and your sweet girls…and for Layla. Praying tonight for comfort and peace for Layla’s body and heart..praying for you adn your husband as you suffer through this with your precious daughter. And praying for Layla’s sisters…praying, praying, praying…
I am crying reasding your words. Praying for your family…I can’t begin to imagine what you are going through. Praying for your girls as well. You have a gorgeous family. Praying for strength.
I pray for your whole family every night, as well as for others families going through the same thing. Before this blog I was an atheist. Layla changed my entire life. I feel as if I know her through your words, and the first thing I check when I get out of school is twitter to see if anything has changed.
Thank God she was born, and may God give her peace.
Praying for you all during this very difficult time. Your faith has inspired me so much. I pray that you all find strength, rest, comfort and peace in the arms of the Loving Father. I have the kids in my Children’s Ministry praying for you all as well. What an awesome legacy little Layla is making during these short few years. She is so beautiful and my heart just breaks that she has to face this horrible disease. I am praying for that miracle!!!!
Here is a song that is my prayer to you all.Sidewalk Prophets – The Words I Would Say
From the album These Simple Truths
Three in the morning, and I’m still awake
So I picked up a pen and a page
And I started writing just what I’d say
If we were face to face
I’d tell you just what you mean to me
Tell you these simple truths
Chorus
Be strong in the Lord
And never give up hope
You’re gonna do great things
I already know God’s got His hand on You
So don’t live life in fear
Forgive and forget
But don’t forget why you’re here
Take your time and pray
These are the words I would say
Last time we spoke you said you were hurting
And I felt your pain in my heart
I want to tell you that I keep on praying
Love will find you where you are
I know ’cause I’ve already been there
So please hear these simple truths
Chorus
Say from one simple life to another
I will say come find peace in the Father
Be strong in the Lord
And never give up hope
You’re gonna do great things I already know
God’s got His hand on You
So don’t live life in fear
Forgive and forget
But don’t forget why you’re here
Take your time and pray
And thank God for each day
His love will find a way
These are the words I would say
Praying SO hard for sweet Layla Grace and all of the amazing Marsh family. I most of all pray for comfort and no pain for Layla and peace for all of you. I have so much love for all of you and I hope you take comfort in how many lives have been changed because of your sweet angel Layla.
Praying for Layla and your beautiful family.
You are an inspiration.
xoxo
Still praying for you family from MN. I pray that you all find the strength to somehow get through this horrible nightmare that you are in. I pray that your daughters will always have sweet memories of their baby sister.
I pray that Layla passes peacefully and that she will watch over her mommy and daddy who love her so very much.
STAY STRONG!
I am praying for your whole family. My Uncle passed away last year from cancer. It was incredibly hard to see him wither away during those last few weeks. I simply cannot imagine having to see a child go through this. My heart truly goes out to you and your family. Layla is on my mind often, and I try to check the site for updates at least once a day (if not more). I pray for peace for everyone. God Bless.
I have been following Layla’s story for weeks now. Not only her strength, but your strength and the rest of the family’s strength really inspire me to be a better person and live life to the fullest. I honestly can’t tell you how many tears I have shed and how much my heart is breaking in seeing Layla’s struggle. Today’s homily at church was really relevant to this story- I learned that God is most with us in our times of struggle. I lit a candle for little Layla after Mass, and I honestly believe that miracles happen. Whether the miracle means that maybe, some way, Layla can be saved, it is also a miracle what how this small girl’s story has affected so many people and what it is doing for the neuroblastoma society. Thank you so much for making me a better person and God bless!
Today at church our pastor had an anointing line. He prayed over all the elders and ministers and had them form a pass through. Everyone in the congregation passed through and was touched by each anointed person and prayed over. It was powerful. My heart was heavy for Layla. I just wanted to cry, really. I didn’t want the anointing, I didn’t want to sing, I just wanted to pray for Layla. I asked the Lord to give me an opportunity to stand up for her ( in the place of her) and receive prayer. When the pastor started this, I said Lord, I bring layla with me. Give her the anointing. Grant her peace, healing and no suffering. I walked through the line holding Layla. The Lord is with Her, rest assured. Thank you for sharing Layla’s story. For being such a strong person. My heart breaks, but I know that Layla will be with Jesus. She will be held in His everlasting arms.
I continue to pray for baby Layla and your entire family. You are all forever in my heart.
I’ve been following you, your family, and little Layla Grace for weeks now and I pray for you all daily!
I am praying for your entire family, especially your other 2 little girls. May God bless you all.
What comfort me is knowing that God is with her in every breath she takes and knowing that she have the best parents (I’m so proud of you guys)and that she is being loved every second of her life !
.
May God be with you guys always…..
I’ll be praying and please please keep us posted !!
Love Tamara
I pray today for your family. I pray that Layla will experience a pain-free moment and ask to be held before she passes. So you both can snuggle her tight once more before she takes her journey home.
Layla is truly amazing! Angel on earth about to get her wings and fly home…. XOXO
I cry every time I read an update about Layla. I check twitter every morning when I wake up and every night before I go to bed. And several times throughout the day! I am telling everyone I know about sweet Layla and my 3yr old prays for her and the other children and babies with neuroblastoma every night before bed. I’m trying to teach my 21 month old to do it but all he does is put his hands together and say ‘Amen’ which is good enough for me!
I can’t begin to imagine what you’re going through. Layla and Gage are about the same age and every time I look at him, I want to cry because I think about what it would be like if we were in your situation. I don’t know how you keep it together but just know that you are doing God’s work. You have opened so many peoples eyes to neuroblastoma, I had never heard of it until I came across Laylas story. You have brought me and so many other people closer to God and their families. Praying for Layla’s comfort and peace as well as comfort and peace for your entire family. ~hugs~
I have been following your story for several weeks now and I just wanted to let you know that your family is in my prayers. May God give you strength and comfort in this time of need.
In His Name,
Gina
Alabama
I don’t know, I have this feeling that she’s going to pull through this. She is a fighter, that little one. Every time you tweet that she’s taking a turn for the worst she surprises you and makes a turn for the better. I just feel like God is at work here, and she really will make it through. Keep the faith. Love to u all.
I’ve been following your family’s story for about a month now. My little girl (who’s three) and I pray for Layla and her family every night before bed. As a mother I can’t even imagine what you are going through. You have been blessed with such a sweet angel and your daughter’s story has brought me closer to my daughter and to God. We will continue to pray for peace and for a miracle from God.
And looking at them Jesus said to them, “With people this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
-Matthew 19:26
Jennifer
God bless you all…my days are full of prayer for all of you. I lost my beautiful daughter to cancer in 2008. Your faith and strength and grace is a blessing to all. No words – just prayer and thank you for allowing me the priviledge to be on this journey with you.
As I read thru your blogs and tweets I am in awe with how much strength you have. I am sure I could never be that strong. You sharing this with the world not only sends love, prayer but gives so many more people the need to fight for more cancer research. Layla has opened peoples hearts around the world. I pray for comfort and peace for Layla, Jenna, Claire and both of you. We all cry every day for all of you. God be with you.
I will continue to pray for your entire family! You guys have shown such amazing strength and I cannot even imagine the struggles you have been through and face. Thank you so much for letting everyone in on the story so that we can learn from your amazing strength and faith!
JESUS, YOU sent the Holy Spirit as our Comforter, our Counselor. LORD, may it be so for this family. Strengthen them, lift them up, carry them when they can go on no longer, give them hope amidst this terrible trial. Give them eyes to see what Eternity is all about, how far beyond our comprehension it is until we come to a point in life like this. Open their eyes to YOUR glory.
http://www.colesfoundation.com
JD in NC
My GOD give you all his wisdom at this time. May he give you all peace.
Our Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you for all the things in my life and all that I learn each and everyday. Lord I ask if you please give comfort to all people who need you so much right now. May I learn things everyday to become more like you and all people to learn also. It is the only way we will truly have happiness and joy in our hearts. I asked this in the name of your son Jesus Christ, amen
My family is here for all of you and hoping God’s plan we be revealed for why this is happening at this time.
I have only very recently come to know your story and was touched so deeply by Layla and your amazing courage, strength and faith. I check in daily for updates on how she and your family are doing. I pray for you all quite often and for your 2 other daughters as well. I wanted to share this story with you, and hope that you can find even a small amount of comfort from it. God bless your family….
The Brave Little Soul
By: John Alessi
Not too long ago in Heaven there was a little soul who took wonder in observing the world. She especially enjoyed the love she saw there and often expressed this joy with God. One day however the little soul was sad, for on this day she saw suffering in the world. She 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 people’s hearts.” The little soul was confused. “What do you mean,” she 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 the 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 herself. With her wings fluttering, bouncing up and down, the little soul excitedly replied, “I am brave; let me go! I would like to go into the 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 her suffering and God’s strength, she 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 changed forever. It was good. The world was a better place. The miracle had happened. God was pleased~
My heart has been so heavy since I “met” Layla. I think and pray for each and every one of you hourly. I wake up in the middle of the night thinking of her and always send a little prayer before falling back asleep. I hope you feel the love that thousands of people are sending your way. I’m certain, I’m not the only person that doesn’t know Layla personally but LOVES her. I wish I could hold her and absorb every ounce of pain away from her little body. I know God will find a way to take away Layla’s pain, as well all as the pain that mom, dad, Jenna and Claire are feeling.
Thank you for doing such an amazing job in caring for your baby angel and showing her such a loving, happy, peaceful life here on Earth. She will only have beautiful memories and stories to tell her angel friends.
May God bless all of you and provide you the comfort that you need.
ps/. We’ll never stop praying for baby Layla and the rest of the Marsh Family.
I have been following your story for only a short time now,but you and your family are inspirational. I am a new mom to a 4 month old little boy and reading about Layla really makes one look differently at those sleepless nights and struggles that come with even having a healthy baby! I can’t even imagine what your going through,but yourdoing such a great job of making Laylas short time here full of love and great memories! I pray that you and your family can find peace with the hand you’ve been dealt knowing that your little girl is so beautiful and strong and an inspiration to us all…
I was introduced to your family and sweet little Layla through a friend on facebook. I have to say that Layla’s story has touched my heart. I can’t even begin to imagine the pain you and your family are going through. I know that you have millions of people telling you they are praying. There is power in prayer. Believe this! My prayer for you is this. I pray that God provides you and your husband the strength and will to get through this. I pray that He also put His caring hands around your two other daughters and gives them the peace they need to find in all of this. And last I pray for sweet Layla. God, we all know that you have our lives planned for us and that You will take us when You are ready. We can’t seem to imagine why poor Layla is suffering the way she is, but we trust in You God. I just ask that You give her comfort when she is in pain, that You fill her heart with peace and that You are preparing her for her next life as one of Your angels.
I am very sorry that your family is having to go through this. But I thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing Layla’s story. It has brought a new awareness to cancer to my life and for that I thank you.
God Bless!
We don’t know each other – but have a mutual friend and I saw your post on her FB page. I am praying for peace for Layla and hope & happiness for you as her parents and especially for Layla’s young sisters! God Bless you all.
Praying for Baby Layla and family every second! God bless you all!
Sending hugs , love and strength!
For the past week I have been following Layla’s story and my heart is breaking for her and your family. I am sitting here watching my 4 year old daughter, Jenna, sleep and cannot imagine my life without her and my heart aches for all of you. I will keep you and your family in my thouhgts and I pray that this suffering ends soon for Layla and then she will get her wings.
Shelley
While we have never met, I hurt as if we had known each other for years. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. Layla is truly a gift to the world! May God continue to watch over your family!
In Christ’s love,
Jennifer
Pasadena, TX
I am praying for your two children and home and most of all Miss Layla….I am so sorry you are going through this….I couldn’t even imagine if it was my youngest who is 19 mo……I pray the Angels take her soon so she suffers no more and I will keep your whole family in my thoughts and prayers. Ever since I started reading this blog, my thoughts are haunted by her story. I can’t even look at her precious face without crying…..Sending all my faith and love to y’all!
Love the scripture you posted especially this part “Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day”.
What a wonderful picture of what is happening even though you only see the “wasting away” God is seeing the “renewed day by day”! I am praying constantly for your comfort, for Layla to be pain free and peaceful, and now adding the girls for their different needs. I am part of a team in Relay for Life as a result of my brother’s death this past year and will now include Layla as another reason!
You are an absolutely AMAZING family! The Lord has used you in more ways than you can ever imagine. I cannot begin to imagine what you are going through. We are praying the God will ease Layla’s pain and your pain as well. We are also praying for your daughters during this time. His grace is sufficient . Thank you for taking the time to share with us . We have never met you but we love you!
Carol Thompson
I don’t know what to say other than may God wrap His arms around EVERYONE in your family at this time. Having lost a daughter of my own at 13 months, I feel your pain. We also have 2 older daughters and it was imperative we shower them with attention and love. Still, almost 2 years later, we make sure we include them in tons of stuff. We are praying for Jenna and Claire’s journey to be a smooth one. You are wise to let them remember her as her true self. Their memories of her will always be wonderful ones.
My heart breaks for you. There is no pain greater than what you are experiencing. I will continue to pray for peace and comfort and that Layla no longer suffer. Whether her suffering be ended here with us, or, in Heaven, where she will have a NEW body. I would prefer it be a healing down here so you can continue to enjoy her. But, His ways are not ours. That’s a tough scripture to quote. But, there IS consolation in knowing she will be so perfect again.
I truly admire you for all you do. Sharing her story with the world. Raising awareness. Not being ashamed of your faith in God. You are a wonderful family.
God bless you, Ryan & Shanna. My heart is with you.
Jill
Baton Rouge, LA.
God bless you all!
- Joanne
i will continue to pray and ask for god to be with your family at this difficult time.
praying all the way from Spain,
dani
Dear Marsh Family,
I learned about your precious Layla Grace about three weeks ago and her story has so touched my heart. Please know that I have been and will continue to pray for you all. After reading your blog today, I will especially lift up Jenna and Claire. I honestly cannot imagine what you are going through, but I am praying for God’s grace and His will in everything. My views of everyday life have changed from reading your blogs.
Much love to you all,
Anji
Greenwood, SC
Please know that I have been totally taken over by you and that sweet baby of yours. I pray all the time that for your whole family. To see people from all over praying warms my heart to know that there is so much good.
I’ve been praying for you’re whole family and i cant imagine what you guys are going through. Just know that There will always be people at your side to help you go through this, no matter what happens
Shanna, Ryan, Claire, && Jenna,
All for of you are so amazing! I know that Layla, is more then pleased on what a loving, dedicated, loyal family that God gave her. You all have been in our prayers, for a short time now, ever since a friend of mine sstumbled upon Layla Grace’s blog. I just wanna let you know, that we give you all of our support and prayers to help get you through this. My mom always told me that God doesnt give a person no more then what they are able to take. You guys are STRONG! And you are so special! Your faith is just unbelievable!! You set such a good example on people like me, that are also dealing with loosing a loved one. I admire you for your strength, and your care. God bless all four of you. We love you so much!
In Christ,
Tina Byrd
Abilene, TX
Shanna-
I sob everytime I think of you and your family. This post was so beautiful and you couldn’t have picked a more accurate and relevant scripture verse! Though on the outside everything good in your life is dying…you know that there is a world that is so much more real than the one we can see…and THAT world is growing and flourishing by the moment. Layla is in GOOD HANDS. You can trust that she is going to be healed completely in her Spiritual Body, even though on the outside it looks just the opposite. Stay strong, you Mighty Woman of Faith!!!! You have absolutely NO IDEA the impact you and your family are making on this world! I pray for strength and comfort for you and peace for our sweet Layla. Every time I read a new Twitter post my heart breaks a little more for you! Many, many prayers (and tears) being sent up for you and Precious Layla!
I have been praying for your whole family and i cant imagine what you guys are going through. Just know that there will always be people at your side no matter what happens. You have Beautiful children and you should cherish that. I strongly hope that you keep blogging, even after her cancer passes. You are in my Prayers:)
My heart aches for you tonight and always. I am praying for comfort and peace tonight for sweet baby Layla!! Always in my thoughts and prayers!
I happened to stumble across this page from a friend who commented on her friends photo of Layla Grace and I clicked on this blog website her friend posted…I have read previous posts to catch up on what is going on and it has broken my heart in two. I cry everytime I read about what Layla Grace and your family is going through. I have prayed for your family and will continue to pray…your girls are beautiful. Layla Grace is such a fighter and so is your entire family. May god lead you the rest of the way. Your family will always be in my thoughts and prayers…as a mother my heart goes out to you
I have been following your site for about 2 weeks. I have been so touched by the faith, grace and strength you ALL posses. I am very sad about what you are going through and my heart breaks everyday for you. Please know you are in my prayers and thoughts many time a day.
With all my love,
Rebecca in Abilene TX
I just had found out about Layla today through this youtube video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7FT5vmT3ko) …
Being Layla’s strength is so important. I know first hand from being my mom’s main supporter when she was going through her fight of breast cancer, at the age of 49 while I was just 16. Though our roles are/were different from each other with a support system, as you are the mother fighting to not loose a child and I was a daughter fighting to not loose a mother… the hurt is fairly similar. A lot of pain, yet somewhat numb. There is nothing like the pain of having to watch someone you love, suffer and not being able to do much about it.. let alone you’re own child- I can’t even imagine. If it helps, please know you are not alone. It’s been 2 years since my mother’s passing and I know that god and the angels were with her during her fight against cancer. Not only were they with her, but also with me and my family. I promise, God will guide you through this hard journey. I am praying for Layla, you, your other children, and the rest of your family and friends. I know what it’s like to have nothing but faith at the end of the day. You’re beautiful little girl will be okay, she is in God’s hands now, and his choice will be what is best for Layla…knowing that will give you more strength in this terrible situation.
God Bless your beautiful, strong family.
and God Bless Layla.
