Layla’s Celebration of Life
I’d like to say thank you for the overwhelming support we’ve received the past few days. We felt loved before, but WOW, I’m completely speechless. In the midst of feeling like my heart is being ripped out, I’m also so thankful for the love for Layla that is being shown to us.
Layla has touched so many in her short time on earth. Please join us at Layla’s Celebration of Life, Saturday March 13th at 10:30am at Bear Creek Baptist Church. 5901 North Fry Road, Katy, TX 77449-1807. We will honor her through pictures, music and a balloon release. Childcare will be provided.
A huge thank you to everyone who is inquiring about donating flowers for the service. Layla LOVED flowers!! Here is our florist information….
Autumn Leaves Florist
15210-D Spring Cypress
Cypress, Texas 77429
281-373-3332
Thank you for your continued love and prayers.
I have followed Layla’s brave fight over the past couple months. What a brave angel. Your family is always in my thoughts and prayers.
We wish we could be there but we are in NY!!! We just ordered a dozen balloons to release on saturday. Rest in peace beautiful angel Layla Grace
May little Layla Rest In Peace, her story touched so many people. What a beatiful little girl you had.
Praying for your family and thinking of your beautiful angel!
“For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,
Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38-39
God Bless and keep you and hold you close in the this time of great sorrow. Our prayers are with you and for you. (((HUG)))
I only started reading your story a few weeks ago, but I find you to an inspiration. Layla Grace was an amazing little girl who made such an impact on my life. Thank you for sharing your life with us and giving us a small glimpse into how cancer affects our lives. May you find peace in the coming days and months while you find your way through this loss. ~Susan
We are all grateful for your updates. Prayers and tears continue as your journey ventures on into these un-chartered waters. Layla’s suffering was unbearable for all 3 of you and her 2 sisters. Though far away, we celebrate her life with you and support your faith and her arrival in Heaven.
Thank you for sharing your story and letting Layla and your family into the hearts of thousands all over the world. Thank you for your strength because whether you see it or not, we do. Rest in Peace Layla Grace!
Sending you prayers from San Francisco.
I’m sure she’s a beautiful angel. May she RIP…
Little Layla Grace has touched me in so many ways I couldn’t begin to fathom. When I found out about her through a friend on facebook, I sat at my desk and cried for about 30 minutes. She was such a precious little girl from all of the pictures I have seen of her. It’s amazing to me how many lives she touched, just by the struggle she has faced at such a young age. I truly do believe that God puts us all on this earth for a particular reason, and He definitely accomplished His goal through the life of Layla. My heart breaks for your family, because I know what a blessing she was to each and every one of you. Please know that each of you are in my prayers constantly and I will never forget the sweet little girl that made me realize no one is promised another day, all by the grace of God and that He chooses when it is time to come Home. May you all continue your faith in God and trust that everyone happens for a reason, and He will never give you a mountain too tall to climb.
To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
…A time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep, and a time to laugh;
A time to mourn, and a time to dance.
Ecclesiastes 3:1, 3-4
-Courtnie Clowe
Wish we could be there for the celebration of Layla’s life- we LOVE Texas!!! Have a wonderful time and thanks so much for sharing just a little bit of Layla with our family- we will always remember her!!!!! Prayers from Kansas always!!!
STILL PRAYING FOR PEACE FOR YOUR FAMILY WELL MAYBE THE DOG WAS BARKING BECAUSE HE FELT LAYLA CLOSE WATCHING FROM HOME REST IN PEACE LAYLA GRACE SWEET ANGEL I WOULD LOVE TO BE THERE BUT I LIVE SO FAR YOU’ LL BE IN MY WILL BE IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ALWAYS WILL NEVER FORGET HOW BEAUTIFUL YOU FAMILY IS AND ALWAYS WILL BE GOD BLESS YOU ALL
Very much praying for you. So grateful that Layla is in the arms of such a awesome Lord. He has used her, and is continuing to use her, in such an amazing way. Love to you all!!!
What a sweet little girl and an amazing family! I pray that God will help you find peace in the days, weeks and months ahead.
My continued prayers for your family.
Layla has blessed my life and I’ve never even met you guys.
Since I can’t make it (I live in Georgia) I will be purchasing a hat just like Layla’s so i can share her story with all who see it, donating, and planting flowers in her honor at the day care I work at.
What kind were her favorite?
God bless you all, and I hope for acceptance and faith for Jenna and Claire.
All my love from a stranger,
Danielle
I think everyone has been touched by her struggle and over all will better their lives from what such a same gril was able to battle.
Many people will that even someone so young has been through more than they have no matter how much older they are.
We will be thinking of Layla and your lovely family at that time. You’ll have much love coming to you from Philadelphia. Hope you can feel our hugs!
I am so very honoured to share my birthday with this very important and special little lady. I only wish I could be there with you all. Just know that I will be thinking of you all, and continuing to pray as well. God bless your family.
Thank you for sharing your beautiful baby girl with us. Still praying for God to send you and your family strength and comfort in the coming days. In your darkest times, always remember somewhere in the world, people are sending prayers your way.
God bless your family and your precious Layla
I used to live a mile from that baptist church! I will be there!!!!! God bless you Layla!
I live in VA or would love to attend. Your family has been in my thoughts for 2 weeks since I read sweet Laylas story. Layla truly helped me appreciate life and my family more. She also taught me patience and at the time this was something I truly lacked. Ill continue to pray for peace and closure for you. I smile when I think of angel Layla wearing her big flowery hat in the sky!!
Thank you so much for sharing your story about your precious Layla. I have been following for the last 2 weeks and she has touched a special part of my heart. I am from Idaho and my group of friends will be sending balloons to heaven for Layla… My thoughts and prayers to you and your sweet family. Hug your girls tight. I was 8 when my little brother died of cancer. He was a year younger than I was. It was very difficult time in my life and very difficult to understand at that age. I’m so glad you have your daughter involved with people who can help her understand this. Hugs from Idaho.. We love your precious angel Layla Grace..
Layla touched so many lives and she will not be forgotten. She reminded me of my precious baby and if I lived in Houston I would celebrate Layla’s life on My babies birthday. Instead when I sing Kylie happy birthday I will tell her about the special new friend she has now.
I am so touched by Layla that I am going to start donating my time to Texas Children’s hospital. She was a special little girl and I think of her ALL THE TIME! *HUGS* to your family in this time of grief. Just know that she touched SO MANY people. She is “our” little angel now. Bless yall!
I will be celebrating Layla’s life… I could not think of a better day then my birthday to celebrate a strong and beautiful little girl
Love & prayers, love & prayers..
I recently found out about Layla. Layla inspired me and taught me to be strong. She has been an inspiration to many and always will be. Layla is resting peacefully with the Angels. We will all help you through the tears and hardships. God Bless!
Sorry i cant make it, but i send you my love and support from California.
We are praying our hearts out here in NC for the Marsh family. I cannot imagine the whirlwind of emotions you are all facing right now. But I hope that amidst all this sorrow and pain, the love and strength of all Layla’s prayer warriors will shine there to lift your family up!
We will be with you in mind and spirit on Saturday from NC!!
I wish I could make it back home for the celebration of your beautiful angel’s life. Thank you, Shanna and Ryan, for sharing Layla’s journey with us all. My heart and prayers are always with you and your precious girls.
I wish I could be there to celebrate Layla’s life but as I live in Australia that is not possible. I’ll be thinking of you though. I’ve thought about Layla and your family since I was directed here by a forum I am a member of and feel such deep sorrow for you all. I will remember sweet Layla and what a special little girl she is. Peace to you all.
Oh dear little Layla Grace.
I am devastated to hear of your passing and will never forget you. When i learnt of what a precious little angel you were and of the terrible cards you had been dealt i have watched, read and listened to everything about you and your family and have come to feel as though i know you all. My heart breaks for your family and as i sit here crying a river i know that you will never be forgotten. May your memory and strength live on through your Mummy and Daddy and your Sisters and may you now play peacefully in the heavens above. I hope Our dear Lord has reserved a beautiful little spot up there for you, one of his most precious angels. Lots of pink flowers and butterflies, rainbows, fairy dancing and day long tea parties and may you never have to feel an ounce of pain again but only shine your beautiful rays down on us here on earth.
I will never forget you Layla and the impact you have had on me and my family. You are a little treasure.
To the Marsh family and friends my heart breaks for you and my deepest sympathy’s. I have never been touched by such an amazing little girl and your beautiful family. May the Lord be with you during this time and rest his hand gently upon your heart in this time of sadness.
Love to all.
Love Mandy from Sydney, Australia.
xoxoxoxox
I Follow you all since a long time and my heart broke when i read you’re mssg on twitter!
Wishing you all the best, and gonna send saturday a beautifull pink balloon in the Dutch sky special for Layla !!
God Bless you
xx From Holland,
Moniek
I’ve only had the honor of following Layla’s story for about a week but in that short time became very captivated by your beautiful little girl! Myself and children feel that, although we never met her, we have been blessed to have known of her! She was truly a very beautiful little girl and she touched many lives! We send our prayers and thoughts to her family and friends! She is flying high now always watching over you! Free from pain and running and playing in God’s gardens! May God be with you during this time and give you the strength and comfort that you need to get through these days! May God bless you and keep you! Thank you for sharing Layla with the world! R.I.P. Sweet Baby Girl! xxx
Layla Grace,
You finally won!
I hope you keep my grandma extra busy.
She missed out on her grandbabies,
so Im sure she willl welcome you home,
gladly. You are my hero Layla baby.
May little Layla Rest In Peace and pain free Her story touched so many people, What a beatiful little girl you had.sending my love from cincinnati.
We will be there to celebrate precious little Layla’s life and in tribute and thanks to all we’ve learned from her and from you, Ryan and Shanna, Jenna and Claire. Through Layla’s life and death we have learned that we can never take a single day – a single moment – for granted. Our lives could change in a heartbeat – just as yours did. Layla was truly blessed to have you as her parents. I lost my father to cancer – was laying next to him as he took his last breath. I know the raw pain, the fear, the “unrealness” of the moment of death. I can’t even imagine that scenario with a child. I can’t even begin to imagine it. I have cried for days leading up to her passing and since. I have questioned God’s decisions, his motives. And I have read some comforting words from your pastor, Michael. Because of his blogs we will be attending services at Lifebridge Church this weekend. We have been looking for a church family and I think we have found one. My faith has been weak and, through your faith and little Layla’s life, I have found my way back to God. God Bless you all and, even though it seems so impossible right now, time really does heal the pain. It never goes away, but the good days and memories begin to outnumber the bad ones until one day, unless you consciously want to remember the “bad” days, you will have only happy memories. I love you all and can’t thank you enough for sharing Layla and yourselves with us!
Thank you so much for sharing sweet Layla with us. Your strength and courage are a true inspiration. I think about your family and pray for y’all numerous times daily. May the comfort of the Lord be with you and know that He will get you through this tough time. You are in our hearts and will continue to be in our prayers.
The Switzer Family
Douglasville, Georgia
I still continue to pray for you and your family. I painted a seashell the other day. I painted it pink and put Layla’s name in purple on it. Actually, I painted it about 2 weeks ago. It is to remind me of the courage this beautiful child had. Even though I never met Layla, I love her as if she was my own. My heart aches for her as well. May God surround you with Peace, Love, and Light and one extra Halo that Layla will be wearing as she will always be your Guardian Angel!
How I wish I could be there to celebrate your life and to pay my respects. You have touched me and left an indellible mark. I will hold you in my heart and celebrate you on Saturday.
How incredibly generous of you welcome people to Layla’s Celebration of Life. I live in Massachusetts, but I will be there in thought and prayer. May your sweet little Layla rest in peace, and may God bless you all and bring you comfort and strength.
You are being lifted up to the Almighty God from Andrews, Texas. May He bring you comfort and cradle you in His arms during this painful time.
In Him,
Chris, Amy, Riley, & Gunner Jordan
May peace be with you during this time and always. I will release balloons in layla’s honor on the beach in nc this Saturday. My thoughts are always with you and your family. If there is ANYTHING I can do, do not hesitate to send me a message
Thought of you with love today, but that is nothing new. I thought about you yesterday, and days before that too. I think of you in silence, I often speak your name. All I have are memories and a picture in a frame. Your memory is my keepsake, with which I’ll never part, no matter where I am you are always in my heart….♥
Your family will be in our thoughts & prayers.
I have been following you for a couple of weeks now through a friend of yours (Deanna Perkins). My thoughts and prayers have been with you. My heart was broken for you when I got the text of Layla Grace’s passing. She seems to have touched many lives in her short little life and she will never be forgotten. May you find peace during this difficult time!
Praying for you
Laura x
Thank you for sharing Layla’s story. Your wonderful daughter has brought a renewal to my marriage and my life as a mother. I cannot thank you and your beautiful family enough for forcing me to realize how short so much of life is and the importance of making every moment count. You have and will continue to be in my prayers. Your daughter’s courageous fight has forever changed my life, her suffering was not in vain, she had a wonderful purpose and in her short few years touched the lives of more people than I’m sure you even know.
Be blessed.
Wish we could be there, but we live in Winnipeg, Canada. I will say a prayer for your family at that time. Layla’s story really changed our lives.
Thank you for allowing Layla Grace to touch so many of our lives. I only followed your story for a short time but I was greatly affected by Layla and what she went through. You truly had a beautiful angel in your lives and now she will be watching over you forever. In honor of Layla Grace I just registered for a walk for the children’s hospital in my area coming up in June. She has really inspired me and I want you to know she will be in my heart and on my mind that entire day while I am walking to help precious children just like her. Thank you, and thank you Layla Grace.
I am so sorry to hear of Layla’s passing. I have been following her story only for the past few weeks. But, was so touched by her strength and what her body endured. Am praying daily for you Shanna and Ryan that God would touch you with Peace and Comfort, for he is our comfort in our times of need.
I also am too far away to be able to attend this great celebration of LIFE!! just because it was a short life..doesn’t mean it wasn’t a fulfilled life!! Precious Layla is now in Heaven playing and dancing with the ANGELS, and too has become an Angel as well. It is so wierd that about 2 hours before i heard of Layla’s passing i heard chimes from somewhere the funny part of it is there are no wind chimes anywhere close to my house.
I just wanted to let you know that you are being prayed for and hang in there. What was Layla’s favorite flower and also what was her favorite color?? Thanks for sharing her story with US!! and most of all thanks for sharing her with US. she has become my inspiration in my walk thru life.
God Bless your family
everyone please help out and buy a headband from bands for layla. ALL THE MONEY GOES TO LAYLAS MEDICAL BILLS!! Here is the site: http://www.etsy.com/shop/soshortnsweet
I continue to pray for peace and comfort for your family. Layla was definitely a special little lady, who has touched the hearts of so many people. She will be missed dearly but never ever forgotten.
Sending love to Texas on Saturday. I will be there in spirit.
When I heard of Layla’s passing, I had to pull over and cry. As parents we can get caught up in work, bills & laundry…but Layla, Shanna & Ryan you made me stop and realize that will be there tommorrow, but we might not be. Because of Layla so many are now aware of this disease. She was sent from God…an angel walked our earth…but sadly she went back home.
To the Marsh family…don’t lose your faith. Your family strength amazes me. God bless you.
I’m hoping for peace for you and your family as you find a new normal. Thank you for sharing so much of your personal life with us. I won’t forget your family or Layla. On Saturday I will gather my children and have them release balloons in her honor. <3
My sister and I ( both mothers to new baby girls) are so inspired and touched by Layla’s story. We are so grateful to have stumbled upon your blogpage for it has truly changed both of our lives!! We have been sharing your story and really want to help your family raise awareness in Layla’s honor here in California, which I will keep you posted on!! We both believe as new mothers there is a reason God brought us to your page and we will continue to spread the word about this horrible disease and the strong BEAUTIFUL little girl that fought so hard. Layla is in a wonderful place now and will forever be free of pain and suffering. May your family begin to heal and celebrate Layla’s beautiful life!! Lots of love, hugs and prayers God bless you all!
Please know that sweet Layla Grace has touched a heart in Prince Edward Island, Canada. Layla’s story will continue to touch people for years to come and we will all be better people for ” knowing” this precious angel.
I wish we could be there. I’m originally from Houston, but we are going to my grandmother’s 90th in NM. I will send flowers. Thank you for allowing me to be a small part of your journey.
I will be releasing some ballons for Layla Grace from Idaho!! I hope she sees all of them from heaven.
We will be releasing balloons from Brenham, Texas with love- in honor of Layla and how she has positively impacted our lives!
I will be thinking of all of you on Saturday as you celebrate Layla. She was an amazing little girl and such an inspiration. Thank you for sharing her with us.
Saying prayers of comfort, love, support and peace for all you. My heart is with you.
I cannot be there as I am in Canada, but we will be releasing some Yo Gabba Gabba balloons into the heavens on Saturday. My 2 year old is a huge fan and I will allow her to let them go so that she can send them onto Layla – from one 2 year old to the other. Thank you for keeping us updated. I will be thinking of you Saturday, and all the days to come.
I have been praying for peace for your beautiful Layla Grace and was sad to hear of her passing. She is now in peace and pain-free and playing with the angels. I pray that God gives you and your family strength to help you get through this transition.
What a great testimony of the grace of our God!! Your daughter’s story has been a blessing to me & I pray the peace of God that passes all understanding will guard your hearts & minds in Him. God bless your family!!!
Thoughts and prayers from West Virginia. Your family has really made me open my eyes of all the little things that my son does everyday. Thank You for sharing Layla’s story. You will always be in my heart.
I only found out about your website and fight a few days ago but have been heartbroken and thankful ever since. To see your amazing Faith through all of this is what reminds me how little my Faith is in Christ and how I need to remember how ever loving God is. I pray for you and your family and hope that you will continue to post so that we can continue to pray and follow your family and life. I will be praying for your other little girls that I know will be impacted by their sisters life forever! ALWAYS in my thoughts and prayers!
“For He knows the plans He has for us”
We will be realeasing balloons in Raleigh, nc to honor Layla Grace. Our prayers continually go out to you and your family. We love you and pray that God will continue to heal your hearts and give you peace.
Just found Layla’s story…so sad for you. A song that may bring you some comfort is an oldie but so wonderful: Special Delivery by Evie Tornquist…
Verse:
Never was anyone like Him, never will one be the same
Tiny babe, an Infant King, Savior, we worship and honor the power of His name
Chorus:
He came special delivery, wrapped up in love, bound by a promise, sealed by a dove
And filled with the spirit, carried by grace, you knew where He was goin’, by the look on His face
Verse:
Where He went, Love was there also, where He was , Love showed the way
Those who saw, knew He was holy, and I see what they saw to this very day
Chorus:
(key change)
Verse:
And when I’m called I will go gladly, I will not grieve for the past
For I know where I’ll be going, and I will be going to see Him at last
Chorus:
I’m goin’ special delivery, wrapped up in love, bound by a promise, sealed by a dove
And filled with the spirit, carried by grace, you know where I am goin’, by the look on my face
My thoughts are with you.
I pray constantly for an extra measure of peace to be given to your family. I’m so heartbroken over the loss of your sweet Layla. Thank you so much for sharing her life with us, and allowing us to know you all.
bless Layla Grace and her loving family as they say farewell may they treasure the loving memories they have and may that provide them some solace in the times when they miss each other
Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful daughter with all of us. She both blessed me and touched me in the most profound ways. So many of us grumble and complain and here is this sweet innocent child that endured more than any of us ever will. How precious she is! I will never forget her and I never even met her. Thanks for helping us all to remember nothing is promised! We will be praying for your family, especially your other 2 daughters. Layla Grace just has heaven before the rest of us do. Dance with the angels baby girl!!