Allison (New Jersey)
Shanna, Ryan, Claire, && Jenna,
All for of you are so amazing! I know that Layla, is more then pleased on what a loving, dedicated, loyal family that God gave her. You all have been in our prayers, for a short time now, ever since a friend of mine sstumbled upon Layla Grace’s blog. I just wanna let you know, that we give you all of our support and prayers to help get you through this. My mom always told me that God doesnt give a person no more then what they are able to take. You guys are STRONG! And you are so special! Your faith is just unbelievable!! You set such a good example on people like me, that are also dealing with loosing a loved one. I admire you for your strength, and your care. God bless all four of you. We love you so much!
In Christs LOVE,
Tina Byrd
Abilene, TX
I feel sooo heart broken and I unfortunately can image how you feel due to losing leah….. My prayers are with you and your family call if you need anything to talk sit in silence anything i will be on a plane if you need me to i am still in shock and just feel like crying its so wrong and unnatural for kids to have to suffer like this.
i heard about your little angel on the radio about a week ago and have been praying for her and your family ever since, shes an incredible inspiration. she has opened my eyes and brought me and my 2 year old sister closer than ever also my relationship with god she has made my faith so much stronger and i really just want to say thank you because now more than ever i charish the time i get to spend with my little sister, im praying for your family as well as layla, i hope and pray that this brings her no more pain, suffering, or fear.
Sweet Layla has been in my prayers since I first heard of your story. I think of your family often throughout the day, and I cry for you….I feel as if I know you.
We are putting together a fundraiser at my Chili’s in Garland in honor of Layla Grace. She is a beautiful spirit, and you have a beautiful family.
My prayers are with your entire family. God Bless.
Amy
I have a 2 year old little girl as well…and Layla has made me appreciate her even more.
She is precious. My heart hurts when I look at her, but she must make you so proud! She has touched so many & I am just one of them.
In the name of the father and the son and the holy ghost,
Please god look out for layla and her family .Please bring layla some ever lasting peace.Please send some angels to watch over them.Please help all the other chidren in the world suffering find peace.
Amen.
Layla and Family we love you all and are in our hearts and prayers every days…
Your family is in my prayers! I cannot begin to fathom the pain all of you are feeling. May God hold you and keep you close as you attempt to make sense of what you are going through!
Your sweet Layla has touched my life in a way I never thought someone that I don’t personally know could. I just had my first child, 7 months ago, and cannot begin to imagine how incredibly painful it would be if she became ill. All of your little girls and the rest of your family are in my daily prayers. Little Layla has inspired me to do more volunteer work with St. Baldricks which is a organization that raises money for childhood cancer research. We must find a cure!!!
I think about you, Layla Grace, and your family everyday. I pray for you all everyday. I’m in awe of your faith and most of all your strength. Believing in the promises of the Lord. Praying for you all!
I was first informed of your family’s story months ago from a friend/co-worker in Houston. I remember purchasing a “Support Layla Grace” T-shirt that I wear proudly. Layla truly is an angel sent from our amazing lord above. May God bless Layla and give her peace, knowing that she has left an imprint on the world that will last an eternity. And may he bless your family with strength for when our lord and savior calls upon her to return home.
Praying for Layla Grace!!!!
Paige – Spring, TX
Praying for continued strength. Gentle hugs to precious Layla.
Faith is the ‘only’ key. Thank you for the wonderful sharing. We will continue to pray for restoration, comfort and peace to Layla. We asked the Lord to grant her family with strength.
The Lord is holding you and family tight in His loving arms. He will wipe away the tears from your faces. Do not be afraid! Have faith in Him. Pray..
Let’s not forget to tell Layla about God’s great love. I believed she would want to know how much the Lord has loved her.
Let us pray in faith and awaits God’s will to be fulfilled. Continue to pray for blessing, miracles, strength, comfort and peace.
“I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33.
I’ve been following your tweets and blog for about two weeks now. I wanted you to know that Layla has brought me closer to God than ever before. I have never prayed like this before in my life – and the prayers are so from the heart. I usually am bawling, as most might be. Like many others, I wish I could be there right with you. I wish I could create a miracle. I wish I could take her pain away. I’ve been thinking a lot about why would God do this. I know it’s not up to me to decide and Layla is getting to go to a place by far better than Earth. In the time she’s been here, she’s help thousands of people regain a connection with God. What a powerful little girl. And it takes special parents to be able to do what you’re doing. I could never be as strong as you. Because of your openess and strength, I’ve become a better parent. Since I learned about your family, I’ve thought about how I can be more supportive of my children — like you. I will keep praying…I wish I could hug all of you.
I have been following sweet Layla’s story since someone forwarded me your blog site. I have been deeply touched by this little girl and the strength of your family. My heart goes out to you and you are all in my prayers and thoughts. Because of Layla, I have hugged my own two year old daughter more often and longer. I have prolonged bedtime stories and spend more time just being in the moment with her. One life can truly touch so many. Layla has done that in such a short time. Thank you for sharing your story in such a wonderful, heartfelt way. Praying for a miracle.
My thoughts and prayers have been with your family since I began following Laylagrace’s story. I too check the website constantly for reports. Laylagrace has been such an inspiration to me and her work on this earth will not go unseen or forgotten. She has touched so many lifes in her short years. Thank you Layla and the entire Marsh family. I pray that sweet angel’s suffering will be over and she will rest in our Heavenly Father’s arms even though I also still pray for a miracle. As tears fill my eyes, I love you LaylaGrace. Be at peace and know you are well loved forever more!
I idolize your strength and pray for you each and every day…Layla and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Your family is in my prayers. I cannot imagine what you are going thru. I do thank you for opening up to everyone and sharing just reading your blog and your continued faith in the Lord has made my faith stronger. I have found my self praying more often and knowing what ever life throws at us we can get thru with our continued faith. Thank you for sharing and your family and sweet Layla remain in my prayers daily…
God Bless and Comfort You..
My husband just got this website from someone he just met at a business event today, and when he told me about it, I was compelled to come and read about little Layla Grace. I was reading one of your posts out loud to my husband, and couldn’t finish reading it because I was overwhelmingly touched and saddened, and couldn’t keep from crying.
It amazes me how people are spreading the news about this little girl even at business events. It touches me that so many people are either coming to The Lord, or coming closer to Him because of her. Praise God, and God bless Layla Grace.
I am a strong woman of Christ, and I love that even with all that is going on in the world, and with evil forces constantly trying to remove Jesus from people’s lives, that He still manages to seep in. Me and my husband will be praying for Jenna, Claire, and Layla Grace- for all of you.
My church pastor once said to me when I was in despair: The Lord is attracted to your tears. God is closest to us when we’re going through our toughest times.
And my favorite scripture that I’ll leave you with, (even though you likely know it well), I have it hanging at my desk at work in big bold letters, and it helps me often: “Cast thy burden upon the Lord and He will sustain thee. He will never suffer the righteous to be moved.”
Psalm 55:22
I have been a lurker for awhile now and wanted to let you know I have all of you in my thoughts and prayers. ♥
Dearest Shanna & Ryan,
I have never in my 39 years of life ever been so heartbroken for anyone as I am for you, your girls, your family. Layla has been an amazing gift to so many people around this country, around the world – I know she has a permanent place in my heart and that she has touched me, changed me in a very profound way. I am so brokenhearted at the suffering she has had to endure…I cannot try to understand it so I will just try to cling to faith and know that someday in the glory of Heaven it will be made clear to all of us. I am so sorry for all the pain you & Ryan have had to go through during these past weeks watching Layla get weaker, it is pain I cannot imagine. I am praying still for Layla – for peace, comfort and love & still, for a miracle. I am just so glad that she has you for her parents. I am praying for you & Ryan and praying extra hard for Jenna & Claire – I can only imagine how hard this is on a young girl of Jenna’s age. I love the Brandon Heath song, “Love Never Fails”, it’s beautiful – I heard it tonight in the car and I thought of you. I pray that our Heavenly Father’s Love wraps you all in a warm embrace for a long time to come. Layla and your whole family are SO very loved. Keeping you in prayer – now & for a long time to come. Much love to you all.
“Love Never Fails” – Brandon Heath
Love is not proud
Love does not boast
Love after all
Matters the most
Love does not run
Love does not hide
Love does not keep
Locked inside
Love is the river that flows through
Love never fails you
Love will sustain
Love will provide
Love will not cease
At the end of time
Love will protect
Love always hopes
Love still believes
When you don’t
Love is the arms that are holding you
Love never fails you
When my heart won’t make a sound
When I can’t turn back around
When the sky is falling down
Nothing is greater than this
Greater than this
Love is right here
Love is alive
Love is the way
The truth, the life
Love is the river than flows through
Love is the arms that are holding you
Love is the place you will fly to
Love never fails you
“Trust in God for everything”, my brother Brian, age 20, died of leukemia, lived by this every day. 22 years later, while missing him never stops, the ripple affect of his life has never stopped. Layla will live forever until you all see her again. I am praying for you and your family and praying God helps you feel his arms around you holding you every step of this unimaginable journey.
Thankyou for sharing this story with us! I am a better mother because of you. My family will continue to pray for Little Layla and your family. Layla is truly an angel. You have been so blessed to have been given the chance to know her and love her.
praying everyday for all of you
Broken hearted for your family, and praying that God meets all of your needs. Every singe one of them for each one of you. I know He will… it’s just hard to understand the why’s and the wait’s with our limited perspectives. Praying his peace over you and tender mercies. God bless Layla, sweet girl. Thank you again for sharing your journey with us.
I have been following your blog and tweets for a couple weeks now. Because of your family and sweet Layla I take every second with my son and let him know how much I love him, I take time to hear him giggle and sing him songs instead of doing the dishes or worrying about the laundry. I will never take another second for granted with my sweet boy. God bless you and your family. My heart brakes for you, I pray everyday for peace and comfort for you all. Tonight I will send extra prayers for Layla’s sisters, I cannot imagine what they must be going through. God Bless you. -Ashley (from MN)
Praying for Layla and her sweet family .
There are really are no amount of words that one can say to take away the pain. My heart goes to you and your family. Layla’s strength is a true testiment of God’s Grace. I look at here beautiful smile in the pictures you have posted, and it gives me the strenght just to get through the day sometimes. I hope that her suffering will not be long. My mother passed away of cancer. My prayer to God was please take her Gracefully. He did. I am sending prayers, hugs, and hope. Never give up. We are praying for you.
I am at a loss for words, but I pray for sweet Layla and all your family every day. I love you all so much, Layla has changed my life forever. She will always have a strong presence in my life. She has changed the world in such a short time, she has brought an awareness to a disease that not to many people are aware of. God bless this sweet angel for her grace, beauty, strength and heart.
I just wanted to thank you for posting this blog, I have been so moved by your faith, your daughters sweet life and her struggle have strengthened my faith. I am praying for you all. God bless your family.
I don’t really know what to say. Your daughter is a trooper. I can spend hours on end reading through your blogs and looking at pictures of your gorgeous daughter while crying my eyes out but I cannot possibly begin to fathom the montage of feelings your family is experiencing. I have never really been a religious person mainly because I have never been able to grasp the idea of our all powerful God allowing certain people to suffer in the ways they do. Because of your family and Layla in particular I have come to the conclusion that perhaps those who suffer in such abundance aren’t quite like the rest of us. They have a special mission that God designed them for. They are built strong for the purpose of making the rest of us stronger. Layla has brought me closer to God and you have helped her fulfill her mission by being strong enough to share your stories.
I thank you and I thank our angel on earth Layla Grace
I pray for the best!
Rachel
I so wish I could take some of your pain, to ease what you all are going through. I’m sure any and all of us would. By knowing we are reading your words, and checking in, I hope you realize we do care, and are thinking of you and praying for your strength.
Sue k
We will continue to keep your entire family in our prayers. Layla’s story has touched so many people.
Prayers and love for your family.
The Iwanicki Family in NC
I have been following Layla’s story for a month now- praying for a miracle. ANY miracle. I was reduced to tears as I read the “Not like this…” post. I can’t even imagine how you are all doing it- but by the grace of God you are. There are people you have never met that you have touched- that Layla has touched.
I just recently read that a test for Neuroblastoma can be given at birth? It infuriates me that we are not doing this. I am doing more reading now as this has piqued my interest. To get a jump on a disease like this could save precious time- and LIVES. What can we do to make that test possible here in our country so that another child and family will have a jump on this horrible disease? Praying too for a CURE.
My heart just aches for you all. I think of you all the time- and say another prayer. We have 3 children. Our daughter is 3 and when I look into her eyes, I just can’t imagine that Layla will not reach that age.
I have been saying special prayers for your other daughters- and tonight, my heart aches for them. Please know how much I appreciate your bringing Layla’s story to light. I had never heard of Neuroblastoma until I read an update on Facebook. I did some reading. Then, I found Layla and your family.
From my family in Austin to yours…please know we will continue to pray here.
God Bless~
Through my tears, I pray and plead for God to give you and your family the peace that only he can offer. I have been following your story for a while now and I want you to know that my thoughts will be with your family for a long time. God Bless Angel Layla Grace.
Shannon from TN
I cant read this and not to cry. May God bless all of your family. Layla is an amazing strong little girl.. The faith you have is strong and that`s good. Trust God.. no meter what.. He loves you no meter what.. He loves Layla no meter what… Hugs and kisses to this angel.. Keep praying and never give up..
I am completely heartbroken for your family, but i find comfort in knowing that she is God’s child first and he loves her more than anything. Your family and Layla are in my thoughts and prayers and I only wish that I would have been fortunate to meet this little wonder from God. I feel like I know you personally from your heartfelt thoughts you share with us. Thank you for letting us in your life. Big hugs and prayers to your family.
Carmen from Las Vegas
We love you Layla. You have changed all who’ve heard of your beautiful life.
Praying for peace for you all.
I was just forwarded this on my facebook page from a friend. I truly am praying for the Lord to give you and your family strength. Your family will always have a great heart for baby Layla and I pray for her to feel peace.
No words, just prayers. Lots and lots of prayers.
We sang this at church this morning and I coundn’t help but think of you:
“Your ways are higher than our ways and the plans that you have made are good and true. If you call us to the fire, you will not withdraw your hand, we’ll gaze into the flames and look for you.”
Thank you dear Marsh family for your amazing courage to go where God has told you to go. Thank you for your example of faith that has touched so many around the world. I will coninue to pray for God’s comfort to surround each one of you. God bless you sweet Layla Grace. God bless you Ryan and Shanna. God bless you Jenna and Claire.
Can’t get your family out of my mind. I only recently found your blog, but but think and pray for you so often. My hear is truly breaking for you, but I know that God makes all things good. Having been through a very tragic experience that I can’t compare to yours, I feel rebroken by your story, reminded though, that God is good all the time. And He is so good. He loves us through our pain and anger. There may be no reason or understanding for all of this, but you have touched many, and the faith that you cling to is inspiring. May God bless and keep your family, and peace be with you and little Layla Grace.
Ephesians 3:20
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.
Sweet Shanna, your faith amazes me, I have learned so much from you. Gods love shines through you! We love precious Layla and all of you. Keeping all of you close to our hearts and in our prayers.
Love,
Jennifer
Debbie ♥ livingston,Tx .
We are here praying for Layla and her family every day ♥
Hope you can feel our love and strength and prayers all around you….
Thank you for sharing your story with us and being a part of Layla’s life…
Kiss her for us all and tell her we love her.
My heart is breaking for all of you ,But i do know God is there with you and all ways will be… In Christian Love
Here any time for all of you
Sweet Family,
I have no words… just fervent prayer for all of your family.
“Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10
Rest in the love and grace of King Jesus tonight.
I have not been able to stop thinking about this sweet angel and your family. I check in several times a day for updates and I have enlisted everyone I know and all of the congregation at my church to pray for her. You are doing an incredible job of sharing her story and believe me, it is changing lives and creating miracles.
We just wanted you to know that our whole family is praying for peace and comfort for Layla and your entire family. We are in awe of Layla’s strength, your strength and the solidity of your faith through such a heartwrenching time.
What Layla has done, at the wee age of two years old, is nothing short of breathtaking. The world is watching and praying and speaking to God. The world is learning from her and your family, that nothing can be taken for granted, that life is precious and short. The world is witnessing the perfect example of what it means to have faith. We are learning from you that faith, true faith, comes not during the ‘easy’ times of life, but from moments like this, times when the last thing in the world you want to do is turn towards God. You are showing us, by example, that even if heartbreaking times, it’s okay to smile, or laugh, or make a joke. And you are sharing your sorrow, your utter gut wrenching grief, with us, such a personal thing, and yet, in doing so, we are all learning that grief, like joy and love and fear, is such an intricate and important part of our experience hear on Earth.
Layla has given the world a priceless gift, and even though her years are short, they have impacted the world in a way that many lives of long years never will. God certainly had a grand plan for this little girl, and we are all amazingly lucky to ‘know’ her. And you, her parents, the perfect parents that God chose for her, have made it all possible just by sharing her with us, and letting us receive that beautiful gift.
God certainly knows what he’s doing. Thank you for reminding us of that.
May God bless you all, and may he comfort you for all the days of your lives.
The Weaver family,
Springfield, MO
I just wanted to say that every night your family is included in my prayers, I pray for a peaceful transition for sweet Layla Grace from this world into angels hands. I lost my baby brother (5 yo) when I was 7 it was a very difficult thing for me to understand and it still is but I know that with you and your husbands love, support and strong faith your girls will make it through this time. May God Bless You All.
So sad to see what you are going through. I cried almost the whole way through this post.
Praying for you & for strength!! And for your girls.
I pray for Layla more than I have prayed for anything in my life. I only wish that I could take her pain and make it mine. I wish that I could bring her the peace that she needs.
Layla has done more in her time than I ever will do in mine.
My heart goes out to your family. I can not even begin to imagine what you’re going through. I pray God takes away all of Layla’s pain and begins to heal Layla and your entire family.
I am praying for Layla Grace ,all your family, and the children as well. I am amazed as I read some of these posts, just how big an impact Layla Grace has had on people’s lives. God through her has completely changed some people. Some have come back to Him or some have even given their life to Him. God really did have a purpose for Layla and she has fought her fight well. I imagine there will be quite a Homecoming for her in Heaven and then imagine the one she will have for you and her sisters when it is your time. I look forward to seeing my people in Heaven. I pray for the Spirit of Peace upon Layla and Healing for your family. I pray for brighter days. God bless you.
Layla has become not just a part of prayers, but a part of our routine each morning and evening…we feel blessed that you are sharing your most precious moments with us…allowing us to pray with you and for you. Little Layla has forever changed our family, her spirit and strength…and huge smile engraved in our hearts…it is with your words that you were able to touch us, and with ours that we will help continue to spread the word of Layla’s strong battle and continue to raise awareness…
We are praying for ALL of you
I came to know Laylas story through my siter in houston Jennifer. I dont know what you are going through, I know your strength must come straight from God. My daughter (9 Mo) and I pray for Layla everyday. My daughter is my light, but your daughter makes me hold her a little longer, hug her even more often, tell her how much she means to me once more (even though I have said it a million times today) and makes me smile inside when she throws a little tantrum. I wish the circumstances were different, but as it is: Thank you.
hi shanna and ryan….i wish i was there to hold the two of you to tell you everything is going to be ok…..but in md so just know in spirit i am holding you and loving on you and i am bearing some of you pain like many are doing the tears we cry we cry with you….God says to believe in the unseen and i hope you dont mind but i have to believe in full restoration of your lil layla s body…i just cant bring myself to feel or believe otherwise i have absolutely falling in love with all five of you and i will pray for all your girls and their needs but mostly i want to thank you for inviting us into your lives….letting us be apart of this season in your lives….together as christians we have the victory already….and Gods ultimate desire is for us all to be joined together in one body…the body of christ….and Layla has helped that along she has reconciled many christians to be on one accord in agreement with you and ryan that the suffering ends and restoration begins…God you are our healer…holy spirit surround them with your pressence….if jesus can command lazarus out of the tomb and jesus said greater works shall we do..so God we are claiming your word and we thank you for all that you are doing for the Marsh family….thank you Jesus!!! in your holy name we pray amen!! i have a 17 mo and a 3yr old and i want you to know since meeting layla and you well ive been more patient i dont rush naps and i take the time to talk more before they sleep….we all have times we wish they would be quiet or leave me alone i have to get this done i so can relate and i thank you for making a difference in how i am a mom…i am growing into a better mom by watching you and hearing your heart ….thank you and my kids thank you. all this writing is me hugging you i just cant stop…i embrace you and give much love this day and always you are apart of our family and we have a picture of your family in our home we will always be united and i cant wait to meet you one day…all of you!! xoxoxforeternity your sis in christ….
wendy malaney….
Layla has constantly been in my thoughts ever since the day I learned about her story and struggle with this horrible disease. I can’t tell you how much I’ve been touched by your precious Layla Grace. I pray for your family, and most importantly, the comfort and peace of Layla Grace, and that she is pain free during this difficult time. My heart is heavy and I can’t find the words to express how sad I am for little Layla Grace. God Bless you for being caring and doting parents for baby Layla Grace.
Thank you, Marsh Family, for helping me to be a better mom and a better person. Thank you for showing me what God can do and helping to bring me closer to him.
You are so loved,
Jackie
I found your site through a friend’s facebook page. My heart aches for your family. I lost my infant daughter last year, and so much of what you’ve written resonates with my experience. I will pray fervently for you to be visited with all the strength you need in each moment, for Layla to to be at peace, and for your older daughters to feel deep love and comfort. There are no words adequate to describe the pain you’re enduring as parents, not the least of which is helping your older children understand and deal with this horror. I hold you all in the light.
The story of your Layla has grabbed my heart strings and refused to let go… I have carried such a burden to pray for your family without ceasing for weeks now. My heart aches for Layla’s sisters and I pray that God will wrap each of them in his arms and comfort them in a way that only he can. May God strengthen and bless you so that you can get through each day with renewed faith. We will continue to pray that God will work a miracle in your family… I am amazed at the many people that is God reaching through your story.
Marsh family-
I have never met your family, and yet I cant stop crying for you. I am amazed at the strength you are showing. Your little Layla is truley a gift from god! To be so young(and cute!), and have such an impact on people all over the world.
I was in church this morning praying for you, just feeling so sad. Our pastor then goes into prayer and begins talking about a 2 year old that he knew who had passed away from cancer. He then began to discuss the book of Joshua and read 1:9 “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” It was like he was preaching just for Layla. She has made such an impact on my life, and I am so thankful for her. I am so sorry that your family is having to endure this. May peace come to you all soon. I will be praying for you all. Thank you Layla, you are an angel!
I have been keeping up with little Layla Grace since I first heard of her. It breaks my heart. I continually pray for a MIRACLE! She’s such an amazing little angel! I’m also praying for the rest of the family, I know it is taking it’s toll on everyone! Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this. I will continue to pray for that miracle! As long as she has a breath in her, it’s not too late! I can’t stand the fact that she is suffering so much! My heart is with you all!!
How can some one so small take up so much room in our hearts? I have been following this very sad story for the last 3 weeks or so and I am touched by another toddler here in AZ going through the same horrible cancer that Layla has,, McKenna. You dont want to complain about anything anymore since everything is so trivial now…. you just wish Layla can grow up like the rest of us and this is just so ufair. My friend’s husband (who is only 37) has been battling brain cancer and he will be passing away the next couple of days…. there is no worse punishment anyone can endure than someone you love dying. Please know that everyone is hurt seeing layla go through this, and we all love her just as much as her family. I am praying for Layla, along with everyone else. Give her a kiss and a hug for me.
May God wrap his loving arms around you and give you peace and comfort as you go through these most difficult days. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
God Bless,
Love & prayers,
Marie
I don’t have many words except that I know Little Ms. Layla Grace will be cured from her sickness in the near future just as God has promised.
Praying that you continue to rely on your faith to help you through this painful journey and that He will heal your hearts.
Sincerely from N.O.,
Yesenia Lockhart
I too can not stop praying for your family. Layla, because of YOU:
I count my blessings every day
I kiss my children often
I pick up the phone when thinking of a friend
I read my 2 year old one extra book each night
I hug my 10 year old in front of friends despite protest
I LOVE GREATER, LAUGH OFTEN AND SMILE THROUGH MY TEARS WHEN THINKING OF YOU!
What a blessing you are to this world! Your sister’s will always feel your warmth as they remember such precious moments they shared with you. Jenna in particular will always look at that picture of you leaning towards her in your highchair and feel LOVED by you. I know I will never be the same again…
prayers for you and your 3 precious babies and your husband. all the best
jill
Thoughts and prayers to your family. Your story has touched my life and the lives of my to boys 14 and 17. God Bless yall.
I am praying for you all. I hope Layla beats this cancer and that Jenna and Claire are happier. Live in the moment and make the best of what you have.
I can’t tell you how much your little girl has meant to me…you’re family has touched my heart…I think and pray for Layla during every day….and pray for your family as well. I can only imagine the pain that you are going through watching your little baby going through such a horrible ordeal….and my heart goes out to you. I so admire the strength and Love that your family has shown.
You and your daughter has opened many hearts….and made people realize how important “family” is – and things can change over night….and how you can lose someone that you love more than anything….
Layla was without a doubt put on this earth to help others….she’s a little angel and is very lucky to have parents like you and Ryan – you really are the best – and I am so proud of both of you.
There are a lot of people who care about your family – and thank you for sharing with us your precious layla….may god bless her – hugs kat (mazey)
I
I have erased what I was writing 4 times because it mirrors what so many others have said…thank you for allowing us to love your precious angel, and as I check on her multiple times each day, I say a little prayer for a miracle and for peace and strength. Always remember you are not alone and that ALL of you are prayed for..and for every comment posted, there are 100 that aren’t posting but are still praying
. I don’t think any of us truly grasp the full extent of how many people have been touched and changed by your little angel..it amazes me and gives a renewed sense of hope in mankind 
. You remain on our minds and in our prayers…
I am so sorry for your pain. I wish that I could have something better to say to you and your family. My cousin lost her little boy to cancer in January. (He was 3, and had been in remission for six months, before the cancer came back.) May God comfort you in your darkest hours. Please hug and kiss the other babies for me as well as Layla.
still praying – like crazy!
I am praying so hard for your family! I’ve sent Laylas story to all of my friends on FB and e-mail others the links to her Twitter and Blog. I really wish that things were very different for your family, and I wish there was something I could do to change things.
I’ve prayed more in the last couple of weeks for Layla than I have in a long time.
I’m just so terribly sorry this is happening. I look at my son (7months) differently since finding Laylas story. She’s always on my mind throughout the day.
Prayers and extra special thoughts from Connecticut!!
I just wanted to say I have been following your story about little Layla and all I can say is you are a wonderful family we will continue to Pray for little Layla and her whole family. I wake up to reading about her and before I go to bed I read about her hope a miracle comes true for all of you
The Bailor Family
Las Vegas, NV
I cannot find the words to express my thoughts reading about your precious Layla. Just wanted to let you know I keeping you all close in my prayers. I’m sure Layla can feel your love, you are amazing parents. May God wrap his loving arms around you and bring you peace.
Reading Layla’s story burns my eyes and tightens my throat, so that text is needed to express any thought at all because speaking is impossible. Having gone through hospice with a loved one, I can recall the agonizing pace and pain of this process. A process that puts a mother is the hellish place of ironically wishing for the unthinkable. As a friend of baby McKenna, my brain hurts trying to comprehend all of this. Layla’s gift to the world will never be forgotten. Live in the moment, give, find your faith in whatever form. The meaning of life is to give life meaning – Layla has done so very much…
Your family is and has been in my prayers from the moment I read your story Your sweet little girl has touch my heart and life. Your strength is amazing as I’m sitting here with tears streaming down my face, I pray for peace, comfort and strength to wrap it’s arms around your family.Your sweet baby will not be forgotten and her story will continue. With love and prayers
We are still praying for all of you!!!! You are amazing Layla Grace….absolutely amazing. God will be so happy with your work here on earth!!!
We are still praying too…. praying for you and all your girls.
Love and prayers,
Robin
COLE Prayer Team
http://www.colesfoundation.org
I have been keeping up with Layla’s story for about two weeks and it breaks my heart to see such a beautiful baby with such a horrible illness. I am praying for her everyday and hoping for a miracle. May god bless all of you.
I am praying for your family. I have been following your story and it touched my heart knowing what your family is going thru. Your in my prayer every day God bless You.
Please tell Layla just how many people love her. SHE is a miracle that God has given this world. May He have mercy on her…
My heart is breaking for you. Ever since I read your story I haven’t been able to stop thinking of you. I wish I could take away the pain that you all feel.
I have been following your family for about 2 weeks, I have been touched by little Layla and your family. She is a little angel and My family and I are praying for all of you daily. I love my children more than life itself but I want t say thank you for sharing Layla with us, because of Layla I have stopped to appreciate things that I might have taken for granted with my kids. We will continue to lift up your family in prayer.
I have been in constant prayer for Layla and her sweet family. I pray for peace and love for her brave parents and her big sisters!
Your strength to share the story about Layla’s fight with cancer leaves me at a loss for words. What you are telling her is exactly right- she WILL make a difference for other children fighting this horrendous disease. She is bringing awareness to something that everyone fears, but no one discusses. A cure has to be found so that no other children have to endure what Layla’s endured.
As a mother, I can’t imagine the pain you feel, nor can I imagine what your two other beautiful girls must be feeling. The prayers are lifted up to God throughout the day for all five of you, as well as for a cure for cancer.
We are still praying too… praying for you and for all your girls.
Love and prayers,
Robin M
COLE Prayer Team
http://www.colesfoundation.org
i’ve been following you all for a few weeks now..i just wanted to let you all know that im praying for you all!
What an angel on earth she is! I don’t understand why these things happen and they definately test my faith in God. I wonder why these things happen and if He can grant miracles, then why not for this little one? I just must believe that her time here on earth was for a much higher purpose than anyone can understand. God sent her, one of his angels, to work through Him. And she odviously has! I have 7 children ( 4 that I gave birth to and 3 that my husband blessed me with when we married). They are all under the age of 12 with our youngest being 6 mo. old Kayla Grace!
She was a “surprise” to us when we found out we were pregnant…and at times, the stress has really gotten to us. But, since hearing your story, we have taken the time to let laundry go, dishes sit, etc. in order to spend time with our kids. Thank you, Layla, for reminding us what is so very important in life!
May God give you peace and comfort..and my prayers to your wonderful big sisters. That they find (as well as us) understanding in this awful time.
We live in Cypress and so many here are praying for you!!
Love, The Zapalac Family
Sending prayers for your entire family. Praying for those sisters that God will give them strength. Layla has touched my heart an even though your family is going to something that I can’t even imagine, I’m encouraged by your strength in my own trial. God bless and keep you!!
Praying for you and your family that God’s almighty hand would continue to be upon Layla and your family.
Mansfield, TX
Sending love and hugs from South Carolina! Thinking about Layla everyday!
My daughter and I will keep your family in our prayers, we will pray for the peace you all deserve. I have always thought that I valued every minute that I spend with my daughter, but after finding your family I truely value every moment that I get to spend with her. You are a remarkable family and I thank you for sharing this experience with everyone.
Continuing to pray for sweet Layla and your family! I don’t have any words to say, icant imagine what you are all going through. Keep your faith, cherish your memories and continue to pour your hearts and souls into your sweet baby while you can! Praying always, Lisa B
I have been following your family for a while now, but I’ve never posted. I share your story with my husband, other family and friends daily. You are both amazing, and strong parents. I’m sure you feel like breaking down every minute of the day but what a joy to be able to hold your sweet girl in your arms right now and know; actually understand how precious that is. I pray for you all every day. I will continue to follow and pray for you.
GB,
Kassandra
I know words are not enough in moments like this, but my family is praying for all of you. Layla is a beautiful girl and her courage and strength amaze me.
I don’t know you but found out about Layla Grace through a friend who was following her story. I have been checking your blog several times a day and I heard Ryan on the radio via the radio website this past Friday. My heart aches for Layla and the rest of your family. What a precious baby she is. Such a beautiful little angel with the prettiest blue eyes I’ve ever seen. I have a 5 and 3 year old and I cannot even imagine how hard it has been for you as parents to see her hurting like this. I’m so sorry. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you everyday. May you find comfort and peace as God wraps his arms around you. I’m praying for you, your husband, and your 3 beautiful babies. Love and Hugs from Fort Worth,Texas.
I pray that your precious baby will suffer no longer. I pray that your heart will mend quickly after she is gone. I pray that your other daughters will learn to live life without their little sister with little to no pain. I pray for you, to be able to keep finding the strength so you can pass it on to Baby Layla Grace. I pray for your whole family to be touched by God so he can ease your pain. There are no words that I can find other than I am truly sorry that your baby has to endure what she is. All my love and prayers. Karen
I think “Save A Place for Me” by Matthew West was written just for Layla Grace…..We are praying for you everyday..I am sharing her story on my blog….
We love you!
Don’t be mad if I cry
It just hurts so bad sometimes
‘Cause everyday it’s sinking in
And I have to say goodbye all over again
You know I bet it feels good to have the weight of this world off your shoulders now
I’m dreaming of the day when I’m finally there with you
Save a place for me
Save a place for me
I’ll be there soon
I’ll be there soon
Save a place for me
Save some grace for me
I’ll be there soon
I’ll be there soon
I have asked the question why
But I guess the answer’s for another time
So instead I’ll pray with every tear
And be thankful for the time I had you here
And I wanna live my life just like you did
Make the most of my time just like you did
And I wanna make my home up in the sky
Just like you did
Oh, but until I get there
Until I get there
You and your family have been in my thoughts. I continue to pray for comfort for Layla Grace. I pray God continues to give you strength. Your faith is so strong and you have so many friends praying for you.
God Bless!
your family is in my prayers!
I admire your faith more than you know. I’m just so, so sorry. It’s just not fair. Your faith and attitute speak volumes. I would be so angry. I can’t imagine how you could possibly have any faith left in God, but you do. Praying for your family and your continued faith.
Praying for you, your daughters and most importantly sweet Layla. Your courage and strength is admirable, amazing, and an inspiration. I wish you peace and comfort. You and Layla have truly touched me and have made me a better mom and a person.
I just wanted to say that Layla is a beautiful little girl and I’ve been praying for you all, since I found out about hers/yours journey only a few day ago. Hoping for the best.
God Bless
Layla is such a beautiful little girl, i’ve been following her twitter and blog for weeks and my heart has been touched so much by your posts and the sharing of your feelings and struggles. I cannot imagine what you’re going through and the amount of strength it requires. She has forever touched my heart and I know millions of others as well! I have no doubt that you will keep her story in millions of peoples lives throughout the years. She is one of the most beautiful little girls I have ever seen and it has not only taught me to treasure every moment i have with loved ones its taught me that you cannot take health for granted! I hope for the best for you and your family during this unbelievable hard time. I’ll continue to pray for your family and friends for a very long time!!
THANK YOU so much for bringing Layla into my life!
Prayers. Prayers. Prayers. I am in awe of your beautiful family, your strength and your faith. Prayers. Prayers. Prayers.
i unfortunately have been in your shoes – though in reverse, as i helped and watched my mother pass from cancer when i was 17. i know it’s a horrible and heart-wrenching time. but i can promise you that with time, you forget the bad and remember the good and the funny. though it seems impossible right now, i promise you do. i’m crying along with you. sweet dreams layla, and god speed.
Like so many people all over the world, I’m praying that Layla suffers no more, and that you, your husband, sweet daughters, and all of your family find peace and strength to help carry you through this dark hour. She will surely shine in heaven with her beautiful soul. God Bless you all.