Wish I could be there, but I live in CA=( I will be thinking of Layla and your family. RIP sweet Layla.
My love and prayers are pouring out to you!
Ive only known about layla for the past few weeks but shes touched my heart GREATLY.thank you for sharing your wonderful little girl and her story with us.i wish that i can be there to honor her unfortunately im in nj but i will be there in thought and prayer.Be Strong.Cry no more.Only cry for tears of joy and remember all the great memories with Layla.God Bless.
I hope that your florist has a lot of flowers!! I have a feeling that there are going to be a lot of beautiful pink flowers purchased in celebration of Layla’s life!
God Bless you Angel Layla Grace!
Thank you for sharing Layla with us. I will be there in spirit but physically in Philly praying for peace in your hearts as you learn to cope with your loss of such a special child. Special prayers going out tonight for Jenna and Claire and kisses being blown to them.
When you least expect it….you’ll see a butterfly flutter across your path. It will be little Layla, letting you know..”mom, I’m ok”. God be with you. I have a 10yr old, 2 1/2, and 11 month old. I thank God evey second of every day for these precious gifts. I thank you for being so open and sharing your trials and tribulations with all of us. Words cannot express how wonderful it was to “know” all of you. Even if it was only in script. I thank you precious Layla, for reminding me just how fragile life can be and how to grab a hold of each and every single moment god has given us. Bless you Marsh family.
Thank you for sharing Miss Layla Grace with us. She brought people together all across the globe with her grace and spirit; she was not old enough to know how wonderful she was but we all knew. What a wonderful angel she is! Thinking of you and the girls right now!!
I am so thankful that you are welcoming us to Layla’s Celebration of life. My daughter and I will be there…we wouldn’t miss it!!! Her life is definitely one to be celebrated!!! Thank you so much!!!
Sending you all lots of love and prayers from Canada. Thank you so much for sharing your sweet girl’s story. She has touched my heart in a way that I will forever remember.
(((hugs)))
I just found out about sweet, precious, beautiful Layla Grace on Twitter through a friend last night. You’re family is one of the strongest to go through such pain, confusion, and discomfort. But by the grace of our sweet Lord, Layla is in a kingdom of love and pureness. I continue to pray for your family. To be able to accept this horrible occurance. You are strong and I truly know that Layla is dancing with Jesus and singing sweet music in the pearl gates of the Kingdom. Things will be okay and Layla will be remembered forever. She served her purpose on this planet and even though her life was created short; it was by no means unremembered. The strength of children amaze me and it makes me realize how blessed I am. You have helped me to get closer to our Lord. Everyone is supporting you and God is holding you strongly and won’t let go.
Sincerely with love,
Madison from FL
If it were at all possible for me to be there to celebrate precious Layla’s life, you could trust me that I would be. Instead, my daughter, my mom, and I will be releasing balloons for Layla on Saturday. I will keep your family in my prayers and I hope that with time, you’re able to heal your broken hearts.
Love from a stranger,
Renee.
My prayers and thoughts have been and will continue to be with your family in this time. I had just heard of little Layla story a week ago and it has touch my life in sooo many ways. I have a very dear friend who is facing the fight of cancer. She has stage 4 inoperable colon cancer that has spread. I have been by her side along this hard battle and couldn’t not imagine what it is like to have your child fight that battle. I wish you and your family the strength to find the good in all this.
I can’t say anything that hasn’t been said before. Your precious little girl has caused so many people to stop and think about what truly matters in their lives. I’m sorry she had to suffer in order for that to happen but she is at peace now and with the Lord. My prayers for her continue now as prayers for your family. Stay strong knowing so many around the world care for you. May the Lord watch over you and your family.
Sending love & prayers your way from Louisville, KY. God bless little Layla & your entire family. Thank you for sharing her remarkable life with us. We are all better people having “known” her.
I’m sincerely sorry for your loss.
My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
first i want to thank you for the opportunity to share your little girls life with everyone. i know how much she touched my life and my families life. she was and will remain an inspiration to all that knew her name. she so reminds me of my Zo Zo(she is just a little younger). they share the same eyes, so every time i look at my zo i see a glimps of layla. she taught me to stop with the un-importing things and just enjoy the life around me. she also brought me back to God and for that there are no words that could express my gratitude. i am still praying for your family that you may feel the love that evryone has for you and feel Gods presence right beside you. Layla Grace will remain a big part of my life and heart forever. Peace and love to your family always, all five of you<3
In this time of sadness and despair, you can feel comfort knowing that your little girl has touched so many lives. And now that her work is done here on Earth, she is home now, where her journey is just beginning. Heaven is a little brighter now that Layla is there.
Layla, I didn’t know you in person, but wow, have you touched my life, my heart, my soul. You have made me a better person and a better mother. You have accomplished more in your short time on Earth than most people will EVER accomplish and that is something you should be proud of…I’m proud of you.
Shanna and Ryan, keep strong. Don’t look back at the sad times, focus ahead on the good times. We are ALL praying for you, and Jenna and Claire. Thank you all for changing the way I live life. Thank you for opening your hearts and souls to us.
Rest In Peace Sweet Angel Layla Grace.
I have followed Layla’s story since that first e-mail you sent out. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I cannot even tell you how much I have prayed for your sweet girl. May you feel God’s comfort and peace during this difficult journey.
I pray for your family. I pray that you all find peace in Layla’s passing and know that she is watching over her big sisters. I happened to run across your story only a few days ago, but as I read through it I felt that Layla was an incredibly strong little girl and now she is strong and free of pain. Thank you for sharing your story with us.
Rest in peace Layla Grace, precious angel.
Yesterday when I read that she had passed away; I found myself sitting at my desk crying through out the entire day. When I got home last night, I hugged and kissed my baby girl. Layla was a princess and so beautiful. Your family will continue to be in our prayers.
God bless you from Dallas….
I’m so sorry Layla had to endure such a terrible disease. I’m thankful she isn’t suffering anymore. I hope that brings you some light to know how many people’s lives she touched. RIP Layla. Hugs & Prayers to your family.
Thank you for sharing your story of your amazing little girl. My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this time. Continue to stay strong and may God bless you.
Thank you for sharing your special girl with me. I have been touched by your entire family and your faith. I will continue to pray for your other girls and you and your husband as well. It will be such a short time before we see her and dance with her in heaven. Please know that although I may live in another state, what a glorious thing to be a sister with you in Christ…nothing can seperate us when we are with the Lord together…even not knowing each other. It won’t matter then…Please know I am praying and do love you all.
sending prayers and peace from Cincinnati, Ohio. Layla has touched so many, and has made many of us better parents from following her story. Thank you for sharing.
I second you Rosie D.! We will be there. Love you guys!
I am touched by your family’s story. Layla is, at last, happy and free. Take comfort knowing that. I do. Sending my thoughts and prayers…
i have been so touched by this story. wanted to say how sorry i am about your loss. yall are in mine and my families prayers.
Here in Dallas, thinking of y’all and sending prayers of comfort and happiness that you created a life that has touched so many souls all over the country. I’ll be there Saturday in my heart. Take care.
I only found your website (via a retweet) a week or so ago. My heart breaks for your family, but I’m joyous that Layla is now healed and happy. Sending you warm wishes and prayers at this difficult time.
Unfortunately we can’t travel to Texas to be with you celebrating Layla’s life, but we will keep your whole family in our prayers during this difficult time, knowing that Layla is now in a place of light and peace, surrounded by her angels.
Best wishes from
The Stucka Family
Warner Robins, GA
I just wanted to say thank you for sharing Layla’s story with us. She has made ne realize there are many, many reasons to be thankful & to not sweat the small stuff. Life is too short to dwell on the negatives we all face in life. Layla has touched my heart & will forever be missed. She was such a beautiful little girl. I know she was put on this earth to serve a purpose & she has definately done so.
I am sorry we won’t be able to make it on Sat but we will be sending love & flowers from So. Cal. I am also going to be purchasing a “Layla” beanie for my neice in her honor.
Fly With Angels
by Na Leo Pilimehana
Where are you going, inside your mind
I guess were always livin’
on borrowed time
Yes I will be here, to hold your hand
just close your eyes and sleep
I understand
You’re flying with angels
above us all and I’ll be here
to catch you if you fall
If others leave you, you know I’ll stay
My dreams will whisper to you
and guide you way
so sleep my darlin’
one kiss goodnight
another song awaits you
with rising eyes
Rest in peace, beautiful girl
Thank you so much for inviting all of us to come and celebrate Sweet Layla, I live in TN and will be unable to come but your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you so much for sharing your family with mine again.
We will be in prayer and celebration of Layla’s life with you on Saturday, all the way from Michigan. Thank you for sharing your precious little girl with us. PLease be assured of our constant prayers and love for your family. We thank God that Layla is healed and safe with Him, but we mourn for your loss and your heartache.
Rest in peace, sweet Layla. Your story is an inspiration for so many and will live on through your loving family.
My prayers go out to your family. I pray God comforts you all. I am blessed by Layla’s life. She was a true soldier. She has taught me how fragile life is and to live everyday like if it were my last! Her purpose in life will continue, my faith has increased by Layla and your family’s strong faith. She has gone with the Lord! We shall see her again. God bless You all.
The Hinojosa’s
I think about you and your family often and have been following your blog for 2 weeks now. I have a sister in law who lost her daughter when her little girl was only 3 months old. She also has two other children that have become her reason for going on and attempting to live again. I hope your precious children help you and your husband get through the hard times because I know there will be so many.
My heart breaks for your family and I cry for you and for little Layla. I tell myself that although we sometimes fear the unknown of what happens after life, that she is somewhere good and she is waiting for you to one day be with her again.
I pray that God gives you strength through the difficult times. I know that Layla is in heaven smiling down on you.
Shanna, it hasn’t taken but two weeks of being aware of your family and of precious Layla to fall in love with you all. Layla has been on my heart and in my prayers all this time…I have never been so touched by a story of people I didn’t know as I have been by yours. Please know of my entire family’s prayers…I know without a doubt Layla is dancing in heaven with Jesus and yes, playing with the angels, of which she herself is one and always has been.
Leigh,
Alabama
Layla was a beautiful little angel who touched my heart in so many ways. I will continue to pray for your family and we will be sending balloons to Layla up in heaven here in Ohio.
God Bless.
I was so very sad to hear of Layla’s passing but also glad she is in Heaven now, where pain can no longer reach her. I know the celebration will be nothing but beautiful, just like Layla herself. Your family is always in my prayers! God bless you all.
Your family and Layla continue to be in my prayers. I am floored how much your story has impacted me. I don’t know what it is, but I’ve been crying for you and praying and just thinking about Layla like I know her. It’s remarkable. I’m so sorry for your loss. What a beautiful angel she was.
God bless you and keep you…
Thank you so much for sharing Layla and her story with us. I feel truly blessed to have read about such a beautiful and bright little girl. I have been touched and changed by your little girl, she was truly special. Though it breaks my heart that she has been taken from your family, she is with our Lord now and doing his work as the angel she was called to be. May you feel the love and presence of your guardian angel always. Unfortunately, I have made another committment that day and will be unable to attend the service. We live very close to the church but I will be there in spirit with everyone to celebrate beautiful Layla’s life with us. Thank you for letting us see what a joy she was and always will be.
Again, I am so sorry! I wish I could fly to Texas for Laylas funeral. I will be thinking of you all on Saturday. I pray God gives you strength and comfort in this horrible time.
Dear Marsh Family,
I have been following your sweet Layla’s website for a few weeks now since I found out about her through a friend. When i read your blogs my heart sank so deep that there are no words to describe how sorry i feel for your family. I too lost someone to cancer a few years ago, My cusin passed away in 2001 of breast cancer. It is much different to loos a child than to loose an older family member. I can not even begin to understand right now what you must feel. Layla taught millions of people in the world how to love, and have courage and faith again! I know she did teach me that just by reading your blogs. As for the other two little girls, Only time will heal their hearts, but dont ever let Layla’s memory out of their sight! My cusin had 2 very little girls when she passed away and I can imagine what your two are going through right now. Especially your oldest. Time heals, love heals. And Faith will lead you in the right direction. I only wish i lived near you to go help celebrate a wonderful precious child’s life that has touched so many. Remember Mom and Dad.. Layla will live on in your hearts and she will continue to touch you and be there for you from above! I plan on sending you a card in the mail in the comming days. I had one ready to send to Layla for you to read to her, but I do not want to make things harder on you than they already are. If you ever need a friend or just to vent.. please feel free to email me at the email address i have given you and I will have no problem talking to you or helping you through this.
Always a friend, never a stranger!
Love, The Howell Family (Crystal)
Continued prayers from San Diego, CA.
HUGS to you all. I cannot imagine your sorrow through this, but I can tell you that sweet Layla Grace, has been such a blessing to many, many people. I will continue to pray for you all. I will be thinking of you on Sat. Best wishes….abd please know that so many are wrapping their arms and hearts around your family.
Dearest Marsh family-
Thanks you so much for taking the time to update us, surely your heart and mind are filled with so many emotions.
I would love to be there but I will be in AL with my family. I will have a moment to myself, a moment of silence to celebrate your precious Layla’s life.God must have whispered her middle name to you when you were contemplating a name for her. For she has shown such grace, amidst such a time of suffering. She has shown more strength than an army of thousands.
From the time I was introduced to Layla’s journey, your family has never left my mind or my heart. I will carry Layla’s memory with me forever.
I will continue to pray for your family, for peace, comfort, and strength. May God wrap his arms around your precious family and comfort you during your lowest moments. You have shown me, and many others, what true strength and faith are.
Forever in love with Layla,
Yvonne Herrera
I don’t even have the words to express what I am feeling. I am just so sorry that your family has had to endure this pain.
Thank you and your family for sharing Layla’s life & spirit with us all. She has changed me and so many others. When I heard she had passed I felt like a little piece of me had been torn away so I can’t even imagine how your family must feel.
I know we don’t know each other and we will probably never meet, but I just want you to know that your family will always be in my thoughts and prayers and Sweet Layla will always be in my memories.
I wish we could make it on Sat. I would love to join in celebrating Layla’s life, but we will be out of town. I will have her and your family on my mind even though I am not there in person.
with Love
Margot
If we could be there we would be there~but we are all the way in Billerica Massachusetts! But, we will be celebrating Layla’s life on Sat. My husband and I will be participating in a balloon release with pink, purple and white balloons in honor of your Sweet, Precious Layla Grace…..we are there in mind and spirit and we will never be the same! We are a stronger Family and appreciate one another so much more than we did a few weeks ago……..
Much Love and Prayer
John & Lisa Mercer & Family
Billerica Massachusetts
I have been following your story for weeks now and the news broke my heart your story only changed my life for the best. I will be praying for your family. Cannot wait to meet Layla in heaven!!
Thank you for sharing your story with us. I am very sorry for your lose. Layla was a beautiful baby girl who grow wings way to soon. I prayed evryday since I found your story for your family…peace for Layla, a miracle and for God to wrap his arms around your family. Layla will forever be missed, but will be waiting for you and her sisters in Heaven. I will say a pray for your family at 10:30 am on Saturday. I hope you are able to post pictures of the balloon release. I can only imagine the impact that will have on you and everyone that is able to attend. I hold my son a little tighter everyday. Thank you Layla for all your help in making people join together in prayer.
RIP Beautiful HEALED Angel…
I so wish I lived closer to be there. I will definitely be celebrating Layla’s life and I’ll be there in spirit. Much love and peace from Boston, MA. I’ve been praying so hard for all of you for over a month now since I found your blog and I want you to know you will always continue to be in my prayers! I feel like you are all family now. XOXO
I am so profoundly sorry for your loss.
i just have to comment-i am new to your blog and story. a friend of mine posted about your beautiful little one on her facebook wall this morning and so i came over. i have just spent the past few minutes in tears reading about layla’s story and battle with cancer. it rips my heart out to see and hear about a little beautiful angel suffering. and then to read about her family who loses her and misses her beyond belief. i have 3 little girls too and i have imagined myself in your place(which is nothing compared to what you feel i know). i just can’t stop the tears from flowing. my heart breaks for you tonight as you say goodbye to a precious beautiful and sweet daughter. prayers and love from my family to yours.
I can’t begin to tell me how much little Layla has touched my life as I have followed her blog the last few months. I felt the Lord leading me to pray for her and for y’all like I have never sensed before, and I am now praying for the entire Marsh family as you grieve this loss. I can’t imagine what y’all are going through, but I know there is hope in the fact that you will see little Layla in Heaven and she is with Jesus now, totally healed. We can’t make it from SoCal for the funeral, but we will be up praying for you all that morning.
Thank you so much for sharing and allowing your sweet daughter and your sweet family to touch our lives and for allowing us to pray for you. We won’t stop praying!
I have been following your blogs and tweets for the past few weeks and I want to thank you for sharing your Layla with all of us. She truly was an inspiration. She and your family have touched my heart deeply. I cannot be there on Saturday, but my prayers will be with your family from New Jersey.
While we are far away in Virginia, our hearts and prayers remain with you.
Scruggs Family
Sending thoughts and prayers your way from Cincinnati. My heart is breaking for you and your family. Thank you for sharing Layla’s story, she will forever be in my heart. God bless.
Layla’s struggle touched my soul and your faith has strengthened mine. I am a physician and deal with death at work everyday, and yet I found myself drawn to your story. News of Layla’s passing brought me to tears in the parking lot of the hospital where I work. I hope that you and your daughters are able to come to a place of peace and happiness again, knowing little Layla is free from her suffering now in Heaven. I know she is dearly missed.
R.I.P. little Layla! Our prayers are with you and your family! May God Bless you and keep you!
I wish we could attend Layla’s celebration, but I live in Louisiana! We didn’t know Layla but your story has really inspired me! I’m a mother of 3 and would not know what to do if something ever happened to one of mine! I will continue praying for your family!
Praying for your family. Your little angel is beautiful and has touched so many people’s lives. As a person you could only wish to be half as gracious as Layla!
As hard as it is knowing that Layla isnt having to suffer, the news is so heart breaking. She was a beautiful child. My heart goes out to all your family and I have you in my prayers.
I do believe, as another poster commented, that the dog was barking because he/she sensed your angel’s presence. Those who have gone before us are with us at all times. You are surrounded by God’s love and by Layla Grace’s love. She will be with you until you can be reunited with her in God’s kingdom. And what a blessed reunion that will be!
Continued prayers for your family and for Layla’s precious, precious soul. My deepest, heartfelt condolences on your loss.
In Christ,
Rebecca and Charles Mousa and Family
I followed your story and twitters now since mid-February and I continued to pray for a miracle of healing (as we all did). I am so sorry you lost your precious little girl. She fought the fight of her life and did a damn good job. Some things in life are not explainable. I know she stole a piece of my heart and it will always belong to sweet Layla Grace. Thank you for sharing her story. She is an amazing little girl. How many people in their lifetime can say they had approximately 60,00 supporters? I only know of one person- your sweet little angel. She has touched so many lives, hearts, and souls. She has made parents more patient, people more thankful and lives closer to God. May God continue to bring you peace and heal you guys. We love you!XOXO
Rest in Peace Sweet Layla Grace.
You will live on in our hearts.