I have never met your family but you will always have a special place in my heart. Layla Grace has forever changed me! I know that everyone has being praying for a Miracle for Layla, I believe that Layla is the MIRACLE!! Layla Grace although your beautiful life will be short you will live on in all of our hearts. God Bless the Child! I pray everyday for your family and my heart goes out to you. -Godspeed, Stacy
Little Layla is the same age as my daughter. I am so stricken with grief and empathy for you and your family. Just know you have changed me and my family. You’ve changed me as a mom. I am better for your story. I cherish every moment with her now. It could have been my Eden and I could easily have been you. Life is so short. I pray for your other children. I went through what they are going through with living in the shadows of a sibling in crisis. It is tough but you are wonderful, caring, aware parents and they are in the best place possible for enduring something this awful and not having the fully mature minds capable of understanding and coming to grips with as we do as adults. I’m so sorry for your loss. I just can NOT imagine. I never want to have to. Just know she’s in the arms of Jesus and you will see her again, whole, complete and fully healed. She is an angel. She has changed so many of us. Love to you and yours. I am praying she has a peaceful passing.
I am praying for your beautiful Layla and your other daughters as well. May God give you all the peace and strength through this most difficult time. Know you are being lifted up in prayer all around the world. May God be with you.
I don’t even know where to begin. Scrolling through the hundreds of comments you’ve gotten makes me know how much Layla’s life as already impacted people.
Your family is amazing. I’ve been keeping up with your story for about a month now, after finding you on Twitter. I have your tweets emailed to my phone so that each time one comes through, I can say a prayer for you all. In between the prayers I say all day.
I’m a mom of an almost 4 month old little girl. I love her, but I can honestly tell you I love her more, and with a deeper compassion, after reading about Layla. I’ve never been a strong Christian, my dad is a pastor so it’s always been the rebel in me to not submit to that. But your blog has changed my life – Layla changed my life. The way you as parents can look at your daughter and accept, even while grieving, the plans God has for her life leaves me filled with wonder. Your faith is so incredible, you are a testament to so many people.
I told my dad about Layla the other day, and said, “Wouldn’t it help more people to come to Christ if she was healed? All these people praying for her would know about God and the miracles he works?” He responded to me just like each one of your posts – it isn’t Layla’s life that will be the impact for people. It will be how her legacy lives on through you. She has touched thousands of lives, and if God chooses to take her home, rest assured she will touch thousands more.
I pray every day for her to be healed – to wake up and be full of life and the tumors to be gone. I wake up at night and watch my child sleep and pray over and over again for you, for what you are going through, for strength in the days ahead, and for your daughters.
Your faith has changed my perspective on being a wife, a mother, and a Christian. I will never, ever forget Layla, or you all. I will make sure that on my end, with the knowledge I have of her, her story is shared and my life stays changed. Because of her.
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11
I pray that GOD gives your family comfort and strength. I pray for layla, jenna, and claire. Please don’t give up.
I have just learned about Layla only a few days ago and already she has changed my life in so many ways. It is so hard to type this without breaking down and I am not even in your shoes. Layla has now made me want to strive to become the best mother of my two children I can possibly be because I never know when my time with them will end, she has made me realize that I need to rebuild my relationship with the lord and most importantly has taught me that despite all the hate in the world when we come together we can share so much love and seeing all the feedback I know there is so much love for your beautiful little girl. I have read the blogs, followed on twitter and have prayed more than I have prayed in a very long time for Layla and your entire family and for this I THANK YOU!!!. Thank you so much for sharing her story publicly so that so many others like myself can be affected in so many ways. Layla will now be forever be in my heart and I will continue to pray for you all. I believe in miracles and I believe if we all continue to pray a miracle can happen!! Lots of love from my family to yours xoxo
My heart breaks for your sorrows…know that we are all praying for your family to have the strength, for your other girls to find their way through, & for the blessing that is Layla Grace. Sharing your journey will be her legacy, the support & compassion her story has raised will be her gift to others. Keeping you in my prayers…..& wishing there were adequate words.
Dear Marsh Family, I just read your latest blog and twitter update. I wish there was a way to show how much Layla’s journey has touched my life. And so I write to you and continue to pray, as do so many people throughout the world.
I hope that our words may provide you with some comfort. My heart aches for your whole family and please know you all continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.
I wish you a peaceful night. Love to you all.
I am still praying also. Praying for Layla, her sisters, you and your husband.
We are praing for the whole family. God has His arms around the whole family at this time.
We weep and pray with you. Blessings on sweet Layla.Praying for your strength. Praying for your older daughters.
I just wanted to thank you for sharing your story with us. Layla has touched so many people and by the sound of it has really taught people how special life is. I always tell my girls I love them but now I tell them even more and I am always giving them kisses. Layla has taught so many people what strength and courage is. Your whole family is in my prayers. Thank you Kim
Someone shared your blog with me, and I sit here on the other side crying my eyes out. I can’t imagine the pain you are gowing through and so sorry to hear that things are so tough and drawn out right now. Please stay strong for her. I know that is hard, I lost my daughter at 3 1/2 months and it was so hard to stay strong for her, I can’t imagine a 2 yr old. Thinking of your family and praying for you.
Michele
I started following your story recently, but Layla and your whole family have been in all of my thoughts and prayers lately. I continue to post your updates as my facebook status in hopes that more people will send positive prayer your way. I know God will continue to give you and your family the strength you need to stay strong and push on. God Bless.
There are no words…once again I find myself bawling over my computer, and desperately hoping that God will intervene and work a miracle.
I just can’t imagine…but if He does call her home, know that you were blessed to be the mommy, daddy, and big sisters to an angel. God sent here her to do something special…and that’s exactly what she’s done.
You are all in my heart…and Layla Grace will always be part of my prayers.
Kim in North Carolina
Heartbroken for you. Hug her gently for the many who are hugging her in their hearts.
You have a ton of ppl in INDIANA praying for Jenna, Claire, Ryan and you and especially little Layla Grace. Thanks so much for sharing her story and getting others to learn more about this cancer that has control of your little one. Keep the FAITH that one day, there will be a cure that will save someone elses little one.
GOD bless each and everyone in your family. <3. Please give Layla Grace, Claire and Jenna XOXO's from everyone in INDIANA .
I only learned about your precious girl a couple of weeks ago, and since then I think I have cried at least once a day…for her, for you, your other 2 daughters. She is in my thoughts and prayers as I go to sleep and as I wake up. I pray for her to not suffer anymore, but also for you to have more precious waking moments with her before she goes. I am so sorry for your pain and especially for hers. She will make a beautiful angel in heaven when her time comes, just as she is on earth. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you, sending you strength, love, peace, and HOPE.
I am without words tonight. My heart is breaking. Jesus loves the little children the best. It must be the highest honor for the angels He sends from Heaven to escort His little ones Home. He must surely come Himself. Praying Layla Godspeed for the rest of her journey.
I am deeply heart-broken by this. I am a mother of 2 and can not even begin to imagine what you all are going through. The fact that you are living through this yourselves shows an extreme amount of strength and faith. I am so sorry for everything your family has gone and is currently going through. Layla is the most beautiful little angel and ya’ll are so lucky to have her. I will be keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers!
The guardian angels of life fly so high as to be beyond our sight, but they are always looking down upon us.
There are no words. Since reading the blog for the first time last week Layla and your whole family has been the only thing I can think about. I pray constantly for a miracle and for strength for your entire family. I lit a candle for her at mass this morning. I wish I could have lit a million. Life and how I appreciate my 3 little ones will never be the same since reading about your family. Much love to all of you.
Hello, from Nebraska. I am so heartbroken for you and your family. Layla is such a precious little girl and I really don’t want her to go, I want her to get better, I want her to be able to run around silly outside in the sun, catch bugs, run through sprinklers, step in puddles, go to the zoo, etc. I really want her to live. I have cried every day since I started reading your blog and twitters as I’m tearing up now writing this. I try not to cry at work while I check up on her/your family’s status. I have never prayed so hard in my life, until recently and it shouldn’t be a situation like this where it leads someone to be more in tune with God and not take anything for granted, but I’m so glad & thankful you have shared your family’s journey and Layla’s journey through this with the public and brought about awareness of a cancer that I have never heard before and realized that it can happen to any of our little ones. This whole thing has made look deeper within myself. I hold and kiss my little one more often (more than he likes, lol!) and have been co-sleeping with him because every breathing minute is precious. I know I’m rambling on, but I will continue to pray for Layla and your family present and future.
I would like to add, because I’m very hopeful that it’s not too late…I agree with the person that posted the comment about stopping the morpine (posted March 7th, 1:37pm “please read! God Bless!”). Morphine, and you can look it up, does shut the body (organs) down slowly. The body needs nourishment to fight, no nourishment no fight, no possibility of recovering. Person begins to sleeps longer & intake of food or drink will eventually stop. Please look this up yourself if you don’t believe me. I know the odds are very against Layla, but think about it. You need nourishment for your organs to sustain you and by doing that you need food. Please take that chance and stop the morphine. There are lawsuits/cases in regards to this and the nurses who are brave enough& put their job on the line, to mention to the patient’s families about this to order a discontinuation of morphine.
My heart is breaking with you but faith is the only thing helping us right know ,I have an 18 month old son and 2 daughters but cant put myself in your shoes I will pray for Layla and your family Please be strong its easy to say but right now I have 2 family members in stage 4 from cancer and like you said GOD and I have been so close but its breaking me down to in many ways but everyday I try to make it thru and be strong but reading about Layla just makes me pray harder instead of crying more .TAKE CARE AND GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY,I;ll continue praying and passing on the word about Layla.
May God give you strength and courage beyond all understanding. He will carry you through. Layla and your precious family are in our prayers.
You have many people crying the tears that you are having to hold in right now. I hope you feel all the hugs that are being sent your way, for there are many!
May Jesus give you the strength and peace you need. Layla, you are shining His light in a dark, dark world. May all who see it see Jesus reflected.
Sweetest Layla, I feel so much closer to God because of you! You have made me want to become a better person. I have discovered love that I never thought possible. I had no idea that a person can feel so much love for someone they have never met. I love you like you are my own baby. I find myself praying and talking/crying out to God many times throughout the day for you and your beautiful family. I have a closer relationship with him because of you and I want to be closer to him because of you. I want you to know that I will never forget your sweet face. You are an Angel.
I Love You!
always praying for you and your family from Katy TX
Still praying for the 5 of you.
God bless you and comfort you.
Sweet Layla Grace and family,
I can not even imagine what you are going through. I read your updates and just cry. God Bless you and your sweet family. I so pray for your two other girls. Give them strength in the coming days. I pray that our most Awesome God wrap his arms around your entire family and give you a strength that is unbelievable. We have all fallen in love with your sweet precious angel and what an awesome family she has.
My heart has been hurting for you over the past two weeks. I somewhat understand your pain; I watched as my premature baby fought for her life one year ago. I had the greatest honor of holding her in my arms as she left this world to go join the angels. I’ve been praying for Layla Grace and talking to my own little angel to ask that she be watching over Layla now and that she may be there to welcome Layla if Layla does leave us. At the same time, I’m praying for a miracle to happen, so Layla doesn’t have to leave yet.
Our faith in God and the belief that we will one day see our own angel again is what has kept my husband and I going this past year. Though it has been devastating to lose our only child, we feel so grateful for the time we did have with her, and we feel honored that God chose US to bring this little angel into the world.
You, your husband, and your two older daughters are deeply in my thoughts and prayers. And sweet Layla Grace, whom I’ve never met yet feel love for, well I am praying fiercely that she may have peace, comfort, bravery, and awareness of the love surrounding her.
What an amazing baby you have brought into this world. May God Bless all of you.
It’s difficult to know what to say after reading so many of these excellent comments before mine. A lot of people sending love and praying for your family and Layla Grace. I like the idea of all of us praying together for her and hopefully making some difference in some ways which maybe we just cant see right this moment.
I’ve been praying for your older daughters. I’m certain this is next to impossibly hard for them also. They are separated from you, from their sister whom they love and things must seem very very bleak right now.
So my prayers go out to them most certainly.
I dont know how these things usually go during a deathwatch with siblings but I do know that Hospice in my area has a program called “Stepping Stones” for children who are grieving and it makes a world of difference for them in being able to process their grief. My mother has been a volunteer there for years (her speciality is grief).
I hope that you are able to send them to some similiar program. I believe that you have done and are doing the best you can in this time and for this I commend you. God Bless your family. God send His Love to you to carry you on as you walk this difficult path.
Peace to you all.
Praying for comfort and peace for little Layla, and your whole family! God bless you and your sweet angel! ♥ Her life might be a short one, but her legacy will be for forever.
Praying Praying Praying!!! May God wrap his arms around your entire family!
i will be keeping beautiful Layla in our prayers as well as her 2 beautiful sisters and her incredible mommy and daddy! You are amazing as i read your blog for the first time it brought tears to my eyes and chilsl through out my body. Layla will soon be a gorgeous angel watching over your wonderful family. you all will be in my prayers forever! i mean that what you are going through…i cant even imagine. our love is with layla. May God take her in peace and know that your family is in many peoples hearts. we love you may you all be at peace knowing when the time comes Layla is happy and is at peace herself. And one day will be greeting you with open arms and showing you the wonderful place called heaven. our love –the bennett family.
I am praying and lifting your family up. My heart is breaking for you, but I know that, “What we sow in tears we reap in joy.” Psalms 126:5.
Without a doubt in my mind, I know that you and your husband will spend an eternity with your sweet Layla, and that the pain of this seperation will make sense in eternity. I hope that Layla and my daughter Ireland become friends in heaven. What a sweet thing to hope for.
You are loved, kiss that sweet girl from a praying mama in Montana.
In his grip.
Jessica Hanson
Praying for sweet Layla, her sisters, and parents. May God give you the Peace that passes understanding. Her pictures are truly gorgeous.
Jeremiah 29:11
I’m sitting here pleading with God on behalf of your sweet Layla and family. My mind and heart can’t grasp even a small fraction of all the emotions you are experiencing now and will continue to experience. I pray for God’s peace and understanding to flood every inch of your hearts. I’m praying for no more pain sweet Layla. Whether that be God’s healing or bringing you home, I’m praying for Him to take your pain away. You are such a strong little girl, 2 years old and you’ve touched thousands of lives.
Even in the valleys of life, our God is good, and He is faithful.
May God Bless your family!
I can’t even imagine what you guys as parents are going thru nevertheless what sweet little Layla is going thru. I keep praying for all of you and I strongly believe God is going to make a miracle come true, he will heal every bit of pain and discomfort Layla has. Because of Layla I treasure every bit of a second I get with my daughters even more<3
I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers!
I love you sweet little Layla!
I think about Jenna everyday along with Layla, I too have 3 daughters. My daughter will be 9 in April and my middle daughter just turned 2. I talk to my oldest about Layla all the time. I feel so deeply for your family, I will always keep your family in my thoughts in prayers.
We love you Layla!!!
I pray for your family and sweet little Layla. I pray for peace and comfort for all your little girls. My heartbreaks and I love you. God bless you, little Layla and your family.
Julie
Bemidji, MN
I find myself over and over again checking in on your sweet angel. I can’t even bear the thought of what you must be going through and the thought of your family having to watch your little girl during this difficult time. I only learned of Layla’s story about a week ago and find myself telling people all about her here in Alaska. Such a sweet innocent life being taken so early is heartbreaking. Although I can’t understand God’s plan for her it must just make sense to him. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Peace to baby Layla!
I am praying for you all. I know that words are not enough, and I am so sorry for everything that you are going through. Love to you all.
I have been following your family’s story and praying for you.
I keep wondering if you have heard of Hydrogen Peroxide Therapy? I have a friend of a friend who was cured of their cancer with this therapy.
She passed along a website to me: http://www.oneminutecure.com
They actually want you to pay $40 for a copy of the ebook with the protocul but I would gladly pass this along to you if you respond to my email, as I have no way to attach it here. I don’t know if it is the miracle you seek but have enough faith in it to know it is worth a try. It is cheap and simple. Please email me if you would like to see it.
God has placed all 5 of you on our hearts! We are continually praying for all of you and trusting that God is holding you close during this time.
Dearest Layla and Marsh Family, I can honestly say that I have never been so concerned w anyone that I’ve never met before like I am Layla. I wake up in the middle of the night to check for updates, and continue to check all through the day! God is working thru you Little Layla and your wonderful family! Marsh family you are amazing! Please know that we are all praying for you all! Praying for Gods Will, strength and peace and comfort for you all! I wish I could give lil Layla a hug! Goodnite all! God Bless you all!!! Hoping for a peaceful, comfortable night!
Hope these words bring you comfort! Praying!
Isaiah 12:2-3 Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation. Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation.
Prayer Bears
My email address
I am very upset to hear she is so weak and won’t open het mouth to drink…I pray at least a dozen times a day for a mirage to save her…..She is such a beautiful angel…..It is Hell to have to watch your little Angel finish in front of your very eyes…..It makes me so angry that this is happening to this wonderful beautiful child and there’s not you or us or anyone can do to save her…..I emailed doctor Phil week ago and begged his help…..He seems to have connections other people do not have…..I was praying he could fly her in his private jet to a facilty that could stabilize her then cure her but from your last blows the inevitable is going to happy weather any of us can stop it or not…..It brings me to tears…..It’s so unfair…..all you can do is let her know how loved she is and keeping loving her….You are wonderful parents and I am so sorry this is happening to you family…..this experience will forever change you…..I hope you keep up your positive attitude and keep helping others in the future and I would love to see you take all your notes,Blogger,Twitter and write a book on layla grace sweet life….start out from the time you first found out you were pregnant to birth to milestones to the time all this started…You are a very.strong lady Shanna. Thank you for shearing layla with us….We love her so much and are only sorry that we never got the pleasure of meeting an Angel on earth.Hang in there and please give out sweet Angel kiss’s and Hugs!!!!!
Our family is praying for your family! Thank you for sharing your sweet Layla Grace with everyone. I’ve learned so much from her and her journey!
2 Corinthians 12:9 “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
Dear Lord, I lift up Jenna and Claire to you tonight and ask you to protect their hearts, surround them with Your perfect love that casts out all fear. I pray especially for Jenna and her walk with you, I pray Lord that you would comfort Jenna, draw her into your loving arms and surround her with the peace that transcends all understanding. I pray that You would strengthen Jenna and grow her to take on the enormous challenge of this reality and all the tomorrows she will face without her family being complete here on earth. I pray that Your Holy Spirit be upon Jenna now and guide her through these dark days. I pray that as she enters her teen years that Your mighty hand would hold her tight and keep her from slipping away. I am in awe of Your work Lord, how you have drawn literally thousands of people to Layla’s side, to walk daily, hourly and sometimes minute by minute with this precious family. You have given little Layla a HUGE light for all the world to see.
Matt. 5:14-16: “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
Sending more prayers for peace and strength for Layla and your family. Please give Layla and her sisters extra hugs and kisses from us.
Love and Hugs from PA.
Layla is a trooper. I’ve been following her journey for awhile. Faith is something to hold onto strongly. You guys are in my thought, and my prayers every single day. So are your other children. I can imagine how hard it is for Jenna. you guys are so strong. I have a two year old myself, I hug him all the time because time is so precious. I will keep praying. God Bless you
I, like so many others, have a hard time coming up with the words to say. I can’t imagine what you are having to go through right now. I have been consumed with prayers for your family the last several weeks. I feel like I have known your family for years, but it has only been weeks. I just want you to know how Layla has touched my life. She has made me a better mom, teacher and overall person. I stop and take in the little things that I am normally to busy to stop and enjoy. I am aware of neuroblastoma and trying to do what I can to raise money and awareness for the cause. She has connected me to a child in my community with the same type of cancer and efforts to help her out. I have her picture on my desk and at home and I look at her and can’t help but become overwhelmed with emotions. I have told so many her story. She has brought me closer to God. I thank you, Shanna and Ryan, for being brave enough to share Layla’s story with the world. I am in awe of your strength and courage and hurt for your sweet little angel. I know that God has a plan and I pray for no more suffering for your sweet baby. Know that she has made a difference in my life and I will never forget her. She will live on in my heart and my prayers. I wish I could offer you more…but know I am praying continually for your family.
May the Lord bless you and keep you.
May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you.
May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.
Peace is my wish and prayer for you all. I offer you my love and support.
Your daughter has touched so many lives and has made a difference in her short sweet life. I am praying for you and your family daily for strength, peace and comfort. I will specifically ask for peace and comfort for your other two sweet girls. Thank you for sharing your story and your angel. Because you have, I treasure my own two gifts from God that much more. I promise not to ever take a moment with them for granted.
Miss Layla,
You are one brave, strong, courageous, special, beautiful little girl. Your sisters are so lucky to have you as their sister. I wish you much peace. And know that you and your beautiful life have touched mine and my family’s all the way across the nation. I really hope you know how special your mom and dad are. They are very special people to have shared you and your journey with the world. You will be in my heart forever!
Jeanne
I think of your family so often through the day, tonight after I put my boys to bed I turned off all the noise in my house and just prayed for you all. I lost my mom this past October to brain cancer, but I can’t imagine if it was one of my little boys. I will continue to cover you in prayer!
I AS A MOTHER OF THREE GIRLS CANT EVEN IMAGINE WHAT YOU AND YOUR FAMILY IS GOING THROUGH. I HOPE & PRAY FOR THE FAITH IN ALL THE PRAYERS TO MAKE A MIRCLE HAPPEN. IM SURE THAT IT IS PURE HELL FOR YOU AND RYAN TO KNOW THAT YOUR BABY IS SICK NOT KNOWING THAT YOU WILL ONLY HAVE YOUR ANGLE FOR A SMALL TIME. YOUR FAMILY IS GOING TO HOLD YOUR HEADS UP HIGH AND KNOW HOW MANY PEOPLE THAT LAYLA GRACE HAS TOUCH DEEPLY… GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY…
There are no great words of wisdome, no eloquent words that will help. But what I can do and will continue to do is to continue to pray for all of you. Your story of faith is truly inspiring. Your love and faith is teaching me to be a better person, but most importantly to seek God more completely even when we are having a bad day with our son. To read your posts and hear your heart, is so awe inspiring, I cannot begin to fathom what you are going through but what I can gleen from this is that your a woman/man/family of the one true God, and that in Him there is hope and peace. I will continue to pray for the miraculous healing of Layla, but I have also been learning from you to pray for His will in all situations.
With my love and prayers
My mommy heart aches for you and your husband. My sister heart aches for your daughters. My God-loving heart aches for what our loved ones experience here on earth.
My mom and I always joke that it “takes a village” to raise my 3 “heck-raising” kids. I just want you to know that even though you don’t know this particular village that I am praying for your strength and peace every day since I heard about your sweet baby last week. I am losing sleep for you and hope that you can have some peace in knowing that your experience is teaching me to cherish EVERY moment I have with my 4 and 5 year old girls, no matter how mundane the moment may be.
Thank you, your husband, and Layla Grace for this gift. My heart is with you and your sweet girls and your parents.
I have just found your site via my cousin whose son has been recently diagnosed. Praying for your family in this most difficult time. May you have peace and comfort during this moment in life. I pray that you can rest in His arms.
Layla one of God’s littlest angels has endured so much in her short life. I pray that God releases her from her earthly pain and brings you and your family peace. Peace when the warmth of the sun shines across your faces, peace when a gentle breeze caresses your skin, peace in the fragrant beauty of nature, peace in the gentle drops of rain that fall as the earth joins you and peace in the beauty of a sunset that reminds you of your precious little one.
My family and I are praying for all of you in this very tough and difficult time. May God richly bless you with the time you have left with Layla Grace. Enjoy every moment, as you have done, and continue to cherish the memories. Love to you all.
I am praying for comfort and peace for all of you. I pray for your other children and for mom and dad. Please stay strong during this trying time. Layla, baby girl, you have touched my hard in more ways than you can imagine. I look at my kids in a different light. I hug them tighter. You are such a strong and beautiful girl and I pray for strength and healing for you sweetheart. You have created miracles in so many people. I pray for a miracle for you sweetheart. You are in my thoughts at all times of the day. I pray for you throught my days and you will always hold a special place in my heart. Stay strong baby. God is holding you and has great plans for you. Love you Layla Grace~Alilson
I sat down and read your entire story a few weeks ago… my heart breaks and soars at the same time. Layla has made more of an impact on the world than she’ll ever know. God bless your family.
I don’t know what to say except that your family has been on my mind.
Angela
Not sure if you got it, but i wrote a song for Layla.
Hopefully she will get a chance to hear it:
http://www.4shared.com/file/235872903/44065c11/Laylas_Song.html
I sent you a copy of the lyrics and mp3 of the song to your gmail account.
My continued prayers for Little Layla Grace, she is a courageous little angel. My prayers continue also for your entire family may you find peace during this time with Layla!
Dear Marsh Family,
I have been following you for weeks now and I’m in awe of your strength. Layla is a beautiful little angel and I know that your hearts desire is for her to be completely healed as only God can do. I’m praying for that healing and will continue to pray for that with all the faith I have until God makes it evident that His will is otherwise.
Layla, I want you to know that you have touched my heart! Your strength and beauty is inspiring! I think and pray for you all throughout the day and I check on you before I go to bed, middle of the night and as soon as I wake up, just as I do my own four children. You are in my heart and I feel so close to you. Your parents are so blessed to have you. I pray for sweet dreams as you sleep and I pray for your sweet sisters to be able to comprehend everything happening in a way that will make sense to them and bring them closer to God in the future.
You are a God-send Layla Grace Marsh and my life is richer for knowing you. I love you sweet sister in Christ, ~BetsyH
I can’t even begin to imagine your pain. I am keeping up with your website and with your sweet angel. I am praying for you, with you. May God hold you and keep you.
You don’t know me. I am not a religious person. But I check your site 10 times a day at least, and if the world worked this way, I’d offer my own life to save Layla’s. My heart goes out to your entire family.
Praying daily for Layla and the family. I pray for comfort and peace for her. I pray for peace and understanding for her sisters. I can’t begin to imagine what her siblings are going through. I want to thank you for sharing your journey with us. I only came to know of Layla Grace at the end of Feb. I tell anyone who will listed to please pray for her. Layla has reminded me to be a better mom and be a better person. Cherish all that life gives. Even when things get tough, cherish every moment. Layla and your family has also reminded me that faith in our Lord and Savior is everything. I pray that she is not suffering. Please know that she has touched my heart profoundly. I will never forget her.
Praying in Kansas for peace, comfort, and understanding for Layla, her big sisters, and your family.
Praying with you tonight. thanks for giving us the update…
I am fighting cancer myself, however, I can’t imagine the pain you feel at watching your baby go through this. Your family will be added to our nightly prayers. Huge hugs going out to your whole family.
Dearest Marsh Family,
I’m so sorry for what your going through, I have really been touched by your story, and feel like your family is part of my family. You have let all of us in on such touching, and heartbreaking part of your life. I wake up praying for Layla Grace, and find myself praying and thinking of your family and Layla through out the day, constantly checking for updates. I want you to know that I’m still praying for a miracle, I never prayed so hard for someone, but Layla Grace has touched my heart. So I will continue to pray without stopping. My 8 year old son is always asking how your little sweetie is doing,he is praying also. All our love, The Beasley family~~~~~ From Wyoming.
I’ve been keeping up with Layla for a few weeks now and your story has truly touched me. I have an 11 month old and when I read your post about wishing our little ones would just take a nap so that we could get things done around the house it really hit me hard. I’m a work at home mom so in the past, I always looked forward to getting things done during my daughters nap time. However, I have learned not to take my daughter’s “awake” time for granted.
I cannot imagine the pain of losing your little one and I am amazed at the strength of Layla and your entire family! Praying for Layla’s peace and comfort.
I recently started following your story, and I can’t tell you how much it has touched me. I have a daughter who is two months older than Layla, and I’ve been hugging her tighter the past few days. I’ve been posting links to your site on Twitter and Facebook, and also posted information on my blog.
Neuroblastoma is such an unfair disease; I’ve been experiencing it through my neighbor, Hans Weberling, for over three years now. Through the Weberlings, I’ve learned so much about the disease, and have followed several other children in the Houston area with it. I also try to participate in the fundraisers that they have to raise awareness for Neuroblastoma.
I am currently in nursing school, and have been inspired by Layla Grace’s and Hans’ stories to pursue a career in pediatric nursing. I think it would be so wonderful to be able to provide comfort to sick babies and children, as well as their families.
I pray for you and your family, that you continue to have the strength that it takes to make it through this hard time.
I think of your family constantly. Your grace is awe-inspiring. Many, many prayers going out to your sweet baby.
I’ve only been following for about a week now…but little Layla has my heart….I hope God puts his hands on your shoulders during this difficult time. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Praying for sweet, beautiful Layla Grace and for your family. I check Layla’s page everyday just hoping and praying for a miracle. Layla you are only 2 and your story has touched so many people. God Bless you Shanna, Ryan, Jenna and Claire. Sending much love, hugs and prayers to Layla.
Please know that you and your precious family are in my thoughts & prayers.
My heart and my prayers are with you and your precious Layla tonight. I pray for your family and sweet Layla to feel only love. The power of love, the power of Jesus, our Great Redeemer, will sustain you and heal you. So much love to you.
Layla is so beautiful. I can’t quit thinking about her. I keep checking for new tweets or updates. My family is praying for all of you. I can’t even imagine the heart ache that your family is going through. I have a two year old also. I am praying for God’s healing for sweet Layla.
….and with his stripes we are healed!!
Your family’s pain breaks my heart. If I could replace your daughter’s disease with my health, I would do it this instant. Your faith and strength in the face of this has made more of an impact than I think you could ever possibly know. May you find peace in the time you have left with your daughter, and may our thoughts and prayers hold you up when you feel you are too weak to go on.
With much love from Michigan,
Mel
Prayers to sweet little Layla, and many prayers to you and your family. May God bless you. <3
Dear God,
We come before you right now Lord and ask that you hear this prayer…for mom & dad; we ask God that you continue to provide strength, grace, and faith. For Jenna & Claire; we pray that you bless these little girls with the understanding of your LOVE for them &we pray that your angels touch thier lives in way that can only be explained as a miracle from God. For Layla; Lord, we pray that whatever your plans are for little Layla, you would bring them to pass. We pray for peace, comfort, tranquility, and most of all, we pray for your GRACE!
In Jesus Name, Amen
As I sit here again and read this my heart breaks more and more. And I am crying my eyes out, again! As a mom I can’t begin to imagine the hurt, anger, sadness, all the emotions that you are possibly going through. I follow your story everyday, through some many different sites, and everyday I pray for a miracle. I pray for you all like I have never prayed for anyone or anything in my life. I can’t find the words to say on here, because they seem like they are never enough. I watched my father lose his battle to cancer as well, and there is no one that can prepare you for what you are going through. You are right, you have to take it day by day. All I can tell you is that I will continue to pray for you and your entire family. And even though I never met you, you are constantly in my thoughts. There is not a day that goes by that I don’t think of you all and especially Layla. She is and will always be a big part of my life, her story will live on through my family as well!!!
Dear Marsh family,
Thank you for your STRENGTH. Thank you for sharing YOUR MIRACLE, Layla Grace with the WORLD. I am a 39 yr old mother of one 15-month old daughter in NC. Emma Grace is MY MIRACLE as she is an IVF baby who I prayed so for God to give me. Although she was over 5 weeks early, I am so BLESSED that she is and always has been a healthy child. I came across your story a week ago Saturday and your PRECIOUS daughter and family have not left my thoughts since. So many things about your story have touched me so deeply. Maybe is is because my Emma Grace is almost the age Layla Grace was when she was diagnosed. Maybe it is because I’ve seen myself so caught up in day-to-day events that (I realized when reading your post from February 16 “Sleep, Valentine’s Day and Regrets”) I, myself, a person who prayed SOOOOO much for God to bless me with a child, often would wish for an early nap, or to load the dishwasher without Emma Grace’s help because I could get it done so much faster, or just a break from my day-to-day duties as a mother that often seem to go by unnoticed and with little gratitude or appreciation. In your BEAUTIFUL, HEARTFELT words, I realized I was not EMBRACING the GIFT of MY DAUGHTER and that of BEING A MOTHER AS RICHLY AS I SHOULD. Thank you so much for reminding me of the everyday MIRACLES that lie in the most insignificant actions. HONESTLY, I can say that I have not changed a dirty diaper in the past week that I didn’t stop and think, “Thanks be to GOD my Emma Grace can make dirty diapers and relieve herself.” Your GRACE, STRENGTH and CANDOR have FOREVER changed my life and the way I will look at and think of everyday events. I have kissed and loved and truly marveled at the MIRACLE & BLESSING my child is. Through this renewed appreciation of my BLESSING, I have PRAYED like never before for your family and HEALING for precious Layla Grace. I have always “believed” but have not lived a life that exemplifies that which should be a Christian. I have asked (even called and emailed people) to PRAY for your family and especially for the healing of that precious child. I have been on my knees each night before bed PRAYING for a MIRACLE for Layla Grace and for GOD to HEAL HER LITTLE EARTHLY BODY and TAKE HER PAIN AWAY. These are things I have never reached out as a Christian and done before. I have PRAYED for STRENGTH & PEACE for you ALL. I think of Layla Grace and your family when I first wake and I’m PRAYING before my feet hit the floor. I wish there was something profound I could say to ease your pain but I know that isn’t possible. I do hope that you take some comfort in KNOWING that Layla Grace has TOUCHED, CHANGED and CAPTURED the HEARTS and SOULS of SO MANY PEOPLE. Children EVERYWHERE are MORE LOVED, APPRECIATED and MARVELED AT BECAUSE OF THE LOVE YOUR SHARED WITH THE WORLD THROUGH YOUR PRECIOUS DAUGHTER. She is a MIRACLE … thank you again, for unselfishly sharing YOUR MIRACLE with the WORLD. I PRAY tonight (among other things) for Layla Grace and your family’s STRENGTH, COMFORT, HEALING & PEACE in your home. May GOD BLESS and KEEP YOU ALL … you ALL (family and Layla Grace) will FOREVER be in my THOUGHTS and PRAYERS!
Much love …
Katherine
I have been following Layla’s story for a couple weeks now and I am beyond heartbroken for your family. I burst into tears at the thought of this little baby girl suffering. Layla has touched my heart and held on tight….I can’t tell you how many times throughout the day I think about her and pray for a miracle, desperately wanting God to heal her. She has reminded me what is important in life and to cherish every second with my own children. I have hugged onto them tighter and cried my eyes out countless times in the past week….thinking of her, praying for her.
I’m praying for her comfort and peace and for strength and understanding for her entire family….and still for a miracle. What a gift she is to everyone you have shared her story with. She will continue to be in my heart, she has touched my life forever.
I can not even begin to fathom wha tyou are going through, it is one of my biggest fears. your Grace, and your families grace through this journey has truley inspired me. I pray continously for beautiful Layla, that she not suffer anymore and that her passing be a peaceful one both for you and for her. You are making her journey to be with God as comfortable as you can, and you are an amazing family.
God Bless.
Nothing I will say will be more profound or mean more than what others have expressed, however, I wll say this – you have brought more people closer to their faith than anyone being I have ever known. If that is your job or if is Layla’s I am not even sure. What I do know, is that my life, my daughter and my husband’s life will never be the same since I have learned of you and your family. You are in my prayers and thoughts every minute of the day and if I could I would be there holding and hugging you, thanking you for being the angels on earth that until now, did not know for sure existed. GOD be with you always and ever. May you find peace and may your daughters find peace and comfort in the love that GOD provides. Always know you are remembered, loved, cared about and appreciated. Your presence will never leave my heart.
God bless you and provide you with comfort and peace. Love always, Cassandra Ferder
I know we are not of the same faith (but faith is faith in my book!) I just wanted to share a scripture that made me think of you. It’s found in a book called the Doctrine and Covenants (not tryin’ to preach, just wanted to share
121:7 My son, peace be unto thy soul; thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment;
8 And then, if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high; thou shalt triumph over all thy foes.
9 Thy friends do stand by thee….
You are amazing. I pray for you. I weep for you. I love Layla and so do THOUSANDS of others. Thank you for sharing your life so others can make the most of theirs.
Teary eyed over this post and pictures of Layla Grace. I looked through all of them.
Layla Grace is certainly a radiant light that has touched so many lives; Even in the pictures where it is apparent that she is not feeling well, she still looks happy and very obviously well loved. She is a beautiful little girl.