Prayers, Love, God’s Blessings to the Family as you continue your journey through Life.
shanna and ryan i have thought about that beautiful little girl all day today her story has touched my life so much my prayers and thoughts stay with you as your journey through this must horrific time . i love her little smile she was such a beautiful little angel and always will be. layla will always be remembered for ever.i pray for jenna and claire and hope those sweet little girls get strength to get through this. remember the marsh family is in my prayers and thoughts RIP sweet layla grace.
We’re sending lots of love and prayers for your family from Wimberley, Texas! We will never forget Layla NOR neuroblastoma. I’m planning to ask about testing both at my pediatrician’s office and my OBGYN.
We would love to make a donation in Layla’s honor to help fund a CURE or research for neuroblastoma. I know you are awfully busy, but if there is a specific organization you would recommend or research hospital that would benefit the most, please let us know. I’m sure we are not the only ones.
We will be thinking of Layla on Saturday. I don’t look at my relationship with my almost 2 year old or my relationship with God the same any more. Thank you Layla.
Amy, Zach, and Tatum June Zeller
I can’t be there in person but I will be there in spirit. Layla Grace has touched my life in a way no one else ever has. Your family will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.
I thank Layla Grace and you her family for letting us into her life and showing us how care for someone who we didn’t know personally. She has touch so many and will continue to touch so many lives. She will live on in my heart and prayers.
I wish I could be there in person to celebrate her precious life…I too lost my beloved son to an evil brain tumor. I remember his pain daily, but now I picture him running and playing through the streets of Heaven playing and laughing with all the other children like Layla — no more pain. No more suffering. I pray for you and your sweet family as you start a new journey of life without her. Thank you so much for sharing her story. She is a beautiful little girl.
This sounds like a wonderful tribute to a wonderful little girl. If I lived nearby I would certainly be there – however, you will all be in my heart on Saturday (and every day).
xo from CT,
Amanda
Sending love, prayers, and healing thoughts for your entire family from Orlando. I lit a candle for Layla yesterday… it burned all night and was still bright this morning.
Always remember that death is not the turning off of a light… it is putting out the lamp because the dawn has come. Layla’s dawn has come and she is with our Lord, WHOLE, HEALED, and PAIN FREE.
God Bless you all.
Reading the Tweet about Claire telling the puppy to be quiet so that it wouldn’t wake Layla up, made me cry. It made it realize that Layla is not feeling pain, she is in peace, and is feeling all of the love being sent to her from Earth. All this, while God holds her in his arms and makes her laugh! I am now praying harder for you, Ryan, Jenna, Claire, aunts, uncles, grandparents and friends. I hope you see her in your dreams and she brings you comfort and peace by letting you know that she is happy and in a beautiful place!
I love all of you and know that peace will find your hearts very soon!
Thank you for inviting everyone who has come to love your daughter through you to her celebration of life. Although I am in Houston, I will not be there as I am going to the bay with my family. You have reminded me how precious their sweet lives are (all boys, 5, 3 and 11 mo). I daily give them extra hugs after learning of sweet Layla and her story. Thank you so much for sharing. You have made me a better mother. I will continue to pray for you, her parents and her two beautiful sisters. I cannot imagine the sorrow you are experiencing.
God Bless you! Michaela
I am saddened to hear about this whole situation that yall were put in to. I heard about Layla from 104 KRBE and feel like yall were handed a hand by God that he thought you were able to handle it. I am sorry for your loss and your story has made me very aware of the type of cancer and the things that can happen.
I started following your blog about 2 weeks ago and have constantly been saying prayers for you and your family. I am so sorry of your loss. I had my Sunday school class make her cards and hopefully you have received them. I had to tell the kids of the news and they said that it broke their hearts and they will pray for you. I wish that I could be there for the Celebration of Life. My thoughts and prayers will be with you during that time and I am sure for weeks to come. Thank you so much for sharing your story and the impact that your beautiful daughter had on so many people. I pray that God will give you strength and peace in knowing that she is now pain free and running with the angels waiting for the day when you will once again be reunited. Lots of Hugs from Covington, Indiana. My family will be scattering flower petals in memory of your daughter. My son thanks that we should release them in the Wabash River so that maybe they can reach you! Your family will be forever in my memory. God Bless you!!!
I would love to be there to celebrate such a beautiful thing but I live in CA so that isn’t possible but I haven’t stopped thinking about Layla and I will especially be thinking of her and you all on Saturday.
It is amazing what Layla and her story has done for me. She is such a precious gift from God and she has touched my heart in ways that I didn’t even think possible.
To Laylas family, if you get a chance to read this, I wish you all peace, strength and happy-ness. Layla is finally free from pain, sorrow and agony. She is the hands of the mighty Lord above, where she truly belongs. She is at peace and I pray that you will find the peace you all deserve until you are reunited with Layla again.
To Layla
Rest in peace sweet heart.
I wish I could get to Texas, but I’m all the way up in New York. But I’ll be thinking of little Layla all day Saturday. God bless you.
You are an amazing family. Each time I read your posts I am just in awe of your strenght. Layla was absolutely beautiful and very lucky to have you as parents. God bless you and I will be saying a prayer for you on Saturday.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you from Las Vegas.
Thank you so much for sharing Layla’s journey with us all. She has touched my life in a way that I didn’t think was possible from someone I had never met. My friend had told me about the website & from the first picture I saw I was hooked. She had a way of luring me in like I’ve always known her. I know my grief doesn’t compare to what you are going through, but I want you to know Layla has forever changed me!!! She will NEVER be forgotten. God speaks to me through music & Chanda Pierce has a song that says “I’m going to hold on tighter to a hand that’s stronger” I pray that you will feel God’s outstretched hand helping you through this time.
I stumbled upon your blog a while back and have not been able to turn away. I read a lot of blogs, but reading Layla’s story has brought me to my knees. She is always in the back of my mind, especially when I am with my own two girls. Your faith has strengthened my faith. I don’t even know you personally, but I feel like God has placed your family in my life and my heart for a reason. If nothing else I know it has made me slow down and appreciate the blessings that He has given me. I share your story every chance I get and you are all in our prayers. Thank you for sharing Layla with us.
Thank you for sharing Layla’s life with us. I have been following her story for about a month and have been inspired by her as well as the whole family. She is in a much better place with no more sorrow, tears, or pain. You will be reunited in God’s time. When I read of her passing, I got a huge lump in my throat and my eyes were so watery…as if I knew her personally, my heart ached for you all. Keep going strong for Layla as hard as it may be. She is a beautiful Angel, now with my Angel up in heaven. Who knows, maybe they’re playing together up in Heaven
God bless you.
“He 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. ” Rev. 21:4
Prayers from Corpus Christi,
~Celinda
Layla … got me on my knees
Layla … begging for you please
Layla … darlin’ won’t you ease my worried mind
Layla – rest in peace sweet darlin’
I have been following your story for the last couple of weeks and want you to know how saddened I am for your family. Layla was a beautiful child…she accomplished so much in a very short time here on earth. Her legacy will live on through the many, many people that have followed and been touched by your story. She has inspired all of us to support the research of this horrific disease. Thinking and praying for you all!
We cannot imagine the whirlwind of emotions you must be experiencing these days. We are sending prayers from NC for the Marsh family. Amidst the sadness and heartache, we pray that the love, support and Faith of Layla’s prayer warriors will surround you! May God’s peace and strength carry you through the next few days!!
We will be with you in thought, prayer and spirit on Saturday!
thank you so much for your blogs and tweeters…I started the group on Facebook called Facebook Addictions…are you so addicted to facebook that you cannot go even a day with out going to Fb and looking at updates or are you so addicted that you cannot get on your computer with out first going to FB? Anyhow I started that group But that isn’t true anymore…..My addiction went from FB to Layla I couldn’t get on my computer without first checking out your tweeter and Blogs and I prayed
several times aday for improvement…WE all fell inlove with your beautiful baby girl..We all felt it and hurt when she passed…Thank you so much for your updates and blogs and Pictures…..She’s so beautiful!!!! Now she is an amazeing Beautiful Angel…I am so sorry for what you and Ryan had to go through and endure…Watching your child in pain and dieing before your very eyes and you can’t stop it or do anything to help her except love her and let her know you are there….You and Ryan had it way worse then alot of parents having to watch her for weeks in pain and dreading the day you prayed wouldn’t come when you had to let go and say goodbye But inspite of it all I know you and Ryan treasured every second you had with your sweet angel nomatter how bad things got and her knowing you were there and loved her is all she wanted and to be painfree….I wish there would have been a different outcome to be painfree…..like Cancer free But inspite of what that sweet girl had to go through I think she faught so hard because she loved her family and wanted to be there with you!!!! She fought until her body could not fight anylonger….WE love you Ryan and Shanna for shareing your story and family with us…..You are amazeing beautifil people that I pray I can meet someday and I am only sorry I never got the pleasure of meeting your little Angel…..I had wanted to buy a picture of layla and help out with purchaseing beautiful hats for my toddler like she wore…I will never forget Layla..she taught me to be more patient with my own children…I have 4 children ages 10,7,6 &20 months…..That is one reason it hit me so hard Layla isn’t that much older then our youngest girl and they are both beautiful children and both look very similar in the face…..Layla was so smart and advanced, I loved watching her you tube videos…..I think it would be therapitic now to write a book about your life from the time you met Ryan and getting married and your children leading up to finding out you were expecting layla and then after she was born upto the time she got sick then you can put al your blogs and tweeters and other memorys you diden’t post and not only would be a journal but start it after you get some resting time and while every detail is fresh in your mind because UI would be first in line for the book and not to mention with as many followers and supporters your book would sell guareenteed and that money would help pay off Layla expenses…..And maybe put that picture of her on the cover where she was smileing with the hat with the big flower…one of the last ones taken and you could post your family pic of all of you on the inside front fold and you could have as many pictures of her as you want if not all as you discuss the different months you could add her beautiful photos……This book will be a huge success and then your girls and ansisters down the line can read it and know how wonderful Layla Grace was and still Is!!!!! WE love you Shanna!!! You and Ryan are so strong and your Blogs are wonderful…you are a wonderful writer and you are an inspiration to many….You and Ryan are so strong to keep updateing us when it hurts the most…we love you for that..and we would love for you to keep blogging and twittering and updateing on how you are doing in the months to come and how her 2 beautiful sisters are doing? You have a very beautiful family!!!And I hope someday I can meet you in person to say Thankyou for all you have done…you shared Layla with us and she helped so many.
I noticed on your church where the service will be it’s .TV? I live in Auburn Kansas Bu Topeka Kansas..It’s 9-12 hours away…Is there away we could watch the service from our computers? I wouldn’t miss it for anything if there is away we can watch the service?
Layla’s short life has touched not only me, but my children as well. Many prayers for your family.
I cant believe that she is gone. I read about her and she was such a brave little girl and not she is no longer in pain but still wishes that she was here. You have left a mark on so many baby girl. Keep watch over your family and make sure that they are doing ok.
I don’t know you but am friends with Tammy. I saw her post on facebook…. O have a 9 month old and she is my first… I just cried and hurt for you and your family and tries to imagine how I would feel if God took my sweet baby! Please know I am praying for you guys and know you touched my heart! I will never forget you guys and will always live the fullest and be thankful for everyday God let’s me have with her! Thank you for your faith! God has a new sweet Angel! How lucky is He!
lI live in Cypress also! I have a beautiful pond near me and thats were I have prayed for Layla Grace many times. I was their Wednesday morning. I will be their on Saturday at 10:30 and release balloons for Layla Grace who will always be in my heart
Layla Grace and your entire family have been in our prayers for a long time now. I continue to pray for God’s grace and strength as you navigate through the pain and loss. Layla Grace will never be forgotten and I know I am a better mother to my own children because of her. Thank you for sharing her story with us. We will be releasing 5 pink balloons in MN in her honor this Saturday.
Thank you so much for sharing Layla’s story with us! She will forever be in my heart. I never thought I could cry so much for someone I never met… She has made me realize what really matters in life to not sweat all the small stuff. Because of you and your beautiful Layla I believe I am a better person. I will never take anything for granted. RIP Beautiful Angel!
Lucy M
Indiana
I wish I could be there with you. But I live in Alabama. Your daugthers story has made me a better mother. Your daugther was a angel sent to teach the world a lesson. Your family is in my prayers. I feel like I knew Layla and your family. I love Layla and I love your family.
The Perfect name for the (as always) and NOW more than ever, PERFECT LITTLE GIRL.
I’m so sorry to hear of the loss of Layla. What a beautiful, precious little girl who really did accomplish so much in her short time. I know you are very proud of here.
Love to both of you, Layla’s sisters, and to the rest of your family and friends. I know that this is so, so hard but know that she is not in pain anymore and she has a lot of people looking after her in heaven. I know that my Grandfather, who I recently lost, is probably playing the harmonica for her and spoiling her with candy!
Layla was such a fighter and would want you all to be, too. Hopefully, she brings you strength and comfort in the fact that you know that she would want you to celebrate, rather than be sorrowful over her little life. She was such a happy girl and would not for one second want you to be sad!
You have so many people in your court thinking about you, praying for you, and supporting you. Thank you for sharing Layla with us and for bringing about awareness of this terrible disease.
Love to you all!
In closing, I wanted to say how appropriate the name Layla Grace was…. she was the epitomy of gracefulness and was truly a miracle sent to you by the grace of God.
Here’s some quotes I found on grace:
Grace needs to be the air we breathe, the atmosphere we live in, whether in church or in the home. ~Allen Snapp
Grace… expresses two complementary thoughts: God’s unmerited favor to us through Christ, and God’s divine assistance to us through the Holy Spirit. ~Jerry Bridges
The beauty of grace is that it makes life not fair. ~Relient K
Grace is given not because we have done good works, but in order that we may be able to do them. ~St. Augustine
Rest in peace sweet baby girl. May angels lead you in.
Just wanted to saw that was a hello from Canada….. you have support all around the globe!
Hugs
I will be hanging my butterfly cottages outside in rememberance of Layla,plus I will till my garden for the butterfly..This may be strange to layla family,but keeping up w/ layla she holds a dear place in my heart like a family memeber,so, the butterfly is the symbol of my mom,dad & 3 brothers that passed on..When the butterfly comes around me it like a fresh of breath air,and most of the time there 20 to 30 that surrounds me…. I will pick the rainbow butterfly for Layla & I will see it….
I am very sorry for your lose. I hope you other two girls are doing okay. I wash your family the best of luck. Layla will be with you in your heart and washing over you guys from heven
Thank you for sharing your sweet little girl with the world. I loved her photos. She always looked so joyful. My heart breaks for you. It is truly amazing how she has touched so many people in a short time. She will always be with you. I’m so sorry.
My 14-year-old daughter and I have followed Layla’s story with tears, hope, fear, and finally, peace (though there remains some sadness, I readily admit).
Out of the blue, her biology teacher assigned the class to do a research project on “any kind of cancer” and she immediately decided to do hers on neuroblastoma. It’s another example of how you and your precious angel continue to raise awareness, in ways you don’t even realize.
I pray for God’s comfort and protection for you. You and Layla will always be in my heart.
Kim in Charlotte, NC
Your story made it all the way to a military base in Okinawa, Japan. I am thinking of your family today. My heart goes out to you for your loss.
Hi there. My husband was especially moved by the story of your little girl. He lost his father to cancer several years ago. My husband watched his father pass slowly, just like Layla. I am so sorry for your loss. We live in Houston. There wasn’t a day that went by since mid Feb that we didn’t hear the update of Layla on the radio, through facebook, twitter or our work bulletin boards. Thank you for sharing your story. We hold our little girl tighter and share more kisses now that we know Layla’s story. God bless your family.
I wish you and your family peace during what must be an amazingly difficult time.
My heart pours out to you..I just found out about your situation a few days back, but she has touch my life so much in this tiny time…May God be with you and your family…I have a 2 year old Landyn, so this has really hit home…She will be remembered all over the world…Thanks for sharing your story with us all…
Layla,
I HOPE YOU REST IN PEACE!!!!!!!! I will be praying for you and your family. I know you are only two years old and can probably not read this, but i hope you get the message! We will be praying for you and you dont forget that.
REST IN PEACE LAYLA GRACE!!
Thank you so much for sharing your little angel with us and helping all of us to become better mothers and Christians! I do like Therese’s idea- since you have shared this much, is there any way the service can be taped and shown over the internet? Would love to see it, but we live in Georgia!
Your family and especially your two little girls are in my prayers as you struggle with your loss and Heaven’s gain!
Words cannot express how sorry I am for your loss. Thank you for sharing your family’s story with the world. Your precious angel has forever changed my heart! I think about you all often and pray that God will give you the strength you need to get through these hard times. I will continue to pray for Jenna and Claire, who will always have a very special guardian angel watching over them! As will you all!!!!!
Much Love and prayers!!!
Danielle
Montgomery, TX
Thank you for sharing Layla’s and your family’s journey with us. Your family is so beautiful and Layla so special. May God continue to keep his arms around you in this time of need. Layla your angel wings are so beautiful, may you rest in peace little one free of pain. God Bless and Thank You for telling the world about this dread form of cancer. Your family and friends are in my prayers.
I just wanted you to know that Layla’s story has giving me something I never knew I needed, a new outlook to motherhood. These days everyone stuggle with day to day activities, work, school, home. But never again will I wish my toddler would just sit still, never again will I complain that I have a paper to write and she insists on typing with me. Layla made me a better, more patient mother. I am eternally grateful and will never forget your sweet daughter or your family.
With all my love and prayers,
Hillary
While I cannot be there in person, I will be there in my heart. My own 2 year old DD Grace will be wearing a lovely flower in Layla’s honor and I will give her an extra hug every time I think of Layla.
Still praying for you in NC…
How is it that a beautiful little girl, barely two years old had an impact on 50,000+ strangers bringing us to our knees in tears, prayers, faith, hope, and a sense of how precious and dear all our our children are in a matter of days, weeks, and months? What a testimony you have shared. What a testimony little Layla Grace was to all of us who were touched and moved by her valiant fight! Know that you, the Marsh family, has an army, and now family, of prayer warriors that once strangers, are now bonded together in faith and support. We are surrounding you in thoughts, prayers and are enveloping and holding you tightly as you walk these difficult days. Thank you for sharing your little girl with all of us. I can’t wait to meet her in heaven!
Like so many others, I began following your story and Layla’s fight several weeks ago. Yesterday was my 42nd birthday and Layla joined my parents in the arms of God. As an R.N., I see a lot. But as a mother, I can not fathom the pain in your hearts. Layla was such a beautiful child and you were so blessed to have had her in your life even for this short amount of time. Please know that at any given moment, there is someone thinking about you and praying for your comfort.
Like many others on here, I have been following Layla’s sickness and reading your updates on Twitter. She is loved by so many and her short existence has made us better-you appreciate everything more, especially our healthy children and you want to help the ones that are sick.
Atleast your family is not witnessing this horrible suffering anymore.. it was heartbreaking for me to even read the updates. So many people are thinking of the Marsh family and sweet Layla-I am so saddened by this.
“out of sight but never out of mind.” Rest in peace baby girl-you are among the angels.
I just heard the sad news and as sad as it is Im thankful this beatiful ANGEL is no longer in pain. I will continue to pray for you and your family to get threw this. Layla was loved by all !!!!!!!!!!!
Carrie Ellison ( maiden name : Carrie Marsh !!!! )
Shanna and Ryan,
My husband and I have thought about you both so much over the last two weeks since we learned of what was happening to your family. We have talked so much about what you both must be going through. Our hearts are broken. We know we could never fully understand your pain, but we are just so saddened. Layla’s beautiful face is forever etched in our hearts. But, in the midst of this tragedy, we have realized that we fall so short of what the Lord expects of us as parents. We have promised ourselves, each other and God to be better caretakers of these precious gifts that God has given us. Whether it be for a short time or long, to honor him by being the best, loving Mother and Father we can be. We are grateful to you, Layla, Claire and Jenna for showing us what we needed to see. I pray for peace for you all in your grieving and I know this wound may never heal but maybe someday it will subside and you will all remember Layla with a smile. Knowing you will once again see her someday.
Amy and Paul Lojko
Waterman, IL
I am so sorry. Many of my online friends have pointed me here, and as I read, I find you are neighbors. I live in Cypress, near Grant and Louetta. Oh, you don’t know me, but if there is anything I can do to help you, please let me know. My heart breaks for your pain….
I so wish I could be there on Saturday, Layla grabbed onto a piece of my heart, and I will never forget her. Love and prayers from MN
Jenn
Oh, sweet Layla…I have been thinking of your family daily. I wish I could be there to celebrate your short little life, but I promise to plant flowers and think of you on Saturday. In fact, I cannot wait to see the beautiful bluebonnets start to bloom here in the great state of Texas, and that will get me thinking of you as well.
Much love and more love,
Texas Mom in Austin
My heart aches for the pain that your family must be going through right now. My heart felt like it ripped in two when I read your post about Claire and the puppy. My daughter, Bella (2), and I are still praying for you, and last night we lit “Laywa’s Canduh” to honor her FB moment of silence and candle vigil. Your family has touched me in ways I never thought possible of people I had never met, but Layla and your family will forever have a place in my heart, and I will continue to pray for your comfort and healing.
I so wish that I could be at Layla’s Celebration, but I will be in Dallas. I do hope that someone will be be able to take pictures for you and that there might be a few posted. Bella and I will release some balloons in Dallas in honor of Layla on Saturday.
Your family is so loved! Today on the way home from work I heard a song by Tree 63, and although I’ve heard it time and time before, it really struck a chord today. I thought I’d share it with you:
Blessed be your name
In the land that is plentiful
Where the streams of abundance flow
Blessed be your name
Blessed be your name
When I’m found in the desert place
Though I walk through the wilderness
Blessed be your name
Every blessing you pour out,
I turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say…
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your glorious name
Blessed be your name
When the sun’s shining down on me
When the world’s all as it should be
Blessed be your name
Blessed be your name
On the road marked with suffering
Though there’s pain in the offering
Blessed be your name
Every blessing you pour out,
I turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say…
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your glorious name
You give and take away
You give and take away
My heart will choose to say
Lord, Blessed be your name
…So sorry for the length!
God bless your family. Many prayers for you from Indiana.
Mary Ann
Layla is such an angel I still get a lump in my throat when I think of how brave she was, she has touched my life in so many ways…I will always remember the stories you shared with us about your heart breaking story! Thank you fore bringing Layla into my life she has changed my life…I will no longer sweat the small stuff, I will live life like there is no tomorrow!!!! Rest in Peace sweet Layla Grace…Loved Always and forever Kelly
Wish I was able to make it but flowers will be on there way for Layla to look at the celebration!!!!
God bless your family. Many prayers for you all.
My family will be celebrating Layla’s life and my gratitude for what she has done for me as a momma and as a woman of faith by releasing pink balloons on Saturday all the way from KS. Keeping you all in my prayers over the days, weeks and months to come. May God wrap you in His loving arms and give you the peace and comfort only He can provide.
I cannot begin to know what sorrow you are going through at this sad time, Layla has touched so many lives and brought so many closer to God. She was and still is my first thought when I woke up and my last thought when I go to bed. I shall be thinking about her celebration day and shall find a quiet moment just to remember a little girl I didn’t know but who reached right in and touched my heart.
To Jenna, Claire and the rest of the family, may god wrap his arms around you and help you all through this, just know that somewhere in a little part of Scotland someone is thinking of you.
To Layla rest in peace darling hope you are having fun up there in heaven.
To Ryan and Shanna this is for you.
Child of mine
Anonymouns
A child of god I think they call,
that little child of mine.
The one I held so close to me,
For all those countless times.
For all the mums and dads out there,
that have a special one.
You know that child of God’s you have,
you all your little one.
I call her mine as I see now,
I held her when she cried.
and it was me who held her close,
on the night I watched her die.
Dear lord I know you sat with us,
and held our hand so tight.
I know you loved that child of mine,
and loved us all you might.
But lord I gave her life you see,
it was me who held her first.
It was you who watched us both so close,
and helped us through the worse.
The child of mine I lend you now,
take care of her for me.
and help the other mums and dads,
as I know it’s hard to see.
We’ll loan her to you for a while,
so love her while you may.
Coz when you call us home again,
that will be the day….
I will hold that child of mine again,
and in my arms she’ll stay.
xx
Saying I am sorry for your loss seems not even right. I have only recently been introduced to dear sweet Layla Grace. I prayed so very hard for a miracle as many did. I continue to pray hard for you and your husband and children through the very difficult time of healing. I can’t even imagine what you are going through but know many people care and are continuing to pray for you and sweet angel Layla. God bless you all.
Thank u so much for keeping EVERYONE updated on Layla Grace, and the info about her services and where to purchases flowers. (that was a big help to those who have been following her blog). I just learned about sweet Layla 10 days ago and for some reason feel like I’ve known her since she was born. She will ALWAYS have a place in my heart. Jenna and Claire will always have a SPECIAL ANGEL watching over them.
Praying for your family from Indiana
Xoxo to the Marsh Family
Precious little Layla has got her angel wings now & she’s watching over her loving & strong Mommy & Daddy & beautiful sisters. She touched my heart as soon as I read about her on Twitter. She will be in my heart forever.
There is a song by Bev Lowry called “why take the righteous” that I always think of when I hear of such a young child that is passed. I hope it brings you comfort as it does me.
” I woke up this morning, never dreaming what the day would bring.
our son still a child to us always made our hearts sing.
I never would believe that tomorrow he’d be gone.
the pain I feel, the hurt I bear, has taken our song.
why take the righteous while the wicked still live?
why take the young when they’ve so much to give?
God said ‘child, trust my heart, My perfect plan’s still in play.
sometimes I bring a child home just to be face to face’”
then, I heard the Father say, ‘Child, I know your pain.
for I sent My one & only Son so the world may live again.
I watched Him die, I turned My back as I bore your sins that day.
the pain you feel is the pain I felt. I understand why you say
why take the righteous while the wicked still live?
& why take the young though they’ve so much to give?
child, trust My heart, my perfect plan’s still in place
that’s why I take a child home, just to be face to face
you can’t see what I can see
you don’t know what’s in store.
but I can see tomorrow
I know you love him, but I love him more!
that’s why I take the righteous while the wicked still live
& I take the young when they’ve so much to give
child trust my heart, my perfect plan is still in place
that’s why I take a child home just to be face to face”
your family is always in my thoughts & prayers! we love you Layla Grace!!
The Ladds
Thank you for sharing your precious Layla with all of us. You have shown the kind of courage, strength, and faith that only comes from the most special of people…parents. I only wish we could had the time to love her as much as you all did.
You are in our hearts and prayers.
The Reisingers
God Bless you and your family…. We have been following your story and praying for you and Layla Grace. Today she walks with the Lord and plays with the angels…..we grieve and she rejoices….I can feel your sorrow having lost one of my own….My heart reaches out to you…May you find comfort in the arms of the Lord…Missionaries to the orphans of Mexico
Don and Kathy Nethery
Sending prayers from KY. Her story was posted on one of the forums on The Nest and it captured my heart. May God touch your family with peace for now your little girl is your angel.
A celebration of Layla’s life! What a beautiful way to put it! I wish I could attend the service but I am states away from Texas. I will celebrate Layla’s life on Saturday, here in St. Louis by spending beautiful moments with my own babies, who are 19 months old and 4 and never taking those moments and memories for granted. May Layla rest in peace and I know she is the most beautiful angel in heaven, and watching over her Mommy, Daddy, and beautiful big sisters. What a blessing sweet Layla is! Thank you for sharing her beautiful life and spirit with us!
Layla was a ray of light in this dark world. Her big blue eyes that showed her strong spirit and sweet smile like that of an angel touched us all. It was heart breaking knowing that she was in so much pain and also knowing how painful it was for you as her parents not to be able to make all the pain go away and know she was slipping away and not being able to stop it. You are an inspiration because you kept your faith in God through all of this and it even got stronger! God is good all the time even if it can be hard to see sometimes through pain and suffering. Layla is happy and healthy again, this time forever and she will always be watching over you and your family until the day you see her sweet face again in Heaven!
Praise the Lord for your continued strength and courage sharing all of this with all of us. How can we love a little life that we never met? How can we grieve this hard for a family we’ve never seen? Thanks for sharing your lives and grief with us….’and together the Lord will make us as one…and they will know we are Christians by our love…”
I’m a good prayer warrior and I will be praying for you..me and my family and my sister’s family.
I will be there, I would not miss it for the world. This little girl touched my heart in such a special and amazing way. If it was not for her I would not be who I am today! Thanks you baby Layla Grace!
Sending blessings, prayers and love your way. What a beautiful little life you so graciously shared with all of us. I will forever remember Layla Grace. I am convinced that she in now cloud hopping, playing with her angels and will always watch over her family until you are all reunited.
God Bless you always!
Thank you for sharing Layla’s life with us. Thank you for reminding us how precious every day of life is. Thank you for taking the time to share with us this very hard journey your family had to endure. Thank you for reminding us that every moment of struggle and frustration in parenthood is a moment to treasure. We will always have Layla and your family in our hearts.
From Bogota, Colombia
From Nebraska: Thank you for the invitation. I wish I could fly down there to attend. I do miss her and wish she was still on earth. I have cried every day since I clicked your blog link that was fwd to me by a friend in AZ. Cried the day confirmation came that she received her angel wings. Every single minute she is on my mind and that is good because it has made me a better person, better mother, more spiritual and not to complain so much, and lastly make me realize to not take anything for granted because every minute does count. My little boy receives more hugs and kisses than he would stick around for…he gets a little wiggly and wants down, lol! I bought a “layla” beanie from the boutique you referenced on twitter, my boy won’t wear it
but someday I’ll have a little girl that will and it’ll remind me of Layla. Got a keychain from your photographer and ordered a Rock for Layla tshirt. I just don’t want to forget about her and I won’t ever. I’ll tell my kids about her, I’ll tell family and friends about her. I hope through all of this and dealing with many well-meaning people, I hope you are able to find private time to reflect, cry, find peace and comfort. Saturday, I’ll be releasing ballons from Lincoln, for Layla. I’ll continue to pray for your family.
I am so sorry for your loss. Layla Grace was and still is a beautiful child of God’s and I’m so thankful that I got to know her through your blog and photos of her. She’ll be deeply missed but not forgotten. Your family are still in my prayers daily. Hugs from Dalhart.
I wish that I could be there for the Celebration of Layla’s Life but I live to far away I will be there with my heart and I , I fell in love with your little girl and I thank you for sharing her , I have shed tears for her, I have two daughters of my own Grayce (4 years old) and Ryleigh ( 5 months old) I think that is why this has hit me hard , Your daughter touched my life in so many ways, She was beautiful, and I am sure she is a beautiful angel looking down on all of us… I am so very sorry for your loss.. I am keeping you in my prayers through this difficult time … May god Bless all of you and keep you!
Love , Christy
Since the first time I read this blog…..I have had a different appreciation for my babies. I wake up and I remember Layla and I hug and kiss my girls. I give them an extra squeeze at bedtime, because I remember Layla. I don’t think that I will ever take for granted another normal, ordinary, healthy day with my babies ever again.
This baby has served a wonderful purpose in my life. I will be a better mother to my girls because through Layla I was reminded that I am blessed every day to have my sweet babies.
I pray that God grants you peace in this time of agony and grief. I pray that your girls find understanding. God bless you all.
Thank you for sharing with all of us so that we might become better people for knowing that a little girl named Layla Grace existed and was loved so much.
Bless you and your family, and thank you so much for sharing your incredible daughter with us. My son was born exactly 3 months before Layla and has severely delayed speech, but every time I visit your blog he climbs in my lap to point at her picture and say, “beautiful girl.” And he’s absolutely right. God bless you all and bring you peace, and thank you again for giving my little one something to talk about at last.
Thank you for including all of us in Layla’s celebration. I truly have contemplated flying down to Texas. Since it won’t work with the family, my kids and I will release balloons here in Colorado Springs on Saturday. We have become deeply attached to your story- and as a family therapist, that rarely happens to me. There’s something very special about your family. I can guarantee that because of your efforts someones children will survive this disease. Bless you for finding a purpose to this pain! We’ll never forget that wonderful child!!
I will be praying for you and your family. So very sorry for your loss. Layla Grace was a precious, special little girl who touched many lives. May she rest in peace.
Been following your story for two weeks now. What a beautiful little girl. My heart and prayers are with you and your family. I picture her in heaven running and playing. Giggling.
God brings people into your lives for a reason and I thank God daily for bringing your family and sweet Layla Grace into my life, the first entry I read from you was to be thankful for the not getting things done because of the kids- that will forever have a place in my heart.
Thank you for sharing your enormous pain along with your very tender blessings with so many of us.
Your family will continue to be in my prayers for years to come and I will stop on Saturday at 10:30 and say a prayer for your family and sweet Layla Grace.
I continue to pray for God to surround you all and give you strength and comfort.
ABeasley in SC
I wish I could be there ,but I’m sending this..The butterfly is a flying flower.The flower a tethered butterfly…~~Ponce Denis Ecouchard Lebrun~~ 2= Flowers and butterflies drift in colors,illiminating spring.~~Author Unknown~~
You guys are special people to me. I will always keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Your daughter was the most beautiful little girl. She will be dearly missed. I’m listening to idol right now and they just sang “I’m already there” by Lonestar. Always keep in mind, though God had to take your daughter away, she will ALWAYS be watching over you. And never forget that you both are great parents. You may not feel it now, but you’ll realize it after awhile. I live in WI so I will not be coming to the memorial service for Layla. Thank you for allowing my church ministry group to pray for you and follow the last couple weeks of Layla’s journey. She will always be alive in my heart and the hearts of thousands!
~Lots of love~
I am thinking of you all and praying for you. Layla was a beautiful angel here on earth and she is surely even more beautiful in heaven. I’m so sorry that you have to cope with such a loss. Love from NY.
I just found your blog and would like to offer my deepest condolences. I have a little boy, almost 1 and I could never imagine going through what you have gone through.
My prayers are with you from me and my family here in East Texas. Be strong and keep in the lord as my family knows from our own recent tragic loss just a few short months ago peace will slowly come.
I am so sorry for your loss-please accept my deepest sympathy. Your precious Layla Grace has helped lead me back to our Heavenly Father and for that I am eternally grateful.
I was so sad to hear of Layla’s passing yet am glad to know she is no longer suffering. I can’t imagine the pain you all must be feeling and am truly in awe of the strength and grace you have shown in dealing with her illness. Thank you for sharing her story as it has inspired so many people, myself included, to love, honor and appreciate my children more. I pray that God gives you and your girls the comfort and strength you need as you adjust to life without Layla.
God Bless,
Kathy
Latrobe, PA
I will pray that God carries you and your family in His arms and that you feel His presence through your grief…like the footprints in the sand. I am so so sorry for your loss.
I didn’t write this, but I inserted Layla’s name.
God sent an angel to the earth
By Unknown Author
God sent an angel to the earth…
The sweetest angel too
and for such a tiny little thing,
she had so much to do.
She knew she did not have
much time upon this earth to stay,
so she did not waste a second;
she got started right away.
Her eyes were bright and sparkly,
she took in every turn.
She did not miss a single thing,
because Angel came to learn!
God sent her here to touch the
hearts of those he could not reach…
She taught them courage, strength and faith,
because Angel came to teach.
Her tiny little body
was so full of God above,
you felt it when you held her,
because Layla came to love.
In 2 short years she managed
what many never will.
When she went home to Jesus,
her purpose was fulfilled.
She learned and taught, loved and played,
she learned her lessons well.
I know he was so proud of her
when she went home to dwell.
But when I miss her OH-SO-MUCH,
I can almost hear him say,
please understand, her work was done…
Layla did not come to stay.
My heart is breaking for your family. But am thankful she’s at peace. Even though we’ve never met I cannot believe how much your daughter and your family has affected me over the past month(ish)….you’ve constantly been on my mind. And a family I won’t soon forget.
My continued thoughts and prayers..
I am thinking and praying for your family. Please know that Layla has really touched my life and that I will never ever forget her story. She is a beautiful angel. Thank you for sharing this story with us.
Elizabeth
Little Town in S TX
I have never met Shanna or Ryan or for that matter your Jenna and Claire. And yet it feels like, I am willing to place my own life for each one of you. I believe that you have a kind heart. I do believe, you were the chosen one for Layla on her short journey on this planet. You personify what GOD intends to have on this planet. I do believe that Layla’s short time on this planet is to teach and touch every soul. And, She did.
To Marsh Family; you are so loved by so many.
Love you so very much
Louie
I have been following you on twitter for the last couple weeks. Layla was so beautiful and your family has been in my prayers. My whole family and my friends are thinking of you guys. Your strength has been amazing to me and its great to hear how close you have become with our father in heaven. I am so sorry for your loss.
Tears, love, prayers and gratitude from Chicago. Thank you for sharing your story and reminding us how precious life truly is.
Dear Marsh Family!
I am so deeply sorry for the loss of sweet Layla!
I wish I could attend her Celebration of Life if I was not thousands of miles away! (Will there be some sort of video tape for those who can’t attend?)
Thank you for keeping us updated. Yesterday was a day of tears – I cried all day long, along with millions of others. My eyes were so swollen I couldn’t leave the house! She had such a huge impact on my life!
Bless your entire family!!!! I pray for your strength during this time!
Kristie
I type, then delete, type again, and yet words fail me. I know in my heart that Layla Grace is safe in the hands of God, but it can not change the absence left in all of our hearts. She will be dearly missed.
Your pain is all of our pain, and your loss is all of our loss. Holding you up to the light, and keeping you in our thoughts.
Okay..It’s me again after doing some figures…..If you wrote the book and charged $30.00 each and if you had 60,000 followers and they all bought a book that’ under $2 million dollars …one million and eight hundred thousand dollars!!! That could help alot…I bet you have more then 60,000 followers!!!! That could pay all your bills off!!!!! and Layla would still be doing her work from Heaven!!!! Think about it and let me know what you think? I was in the process of writeing a book but diden’t finish it because I have no idea mine will sell? But you are guraenteed to sell you’s because everyone loves Layla and everyone loves you and your family and everyone would be getting to keep part of layla with them all the time through the book….It wil sell……Let me know what you decide but between the other funraisers and this book you will meet your goal amount and possibly have extras to invest for retirement and further research to help find a cure for cancer……
I have been following your story for the past couple of weeks . My heart aches for all of you. I cannot even begin to imagine the pain and sorrow you must be feeling. I admire your strength and willingness to share Layla’s story with the world. WOW—you guys must feel completely overwhelmed and amazement at how many lives your daughter has touched. What a tribute. Layla was certainly blessed to be surrounded by so much love and support. What a beautiful little girl. May her wonderful smile and her laughter forever dance in your heart. May you find peace in knowing that she is no longer in pain. All of you have a beautiful angel watching over you. Continued prayers during this most difficult time for your family. God Bless!