I wish Layla Grace, both of you, your daughters, your parents and friends and family peace and comfort in the days to come.
Sending prayers your way for you and your whole family. You’re an amazing mom.
Sweet Layla~ You are such an inspiration to my life. You have make me be a better mother to my 2 children, a better wife to my husband, and made my relationship stronger with God. I Thank you for that. I couldn’t stop crying when I read your story. As I sit here, I am holding back tears for you. I love you like you are my own child. I wish I could take your pain away baby girl. You clearly have touched so many lives, and made a positive impact to so many in this negative world. There is no doubt that
God clearly has his hand on you. I pray for a miracle for you Layla. This world needs more people like you. We have all been blessed by your soul. You are a true angel on this earth. Get a good night sleep sweetheart.
Keely
You may have addressed this. Why was there not a feeding tube inserted ? If there was a hope, for a miracle why go the route that you took ?
I am only curious. Not condemning, but just curious.
Precious Layla, your other two daughters and you and your husband stay on my mind constantly since I first found your blog. I pray for you all through out the day every day. I have shared your story with others for prayer. I check your blog and twitter several times a day to keep updated on this little angel. My children come home from school every day and ask how Layla Grace is doing today. I have prayed for her healing but as you said in one of your posts God is going to heal her just not how we have all prayed for it to be. I pray that God can heal you all. I pray that the wonderful memories and moments with little Layla will be a quilt of love you feel wrapped around you in your journey ahead. You will all continue to be in my prayers. Thank you for sharing your precious baby with us.
I just sat here for 3 hours and read from the beginning to now. Wow what a brave and beautiful little Girl Layla Grace is. I’m praying for you all , thanks for sharing your precious little girl with us all.
OMGOSH! I almost cried reading this! I feel so bad for your family but I also feel blessed as well. She’s been such a trouper with this condition and I know it’s not easy but you are being very strong. =] You and your will ALWAYS in my prayers and I love you all! I love kids so I feel your pain even though Layla isn’t even mine. THING POSITIVE AND GOD BLESS!
Hi, I am from Maldives,
Ever since i came across your story, I have been thinking & praying for sweet little Angel Layla & the family. speacially for your eldest daughter, she must be going throught so much. I am a total stranger for your family but everytime i think about sweet layla my heart achs & i cry. So who can even imagine a 9 year old would be going through now.
No words can describe how i feel for your family, but just wanted to let you guys know that, even from the other side of the world we are thinking about your little angel & praying for you all.
Thank you so much for sharing your life with us all. We are praying for comfort and peace for all of you.
Love, Maree.
praise you Lord god Almighty for your word says that “we are healed by his stripes”, Layla Grace Marsh is Healed by Jesus’s stripes. come quickly to help Layla Grace Marsh O Lord her Savior. I praise you for a quick and swift healing on your precious and beautiful daughter Layla Grace. Lord your word says “that you pay for what you order”; I praise you Lord for you have ordered that Layla Grace Marsh to be healed, and that you pay for the healing. You gave us your one and only son, Jesus Chirst, he took our sin’s and afflictions and disease to the cross, I praise you and I Lay that affliction of stage 4 neuroblastoma at your feet and demand it to loose Layla Grace Marsh and let her go, for she is a child of the most high king and Layla Grace Marsh will live and not die, and she shall declare the works of the lord God Almighty. Father God your word say’s that what the enemy has meant for evil that you will turn it around and use it for your glory”, I praise you Lord for you have healed Layla Grace and you will continue to walk beside Layla Grace Marsh forever. Your word says that Layla Grace Marsh will Walk and not grow faint, that she will run and not grow wearier”. I praise you for your supernatural Healing over your Daughter Layla Grace, for you have ordered it. your word says lord, “that you will deliver Layla Grace Marsh in times of trouble, the lord will protect Layla and preserve her life and that you will not surrender her to the desires of her foes, the Lord will sustain Layla Grace on her sickbed and RESTORE Layla Grace Marsh from her bed of illness.” Under the feathers of the almighty Layla Grace Marsh shall abide, you are her rock and fortress, her shield and buckler. The Lord is layla Grace’s shepard, Ye though she walks through the valley of the shawdow of death, Layla Grace will fear no evil, for you rod and staff comfort Layla Grace, you prepare a table before Layla Grace in the presence of her enemies, you anoint Layla Grace’s head with oil, her cup runneth over, surely goodness and mercy and love will follow Layla Grace Marsh all the days of her life, and Layla Grace will dwell in thhe house of the Lord forever. Our father which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thine kingdom come, thine will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give Layla Grace Marsh this day her daily bread, forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who tresspass against us, lead us not into temtation and deliver Layla Grace from the evil one, for thine is the kingdom of the power of and the glory of forever and ever AMEN. In JESUS NAME AMEN, this i pray,and stand for Amen. Sweet Child of the most High King, Layla Grace i will and am standing on the word of God for your miracilous supernatural Healing of God. I will stand, having done all to stand as God’s word says, for you and you Beautiful family. You are a blessed child of God, you and your family all are, Dear sweet Mama of Little Layla Grace, you are blessed to have this little girl in your life, I have spread the word throughout my spiritual family and we will continue to stand on the word of God for Layla and you and yours, please email me for any pray request, we will continue to help you stand on God’s word for Layla Grace’s healing, for she is healed by JESUS Stripes, in the JESUS Name, Amen. (I capitalized JESUS because that means we are shouting his name over her) God Bless you and your family Little Layla Grace Marsh!!!!!!!!!!!!
I lost my 1 1/2 year old baby sister when I was 10 years old. It was very hard on me, I was very close to her. I was always happy though that she came into my life, even for such a brief time. She helped shape me into a better person I think then I would have been had I never known her, or felt her love. I am sending up prayers, especially for your oldest daughter. I know she is hurting, and I hope that eventually she will be able to remember the good times with her baby sister and smile like I can. Hugs.
My heart breaks each time I think of what your family is going through. I pray each day for Lyla Grace and for your entire family. I will send up special prayers for Jenna and Claire. I will keep Jenna in my thoughts and prayers throughout the day.
Blessings to your entire family.
Mary
I am the lady who posted above, there is some spelling errors, thats okay…
the reason I commet those awesome things above is because, not only was i lead to pray for Layla Grace, but my friend was in a bad motorcycle accident back in 2003, because of the wreak, he was in a Coma for a year, but his momma and all of his family and friends and i Stood on the Word of God like i did above, we did it ever day, and He came out of it. Standing on the word really works, try it, once you start you won’t quit. I just had to share this testimony, because faith will get us all though tough times. If anyone wants to know more about healing through standing on the word and if you want to walk in God’s glory every day, I encourage you to Look up Jesse Duplantis Ministries @ JDM.org and the David Herzog Ministries at their website@ Thegloryzone.org. They know the tools and will help teach each and everyone of you how to use God’s tools. God bless, don’t forget to ask God for more of his knowledge and Glory everyday.
Layla Grace Marsh, You are Healed you are Healed You are Healed my your saviour Jesus’s Stripes. I praise you god for you hold Layla Grace in your arms forever!
Wishing you, your family, and especially your sweet baby comfort at this time. May her body, mind, and soul be at peace. And may your mind be at ease knowing that you have been the best family that any baby could wish for.
Thank you for giving me perspective on the daily struggles with my healthy toddler and teaching me to be thankful for all the time we have.
I cannot begin to imagine what you are going through, but I wish you all the best and hope that you will know peace and joy again soon. Your sweet girl would want you to experience joy every day.
I know that you will be able to let her body go, knowing that her soul is with you all the time – and her heart will always be bound to yours – and her sisters’.
Your story is such an inspiration to me and to all who I share your story with. May the holy spirit continue to guide you and comfort you in all you are going through. I am heavy-hearted by your struggle and am in awe of your strength and continued faith. Layla’s story is speaking to many and I pray that many many people will come to know the Lord through her precious little life.
You are all so impossibly strong amidst this anguish. I am in awe of you, your family and dear Layla. I am still praying for you constantly, especially for an end to poor Layla’s suffering, and thinking of you every day. May God heal you from this ordeal.
O Christ Jesus,
When all is darkness
and we feel our weakness and helplessness,
Give us the sense of Your presence,
Your love, and Your strength.
Help us to have perfect trust
in Your protecting love
and strengthening power,
so that nothing may frighten or worry us,
for, living close to You,
we shall see Your hand,
Your purpose, Your will through all things.
-St. Ignatius Loyola
you are very lucky to have your faith in the midst of all you are going through. i know for sure i do not have that. you are in my thoughts.
I have only been following sweet Layla’s story for about a week but I read the entire journey last night, and went to bed in tears! I am praying all day long for your entire family, praying that if a miracle is not going to happen, that sweet, precious Layla can go peacefully and comfortably. I know there is nothing to say to make anything about this better, but know that thousands are praying and loving your Layla! I feel so connected to your family through hearing her story. I will continue to pray, and Layla will not be forgotten. God Bless You All!
With all our love,
Richie, Alyssa, and baby Maeson
Sacramento, California
FROG-Fully Relly On God.
Millions of us cant begin to know what you are going through, and thousands of people can. I pray for strength for EVERYONE in your family. You should have Jenna write a letter to Layla, it might help with the coping? I hope and pray Jenna will be ok. She is already much stronger then tons of 9 year olds out there! Hope she knows how much she is loved. Claire is amazing too, she doesnt understand but one day she will. And she will know what a great and strong 3 year old she was at the time. I pray for no more pain and suffering for Layle Grace. I pray that Jenna be able to cope with this in the best way she can, I pray for Clarie to be ok when she relaizes Layla will not be coming home anymore, and I pray for mother and father to have the strength and courage to push through and have the strength to get by. Nothing you can do but FROG!
Praying and Hoping For your family
Courtney
While I have never met sweet Layla Grace, I know my life will never be the same after reading about her journey. I have never, ever cried so hard or had something consume me the way her story has. There has not been a moment that has gone by since first learning about Layla Grace that I have not been thinking about and praying for your family. While I feel silly saying this because I can not begin to imagine how you feel, at times it’s as if an elephant is sitting on my chest and I break down several times a day because I am just unable to stop the tears. I have never, ever had more love, awe, understanding and patience for my 3 young boys as I do now. If I get frustrated, all I can do is think of your Valentine’s Day/Regrets blog and I am not upset anymore. I am thankful for every day and never been so happy and excited to spend time with my boys as I am now. Things that seemed important a month ago, are meaningless now. Through your writings, nothing has ever rocked me to the core and put my life and purpose here in perspective the way Layla has. She makes me want to be a better mother/wife/friend/person in general.There is a piece of my heart that she will always hold and while this may sound strange having never met her, a part of me loves her.
I pray for Jenna and Claire, my heart goes out to them and I pray that they know how special they are. I pray for strength for you and Ryan and thank you for sharing your story. And I pray for sweet Layla Grace to know she has touched SO many people and has done more thus far in her life than so many others could only ever dream to do in lifetimes. How many people can say that they have brought people closer to God? Closer to their families? That they have taught people what really matters in life? Or because of them, people want to give up their free time to volunteer and raise money/awareness to help others? Been able to touch all different types of people and their hearts all around the world? AND HOW MANY CAN SAY THEY HAVE ACTUALLY TAUGHT MOTHERS HOW TO LOVE THEIR CHILDREN MORE??? Wow, I am in awe of your message Layla Grace. You are an angel, a beautiful angel and will forever hold a piece of so many people’s hearts. While my husband and I have no plans to have any more children, I smile to think if I ever did have a girl, I would be honored to name her Layla.
If there is ever, ever ANYTHING that those of us out here can do, please just post it and it will be done.
May God watch over you all and give you comfort, peace, strength and love.
Prayers… Tears… Hugs… and Love… sent your way
You all are in my prayers all day each day, and will continue to be for a long time to come. You’ll need it for a long time to come. I pray that, when Layla finally meets God face to face, it involves a long and wonderful hug and snuggle – because snuggling won’t hurt her anymore and she can just enjoy it there.
While I have never met sweet Layla Grace, I know my life will never be the same after reading about her journey. I have never, ever cried so hard or had something consume me the way her story has. There has not been a moment that has gone by since first learning about Layla Grace that I have not been thinking about and praying for your family. While I feel silly saying this because I can not begin to imagine how you feel, at times it’s as if an elephant is sitting on my chest and I break down several times a day because I am just unable to stop the tears. I have never, ever had more love, awe, understanding and patience for my 3 young boys as I do now. If I get frustrated, all I can do is think of your Valentine’s Day/Regrets blog and I am not upset anymore. I am thankful for every day and never been so happy and excited to spend time with my boys as I am now. Things that seemed important a month ago, are meaningless now. Through Layla Grace and your writings, I have put my my life and purpose in perspective. There is a piece of my heart that she will always hold and while this may sound strange having never met her, a part of me loves her.
I pray for Jenna and Claire, my heart goes out to them and I pray that they know how special they are. I pray for strength for you and Ryan and thank you for sharing your story. And I pray for sweet Layla Grace to know she has touched SO many people and has done more thus far in her life than so many others could only ever dream to do in lifetimes. How many people can say that they have brought people closer to God? Closer to their families? That they have taught people what really matters in life? Or because of them, people want to give up their free time to volunteer and raise money/awareness to help others? Been able to touch all different types of people and their hearts all around the world? AND HOW MANY CAN SAY THEY HAVE ACTUALLY TAUGHT MOTHERS HOW TO LOVE THEIR CHILDREN MORE??? Wow, I am in awe of your message Layla Grace. You are an angel, a beautiful angel and will forever hold a piece of so many people’s hearts. While my husband and I have no plans to have any more children, I smile to think if I ever did have a girl, I would be honored to name her Layla.
If there is ever, ever ANYTHING that those of us out here can do, please just post it and it will be done.
May God watch over you all and give you comfort, peace, strength and love.
While I have never met sweet Layla Grace, I know my life will never be the same after reading about her journey. I have never, ever cried so hard and there has not been a moment that has gone by since first learning about Layla Grace that I have not been thinking about and praying for your family.
I pray for Jenna and Claire, my heart goes out to them and I pray that they know how special they are. I pray for strength for you and Ryan and thank you for sharing your story. And I pray for sweet Layla Grace to know she has touched SO many people and has done more thus far in her life than so many others could only ever dream to do in lifetimes. How many people can say that they have brought people closer to God? Closer to their families? That they have taught people what really matters in life? Or because of them, people want to give up their free time to volunteer and raise money/awareness to help others? Or been able to touch all different types of people and their hearts all around the world? AND HOW MANY CAN SAY THEY HAVE ACTUALLY TAUGHT MOTHERS HOW TO LOVE THEIR CHILDREN MORE??? Wow, I am in awe of your message Layla Grace. You are an angel, a beautiful angel and will forever hold a piece of so many people’s hearts. While my husband and I have no plans to have any more children, I smile to think if I ever did have a girl, I would be honored to name her Layla.
If there is ever, ever ANYTHING that those of us out here can do, please just post it and it will be done.
May God watch over you all and give you comfort, peace, strength and love.
I wish your entire family continued strength and grace through this terribly sad process. Layla is so very fortunate to have you two as her parents. She knows you desperately love and care for her. Love and take care of each other also.
With much love from Naples, Italy.
I have been following Layla’s blog for weeks. You can only imagine the number of lives that Layla and you as a family have touched. I am a more patient mother, a better mother, because of Layla and your story. My 12month old son is my saving grace, and Layla has helped me (and I’m sure many others) see that. I read your twitter updates and check your blog daily. I also pray for the peace that you and your family deserve. I am so thankful that you have your faith to guide you through this time in your life. Yours is much stronger than mine and many people that go through similar battles. May God bless you and keep you.
Jesus had me praying for you in the middle of the night. At 2:40 I prayed for Peace for you and dear little Layla Grayce. it is now 4:25 am. I see so many people have been praying for you. You are lifted up by an army of intercessors. It is amazing to look at the times on the comments. People are posting prayers throughout the day. You are loved by the love of Christ. We are missionaries who live in Mexico. Prayers come to you from this country. What a great God we serve that we can pray for people we have never met and who live far away. May the peace of God rest heavily upon you and your dear daughters Jenna and Claire.
I have been so moved by your beautiful Layla Grace. What a wonderful gift God gave your family. For such a small human being, she has touched so many lives, including mine. Her journey has made me hug my 3 year old son even tighter and appreciate all the things life offers. I am praying for Layla to not have any pain and suffering, and to just be in the comfort of her mommy & daddy, which I truly believe is comforting her now. I pray for all of you, to continue to have the strength during this unimaginable time.
With deep love & respect,
Patty
My family is praying for you and Layla, your other daughters, and you and your husband. I have been so touched by your story and your faith. Layla’s struggle, your struggle is so hard, but not in vain. Jesus is being glorified. I continue to pray that He would heal her, on earth or perfectly when she is reunited with her Maker.
May God’s love sustain you, God’s Spirit warm your hearts and give you light in the darkness; may you find rest for your weary souls in Christ who died for us. God has called you to this special ministry through Layla. May you be blessed in Him, and God bless sweet Layla.
Revelation 21:4 (New International Version)
4He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
Praying for peace for your family throughout these times.
I read your blog yesterday – directed here from SITS. I tried to write a comment, but everything I wrote seemed trite and pretentious. Then I noticed how I didn’t want to know – it was all too raw and scary to even contemplate. I have thought about Layla and you (her family) ever since – end the story I just wanted to let you know that I am another of the hundreds and hundreds of people who are reading here that can in no way begin to understand how frightening and unbelievable this must be for you. But in my heart, I am with you. I hold you all in my prayers and my thoughts. God bless little one.
Hi, My name is Andreia and I’ve been through the same thing you guys are right now 4 years ago. I know very well the pain you’ve been through and I pray that God strenghtens you every day. One thing that I’ve learned it was that no matter what everybody says, God is in control and the last Word and Decision belongs to Him. I’ll always keep you and the whole family in my prayers. May God bless and comfort you!!
Praying in Onatrio for you and your 3 sweet baby girls.