Chrisie, Illinois
although its been said a million times, your story has touched my life in a way i never thought possible from a stranger. over the past few months, i (a recent college graduate) have been taking time to figure out what i wanted to do with my life. i always knew that i had to help people (mainly children) and that i had a special place in my heart for cancer patients ( my mother is 3 years in remission from Acute Myeloid Leukemia), but never really put two and two together.. After reading your blogs, following you on twitter and reconnecting with an old friend (Angelica) who had the chance to fly out to TX to meet Layla and your family, i have finally decided that I will work with pediatric cancer patients. I have prayed and prayed and will continue to pray for you and your family, and PLEASE PLEASE know that Layla fulfilled her duties on this Earth by touching so many people’s lives. we have all become more aware of her disease, taken that second look and given that extra hug to our loved ones, and most importantly become closer to God. you and your family are extraordinary examples of strong, loving parents and Christians. I will continue to think of you and pray that you, your husband, and daughters will be blessed with peace and comfort during these times.
love and blessings from South Carolina,
Whitney Freaney
Rest In Peace sweet Layla Grace. God bless your entire family- your Angel is in the best place imaginable, pain free.. I pray daily that your family finds peace through these times.
After reading every single entry from this blog in one sitting last night,I thank Layla and your family for teaching me that every day is a blessing, and nothing in my life should be taken for granted.
Hold each other tight, and stay strong. My love goes out to you all.
Your family has touched my heart. Layla Grace was a beautiful little girl. She was so strong and she learned that from her strong and eternally devoted parents. I have a daughter close to Layla’s age with a rare genetic disorder. I know how it feels to want more information, want more awareness on these medical issues. Thank you Marsh family and Layla Grace for helping remind me to cherish every single moment with my precious daughter. May you have peace and support through these times and times ahead. Thank you for sharing this journey and raising awareness.
Thank you for sharing your precious little angel with the world. I so admire your strength and faith. Prayers still being said for you and your family from Indiana!
I am SO SORRY for your loss. I cannot imagine what you are going through. I just found your blog today. It is hard to imagine losing your little baby, but God has a plan. I pray that you all find the strength to carry her wonderful memory and cherish those memories. I am so glad that you were able to do your family photo shoot. I am a photographer myself and I know how precious those images are to you. Thank you for sharing your story… you have giving me strength to stay strong when times get tough… I think of Layla and all that you guys have gone through. I wish the best for you and your family over this very hard time!
Thank you for sharing your precious angel with us. She touched my heart in so many ways. I can’t even begin to think of the emotions you are feeling at this time. Please know that you family is in my thoughts. I pray that you find comfort in the Lords arms during your time of sorrow and knowing that your baby girl is pain-free in heaven.
Jenna and Claire: your litttle sissy is your biggest angel!!
Sweet dreams little Layla.
Prayers to you and your family. I had your family in my thoughts this morning, and when I turned on the radio this song came on..
Heaven is the face of a little girl
With dark brown eyes
That disappear when she smiles.
Heaven is the place
Where she calls my name
Says, “Daddy please come play with me for awhile.”
Chorus:
God, I know, it’s all of this and so much more,
But God, You know, that this is what I’m aching for.
God, you know, I just can’t see beyond the door.
So right now…
Heaven is the sound of her breathing deep,
Lying on my chest, falling fast asleep while I sing.
And Heaven is the weight of her in my arms,
Being there to keep her safe from harm while she dreams
And God, I know, it’s all of this and so much more,
But God, You know, that this is what I’m longing for
God, you know, I just can’t see beyond the door.
Bridge:
But in my mind’s eye I can see a place
Where Your glory fills every empty space.
All the cancer is gone,
Every mouth is fed,
And there’s no one left in the orphans’ bed.
Every lonely heart finds their one true love,
And there’s no more goodbye,
And no more not enough,
And there’s no more enemy.
Heaven is a sweet, maple syrup kiss
And a thousand other little things I miss with her gone.
Heaven is the place where she takes my hand
And leads me to You,
And we both run into Your arms.
Oh God, I know, it’s so much more than I can dream.
It’s far beyond anything I can conceive.
So God, You know, I’m trusting You until I see
Heaven in the face of my little girl,
Heaven in the face of my little girl.
Heaven is the place – Steven Curtis Chapman
May God Bless you and Your family. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers in NY.
God Bless.
God bless you and your family. Your faith and strength is a testiment to parents eveywhere. May God keep you and we will pray for your family here in Pennsylvania.
Thank you for sharing sweet Layla with us. She has made me appreciate my little guy more than I thought possible. Praying God’s peace, strength and comfort for you family.
Love to you all!
Layla has touched my life in just a days…i fell in love with her and her story has brought me to take nothing for granted with my kids….im a beyond in awe of you and your husband for the strength and amazing faith you both have shown….i pray for you and your family….i send love and prayers from dahlonega ga……
love and prayers to you from minnesota. layla has changed my daughter and i’s relationship forever. i thank her for that. i pray for peace for you and your family during this extremely difficult time.
Sweet Layla is the most beautiful angel! I am so sorry for all of the sorrow and grief that your family is experiencing, but Layla is not “lost”– we know exactly where she is. I can’t even imagine the pain associated with losing a child, my prayers are with your family…
May your beautiful angel rest in peace <3
My goodness what a brave wee girl. You must be so proud to call yourselves her parents. I started following your journey a few weeks ago and have been in tears offten. I have three young boys so Layla’s illness really touched my heart. I will contuie to read your twitter page and will be thinking of your family on Saturday. All our Love the Pritchard Clan from New Zealand.
I am so sorry for your loss. Layla was a inspiration to us all. I wish you all the best and will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers as you face the difficult times ahead.
God bless and love from Maine.
I have been following your story through facebook for the last few weeks. I’m so sorry for you loss, Layla looked like such a sweet little girl. I have 2 boys myself, and I can’t imagine the suffering that all of you have been through. I have come across something I thought you might like to know about. There is a camp called Comfort Zone Camp for kids who have lost a sibling, or loved one. I thought of your 9 year old daughter. The website is sarahdearmon.com. May God’s love help you through this.
I wish I could jump on a plane and go!! Thank you for the invitation. I’ll be thinking of you all the way in New Hampshire. Is there any way you could record the celebration and post it on here? I just wish I could be there…
I’m so glad Layla has peace now and I pray that you and your family will find peace and comfort during this tragic time. Your little angel has made me view my little girl (20 months) in a more appreciative light, especially when she’s misbehaving. Thank you, thank you.
Love,
Anne-Marie
We don’t know you, but we love you. And pray and hope for amazing blessings for your family. As part of the body of Christ, we extend our hearts and love to you and hope that it brings you some comfort. Until we all meet, God’s grace to you all.
Dear Marsh Family,
Our thoughts will be with your family on Saturday. The balloon release sounds like a beautiful way to remember precious Layla. Maybe you could post a specific time so that all of us all over the worls can release a balloon in rememberance of Layla? God Bless you all! XXOO
I will be releasing pink balloons on Saturday since I live in NC. Imagine, all those balloons being released from all over the world! I’m also going to plant perennials for Layla (pink ones) because like perennials, Layla will live on through eternity. God Bless, and may God protect you as you walk through the shadow of the valley of death. Fear no evil, because His rod and staff shall comfort you. Thank you for sharing your daughter with the world. Layla has changed many lives, including my own. <3
I just found out about Layla through an Ebay auction one week ago. She sure was a beautiful child who had an awesome family. Thank you for sharing her life with all of us. She has touched my heart forever! I am hoping that she is in Heaven playing with my son. Sending our hugs from Wisconsin….
God bless you and your family…. she was such alittle fighter and she has touched my heart and will never be forgotten.
Babies are Angels that fly to the earth,
Their wings disappear at the time of their birth
One look in their eyes and we’re never the same
They’re part of us now and that part has a name
That part is your heart and a bond that won’t sever
Our Babies are Angels, we love them forever.
i recently came across your story and it brought tears to my heart and eyes. you and your family are so strong and your little girl will continue to make you stronger from above. my thoughts and prayers are with you daily. thanks to you and your family i have a new found appreciation for my own daughter- especially when its hard to find the patience. my heart goes out to you and may your beautiful daughter rest in peace.
My heart is so broken for your loss. Layla was such a beautiful little girl inside and out (from reading your posts). Know she is in such a better place watching over you like precious angels do♥
I am so sorry for your loss. We recently lost our son at the tender age of 18 months to brain cancer. Is there anything we can do in lieu of flowers?
I have only recently been introduced to your beautiful daughter’s amazing life and am so grateful for it. Your daughter has touched more people’s lives in her short amount of time here on this Earth than millions of people do in a lifetime. You and your family’s strength amazes me. I know this is not easy for you in any form of the word, but your ability to share this with the world makes me speechless. Please know that we are all continuing to pray for you and will continue to do so. Layla Grace will never be forgotten.
I too have had Layla and your precious family on my mind since yesterday….and for the last several months. Realizing that tommorrow, next year or tonight…I could easily be in your shoes. I am praying for your strength to get through this. To have peace knowing Layla is with our Heavenly Father. To be able to just get out of bed every morning. You are amazing parents. Your children are truly blessed. I will hug and kiss my children a million times a day and never take them for granted again, because of your journey with Layla. Sweet Layla will be waiting for the day you will all be together again, many years from now…..how sweet that day will be.
I’m sorry to hear about your loss. I can’t imagine what it could be like to lose someone so small and precious. I still keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. I’m sure she’s in a better place now, and may her rest in peace.
From Riana in PA
Shanna, may God continue to provide strength to you, Ryan and the girls. Thank you fo sharing Layla’s story with us. It has changed the way I see life. I give that extra kiss and that extra hug to my 5 year old daugther. I am deeply sadden that little Layla has passed. In a way Sweet Layla won her battle to Cancer because in the end she now has her perfect body back. She has in front of her eternal days of sunshine, laughter, playtime and happiness. God bless you and your family. Thoughts, prayers and love from Puerto Rico.
Prayers from Illinois!!!
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ LAYLA GRACE Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
God saw you getting tired
A cure was not to be.
So he put his arms around you
And whispered, “Come With Me”
With tearful eyes we watched you
And saw you fade away.
Although we loved you dearly
We could not make you stay.
A golden heart stopped beating
Your tender hands at rest.
God took you home to prove to us
He only takes the best..
Layla Grace you have touched my life in so many ways you are now in the arms of Jesus running and playing with all the Angels. I am so sorry this happened to you but I am at peace knowing that you are no longer in pain….you will never be forgotten sweet Angel…
God Bless you and your family may you all find the strength and courage to get through this you are in my thoughts and prayers…God Bless you Thank you very much for sharing your sweet little angel with us…
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ LAYLA GRACE Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
God Bless you and your family, not much else I can say :*(
My heart goes out to your family. Thinking of you during this difficult time, and sending you lots of prayers, thoughts, and hugs.
This must be weird having strangers tell you how your family and your dear daughter changed their lives but it is so true. I am a mom to three children and my father is currently fighting Non Hodgkins Lymphoma. Your tweets have made me a better mother and Christian. Thank you for sharing your lives with us and thank you for continuing to update us. Sweet Layla will always have a place in my heart and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers in the coming days and months.
We will be thinking of you on Saturday all the way here in NJ. I know Layla will be sitting right beside you. You will be able to feel her spirit either in your heart or the breeze that blows past your neck. She will always be with your family. We are all smiling up at you right now angel Layla.
Layla fought a great fight now shes resting in peace and no longer in pain..God gave you an angel to touch the world shes made an amazing impact in her short 2 years here on earth..Praying for your family..God Bless
There is great sadness in my heart as I write you.
Layla Grace has surley changed the lives of many.
She has touched ours….
In 1991 I had a son pass away shortly after birth with a neural Tube defect, a close Family friend wrote us this poem and I wanted to share with you.
…and so swiftly passed the night
that the angels in their flight
delivered a loved one peacefully
into the hands of just & might
~MP. Guerra
With Love, Thoughts & Prayers,
Amie Fendley & Family
Spring, TX
Your little Layla touched so many people’s hearts and you should be extremely proud.
She’s definitely not one who could ever be forgotten – I know you’ll let her memory live on and I sure hope you are all doing okay, Know there’s hundreds of thousands of people out there praying for you all.
Layla captured mine and my family’s hearts and we’re all the way in Australia.
Whatever you do don’t lose those memories of Layla, write them down, keep blogging – Even if it’s only for yourself.
If Colorado was closer to Texas, I’d be there for the celebration of Layla’s beautiful, short Life! I’ve followed her journey since finding your blog on the Texas Children’s Hospital site; eventually over to your current one and the daily Twitters. As time went by, your precious angel crept into my heart. I couldn’t stop wondering how she was doing each day, anxiously turning on my computer after work and later in the evening, praying for that miracle we all wanted to see. Although it’s not what we wanted, Layla is finally at peace and at home with her Heavenly Father, playing with the other angels! She was a blessing in so many ways while here on earth… and has left a legacy for more than a lifetime! I pray your family will continue to heal in God’s love during this unbelievably, sorrowful time. Many extra blessings for Jenna and Claire, they are so precious in their own way. Much love from someone you don’t know, but who will never forget your wonderful family or the legacy of Layla… thank you for sharing her with all of us.
Layla’s tough battle with neuroblastoma was one that touched me deeply and I will never forget her beautiful smile. Your family has reminded me to truly cherish all the moments with my kids, even when I am just fed up and need a break. Layla was just 3 months younger than my daughter, and when I look at my daughter I see Layla. I see the precious little girl excited about the little things in life, and I am humbled.
Thank you so much for sharing your journey with this devestating disease. I hope you and your little girls are able to find peace.
Much love from Oregon– Wish we could be at the celebration in Texas!
God bless your beautiful family. Thank you for letting “us” in. RIP Layla.
My goodness – I really have no words to express what I want to say. My sister in law lives in Dallas and shared precious Layla’s story, about a week ago. I can’t tell you how much you and your sweet angel have touched my heart in such a short time. I sat at the computer sobbing yesterday, knowing that as heart breaking as your story is, I can’t even come close to knowing what it’s like. I know you’ve been told many times, but I feel like, since I have learned so much from your family, it would be selfish of me not to at least try to let you know. I feel like I am a different mom, since hearing your story. I am more patient, more calm, more present, more appreciative of ordinary days. Of course, I have loved my children since long before they were even born, but now, it’s like I can feel that love radiating from inside in a whole new way. I’m sure that at times it doesn’t seem fair to hear stories like this; why should you and sweet, sweet Layla have to endure so much pain, while others are gaining so much from hearing you story. All I can say is that I think you are amazing. You knew sharing your story with thousands of strangers may not change the outcome, but you chose to share it anyway. I can only guess that you shared it with the hopes of educating and enlightening others. And to that, I say – a job well done. It’s so strange to say this to a family I have never met, but I don’t believe I will ever forget you. Thank you, and God bless!
I will be thinking of you and your sweet family on this day. You are always in my thoughts and prayers! Layla will also be on my thoughts. Sending you a hug and much much love.
I have followed Laylas story for only a few short days. It broke my heart to hear that such a young girl was fighting such a big battle. I am thankful for the things ive learned from her. I dont take as much for granted now.
I shared laylas story with my Dad and Grandma, i learned that a number of years ago, the ugly disease reared its ugly head and claimed the life of my aunt when she was just 5 years old. They feel for your family. My grandma shared a quote that i though id pass along. She said she took comfort in the things said.
The Lord takes many away, even in infancy that they may escape the envy of man and the sorrows and ills of this present world. They were too pure, too lovely to live on the earth. Therefor, rightly consider, instead of mourning we have reason to rejoice as they are delivered from the evil, and we shall soon have them again.” -Joseph Smith
I hope you find comfort in it also. We will be thinking and praying for your family on saturday and the days to follow.
My heart is breaking for what you’re going through right now. Praying your family will be showered with love, grace, protection, wisdom, and many blessings the coming months. God’s grace is sufficient for us. Layla was obviously an amazing child. She’s touched people from all over the world! She’s touched my family in Gainesville, FL.
The angels are celebrating her arrival to paradise… and she’s fully healed now.
Hugs,
Debi
My heart hurts with your loss. I only heard of Layla’s story today. I can’t imagine what you’ve been through or what you will go through in the coming days. Please know that many peoples thoughts are with you and your family. I hope our thoughts can provide some measure of strength and support.
My keyboard is wet from constant crying over your beautiful angels battle with such a terrible disease. I am forever changed by Layla and your entire family. I so wish I could be at Layla’s celebration, but we are in Ohio. What flower reminds you of your sweet Layla? I will plant them in her honor in our garden this spring. I send so many prayers your way. God bless and hold you near.
xoxo from Ohio
My heart is breaking for what Layla had to endure. Please tell us where we can donate funds to support research in memory of Layla Grace.
sending our love from charlotte, nc.
your sweet angel is in heaven where she belongs and where she will feel no pain. your story has touched my heart in more ways than you will ever know. thank you for sharing.
rest in peace sweet layla grace.
Marsh Family,
I just want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing your journey with Layla with us. I first heard of your family right around the time of the prayer vigil and have been praying for you all ever since. Your sweet Layla is on my mind all the time. I think of her when I wake up in the middle of the night. I think of her when I’m standing at the sink washing dishes. Most importantly, I think of her whenever I look in the eyes of my sweet daughters (3, 10 months).
Your sweet Layla accomplished more in her short time here than most would hope to accomplish in a lifetime. She took on a tall order from God and accomplished the task remarkably. Please know that even though she’s not with us anymore in body, she will always be with us in spirit. I will be releasing balloons with my daughters on Saturday from Kansas City.
Thank you again for sharing your daughter with all of us. She has changed me in ways I never thought possible. In ways I never knew needed changing. I will forever be grateful for that. I will continue to keep your family in my prayers.
I have only in the past few weeks come to read and know about Layla, but in just that short span of time something deep inside me has changed. I wish that I could donate flowers, but right now finances will not allow it. I am, however going to try to get a balloon Saturday to send up to her!
You are all in my thoughts and prayers as you start the journey with your little angel Layla on your shoulder! Huge hugs!
My heart is breaking for your family. Layla was just plain GORGEOUS!! I have 2 girls of my own and can’t even begin to imagine what you have gone through, are going through and will go through. Layla’s story adn your family have FOREVER changed my life.
I pray that God helps you find peace in the minutes, days, weeks, months, and years ahead.
My girls and I will send off balloons for sweet Layla in New Jersey.
We think of her daily and I pray that Your family stay strong.
Thank you for sharing Layla with us.
Rest in peace sweet angel Layla!
I would give anything to be with you at Precious Layla’s Celebration of Life. I live in North Carolina, My mom,sister, niece, son,daughter, and my self will be doing a balloon release and planting a tree in her Honor. I do not know your family personally, through Layla’s fight and your blog’s and twitter, I feel as if we are family. Thank you so very very much for sharing your precious daughter with me and everyone else in the world. She will be in my heart forever. When I found out she had gone to be with the Lord and her Angels. I wept tears of sorrow and joy. I wanted her to stay with her family and get her Miracle. God had bigger plans for her, so I am joyful knowing she is no longer suffreing and in pain. I know we will meet one day. I look forward to meeting your Sweet Angel. Your family will always be in my heart, and prayers forever. Marsh Family you a True Inspiration and Testimony of our Lord’s Love for Us. Praying for strength, healing, and peace. Hugs and Love, Terri, Ella, and Gilles Paul
Words cannot express how I feel right now! I learned about your precious Layla on Twitter. I began following your updates & is deeply saddened by your lost! My thoughts & prayers are with your family.