My prayers have been for Layla is ZERO pain.
My heart is aching for you.
Crissy Hesch
Your story has touched me in a way I couldn´t imagine. The only thing I can say is that Layla knows how much you love her, as can be seen in her beautiful photos, and that you have to be proud because your sweet little girl is an inspiration for a lot of people around the world that now can appreciate and be grateful for little miracles of day to day.
You are in my thoughts..
I have just recently heard your daughter’s story. It has deeply touched me. My daughter is only 18 months, so I look at hear and cannot imagine what is going on in thoughts. I was telling my husband about your little girl and read some of this blog. I couldn’t do it without crying. He has such a strong attitude about God and his plan for us. He said that God does not give us more than we can handle. That struck a nerve in me. I have always believed that we are never given more than we can handle, I just never thought about that for a little girl like Layla. It’s true though. God knows how much you can handle. You prove that everyday. Every blog or every twitter, you talk about how much this has strengthened your family and ya’lls relationship with God. Layla has been such a blessing for all who read her story. I know she has changed my life and my view. I will never try to take for granted my life and my family. I pray that Layla’s pain and sufferering will end, like I think we all do. I hope that your other girls find a way to cope with this long ordeal. Your family is in my thoughts and my prayers. Peace be with you and your family, and that comfort finds a home in Layla. Thank you for sharing your story!!! Your strength is inspiring. Layla’s strength is inspiring.
My heart breaks for your family, your beautiful daughter Layla Grace has captured my heart. My thoughts and prayers are with your family through this difficult journey you have been through.
Ryan & Shanna, you have shown so much strength and are truly an inspiration to me, you have made me and so many others aware of this horrible monster.
Lots of love and prayers from Canada
My heart goes out to Layla and all of your family…You all will be in my prayers…I believe that there is a reason for everything and God always has a plan, whether we understand it now or later we can never tell but the answer will come…keep holding on to your faith and to God for guidance as only He can truly comfort you and bring understanding. You are so brave because you have to be, I understand that and once you do not have to be, you will travel a new road and journey, I know this as I lost my daughter who was my only child. She suffered from an extremely rare pulmonary disease for over 3 yrs. then passed away at age 19 leaving behind twin sons at age 3. Just trust and believe in God and you will find peace…We are all Gods children and just know that you are blessed as God chose you to be this precious child’s parents if only for a short time.. May your family find peace and comfort through our Heavenly Father..God Bless you all.
I am praying every day for Layla, Jenna, Claire, and both of you! There are SO many people like me who have never met sweet Layla or your family who have been changed by your story. As a Mom to 4 kids, my youngest being 17 months,(a girl) I can only imagine what you are going through! It has to be hell!! It makes me want to tell everyone about Layla and neuroblastoma- and do something to help- no matter how small!
I also feel it has helped me be more patient with my kids, and to try not to sweat the small stuff in everyday life!
Praying every day, several times a day for comfort and peace for Layla and your entire family! You are doing an amazing job with her! So glad she was able to rest yesterday!
I also pray for your continued strength to get through these days!
Lynne in Iowa
ps Pinkalicious is one of our daughter’s favorite books too!! : ) Ours is almost worn out from her turning the pages as we read- but now I will also think of Layla every time we read it!
My thoughts are with your precious girl, Layla Grace, her sisters and you as her parents, and all of your extended family and friends. I have three young daughters myself, and can’t even begin to comprehend what you’re going through right now. It is something that nobody should have to endure. Thinking of your sweet girl constantly. Sending you much love, from Brisbane, Australia – Kylie xox
I have praying for Layla nonstop since hearing of her illness. I pray that she is in no pain and that she is at peace. I am also pryaing for you and Ryan, and Jenna and Claire. My worst nightmare is your reality. I pray that God gives you strength and peace. Layla has strengthened my relationship with God. I have prayed more and harder for Layla than I have ever before in my life. She has made me a better mommy to my girls. I will continue to pray for your family. Thank you for sharing Layla’s life with us.
Wow, this blog realy got me. I can feel your pain through your words not only for Layla for you other two as well. I am so sorry that this has happened to your family and that layla is having such a hard time crossing over. You all have a place in my family’s heart and we have never met(that is crazy to me) My 6 year old asked me this morning, ” mommy how’s the little baby that you love doing”? She touched so many, thank you for sharing her story with all of us. May god bless her with her wings and may she fly home.
With our love, The Kwiatkowski’s
God Bless this special little angel—–I could never imagine what your family is going through watching this angel in so much pain. It would be easy for me or anyone to say she want be in pain anymore but that does not make it easier. She is a beautiful little angel and remember all the good times and the good days you had to spend with Layla. God Bless your family.
May God bless Layla and your family with peace and comfort. You are all in my thoughts and prayers and I am always checking in to see how she is doing from your tweets. Layla has impacted my life in just the few weeks I have been blessed to read about her, she has made me shift my priorities and be present in my life and experiences and for that I cannot thank her enough. She is an angel on earth and will always have a place in all our hearts. Your family is amazing and thank you for sharing your story.
You and your family are in my prayers. I pray for strength for you and your family.
Hi,
My deepest sympathy to your family. I have a 17 month old and I hold him close every night after reading about your beautiful daughter.
I was thinking maybe your eldest daughter could write a letter to layla, saying all the things she wants to say to her. She is old enough to know what is going on, so that way she gets to say goodbye to her beautiful sister. It is also something that can stay with layla for eternity etc..(it is just a thought)..
cheers: amanda
Faith is such a remarkable thing to have. It can carry us through our hardest times. You and your family are still in our thoughts and prayers daily. I can’t imagine how hard this is on Claire and Jenna as well. They will also continue to be in our thoughts and prayers as they are having to deal with everything. Layla Grace is such a sweetheart and has touched so many. May God be with you & your family and continue to carry you through.
Shanna, you and Ryan and your girls are in my prayers each and everyday. I pray that if it’s not God’s will to heal lil Layla, that he take away her pain and suffering and take her on up to heaven with him. I pray for the strenght that you, Ryan and your beautiful girls need to indure this pain. Layla Grace has done so much already in her short time here on this earth. She has brought so many people together and helped us all to know more about this horrible cancer Neroblastoma. I pray for your family. Be strong.
Wendy
Praying for little Layla and your family. She is a beautifull little girl. I can’t even imagine the sadness you are feeling. I know she has touched my heart as she has others. She is a little Angel from God.
We have been praying for weeks for your family. We pray that the Lord give you all peace. But most of all to call Layla by name and take her from her pain to Him for eternity!
With LOADS of LOVE from KY!
Nathaniel and Katie
Praying for all your girls. I can not imagine how hard this must be for all of you. And what a perfect scripture to be holding on too.
Lord Jesus, wrap your arms tightly around Layla and her family and hold them close and carry them through this. Thank You Jesus for doing just that. In Your Name, Amen
I’ve been praying for you daily, including your older children as they are separated from you and probably scared by what’s happening. I pray for all of you, for God’s strength and love to surround you. “In Christ alone, my hope is found, he is my light, my strength, my song.”
The story of Little Layla has captured my heart in so many ways. I have been praying for your entire family since I first heard about your precious angel Layla. Being a mother of three, #4 to arrive in about 5 weeks (8,6, & 3), this hit me very hard. It made me stop and think, this could be any of us. I now remind myself that the little things are not that big of a deal and I make it a point to tell them and show them more often how much I love each and everyone of them. It makes me sad to see such a cute little child like Layla suffering. I can’t even begin to say that I know what you are going through, because I can’t even imagine the pain and sorrow you all are going through. I just sit and cry everytime I read your new post on the blog, I am also following on twitter to keep up with the latest. I have been praying for your other daughters and will continue to do so. Continue to love them and treasure them, you will all need each other to get through this. I have changed my prayers for Little Layla after the past few days. I am now praying that her passing is peaceful and not a struggle and I am praying for the rest of your family left here on earth peace and comfort in knowing that after that time comes it will be GOD’s turn to hold, comfort, and take care of Little Layla and that she will no longer be suffering. My children are praying for you all as well, I’m not sure the understand it all, but they ask about her everyday. My 3 year old sits in my lap and looks at Layla’s pictures for 10-15 minutes at a time, she never wants to stop, she gets upset when I tell her that we will have to look at more later. The insight of children is awesome. Again, I will continue my prayers for your precious family, thanks for sharing your story with the world, it has touched so many, including myself. Waiting on your next post on Twitter to see how things are going.
Love to all of your family!
Many prayers for Layla’s peace and comfort. I have been praying for your family, but I have now added a specific prayer for Jenna and Claire, and especially Jenna, that she can find understanding and peace.
God bless you all, and Godspeed, little Layla.
God Bless you and your family. May God give you grace to meet your need.
As a mother of four and a grandmother to six, I can’t even imagine what you and your family are going through..I just learned about Layla Grace last night and she has already made an impact on my life…Know that I am continuously praying for you and your family..May God wrap his arms around all of you and give you comfort!! Hugs to your family from ours!
The Sudduth Family in Alabama!
Praying for peace, continued strength and no pain. Our hearts ache for all of you…please know that you are surrounded by the love of the Lord and that a nation of people are praying for you each and every day.
Love and many blessings from St. Louis…
Shanna,
I don’t know if you even remember me, but your mom used to work with me and I love her dearly. I came over soon after you brought Layla home and enjoyed her immensely. I am praying for all of you today, most especially you and Jenna. I am praying for strength for you as you spend every second with Layla, and I am praying for Jenna to be able to grasp the magnitude of what is happening and express it in a way that you can all understand and deal with. How hard it must be on a big sister to go through this.
While I can’t imagine what any of you are going through, I can and WILL pray continually. We serve a mighty God and He will get you through this.
You have so many wanting to help. When it is time, please let us all know what you need. Thank you so much for keeping us updated on specific ways we can pray right now.
Enjoy every second with Layla. I pray that she is in as little pain and discomfort as possible and that you are able to just cherish the time with her.
Love,
Ruth
After following little Layla Grace for a few weeks now, I have come to love her and your family as if you were my own. I pray and wish for a miracle. I check her blog and twitter constantly hoping to see improvement. I am completely heartbroken over Layla’s suffering and I wish peace for her. As a mother of two young girls (3yrs and 18mths) I cannot begin to imagine what you are going through. Layla and your entire family are in my constant prayers.
Faith, what a wonderful testament. Sometimes with the bad things that happen many can be strengthened. Your faith, courage, and trust in God builds each person’s faith who reads your blog. Thank you for sharing these precious, hard stories. Our hearts brealk for you, but we see you strength with God’s help. So many are praying for “our” Layla Grace. We do not know her personally, but we know her and we see her each time we look in our own children/ grandchildren’s faces. We cannot imagine what you are going through and we pray that we never have to go through that. We wish we could help with your pain. All we can offer is our prayers. God is so Great. He knows what you need, even though we don’t. So we pray for God to give you what you need. What Layla needs. Please continue to keep us all informed. We wish we were there by your side—to hold you all in our arms and give you comfort—but those are God’s arms around you now. His are much better than ours. We pray for peace, love, comfort, and rest. Much love—from Abilene Texas.
I check this website multiple times a day to check up on Layla. She is constantly on my mind and Im constantly praying for a miracle. I pray for you and your husband as well. I could not imagine watching my daughter die. I am in awe of your strength, and grace, and faith. I pray for no suffering for little Layle and for peace and comfort for her sisters. You and your family are an inspiration. ALWAYS PRAYING!!!
I pray that your family finds the strengh to make it through, and that little Layla doesn’t have to suffer much longer. Have your other daughters seen Layla at all in these past few weeks. I know that you don’t want them to see her suffering, but maybe Layla is hanging on so she can see her sisters one last time? Either way, I pray that she finds peace soon.
Thinking of you always,
Ericka in WI
I read about Layla a couple weeks ago on twitter. Since then that is all I can think about. I have prayed everyday for your beautiful family. May God be with your family and precious little Layla.
I will continue to pray for your family….Especially your other daughters.
It is so amazing what this 2 year old little angel of God has done in her short life.. She has touched so many millions of people. That is what I call the love of God.. I have 4 small children and could never imagine going through this.. There is a reason everyone is sent to earth some go their whole lives and never understand why they were put here.. It only took a short time to understand why this sweet angel Layla was put here.. I’m praying for her and everyone else in your family.. When she goes she will dance with the rest of the beautiful angels to the lords music.. God bless all of you!!
My heart breaks and tears start flowing every time I think about Layla Grace and what your family is going through. I have never met anyone of you, but your beautiful baby girl has touched my heart so deeply.
I am praying for Layla Grace and your family. I am praying for a miracle, but I am also praying for peace if it is God’s will that she not be healed here, but when she arrives home.
Her work here on earth will continue for generations to come. She has touched so many people. So many people will look at their relationships with God diferently and will draw closer. So many people will look at their relationships with their loved ones and will draw closer. So many children will be helped through all the research that will be funded because of her…
Father God, thank you for this beatiful life. Thank you because she is perfectly fullfilling your will and plans for her precious little life. Thank you for the amazing parents and sisters you have blessed her with. She has the love you want her to have on this earth. But most of all, thank you for holding her in your arms as she continues her race. Father God, I ask you to continue wrapping your arms around her. I ask that you continue to wrap your arms around her mommy, her daddy and big sisters. Hold them close to you and help them feel your warmth and love. Give them the peace they need to help Layla Grace complete her race. I ask this in your precious son’s name, Jesus. Amen.
My heart goes out to Jenna. Having a 9yr old myself and a 16mo old, I can only imagine the support she needs right now. Hugs to you all.
Dear Lord I ask for peace, mercy and grace for Layla and her family. Lord I thank you for not only giving Layla’s family this little angel here in earth, but I thank you for giving us Layla as well. We all love you Layla. In Jesus Name We Pray, AMEN…. Mom & Dad, keep holding that faith. GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!!!!!!
Your family has touched my heart and soul. I pray the good lord gives you and your family strength, but most of all I praying for peace.
I am so sorry for you and your family little layla i know that your parents must be crying every night trying to spend time with you when they can. I am just telling you dont listen to those doctors you have much more life in you then you think. So you will always be in my praise much love to you and your family joshua ivey.
I pray for you so many times every day and sadly I must admit that I haven’t prayed in a long time. I pray that for all the pain and suffering that Layla is going through that she will be rewarded in heaven. I pray for your children and for you and your husband that you will find the strength to go on. I can’t imagine how you make it through the day but your family is truly the epitomy of what strengh is! I’m just so heartbroken that you have to go through it! I only hope that Layla’s purpose is to help find a cure for this horrible cancer!
I am praying for your entire family daily. I cannot imagine how hard it must be for a 9 year old to watch her baby sister fight this nasty monster. I am 31 and I am having a hard time with it!
I truly believe we have all received a miracle from Miss Layla Grace and your Family. She has brought so many people closer to God and their families. She has made all of us that are following her journey hug our kids a little tighter each day.
You and Ryan are an inspiration as well! I pray if my family is ever put though a trying situation like this, we can come together as you and Ryan have. When I am at the end of my rope with my little one I think about your Sleep, Valentine’s Day and Regrets post. Instead of getting aggregated when my little one tries to help; I now embrace it!
My little girls first name is Grace, I am not sure if you have ever noticed what Grace stands for…. Gods Reward At Christ Expense
Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful baby girl with the world. She is an inspiration to all of us. I will continue to pray for peace and comfort for Miss Layla Grace and your family. I pray that awareness for Neuroblastoma is spread around the world so no other child has to suffer from this monster.
God Bless,
Lisa Hajek
My heart is aching for you and your family. I think about you constantly and pray with each thought. I pray that a miracle will happen, that Layla will be pain free, that your family will find comfort and peace I can’t even begin to imagine. I look at your pictures and my eyes fill with tears. I wish I could make it all go away.
( I’m so, so very sorry your family is going through this.
Thinking of Layla and your family daily during this unbelievably difficult time. I am wishing comfort and peace to Layla and you.
I continue to pray for Layla, and just as important for you and your family. I lost my mother about 13 years ago to lung cancer and when we brought her home before Christmas, and they had told us there is nothing else we can do, we set hospice at home and took care of Mom. They continued to tell us what to be prepared for, how to take care of Mom during this time. The day Mother took a turn for the worse, the hospice Nurse told me this is the time we told you to prepare for, this will be her last day or days. I asked myself prepare? how do do you prepare for losing your loved one. There were so many mixed emotions, I didn’t want to see my Mother in any more pain, yet selfishly, I didn’t want to lose her either. It was 3 days of horrible seizures and pain before Mother passed away. Our pain was so great and I still feel the pain as I read every day about you and your family. I cannot imagine this being my child I was watching and having to “prepare” for her death. My hear hurts so much for you and your family, and I pray the peace comes to Layla.
Please know you have so many people that you do not even know are praying for you and that so much love is being sent to all of you.
Thank you so much for sharing all this with us daily. It reminds us all our precious life is and that at any moment it could be taken away from us. To live life to the fullest and don’t sweat the small stuff.
In Him,
Lisa
I am sending love and prayers your way, especially for Claire and Jenna….how strong you all are, and what an amazing family. You give me inspiration everytime I read a new update. God Bless you all. I pray for peace for you, your husband, and your 3 beautiful daughters.
Thinking of you, God Bless.
Praying for Layla’s pain to end – that God would take away all the pain and let her have peace with you. We are all heartbroken when we read about her, and we wish we could do more. I can’t imagine all of this is happening – we are so, so sorry.
Thank you for posting that Bible verse. It says what I think we all hope for Layla, that while her outside is not what we remember, her inside is healing and beautiful. It breaks my heart and brings me to tears to read her daily struggle. I have never met Layla, but feel like I’ve always known her. Thank you for letting me care so much for your little girl. Prayers going out everyday. Will also pray for Jenna and Claire for strength and hope for the future, and to know that they too are loved and cared for just as much as Layla.
I came upon your story last week on facebook. My heartaches for you and your family. I have been praying for you and your beautiful little girl.
I have just finished my battle with chemo and radiation for breast cancer. I am so sorry you, your family and your little angel are going thru this. I am so happy your faith is with you and is your guide during these trying times. God is with you. I want to leave you with this:
Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, she tuned into a butterfly……..for your Angel, Layla Grace.