You have a family in Jackson, MS praying for you. I am crying with you.
If I could fly from Washington State, I would….your family has so touched my heart. You are all in my constant thoughts and prayers. RIP, sweet little Layla Grace.
I have been following your story for only a couple of weeks and my heart breaks for you. I know though that because of you and your daughter there will be a lot more awareness about childhood cancers and finding a cure. I also want you to know that because of reading your posts I hug my children a bit tighter.
On a side note, and I really don’t want to seem inappropriate but I would urge you to find another way to honor Layla than releasing balloons. Reading these comments it seems many others also plan to release balloons to honor Layla and unfortunately although beautiful these balloons end up in waterways and are often mistaken for food by wildlife. As well they take a very, very long time to degrade.
I wish your family peace and healing.
I learned of your precious gift, your sweet Layla, through our friend, baby McKenna. Layla has passed the baton, but her spirit lives on in so many, whom she has inspired and influenced to strengthen their own spirituality. Somewhere, in our infant understanding of our quantum existence, she is free and doing her work behind the scenes. My continued prayers for your family.
Thank you for sharing your angel’s story with us. Ms. Layla Grace touched so many lives during her stay her on earth. Her bravery and your families will forever be in the hearts and minds of us all for a lifetime. Sending you hugs and prayers from Delaware.
I am so sorry your family is going through this, losing a child is so unfair. I’m sure your beautiful Layla is dancing with the angels, no longer in pain, carefree, with a huge smile on her face. When my father passed after a long illness, his eyes opened wide, he let go of my hand reaching past me with his arm outstretched and a smile on his face. While it was the worst moment in my life, it was also one of the most beautiful things I ever saw. I truly believe that he was taking the hand of an angel who took away his pain and suffering. I feel his presence around me every single day and he lives on forever in my heart. And so will your beloved Layla. Even though we never, met Layla has taught me so much about life. How can anyone so small have such a huge impact on so many people? I will never forget Layla. My class is planting flower seeds tomorrow, I promise to plant a few extra for her. When they bloom this summer she can look down from the heavens and smile at all the beauty she brought to the world. God Bless Your Family. ((HUGS))
There are no words to ease your pain or words to undo what has happened. Thank you for letting us in on your world. The faith and strength your family has is a complete inspiration. I pray that you have as much peace as you possibly can. I can not help but feel your pain as I have a 19month daughter that I could never imagine going thru what your family had to. God calls us when he is ready and not when we are ready which is so hard to understand. All I can say is I am so sorry for you sweet precious Layla and all she had to endure.
I have been following you on tweeter for the last month. I wish I could take your pain away as I know how you hurt, for I lost a beautiful 15 year old son. There is no deeper pain. Your life has changed forever. Do know your beautiful little Layla is no longer in pain and she is at peace and happy because she is home. She was sent to you, so you may learn a lesson and become stronger than you ever know you could. Let your self grieve, don’t let anyone tell you to be strong and hold it in as it will eat you up inside. Allow yourself to feel the pain and remember the intire family is grieving and you can be strong together and grieve together. You don’t have to do it along. My love and prayers are with you, Rosa
Thank you for sharing sweet Layla’s story. Your family will remain in my thoughts and prayers.
My heart is so heavy for you right now! I have thought about little Layla and your family for the last couple days! My stomach has been in a knot since I checked the blog last night! I couldn’t stop crying! Reading your posts has been heartbreaking and uplifting! Your sweet little Layla is playing with the angels now! She is pain free! She couldn’t possible live another minute the way she was living! She has changed so many lives, including mine< I am a better mother now. I want to thank you for sharing Laylas story with the world! She is a true gift, udder bliss! Thank you for sharing your little girl with us! It was an honor to have heard the beautiful stories about her! Your family is one that I admire! You will be in my thoughts, prayers and memory for a lifetime!
love Jill, Adam and Amber
We are donating for flowers I requested PEONIES!!! She looked so beautiful with them on her hats so it just seemed fitting. She will never be forgotten!
We love you all!!!
Praying for you and your family at this time of loss. May you be comforted in knowing Layla is in the arms of the Lord. God bless each and every one of you.
Sending all my love and prayers to you. I wish I could pay respect and attend the service, however, from Oregon, I will not be able to make fast arrangements for travel.
Always know that your precious angel has brought so much love, faith and grace to so many people at a time in the world when we all really needed that – GOD BLESS YOU.
May awareness for neuroblastoma continue in honor of sweet angel Layla Grace Marsh forever
I am so sorry! Knowing all the fond memories will help your family at this difficult time! Layla will never be forgotten. We are all praying and thinking of you all at this most difficult time. Rest in peace, LAYLA!!
I have only been following Layla’s story for about a week or so. I heard about her story through Pick Your Pocket Boutique. I purchased a Layla Grace dress for my daughter. I have a 2 year old son and a 7 month old daughter named Leia. I have been so touched by your story!! You have no idea how much Layla and your family have touched my heart. I know that Layla is now an angel watching over you. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I actually live in Kansas, so I wont be able to come to the celebration, but just like Shandi, I would like to plant some flowers in honor of Layla. All my love and thoughts and prayers are sent to you. xoxo!!!!
Awww… my daughter and I cried when we heard that Layla went Home to Heaven! We cried for such a precious girl! And cried for ya’ll and her sisters! You’re still being carried in our prayers! May God do many more mighty things through His plan and purposes for her life on this earth! He’s not finished yet. And perhaps He’s only just really only just begun!
I wish I could be in TX to attend, it’s an honor you invited everyone. We are so fortunate to you shared your life with us as we all came together through prayer and shed tears. Layla is a perfect example of an angel! We will always love her with all of our hearts and wish we could be there to hug you all!! Layla and her sisters are very lucky to have parents like the two of you. Her memory will live on forever and I will never forget you all!
We’ll be releasing balloons in Philadelphia for Layla! XOXO
Dear Marsh family,
I feel so blessed that I was able to be a part of Layla’s journey. I believe God put Layla’s story in my lfe for a reason. I have forever been changed be your sweet Layla. I read some of your story to my children and tonight we talked about why would this be in our life? We don’t know you, we don’t even live in the same state. I talked about you rocking Layla and how as a mother or father our rocking chair is always open. Sometimes we all take our life and the life of others around us for granted. At the end of the day all that matters is the love between the mother/father and the child! Thanks for teaching the some 65000+ this! God is wonderful and I will keep you in my prayers everyday of my life! We will let balloons go for Layla here in Denver!
Praying that the Lord will lift you up and hold your family close during this difficult time. Thank you for sharing Layla’s story. You are an inspiration of God’s faith and have touched so many lives already.
When my dad died my mother had an email sent to her with a ‘music video’ to the song “I can only Imagine”. As I sat in my room listening to her sit at the computer and play it over and over it suddenly came to me how I imagined my dad meeting our Father. I ran in to tell me mom. Since then it has been a sense of comfort picture him with God in the very way that he lived his life.
I know many people have told you that Layla is up with the Angels and God. But listen to the song and try to imagine how she went to greet God rather than the other way around. Whether it be a sheepish smile while holding the hand of a angel or running straight into his arms as he twirls her around. I dont know her personality, only can put an answer to this one.
Your story has touched my entire family. My sister texted me about an hr before you updated about Laylas passing very concerned about your lack of updates. We are from the Houston area, HWY 6 and Keith Harrow, so some how it feels even more close to home in all senses of the matter.
You now have a forever guardian angle looking out for you and your loved ones. You will be amazed where she will be. My dad still amazes me.
Comfort be with you.
So so so sorry for your lost.
I have a 2 year old daughter and I can’t even began to imagine loosing her.
I have been following Layla’s story for a short while now, but it has really touched my heart and brought me closer to God.
I pray for peace for your family.
My heart goes out to you. I can’t imagine your pain. Thank you for sharing so much about your beautiful, beautiful Layla with the world. Your family is an inspiration. I send you love and prayers.
Please take comfort in knowing that little, precious Layla is once again the healthy, happy, bubbly little girl she once was and is now walking hand in hand with our Lord Jesus getting a tour of heaven. Thank God that she is no longer in pain and that He will always be watching over His newest little angel. I will continue to say prayers for you all in your time of grief. God bless you all.
i am praying for you and your family, Layla was beautiful, lots of prayers from BC Canada.
I wish we could be there but we’re in California but my kids and I will be doing a balloon release for Layla on that day. She was a fighter til the end and was a hero in mine and many others lives. Thank you for sharing her journey with us.
XOXOXO
The Gandy Family
I didn’t find out about your sweet little angel Layla until after she had already passed, as a parent I can’t begin to imagine what you all must be going through. I lost my grandmother to breast cancer almost 10 years ago, cancer SUCKS!!! We need to find a cure so children do not have to go through this horrible disease. Layla showed enormous amounts of strength, courage, and grace fighting and the only thing that makes me feel a little better is knowing that she is not in pain anymore. My little girl is a month younger that sweet Layla and after learning about her I just held all my children but especially my little girl and gave them kisses and hugs and told them how much I loved them. You are all in my thoughts, RIP sweet angel baby Layla! You are now healed and your work here will never be forgotten sweet baby!
THANK YOU for sharing Layla with us. Layla has touched more lives in her short time here on earth than most of us do in our entire life time. I’m thankful that you can feel our energy and love towards your family. Our prayers, thoughts are with all of you at this time.
May your little girl Layla be held ever so tight by the arms of God. I know that she is no longer in pain and that she is laughing and having fun with the angels in heaven..It is because of Layla that I have taken a second glance at my life. I have a 3 yr old little girl named Payton and she is into everything. I find my self becoming very impatient with her and then I think about Layla and make the most of it and enjoy every minute. I am trying to enjoy ever minute of every day, you have taught me this. You never know when it will be over so enjoy each and every minute!
Thank you so much for sharing Layla with us. I live in Cleburne, Texas. Payton, her Daddy and I will be releasing Pink balloons in honor of Layla on Saturday at 10:30 am. I will be attaching a card to each of them that says in Memory of Layla Grace with your Website so that others will continue to be touched by this beautiful little girl! May you RIP sweet, sweet Layla Grace.
Love and (((Hugs)))),
Margaret
I have followed Sweet Layla Grace’s story and wanted to send my and my family’s love and prayers to yours. Our daughter Grace died 4 1/2 years ago from a birth injury that caused her to have uncontrolled seizures every 6 seconds of her life. She was 17 months and 4 days old. Everyone grieves differently, but I know that even today my heart still yearns for my little girl. I know that our daughters have been healed by Christ’s loving hands and that we’ll get to see them again someday. I know that they both touched countless lives and changed us in a way that no one could ever understand. Hopefully, Layla and Gracie are in Heaven, having made friends with one another, dancing joyfully in their perfectly healed bodies. That thought brings me peace. If you ever need someone to talk to that has been there, please feel free to contact me. God bless you and your family.
Sincerely, Jennifer Powers
Layla has been an international inspiration! What an incredible angel we all have had touch our lives. The Marsh family is in our prayers.
Thank you for sharing your life and beautiful angel with all of us – i can’t wait to meet her in heaven – what a smile!
xxxooo
“I’ll lend you for a little while,
a child of mine” God said,
“for you to love the while she lives,
and mourn for when she’s dead.
It may be two or three short years,
or twenty-two or three,
but will you, till I call her back,
take care of her for me?
She’ll bring her charms to gladden you,
and should her stay be brief,
you’ll have her lovely memories
as solace for your grief.
I cannot promise she will stay,
since all from earth return,
but there are lessons taught down there
I want this child to learn.
I’ve looked the wide world over
in my search for teacher’s true,
and from the throngs that crowd life’s lanes,
I have selected you.
Now will you give her all your love?
Nor think the labor vain?
Nor hate me when I come to call,
to take her back again?”
God fancied he heard the parent’s say,
“Dear Lord, thy will be done.
For all the joy the child shall bring,
the risk of grief I’ll run.
I’ll shelter her with tenderness,
I’ll love her while I may,
and for the happiness I’ve known
forever grateful I’ll stay.
But should the angels call for her,
much sooner than I planned,
I’ll brave the bitter grief that comes,
and try to understand.”
In honor of Layla, I will be planting the “Lovely Layla” pink blend rose in my garden. RIP beautiful Layla. Many prayers to all.
Beautiful Layla is walking alongside God now, and it breaks my heart that she was taken from your family, but it gives me comfort to know that she is with Jesus. God bless you and your family.
wishing you peace, and comfort knowing her pain is over. that little angel has been freed. hoping your girls know they honor her by doing the things she can not. forever in our hearts for her beauty and bravery. thank you for sharing your story during this difficult time. you are opening eyes and hearts to Laylas illness.
Although I cannot be there, my heart will be with you from Wisconsin. You have all been on my mind non-stop since I found out about Layla and I hurt for you. God’s love and peace be with you, Ryan, Shanna, Jenna, and Claire. Love and hugs.
I’m so sorry this happened to you…to Layla. She came into this world with a purpose and took out hearts with her as she went back to her real home. I know you’d rather have her here, and I will pray that God soothes your hearts and gives you peace until you are with her once again. It may seem like forever to you, but it will seem like only minutes to Layla.
I recently started following Layla’s journey on here a few months ago. I was heartbroken as i read your story. I just sat at my desk and cried and cried. Truly makes you realize that you never know when your last day with someone is. You and your family are by far one of the strongest people for going through what you have endured. Though i didn’t know Layla or your family, i have said prayers and had many thoughts. My nephew will be one the day of Layla’s life celebration, March 13th, as i share that joy with him i will hold a place in my heart for sweet Layla and your family. May you find peace within God and your hearts be filled with forever love from Layla.
God Bless,
Elise M.
Flower Mound, TX
I don’t have the words to express my sorrow for your family. I am sending you my thoughts and prayers. Knowing that Layla is up in Heaven watching all of you. You have gain a very special angel that will be with each of you everyday. Thank you so much for sharing Layla with us all. Not only did you bring our attention to this horrible cancer and now we know we need more funding for research but you also reminded us to but some of our work aside and just spend more time with our kids. My daughter told me yesterday don’t cry for Layla mommy she’s in Heaven now and she gets to be with God.
I will continue to keep you and your entire family in my prayers.
Sending you prayers from Brandon, MS. I have been following Sweet Layla’s story for months now, not missing one twitter update or post yet. This sweet child has made such an impact on my family and thousands of others across the world! My facebook picture remains a picture of Layla.. My 17 month old son and I will be releasing balloons Saturday…
In the words of Mark Schultz:
“Even though I’m walking through the valley of the shadow,
I will hold tight to the hand of God, his love will comfort me.
When all hope is gone and I’v beenn wounded in the battle,
he is all the stregnth that I will ever need…
He Will Carry Me!”
Thank you for sharing your precious baby with us. Thank you for the lessons we can learn about life from that beautiful girl of yours. I will lift you, your husband, and two precious girls up daily.
God Bless
I just started following your story a week ago. I immediately grabbed my four small children and hugged them. I can never begin to imagine your heartbreak, my thoughts go out to you and your family.
There is no Death! What seems so is transition;
This life of mortal breath
Is but a suburb of the life elysian,
Whose portal we call Death.
She is not dead, the child of our affection, -
But gone unto that school
Where she no longer needs our poor protection,
And Christ himself doth rule.
In that great cloister’s stillness and seclusion,
By guardian angels led,
Safe from temptation, safe from sin’s pollution,
She lives, whom we call dead.
Day after day we think what she is doing
In those bright realms of air;
Year after year, her tender steps pursuing,
Behold her grown more fair.
Thus do we walk with her, and keep unbroken
The bond which nature gives,
Thinking that our remembrance, though unspoken,
May reach her where she lives.
Not as a child shall we again behold her;
For when with raptures wild
In our embraces we again enfold her,
She will not be a child;
But a fair maiden, in her Father’s mansion,
Clothed with celestial grace;
And beautiful with all the soul’s expansion
Shall we behold her face.
My heart is with you.
Layla now those resting in peace with God, your mission on earth was fulfilled, touched the lives of many people, such as mine. You were a very brave girl, brave and charismatic I could see in your eyes in the pictures.
I wish now that you’re an angel get the peace we were looking for here on earth, never forget you always in our minds and our hearts
Rest in peace little Layla Angel!
Thank you for sharing Layla’s story. What an amazing lil fighter she was. You know that she will be in heaven being the strongest, bravest angel watching over her family. Thoughts and prayers to all of you during this difficult time and the road ahead.
Thank you for reminding me how precious life is and beautiful our relationships with our children are. I found you blog this morning and your little Layla has been in my heart and mind all day. I pray for your family to have peace and strength.
To Layla’s Family,
You are a constant source of inspiration to me as I continue to grieve for my son who died almost four years ago. I wish that I had your faith. However, no matter how much faith you have, this is a loss that will leave a permanent bruise on your soul. She is such a beautiful little girl and I cried when I read that she was “playing with the angels”. It is wonderful that you had the strength to let her die at home. My heart is breaking for all of your family. I wish that I could be there for her service. The headbands I bought in honor of Layla came today. It made me smile. Hugs, Rachel
My heart and prayers will continue to be with you. Your precious Angel has touched my life forever. I have her picture in my home as a constant reminder of her legacy. Thank you for sharing her with me.
I live in Katy, and I will be there celebrating Little Layla’s life. I am bringing my mother and little sister with me. Praise the lord she is no longer in any pain. At last we know that she is playing in heaven with all the other young children whose time came too soon. I will continue to pray for your family.. may God continue to bless ya’ll. Sending love your way from a fellow Katy, Texas resident.
Layla is your precious gift that you decided to share with us……and i thank you for that. Because of Layla, I am a better person, a better wife and a better mother. I am amazed at the work of your sweet little two year old. God Bless you and your Family. RIP Baby Layla.
We wish your family a ton of thoughts and prayers. Little Layla was such a strong little girl. You have such an amazing support system that’s available world wide for you guys. May her crazy blue eyes and beautiful smile live on… REST IN PEACE LAYLA GRACE MARSH!
Layla is a beautiful soul that will forever be with all of you. I have a daughter in heaven too. She was born to heaven almost a year ago and I pray that when my time comes I get to be with her again. God is good and he will help you through this. My love and prayers are with you
I have followed Layla’s fight over the past few months and I have to say she was an amazing little girl. I wish I could be there to celebrate her life. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Stay strong! {{HUGS}}
my heart goes out to you!
i began to cry for you as i was blessed to come across your blog. your Layla is as precious as can be. i too hope she is playing with the angels and smiling down on you all – and in my heart i KNOW that’s true.
i wish you all peace in your hearts and your minds in this time of sorrow and pain…
i can’t imagine your pain. please know i was praying for your sweet Layla and your family. i will continue to pray for your family. …may you have strength to get through this tough time.
((hugs))
sincerely,
kristen (a mommy to a mommy)
Heaven just received a beautiful angel. Layla thank you for your strength bravery love and laughter. The world will miss you.
RIP Layla Grace..such a sweet little girl who has touched so many people. Bless you and your family!!