God Bless You.
Stay strong.
Juanita Rosales
I pray for Layla daily and for your marriage. I know that stressful times can cause tension between couples. I pray that you guys grow stronger from this, and you can unite as a solid support system for Jenna and Claire.
I came across your site a few weeks ago and have been reading your blog and tweets daily. I am in awe of your family. I keep Layla and the family in my prayers all the time. May God Bless You!
Love,
Jennifer in NYC
I lost my brother when I was nine years old. I now have a daughter Layla’s age. I know for me it was much harder on my parents than it was for me. I too had a hard time comprehending that he was never going to come back. I missed him, but I think I had more faith (because of my age- nothing like the faith of a child right?) that he really was with God and in a better place. As an adult I think I would struggle with feelings of doubt and anger. I am in Canada and I know many people here who are praying for your family. As I was praying the other night I got an image of Layla’s room filled with God’s love, and angels. My main prayer is that Layla and your family can feel that love that already surrounds you.
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I wish I could take some of your pain! Stay strong for sweet Layla.
we pray for your family every minute of every day. Layla’s short little life has forever made an impact in our lives. We are closer to our daughter and my husband and I are closer to each other because of ur testimony. We are in love with ur family and love layla so much! Big kisses from san antonio, and macon georgia!!
we pray for your family every minute of every day. Layla’s short little life has forever made an impact in our lives. We are closer to our daughter and my husband and I are closer to each other because of ur testimony. We are in love with ur family and love layla so much! Big kisses from san antonio tx, and macon georgia!!
I have ordered and overnighted a CD for Layla. It is soothing music with someone reading scripture. I hope she (and you) enjoys it. I still believe that all things are possible. I am praying for strength, endurance, comfort, and joy for you all! As i wake through the night I whisper life to Layla. I can’t sit on the floor without thinking of you sitting by her bed and I whisper life again….I kiss my 2 year old, fix her hair, hear her laugh, or just listen to her breath at night…and I whisper life for Layla….
From one Mother to another: I know this may sound selfish but it’s not my intention. I want to thank you so much for sharing Layla’s story. I am the Mother of 4 children, 2 of which are severely mentally and physically challenged due to a rare chromosome disorder. It has been through the sharing of your trials and heartache, that I see my bad days are nothing compared to what your family is going through on a daily basis. Your Faith is amazing! Layla’s fight makes me realize that though some days are hard, they could be so much harder. I pray that your family finds the Strength and Peace each one needs to get through this and that lil Layla feels your Love, God’s Love and the warmth from it all every second of the day. I pray that God takes her pain and even though it may look like she suffers, she does not. Know that you were blessed to have been chosen to take care of one of His special angels and though Layla’s reward in Heaven will be great, you have one waiting for you as well. God Bless!!!! ~Crystal
Thank you for continuing to share your story with us. Layla is in my thoughts every single day. I go to sleep and wake up with Layla on my mind. It is amazing the impact this beautiful little girl has made in such a short amount of time. I know I will be forever changed because of Layla.
There is nothing I can say to make you feel better or ease your pain. Just know there are people all over the world praying for you and wishing you peace.
<<<>>>
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. <3
Leyna & Joey Rock
Naples, FL
Sending lots of prayers to the Marsh family. Precious Layla I have being praying for you daily and love you so much, you have touched my heart so much. You are so strong it is so AMAZING the strengh you have. I am praying for peace and comfort for you and that GOD heal your body. xoxoxo
I’ve been reading and following your blog and facebook for a few weeks now. Wanted to come out of lurking to say I’m praying for your family and specifically your oldest daughters. Really words are just not enough and I wish there was something I could say or write that could express what I feel. My heart breaks for you and your family. You are the strongest mom and dad for beautiful Layla and she is blessed to have you in her life!
Many many many prayers (and virtual hugs and kisses) coming to you all from me in NJ!
What a testament your faith is. May it grow stronger in light of this vicious disease that steals your babe from you. Knowing she will wake in His arms- surely that brings you a moments peace.
We still pray for a miracle ~
Layla’s story will forever change my life. I am a mother to 4 girls, and I don’t think I could ever show the strength and courage you show daily. Your journey with Layla is heartbreaking. I told my girls about your family last night, and this morning my 5 year old reminded me to include Layla in my prayers today. I am amazed how Layla’s story has managed to inspire a 5 year old! My prayers will forever be with you and your family. My 5 year old daughter Jasmine has asked me to pass a message to you for Layla…she says to tell Layla she loves her and she is sorry she hurts. God bless you all!
Praying for strength and peace for all of you.
I just started reading this blog today after a friend told me about it. I am heartbroken. I was in tears reading this entire blog, and I am praying for your entire family and little Layla.
We continue to pray for Layla and your entire family. Thank you for showing us the strength of true faith in God. Thank you for bringing families closer. Thanks to Layla I make time to play in the treehouse with my children and I will have fewer regrets about letting the busyness of life take me away from giving them more attention!
First and foremost I pray for peace and comfort for you and your family during this time. Your story has traveled so far and raised so much awareness. I commend you for your strength and openess. I also wanted to Thank You. I am a mother with a full time job. I go to school in the evenings and fill my life with project after project after project to include fundraising and volunteering to support Breast Cancer Awareness. I keep myself so busy and find time for my family when I can. After hearing your story that has changed. I have two boys and didn’t realize how much I was missing out on. Since hearing your story you’ve taught me that I need to stop and enjoy my time with them. I’ve learned to love the way my 5 month old smells after he gets our of the bath, I can tell you the exact spot where his cheeks dimple as he smiles and how he sounds when he babbles on and on and on. I’ve learned to stop what I’m doing and cuddle with my 2 1/2 year old when he’s tired and just wants to be held and to laugh at him when he thinks he’s being funny. To read your blogs and know that the smallest details in the moments you have left with Layla are so important has really brought me back to where I need to be with my own children. So Thank You!
There is NO question that little Layla Grace has touched the lives of many! She has already touched more people in 2 yrs of life than I have in my 32 years that’s for sure! I am positive every parent that has heard her story are holding their babies tighter each day now! In that, the lives of many children have been touched as well! She’s an angel and I pray for comfort, strength and peace for all of you!
It’s amazing how much you can love someone you don’t even know. I’m praying for Layla and your entire family. You have all touched my heart!
I’m so sad to read this latest update. I’m still praying for a miracle though and I know you are too. I will continue to keep you and your family in my prayers and say an extra prayer for Jenna and Claire. There are no words I could possibly say that could even begin to make you guys feel better but just remember that Layla is quite possibly the most loved little girl in the world. Not only does she have the wonderful love of her family and friends but also from the huge number of blog and twitter followers.
even though i don’t know you, Layla, or your family…i am following your story and i know that you will give strength to others. we live in the northwest houston/cypress area too and i grew up in the area, so it’s always tough to hear about something like this happening around the corner, but know that many people near and far are praying for your entire family, especially you, your sisters and your mom and dad.
I dontlnow what to say anymore. I feel likea horrible mom because I get upset with my 3 yo because she won’t go on a ride or talk to a character in Disneyland. And you 2 aregoing thru all this. Even your other daughters are having such a hard time. You take so much for granted when your kids are well. I’ll just keep praying for all of you for peace and comfort.
{{{hugs}}}
there are just no words to tell you how my heart hurts for you… just know our family is keeping sweet Layla in our thoughts and prayers….. sending you all strength through this journey that no parents should ever have to face…
xooxoxo
I will pray, especially for Jenna. I was 8 when my baby sister died. I can tell you that because I knew Natalie was in heaven with Jesus, it brought me comfort to be able to pray. I’d lay in bed each night asking Jesus to tell her Hi for me and all the things I wanted her to know about our family and life in general. Her life brought me closer to Jesus, and I can’t wait to thank her when I see her again one day. Jenna will be given supernatural strength that will make her able to perceive things in her little life with more depth than the average child her age. Her soul is forever etched with her sister’s love and she’ll easily be able to “set her mind on things above” because part of her heart is there. Praying God’s great comfort for your whole family.
Keeping everyone in this situation in constant prayer. May God be with you all. Love in christ, Shane
Dear sweet Layla and family, we have had you in our prayers since hearing about Layla a few weeks ago. Layla has touched my life in just that short time. What a strong, inspirational little girl. She has made such an impact on so many lives in her short time here and will continue to do so. May God continue to wrap his loving arms around her and all of you. We continue to pray for peace and comfort. I have no doubt that sweet angels are surrounding Layla right now. They are right there with her. God Bless you all. (((hugs)))
I have to say this I have been praying for your family for that miracle you so need.I read your posts and I cry so hard,I cant imagine going through one ounce of what you are going through.She is a beautiful child,and as a mom myself My heart breaks for you and your other children.My children read this as well and it breaks their hearts too.God has given you amazing strength to stay sane,I would have been locked away by now. So just know I will continue to pray for her and your continued strength.Please Lord hear our prayers Heal this child show the world Another Miracle,In the name of the Father Son and Holy Spirit in Jesus name,Amen
Praying for Peace and Comfort for Layla Grace and for Peace and Understanding for your 2 daughters. May you both continue to keep your Faith and find Peace in the moments you have with your precious Layla! She is a Beautiful Princess that is touching the lives of many and her Strength and Courage show how Amazing her Spirit is.
Lots of LOVE and Prayers for Layla Grace and for Family and Friends!
Shanna…I hope you are not sick of hearing this, you are doing an amazing job being there for Miss Layla, stay strong for her and let loose when you can. The good Lord is carrying the 5 you in His precious arms. Hang on she will be free from this soon. Praying for Jenna as soon as I am done with this comment. xoxo
I can not tell you just how much your story touched me. A thousand words could not express my sadness. Few people have so much power that it need to go through something like that. To talk about that need it even more strength. I pray for your whole family.
Let me just two word’s…. AMAZING GRACE
Shanna & Ryan: I am praying for you. I don’t know how you do it. I can’t help by admire your faith and your spirit. The verse that you shared in this post is so fitting. It’s so hard to think about the “eternal” when we’re surrounded by the “temporary” – though like so many I am still on my knees begging God for a miracle in the here and now.
Jenna and Claire: I am praying for you both. If we can’t understand this as adults, I can only imagine how difficult this is for such young hearts and minds. Praying that our Lord blesses you with peace and comfort that goes beyond our understanding…
Layla: sweet Layla. I check on you every time I go online and often I only go online to check and see if there’s an update on your situation. My heart aches for you. My heart begs for a miracle for you. I lift you up again to God as I write this and a pray for a miraculous healing of your little body. I pray that the cancer would disappear, that you would open your eyes and want to eat, drink… that your body would start the process of getting stronger. I pray that God would be glorified in you.
to the entire Marsh family: I pray for peace and strength. May God bless you abundantly.
We love you little Layla, and your family for being there for you during this painful journey you are on. I cant imagine anything more comforting to a little one than to know that her mommy and daddy are by her side holding her and comforting her every moment….god bless you for all you have had to endure, it breaks my heart…..
I send prayers to your other daughters. Just by reading your blog, breaks my heart and brings tears to my eyes. Layla is a such a strong little girl. Lord please give them strength in these hard times!! We love your family!! God Bless!!
I saw a link to your blog and have been praying for your family ever since.
Two organizations that may be of help during this time are the EmmazingGrace Foundation my friend Candy started: http://www.emmazinggracefoundation.org
and The Grief Resource Center in The Woodlands:
http://www.tgrconline.org/
I am so sorry for what your family is going through and I pray for mercy for Layla’s pain and suffering. I pray for compassion and comfort for her sisters. And I pray for the healing love of God for Layla’s parents.
Sincerely in His love,
Charlotte
I am holding your family in my thoughts and prayers and wishing peace, comfort, love and light for all of you.
I am continuing to pray for Layla and your entire family. I am praying for peace and comfort during this very difficult time. God bless you!
I can’t imagine what it must be like to watch your child dying and in pain. My dad died in hospice care over 7 years ago, but in his case, it was a matter of a few days to a week. Even that was so hard. You are all truly amazing!
I’m praying- that’s the only words I have at this moment….God bless!
Tara G.
Kyiv, Ukraine
Love to all of you and especially thinking of Jenna and Claire. They will be devastated but they will get through it with the help of the wonderful, loving, understanding parents they have.
I have been overwhelmingly touched by your story. My heart aches for your gorgeous Layla. I wish Layla a peaceful sleep. I am praying for your other two girls and for you both also. x
Well said Shanna. I pray for peace for all & a miracle. Keeping Jenna close in my thoughts..what a gorgeous, gorgeous young girl.
..you have the whole world on your side, we are all just a tweet away! 
Keep your chin up & your bottle of wine close
I have been reading about your beautiful family, lately. Please know that as with many, we too, are praying for your family. I will pray for your other 2 daughters, to one day understand. Praying for peace and comfort. May God continue to bless you each and everyday..
Hi im Takiera and im 16.One day while i was at skool..i was on twitter and i went across Kim Kardashians page and i saw someone tweet that a little girl named Layla Grace needs prayer.At first i thought it was Kim Kardashians daughter.I went to Layla Grace page and read most of the tweets.Ever since then i have been looking her up on twitter for updates.Im truely amazed how beautiful she is and i really hope she will be alright.I would truely be hurt if something happens to her.She is a sweet looking girl.I sat down with my mama and told her this story..and she cant believe it.Too many kids are suffering from this and im really sorry to hear about Layla Grace being sick.She cant even make it to her teenage years because of this.I really hope she do!!You guys are in my prayers everyday!!!=(…oh and by the way..your daughters are soo pretty!!especially the 9 year old!!!
It’s okay if your family needs to say good-bye to us for awhile. If you need to step away and be alone at any point, we’ll still be praying for you and will be here when you come back. I don’t mean to be presumptuous, but I feel certain that most would agree with me on this.
We can’t really say or do much to heal your pain, or the pain of your daughters. However, we can pray, hope, and, most importantly, learn from this unbelievably tragic reality you face every moment of every day. I’m sure that many of us “followers” cherish the beautiful, rich, joyful, healthy days we spend with the people we love because of Layla’s example, and that is a truly remarkable accomplishment for a cancer-fighting 2-year-old.
It pains me most of all to know that while we read about your incredibly sad situation, you all have to actually live it. We can go back to work, tend to our homes, engage in our hobbies and sleep peacefully each night, and I wish to God that all of you could, too.
Prayers, thoughts & appreciation go out to your inspiring, beautiful family. Thank you for sharing this journey with us, the many Layla-loving friends you’ve never met.
I dont know you or your family, but i am a mom, and that makes us close enough. i am praying for you….you are all in my thoughts.
Praying for you and your family and praying for no suffering for Layla.
I am also sending an extra special prayer for your other girls. I was 13 and my sister was 10 when our dad died of a brain tumor. It is so hard at any age to lose someone you love, but when you are younger it is so much harder to understand and deal with.
I’ve been praying for sweet little Layla and for your family since I read about Layla on a friend’s link on Facebook to your blog. What a precious, beautiful child. My heart aches for all of you. I will continue to read your updates and will continue to lift Layla and your family up in prayer.
I just want your family to know that although I have only been following Layla’s story for a few weeks now, you have all been in my thoughts everyday. I have two daughters of my own – ages 4 and 1- and I look at their beautiful faces everyday and think of you and your girls and pray for so much for you all…..a peaceful ending that comes quietly for Layla; strength for Shanna and Ryan to make it through everything they are facing; and comfort and peace for Jenna and Claire. Thank you for sharing your story, your photos and your faith with us. Please know that me and my family are praying for you and yours.
I have been reading about Layla’s story for a couple of weeks now and just want to say that your family has been in my thoughts daily. Reading your heartbreak has made me reach out more to my children and not worry so much about the dishes that need to be unloaded and the laundry that needs folding. It’s obvious Layla has touched so many lives and will for a long time.
I am praying for you, Layla, your daughters and your entire family. I can’t imagine what you are going through and my heart breaks for you. I do know that God is with you during this time. God bless you for your strength and I pray that he gives you peace. I wish there was more I could say or something I could do. You are in my heart
Myrna
St. Augustine, Florida
I am so so so sorry your family and little Layla Grace are going through this. I’ve just found out about Layla this morning from FaceBook. I’ve cried all morning and I absolutely cannot imagine going through this. I have three children and my youngest I believe is about Layla’s age and I’m horrified to think about her going through this. I wish there were something I could do. So I pray….for you and your husband….your two girls and for Layla…I pray that God eases her pain and that she has peace. Again I am so sorry. Lots of love from North Texas.
Ryan & Shanna,
I have no clue how you are staying so strong through this nightmare that you are going through. You have been such an encouragement to me and my family. Words can not express the deep sadness that I feel for you. Layla has the best parents and God knew exactly what He was doing in making you guys her parents. She is so blessed and I know that you feel so blessed to have her as your child. Please know that we will continue to pray for you and your family throughout this whole ordeal. You are amazing people and wonderful parents. You also need to make time for yourselves and take care of yourselves during this time. Please know that God is in control and is taking care of you even if it seems like He isn’t. Thank you for being so open and honest with everyone during this whole ordeal.
God Bless,
Amanda
Stay strong mama – keep up the good fight. You are changing lives. Your faith in God is awe-inspiring…
So many prayers and so many tears for your sweet Layla and for you – her amazing warrior parents and for your other daughters too. I find myself waking up during the night crying and praying for your sweet child. I imagine in my prayers our Lord holding her – his arms wrapped all around her. We all know through your amazing testament – that he is in that room with Layla. He is at work in her – in you – in all of us – because of your amazing courage to share her precious life with us… It is bringing to life Paul’s verse of sharing weakness – when we do… Christs power is made perfect. I keep receiving a reminder – simply that God’s timing is perfect. He is never early. He is never late. He will rid her of this disease in perfect time. We will all be changed because of her and because of you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I hold my four kids longer and tighter because of Layla. I stare at my youngest one (who is almost two) while he sleeps now. Shouldn’t it always be like this? Thank you for a strong reminder of what is important in this lifetime.</