I pray that the hands of our Lord, who gently holds Layla Grace today, be the same hands that guide you through this journey. May His arms enfold you in His grace and give you the peace that only we know through His love. Thank you for touching my life Layla. Thank you for reminding me to hold dear to each moment I have with my family and to treasure them always. God bless you all!
i am so sorry for everything you guys are gind through. I first heard the story from my youth group minister. It tore me to peices! I my self have been in and out of Texas Children’s Hospital, medical reasons, so I know your pain. It’ll be hard, but just remember she’s in a better place and will always be with you all. Shanna, Ryan, Claire, Jenna, and Layla are all in my prayers. She is a very breave, strong, and lovely girl who has touched the hearts of many. She is a little perfert angel to all. And I hope you all luck in your later life and now. You’re not alone. (: Hugs, and kisses!
I found out about Layla from a friend on facebook. I couldn’t stop thinking about her and your family after reading your story. I am so very sorry you all had to go through this, but I admire your faith and strength. Layla was a beautiful little girl who touched so many lives, thank you for sharing her with us. Rest in peace, sweet Layla Grace.
DO NOT STAND AT MY GRAVE AND WEEP: Layla wants us to know this…..
Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush
I am the swift, uplifting rush
Of quiet white doves in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there, I did not die.
May you and your family have the comfort of knowing that Jesus died for us to have eternal life, and that we will be with each other again in his kingdom. We, believers, shall not perish according to his word, we have salvation. I will pray for your strength, courage and faith during this difficult time. God bless you all.
My prayers and thoughts are with your family. in a time of such sorrow, I am sure it is comforting to know how many lives your precious angel Layla touched. As a mother myself, I can’t imagine what you must be going thru but it must bring some comfort to know she is in heaven and at peace. And even though you dont believe you are strong, I firmly believe that you are. Thru the tears, you have managed to tell sweet Layla’s story and she will forever be in our hearts. I am forever grateful for that, and I will try not to take one moment for granted with my own family. May God continue to be a comfort to you and God bless your family. xoxoxo
I’m quite sure all of you are walking through life in a daze right now and everything will hit full force after everything is said in done. Please know that the family you have online will not desert you and will keep your family close to their hearts. You all are so inspirational and I admire your strength and courage through this ordeal.
You have been blessed with three beautiful children who are so fortunate to have parents like you. I think all of us who have followed your story have hugged our kids a little tighter, checked on them a few more times through the night, and have told them how much we love them even more than usual.
Thank you for sharing your sweet family with us.
I wish that me and my family could be at Layla’s funeral, but unfortunately we don’t have a way. We live in Bryan, Texas. Your family will always be in my thoughts and prayers. We plan on letting go of some balloons on Saturday in honor of Sweet Layla Grace. Thank You for sharing your Sweet Little Layla Grace with us.
Your beautiful Angel Layla has changed my life in unimaginable ways. I no longer take life for granted. The small and big things will now all be celebrated equally. Layla has touched so many hearts and helped so many people change for the better.
Rest In Peace dear Layla!
Thank you so much for sharing your story and beautiful little girl with us. I have a 2 year old who is only 2 weeks younger than Layla so this really hit home with me. Like most of the people on here, Layla has touched our family more than you will ever know or can even imagine!! She truly is an angel, and a beautiful one!! Because of Layla, I have been more patient with both of my kids. I am a better person since hearing Layla’s story and I have you and your family to thank. We are from Chicago, so unfortunately we will not be able to make the celebration of her life. Like most people on here we will be sending some flowers and prayers. We will also be releasing balloons and planting something pretty for Layla as well.
hugs to you and your family
Layla has made this world a better place!
Thank you so much for sharing your story and beautiful angel with us…..you have touched more people than you can imagine!!
Remember, when times are tough, god never gives you more than you can handle…..be strong and take care!
Lots of love,
The Benoits
As a mother of 2 beautiful girls, my heart is very heavy for Layla’s family. While I live in Canada, I stumbled across Layla’s blog page, and from the moment I started reading, tears streamed down my face. How precious she was, how fortunate that our Lord lent her to you guys, because he knew you were going to be the best fit for Miss Layla during this difficult time. As Layla took her last breath here on Earth, our Father was waiting with open arms, to pick her up for her Eternal Life. Free of the pain, free of cancer – to keep laughing and giggling and spreading around so much joy – of everything, that she has to offer. At first, I felt the need to cry and scream and wonder why he could do something so horrible to such a beautiful little girl, and perhaps I will never understand it, but what I do understand, that while there was trying times albeit in your marriage, amongst your family and friends – that because of Layla, because of your committment to your daughter, it has brought you closer. It has brought you closer as a couple, as a mother, a father, a friend – and maybe that was Layla’s purpose. Layla had many purposes, and she fulfilled many many of your dreams, and gave you many laughs, and smiles, and while the last 8 months has been made up of tears, they were tears because a parent’s love for their child is so intense. When I read Layla’s blog the other morning wherein you told us she went to play with the Angels, I was overcome with emotion, I went into the nursery, grabbed my beautiful sleeping daughter and held her tight. My nightly routine for the last couple months has consisted of me and my girls praying for Layla, and all of the other children and their families who are struggling with cancer. Because of your journey, because of your courage, because of Miss Layla – I have become a better person. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing Layla with us. May your Angel be with you for always, watching over your family. I will continue to pray for your family, you will always remain in our thoughts.
Rest in Peace, our dearest Layla Grace.
Hugs
My sweet beautiful Layla fly high with angels. She has changed my life without ever meeting her. My grandfather passed away tonight and I know that Layla was right there to welcome him home.
God bless you and your family
Thank you for sharing your amazingly beautiful baby girl with us. Sending love and prayers to your family….RIP sweet Layla
I just started reading your blog last Wednesday. A former student of mine posted it on her FB and so I decided to check it out. I sat reading and crying, and reading and crying. I am a mother of a 3 1/2 year old boy and a 2 year old girl. I looked through her pictures and just tried to grasp what you all have been through and continue to go through. Thank you for being so open and vulnerable. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Your story truly touched my life and has impacted me forever. I am given my kids longer, tighter hugs and am thanking God for every moment I have. You have taught me a deeper understanding of the importance of portraying my love to my kids in every moment I have with them. May God give you the peace that passes all understanding and the strength to continue on.
Many prayers to get you through this unbearable time,
Dana in Califormia
I started following the story about Layla Grace a few weeks ago. I first learned about her from people posting about Layla on facebook. The first time I read the blog I cried my eyes out for her and your family. She is such a beautiful and amazing little girl!
Your family is in our thoughts and prayers! (((HUGS)))
Fly with the angel beautiful Layla Grace!
I am praying for your continued strength, which is already amazing, and for comfort for your sweet family.You have touched my heart in a profound way. Love from our family in AL.
Thank you so much for sharing Layla’s life with us. Jesus was waiting for her and as she slipped away she slipped into His arms. Now there is no more pain, no more tears. May God’s peace cover your family. I lost my mother to cancer about a year ago and the peace I have is that I will see her again that she is no longer suffering also that she is in my cloud of wintesses cheering me on to finish the race and she will be there as well as with my baby that I lost ready to show us around and introduce us to Jesus.
Layla is in the best place she can ever be. I know she suffered but in the end we need to remember all the smiles and the blessing that she was and conitnues to be. May God’s peace that passes all understanding fill you and your family.
Blessings~
As a new father – I can only begin to comprehend the grief and anguish you are feeling.
Your story touches me at my core – and I pray for you and your family to find strength and carry forward.
Layla’s passing will never make sense – but I hope you are able to lean on those around you and feel the love and energy from all the lives your story has touched.
I just heard about precious Layla’s story the day of her passing… Your family is in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time…Reading the past posts really made me appreciate my own two year old, by making each moment I spend with him even more special and holding him a little more closer…Thank You..
I am so sorry to hear.. I am in tears right now for your family. Although you seem prepared your never prepared enough. God has plans for you and Layla touched so many lives. Thank you so much for sharing your journey down this path. I will be thinking and praying for you guys. She is now an angel and a very beautiful one. Stay strong.
I am so sorry for your loss. I have been following little Layla’s story. I think that she would be proud that she had such a strong mother like you. It is inspiring that even in such a terrible time, you worked at gaining awareness for neoblastoma. Sadly, Layla may not be here, but her life will live on thanks to all of your hard work. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
I’ve only known of your sweet Layla Grace for a little over a week, but I just wanted you to know how much your little girl has touched me. She has made me appreciate my two children so much more. Please know that we will be thinking of you here in Pennsylvania this Saturday and everyday. God bless you…
You may see my name and wonder who I am…. Laylas story reached all the way to North Carolina to me. My heart pours out to you in this unbearble time. What a beautiful girl the Lord shared with everyone. Your words of honesty, love, and trust touched me so much. Please know that I will continue to pray for your family as the days won’t get easier. Thank you for sharing her and your family with those who followed.
Your sister in Christ from accross the miles
While I’m sure Layla loved flowers…wouldn’t a donation to her medical expenses be more appropriate? wouldn’t Layla much rather have the burden of medical expenses and funeral expenses be lifted from her parents? There is also a time to be practical.
Just a thought.
Thank you for sharing Layla with us. She helped me out of an extremely bad time in my life and you will never know how much she has touched my family. Part of me felt like I lost a family member yesterday and I cried off and on throughout most of the day but I was comforted knowing that she is in the arms of her heavenly father and that there was a huge Welcome Home party for her. I know she is healed now and dancing and singing with the angels and other children. My prayers are with you and your girls now that I know Layla is no longer in pain.
Your family’s story of love has touched me greatly. My daughter’s name is Kayla Grace so everytime I’ve said her full name for the past few months I’ve thought of you with a prayer. We will continue to pray for all of your family, especially that your other two precious daughters feel God’s love all around them.
I love that it’s a Celebration of Life – that’s so much more appropriate for such a wonderful little angel. If I was able to be there I’d share this poem I read about 20 years ago when I was 10 years old at the Celebration of Life of another little angel gone too soon.
God saw she was getting tired
But a cure was not to be
So He put His arms around her
and whispered ‘Come with me’
With tearful eyes we watched her
Saw her suffer and fade away
Although we loved her dearly
We could not make her stay
A golden heart stopped beating
Little tiny hands laid to rest
God broke our hearts to prove to us
He only takes the very best
I have read and cried, read and cried, and read and cried some more. The passing of a loved one is the hardest experience life throws at us. I have learned that there is more to life then life. There is life after life here on Earth. How grateful I am for this hopeful knowledge.
Little Layla is in good company with my precious Mercydez. I can assure you, Mercydez will take care of Layla and help her get acquainted with “life after life on Earth”.
I know when I was dealing with the first few days after Mercydez passed I did one of a few things: cried, cried, or cried. I, too, felt like my heart was literally being torn out of my chest and shredded into pieces. It LITERALLY hurt. And you know what? That’s okay. To hurt means to love.
Based off your posting of precious Layla and her incredible spirit, I wouldn’t doubt that she is still with you, spiritually. I wouldn’t doubt that she is watching over you with the deepest love and gratitude. Layla is special. She has power to change people. To change this world. She already has! What a gift.
I will be praying for you and your family. It’s unfathomable how difficult things must be for you and your family. I wish I could take the hurt away from you. I also live far away from Texas but my heart and soul is with you.
You have been an inspiration to me. Layla has re-opened my heart. She has inspired me to be a better person. To look for those who are in need of love and support – and then to act on my findings. Thank you for this gift.
With all my heart, I say I love you. I love Layla. I love your amazing, strong, wonderful family.
It is my testimony that families can be together forever..eternally.
God bless you all.
Thank you for being so giving of your family and sharing your lives with us. I just want you to know your daughter has touched my life in a lot of was in the few short weeks I was following you. I have learned that I cannot take my children for granted and that each day I have with them is a blessing I need to cherish- I have vowed to be more patient, the laundry can wait, the computer, phones etc can wait they need me now and Im here for them now. Layla taught me to love my children more than ever because I dont always know what tomorrow may bring!
You are in my thoughts daily and I am soooo very very sorry you even had to go through this. Our family sends our love and I think our family although has been touched very lightly by cancer in the family will start to look for ways to assist in helping find a cure, whether it be donating or charities or walking or whatever we are going to do our share.
May god wrap his arms around you during this time and be with you always. Remember she is in everything you do and will always be watching you! You had an AMAZING angel in your presence and one day you will be with her again. GOD BLESS you and much love!
Thanks for sharing your precious little angel with the world and thanks so much for inviting all of us to come and celebrate sweet Layla Grace. I have been following your story and twitters since I found your story from a forum that I am a member. My heart ached when I read that tweet yesterday. As a mother of 13 months baby who shares the middle name with your sweet angel it was tough for me to accept it. Your little angel is beautiful and has touched so many people’s lives and her short life has been very inspiration to many people because Layla Grace was blessed to have such wonderful parents. What an amazing family. I have never met you in person but I can tell just by reading your blog entries and your pictures. You are amazing people that I wish I can meet you someday. Thanks to all we’ve learned from her and from you, Ryan, Jenna and Claire.
Pauline
New Jersey
Prayers for your family. Before I even heard of Layla’s story, I found out I was pregnant. I said if it were a girl I was going to name her Layla. (Fan of the Eric Clapton song, I guess). Now I have more reason to do so. Layla touched so many lives yet she didn’t know she did it.
I have been following Layla’s story for about 1 month and a half. I am saddened to hear about your loss. Thank you for sharing layla’s story with the world. I have a friend who has a son with this cancer. I have been praying for both hers and your family. I do not know what the loss of a child feels like because I’m not a mom. I do know what it’s like to lose a loved one to cancer. My thoughts and prayers continue for your family. I have been deeply touched by her story.
My 27 year old daughter, Rachel, lost her ten year battle with drug addiction last summer when her own little daughter was just a few months older than your sweet Layla. Because she was an addict Rachel never got to be a real mother to Paige. Paige has readily accepted our explanation that Mommy has gone to live in Heaven and we will see her again when it is our turn to go there.
I told Paige about Layla’s illness and we have been praying for her and for your family. When I told her today that Layla has gone to live in Heaven, where Mommy is, she said, “Maybe Mommy will hold Layla and play with her.” I know that Rachel, her arms aching to hold Paige again, would like very much to hold your sweet Layla.
We will continue to keep your family in our prayers.
There will not be enough space in the U.S. skies this Saturday. We’ll all be releasing balloons with Layla’s website in her memory @ 4:00 pm.
May they fly away to heaven just as she did.
Fly fly little angel, it doesn’t hurt anymore.
I don’t even know you and I love you so much.
Thank you for changing my life.
<3
Hello,
You don’t know me, but when I heard of your daughter’s passing, this song came to mind for you. You may have heard it… but I’m praying that you’ll find comfort in its lyrics. Your family is in my prayers. In our weakness – He is strong. He is able to hold us in the darkest of times. I pray you’ll have peace that passes all understanding.
I came upon your blog through a friend on facebook, and for 2hrs now have been reading your blogs. I can not tell you how moved I am by your strength and tenderness. I have been crying for 2hrs now for a family and a child I have never known. I am a mother of 3 girls ages 10, 3, and 3mo. I will remember your words and cherish every kiss, repeated request, sassy word, hug etc. Your baby is a beautiful soul! May God hold you tight and continue to give you strength.
Layla Grace
A loving heart
A fighting soul
You gave us hope when all else failed
You shed some light upon us all
You made us feel strong when we were weak
You were small yet you fought like a warrior
You helped me to see the world for what it is
For you are a miracle
Here are the lyrics to the song:
“Your Hands” by JJ Heller
I have unanswered prayers
I have trouble I wish wasn’t there
And I have asked a thousand ways
That You would take my pain away
That You would take my pain away
I am trying to understand
How to walk this weary land
Make straight the paths that crooked lie
Oh Lord, before these feet of mine
Oh Lord, before these feet of mine
When my world is shaking
Heaven stands
When my heart is breaking
I never leave Your hands
When You walked upon the Earth
You healed the broken, lost, and hurt
I know You hate to see me cry
One day You will set all things right
Yea, one day You will set all things right
When my world is shaking
Heaven stands
When my heart is breaking
I never leave Your hands
Your hands
Your hands that shape the world
Are holding me, they hold me still
Your hands that shape the world
Are holding me, they hold me still
When my world is shaking
Heaven stands
When my heart is breaking
I never leave You when…
My world is shaking
Heaven stands
When my heart is breaking
I never leave…
I never leave Your hands
No more pain little one. RIP
Sending my love and prayers your way. Thank you for sharing the most difficult time in your lives with those of us you don’t even know. It has been and will continue to be an honor to pray for your family. Layla touched a world she didn’t even know about until now. What treasured memories you shall always carry of your precious angel. Blessings to your family. Cindy
Prayers for the Marsh family all the way from Germany. Layla’s story has touched so many lives. God bless you all.
I followed Layla’s story for about the last 6 months, and I admire her strength, courage, and love. She has proven to me that God does exist- I can see Heaven in her little face. Layla is so beautiful, and always will be. I will never forget her. Thank you so much for sharing your daughter with us.
Love & Hugs.
I just discovered your blog about a week and a half ago and I can tell you that you, Shanna, have changed my life as a parent. Your post about 45 minutes to unload the dishwasher, and just wanting a minute of peace– and then wanting nothing but the noise and the interruptions. You have made me stop, take a deep breath and realize what is truely so important and so cherished. I am blessed….And you made me realize it. When I kiss my girls at night, I will think of you and Layla. Every night. I have been thinking about you and your family non stop. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Beautiful Layla is healthy again and enjoying her play with the angels.
Much love.
WOW. No words can say what each and every one of us would really like to do. Take away your families pain. The determination you and your family have displayed has made me a better person. I don’t know you but feel like we are family. There is a song by whom I don’t know but it goes something like….although there may be pain in the night….joy comes in the morning. No one knows how this is possible but God will send joy again to your family. I pray for abundant blessings and a cure!!!!
God Bless sweet angel Layla. Layla is at peace now. She will be smiling down on you in heaven. I am a new mother to an 11 week old son, and your courage and strength is an inspiration. Her passing should be a reminder to all to never take anything for granted. My prayers will be with you and your family forever.
Thank you for sharing your beautiful baby girl with us. Where to begin…I am a new mom and just found her story. I have been crying ever since. My heart is breaking and my life is forever changed. I lost my mother when I was 17 and I cannot imagine losing a child, especially now that I know what it feels like to love a baby (as a mother). As I have read through the hundreds of comments, it is just amazing how many lives all over the world this precious child has touched.I have seen comments from Australia, Massachusetts, etc. I am in Mississippi. Your faith and Layla Grace’s beautiful spirit have opened my eyes and my heart in a new light and I have been praying to be a better servant to the lord, a better mother, wife, etc..Always know that your beautiful daughter has done this same thing for thousands of people. I wish I could be there in person to celebrate her life, but I will be there in mind and spirit and with many many prayers. I have been praying for her and your family. I will remember this little girl for the REST OF MY LIFE and I will hold her story close to my heart. Thank you again for changing my life and I really mean that. God Bless sweet Layla Grace.
Mollie Walker McLemore-Jackson,MS
Your family’s story moved me daily, and I wish you so much love and peace in this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you.
I am so sorry for your loss. I am a mother of two and I saw your little angel on youtube today. It touched me so much I cried when I saw she had passed. I can’t imagine what you are going through and your twitters have truley humbled me. I have great respect for y’all. Again, I am very sorry for your loss and am praying for you.
May God bless you
I lost my grandmother Dec. 2008 it was the greatest loss I have ever felt. I can not begin to imagine the loss you and your family are experiencing. I pray for your family every night and cry as I do. I loved my grandma so much and am still so devastated by her passing. I pray your family can find peace and comfort in your heart. Thank you for sharing your precious Layla Grace’s story with the world. Thank you for raising awareness for childhood cancer. I cannot imagine your pain but I will keep you in my prayers. Hold your faith strong and close to your heart because God will carry you through your time of need.
Layla and your family have been on my mind and in my prayers all this week. As a mother, Layla’s story has touched me in such a profound way. Such heartbreaking news and I pray for strength and comfort for you all x
Wish i lived closer so i could go. So very sorry for your loss. The world lost and angel….my deepest condolences go out to your family.
I only recently heard about Layla and her brave fight with cancer. Thank you so much for sharing it! To hear that Layla was able through this difficult thing to reach thousands of people for Jesus Christ is amazing, I pray that her story can continue to reach thousands more!
Words cannot even begin to express how sorry I am. I came across Layla’s story last week, and it has touched my heart more than you’ll ever know! Your sweet little angel managed to bring 50,000+ people together in prayer, and that alone is amazing! Thank you for sharing her story with all of us. I’m a better person because of it! Sending you love and many prayers from Kentucky.
i admire you. you could possibly be one of the strongest women i’ve ever come across. my heart aches for your family. i pray that your daughters will be okay. may layla rest in peace and watch over her loving family.
Know that you’re always in my thoughts and prayers!
I Corinthians 15:54-57 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Prayer Bears
My email address
L eft this world a better place, having inspired thousands with your
A mazing spirit and love for Life!
Y oung Angel Rest In Peace. We are grateful for the Marsh Family
L ord and we Pray that you remain their Touchstone in this difficult time.
A men.
GRACE- (meaning of) God’s favor, God’s will, a Blessing, and Love.
~All that we Love deeply becomes a part of us! ~
Blessings, Peace, and Love from OHIO! Stacy
so sorry for your loss. i recently found out about your story a few days ago and was touched my your little angel! Found out she went to heaven and it broke my heart! MY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOU FAMILY AND MAY LITTLE LAYLA RIP!!
so sorry for your loss. i recently found out about your story a few days ago and was touched my your little angel! Found out she went to heaven and it broke my heart! MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOU FAMILY AND MAY LITTLE LAYLA RIP!
So sorry for you loss. I am PRAYING that God’s loving arms will hold you close!!!
Much love from Iowa!
Kristina
Dear Marsh Family…Thank You for sharing Layla’s story with everyone. I can not begin to tell you how sorry I am that Layla is not with you anymore here on earth. I really truely believed that God was going to heal her. What an incredible testament that would have been. I thought that was the reason that there were SO many people following Layla’s story. I am SO sorry that was not the case in the end, but reading through all of the messages you have received it is obvious how many many lives your special little girl has touched. She did SO very much in her short life, much more than most do in a very long lifetime. My baby brother passed away when he was 5 months old. Each year our family gets together on his birthday. We write notes to him & tie them to balloons. We sing & pray then release the balloons into Heaven. We have been doing this for 19 years now and even the little ones that were not around when he passed feel like they know him…and they definately love him. My family & I have been following Layla’s story since the beginning and we ALL feel SO much love for her…as do SO many people all over the world. We will be praying for PEACE & strength for your family for the days & years to come. Families Are Forever…you will be with sweet Layla again someday. Until then she will be watching over you from Heaven. God Bless You!!! Julie (from West Virginia)
CP: allisatre
I am not the type of person to pray often, or even regularly, but I have to tell you I have been praying for your entire family over and over again since I discovered this blog. I wish I could be a part of Layla’s Celebration of Life. I’ll be in Colorado, but know that she’ll be on my mind and in my heart. All of you will. Always.
Dear Marsh family,
I appreciate that you all chose to invite us to celebrate Layla’s life with you. I would love for my family to have the chance with your beautiful family. However, we are in Maryland. We will be celebrating Layla’s life in our own private little way by releasing some balloons on Saturday as well.
May you all know peace and never forget the love that Layla has given you and the world. I hope one day to meet you all and let you see the our family and how your sweet little angel transformed our lives with her beautiful smile and eyes. Her journey has forever changed us as a family. We are there with you in spirit this Saturday.
God Bless you Ryan, Shanna, Jenna, Claire and most of all Layla.
With love,
The Roehms
Little Layla has touched the lives of so many people. Your legacy will live on forever in all the hearts you and your family touched. Hugs, prayers and condolences from south africa – Layla, I’m sending you balloons on Saturday.
“May angels lead you in..”
At the same time you gather in your church in Texas, my family will be in church in New Zealand, praying for you and thanking God for the life of Layla. Thank you for sharing your journey with us.
i also will be attending the celebration of Layla’s life on Saturday!!! I have ordered a dozen balloons for Layla!
Prayers going to heaven from here in fairbanks,ak. I’ve only started to read about her tuesday but its so heartbreaking for a child to have to go through that. You all have been strong beyond measures. Sweet layla was meant to bring people closer to God and she fulfilled her purpose. I am so heartbroken for your family and I cry my eyes out everytime I think of her.She’s up in heaven pain free in the arms of our healer. RIP precious baby girl Layla Grace
Thank you for sharing Layla Grace’s story with the world. Thank God for Layla Grace and I will continue to pray for peace and comfort for your family.
Love, Jessica
It sounds like MANY people will be releasing balloons on Saturday from lots of different places, to Celebrate Layla’s life. Wouldn’t it be AWESOME if people all over the world released balloons where they live, all at the same time!! Sounds amazing to me!! That would show the LOVE for Layla!! Please let us know what time you will be releasing balloons there in Texas. WE LOVE YOU LAYLA GRACE!!!!!!!!!
May you find comfort and peace in the days ahead, and as you remember the happy memories of your sweet beautiful Layla.
I am amazed by the strength little Layla Grace and all of you have shown through this tough journey. Thank you for letting everyone love her, as if she was our own. She has changed many forever. May your family feel the love of many there with you on Saturday and the days to come. God bless you all.
We will be releasing balloons for her this Saturday here in Phoenix, Arizona. You and your Family have made such a big impact on our life from so far away. We pray for peace for you. <3 RIP sweet sweet baby girl.
Layla has touch our family in so many ways. When we found out that she had gone to be with Jesus, we all cried and held each other. Thank you so much for sharing your little girl with us. She is forever in our hearts. We will continue to pray for your family and especially for the two sisters who are so young and innocent themselves. Wish we could be there to celebrate Layla’s life with you in person, but know that we’ll be there in spirit. Balloons will be released Saturday morning in Tennessee in memory of Layla.
With love,
The Crews Family
My heart and prayers go out to you and your family. May God make this next step in your life easy. And bless every thing that you do. I will not say that I know what you are feeling at this time. For lossing a child is the hardest thing that any one will have to face.
God bless you and your family
Dear Layla grace,
such a beautiful angel – I could never get enough of your cheeky smile and those blue eyes. May you feel the love from all the strangers in the world and hear these prayers from different individuals.
Together with the sun shine, the beautiful rainbow and the playful angels, please rest in peace – for you deserve the peace after all the battles you went through.
All the way from the SouthEast Asia country (Singapore),
Lisa.
RIP Beautiful Angel!!
I’m so sorry to hear about you PRECiOUS Layla! Your story has tugged at my heart since a friend posted it on facebook and I started following. I will never take another moment for granted with my babies. My heart hoes out to your family! You are a strong women! Thank you so much!
I wish I didn’t live so far away and I could be there! I am praying for you all. Rest In Peace, sweet Layla!
I just came across your blog. Your daughter is, and always will be, beautiful. I am truly, deeply sorry for your loss.
All my love from Crossett, Arkansas!
I’m normally not the praying type of girl… but I hope and pray that Layla is okay now and that she knows that so many people love her and are somehow ‘there’ for the loved ones she left behind…
My husband and I are based in L.A. and out of town. We’re with you in spirit and will release a (biodegradable) balloon in her honor!
Sending special prayers much love from South Africa! Although the pain you feel right now is so bad, what a blessing that little Layla is free! I have no doubt that she will always be with you, and one day, you’ll meet again. xxxx
I am so sorry for your loss. Words cannot convey the emotions your story has evoked from me. My family and I have been praying for you all since I first read about you back in January. I cannot imagine what losing a child would be like, and should I ever have to deal with it, I pray God gives me the grace and strength you seem to be showing now.
But how awesome is it to know that Layla will never again feel pain, and that she went straight from her earthly daddy’s arms into her Heavenly Daddy’s arms? I pray (and will continue to pray) that God will lend His unshakable peace and His unsurpassed comfort to you and your precious family in this time of trials.
Praying for you from Pensacola, Florida,
The Moehle and Amnott families
Prayers for comfort are coming to you all, as well as your extended family and friends who have helped you on Layla’s journey, from our little family in Australia.
Our Love and prayers are with you know and for a very long time–when I heard of Layla’s last day after following for months I hugged my little one and thanked the Lord– there is such a beautiful song by Celine Dion-=Fly
Fly Fly Little Wing
Fly beyond imagining
The softest cloud the whitest dove
Upon the wind of heavens love
Past the planets and the stars
Leave this lonely world of ours
Escape the sorrows and the pain
and fly again
Fly fly precious one
Your endless journey has begun
Take your gentle happiness
far to beautiful for this
Cross over to the other shore
there is peace for ever more
but hold this memory bitter sweet
until we meet
Fly fly do not fear
Don’t waste a breath
don’t shed a tear
Your hearts beyond
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 little wing angels sing
Fly away the time is right
go now fight the light
Along with your family hearts are breaking all over the world
but now more of them know who God is!! Sorry for your pain!
Thank you for sharing your beautiful daughter!!!
I just came across this blog from a friend on facebook. I am so sorry fo your loss. I cannot help but cry after reading all of this. Layla is in a beautiful place now and she will always be with you. R.I.P Layla. We all love you little angel. Xoxox
-Ashley B
So wish I could be there with you to celebrate Layla’s life but I’m in the UK, so myself and my children will be releasing a balloon for her here. It’s been an honour to be able to share with you the wonder that was Layla Grace and I hope you can draw strength from her courage and beauty and go forward
) x
Dear Marsh family our prayers will be with you on Saturday Layla was a very speacial girl we have followed her for 3mths and she taught us alot she made us realise that small problems are minor compaired to bigger ones that a 2yr old had and she accomplished alot in those two years we will never forget her and we pray for you as a family to heal and enjoy the memories and know she is up with the lord and he has told her she has earned her golden wings we love you layla rip sweetypie
Wow, I just found out that Layla has gone to a much better place, I’m at work and sooo soo sad. Thank you so much for sharing this precious precious angel with us. I have never met you all or her and she has forever changed my life in a much more positive way!! I’m so sorry but I know you also probably have a sense of relieve that the suffering is GONE FOREVER. Bless you all forever!!
I will be lighting a candle for Layla Grace this saturday, all the way from Liverpool, England. Your story has touched people all over the world, Layla was so brave and her story has made me appreiciate everything so much more. Although her life was short, she has changed the lives of everybody who has heard about her. Hopefully awareness will be raised and thanks to Layla other children will not have to go through this. Your family have shown amazing strength and grace and I want to say thank you for sharing your beautiful daughter with the world. I wish i could be there on Saturday but i live pretty far away, but know that me and my family are thinking about you.
Sleep well little Layla x
Just found your blog tonight. My heart is broken for you. Much love to your family from mine in Australia. A-M xx
Layla will be deep in our thoughts and hearts this Saturday, and everyday forward.
She has altered my heart and soul in so many unbelievable ways, she will forever be etched into my life. I will do everything to live it with hopefully with even half the spirit Layla had everyday in her short but amazing life.
Your ability to stay strong is incredible Marsh’s, in our thoughts and prayers Ryan and Shanna, and praying for extra strength and understanding for beautiful Jenna & Claire.
Bless you all, and bless sweet precious angel Layla.
- Downey Family (Northern California)
I wish I could go…but unfortunately I’m in Germany…if I was stateside I would most definitely drive there. I’m continuing to keep your family in my prayers…especially your 9 year old daughter, i’m praying that God will help her somehow understand what is going on around her. RIP beautiful Layla Grace…
I would be there in a heartbeat but I live in Bristol, England! Wishing you all the best for saturday. You may think you aren’t, but you are strong, and your whole family is an inspiration. Layla is safe now and you all did whatever you could for her, which I’m sure she is grateful for. I keep you all in my thoughts.
RIP Layla. I never met you, but I love you.
xxxxx
Shanna, Ryan, and the girls,
What an amazing gift you had from God Almighty Himself. Though Layla’s days were numbered shorter than most, what a legacy she is leaving behind. There are people who are on the Earth longer and don’t make such an impact. While I wish I could wave a magic wand and bring your baby girl back to you perfect and whole, I can’t help but to think about how many lives she impacted in her last few days, including my own. She will always be with you, in this fog you are feeling she is with you, God is with you. She is no longer hurting, but got to spend her last few weeks with her parents looking over her and never leaving her side.
Though Layla’s race was a sprint compared to most, your race isn’t over. You have done so much already to raise awarness of this aweful disease. Continue to fight the fight for Layla and the countless others. Tell your story when you’re ready.
You have encouraged me in my walk and I continue to pray for you and your family.
In Him,
Katy
Wish we could be there for the celebration of Layla’s life- but we are in PUERTO RICO!!! YEAP. Layla touch us in a place so far away too!
Have a wonderful and peacefull time and thanks so much for sharing a little bit of Layla with us- we will always remember her!!!!!
Nieves-Rincon Family from Carolina, Puerto Rico.
Sending love and prayers! God bless you!
I have been following your little ones struggles and I want you to know how very sorry I am for your loss. My heart aches for your family. Our family lost our niece Tuesday on Jan 30 2009 at the age of two to Neuroblastoma. I know that Layla Grace is at peace now and smiling and will be there waiting for you. I hope she and Tuesday will be good friends and can play and laugh together. God will take care of your baby and he will take care of your family.
I send my love and prayers
As the mother of three girls I can not imagine your pain. I pray that God will fill your minds and hearts with vivid memories of your precious Layla. As you go thru the following days remember her sweet face n know that your love and compassion for her was expressed everyday as you helped her find peace in her pain. May God bless you and your girls with peace and happiness. Praying you will find strength and love. From Alabama prayers overflow! Beth Rhea
A great big huge hug for Layla Grace and her family.Your family truly has touched my heart and I will never forget Layla.She is now and forever in the presence of our wonderful GOD…May God give you strength and peace to get thru this days ahead….
A friend shared your story with me last nite and I have been haunted by your pain and loss. Please know that your little angel Layla will be resting on your shoulders. God bless you all.
Your beautiful angel, Layla, has touched my heart in a way I never thought possible. As a mom of two little boys, I cannot even imagine what your family is going through. I will continue to pray for all of you in this time of sorrow and will be sending prayers from Pennsylvania on Saturday as you celebrate her life. God bless!
I only heard of little miss Layla Grace because of a friend of mine very recently. I read about her, and saw her pictures, and then i come to hear this very sad sad news she is gone and no longer with us. May God be with you and your family through this difficult time, and know she is up singing and dancing with the other Angels in heaven. God needed her more than we did and that’s why she was the special chosen one. May you rest in pease little miss sweet Layla Grace
( hugs to all
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Your precious baby girl was truly an angel. As a Mummy of a 2 yo boy, I can’t imagine the pain of losing Layla. I hope that knowing she will be remembered all over the world brings you some comfort. I will never forget her.
With love,
Andrea
Adelaide, Australia
I wish that we would be able to attend Physically to Layla’s celebration of Life. But unfortunatly we are in Cheyenne, Wy. But we will be watching the sky for the release of balloons. You have touched our hearts in so many ways with Layla’s story, between her cancer and reminding me to treasure each and every day that I have mine around. Thank you for sharing Layla’s story. You will always be in our hearts and prayers. With much love, The Shaffer’s
{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{Hugs}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}
I recently found out about Layla last week and have shed many tears. I have a daughter who is just 1 month younger than Layla and reading what you and your family had to go through is just heart breaking. Your story has made me appreciate life even more, to try not to take it for granted, and to have more patience with my little Nicole. My condolences to you and your family and may God be with you during your time of suffering. I’ll be thinking of you all on Sat. from Ohio.
Saturday would have been my mom’s 69th birthday. She passed on 3.5.05. I am sure that she will help Layla catch all of the balloons as they soar to heaven. Sending you strength and peaceful thoughts from PA. Layla will live on in the hearts and minds of so many…thank you once again for sharing her story with us.
I thank the Lord every day for bringing courageous Layla and her courageous family into my life. While I have never met any of you, I have been fully moved by your journey. You have touched so many lives and brought so many people together, and to their faith, and that is Layla’s legacy.
Thank you Layla and entire Marsh family.
My prayers and deepest sympathy’s go out to you all. I pray you feel the Lord’s loving hands holding you all.
Kerri
We will be celebrating Layla’s life in Indiana with a balloon release on Saturday. Thank you for sharing Layla with the world, she has touched so many. May your family find peace and comfort. I hope your girls are doing ok. Know Layla is watching over you, smiling and in peace. Love to your family.
…CARISSIMI GENITORI,
VI SONO VICINA CON LA PREGHIERA, LA VOSTRA PICCOLA E BELLISSIMA BIMBA MI HA FATTO SENTIRE LA VICINANZA DI DIO !
LAYLA E’ STATA ED E’ UN DONO PER TUTTI, SARA’ SEMPRE CON VOI E LE SUE SORELLE E DA LASSU’ VI PROTEGGERA’.
SABATO 13 MARZO SARO’ UNITA A VOI CON LA PREGHIERA, DALL’ITALIA .
Living in Washington state and alone with my 2 yo son most of the time will not allow us to come to Layla’s celebration. Wish we could!
I would like to donate flowers and am interested what Layla’s favorites were?
Let me extend deepest love and understanding to your precious familly. Layla’s story and adorable little spirit will remain with us for forever. Someday, I will tell my son about her spirit….he was born in Oct 07.
Rest in Peace lovely Layla Grace…. If indeed angels exist, they are certainly surrounding you in the love that surrounded you here in life, sweetheart.
Author unknown
Thought of you with love today, but that is nothing new. I thought about you yesterday, and days before that too. I think of you in silence, I often speak your name. All I have are memories and a picture in a frame. Your memory is a keepsake, with which I’ll never part. God has you in his keeping, I have you in my heart.
Thank you for sharing Layla with all of us. Although she never met many of the people that followed your story she has touched so many people. I know so many people personally that have followed Layla’s journey and we are half way across the country from you in Michigan.
Your story has touched me in a personal level as a mother. When you blogged about how you wished all those times Layla would interrupt you during cleaning the house or doing dishes because she physically couldn’t anymore I sat down and cried for quite a while. I want you to know that in the past few weeks I have become a better mother thanks to your family and hearing your story. Sometimes I have felt the same when i am trying to get things done and my children want my undivided attention. It made me realize how short a time we could have with them. So I want to thank you personally for sharing your story that has made me appriciate my children on a whole new level. After hearing of your loss of her I instantly sat down on the couch with my 4 year old son and held him and sobbed. Layla was such a gift to both your family and to the whole world who came to adore your beautiful angel!
Thank you for sharing Layla with all of us. I will forever be greatful for the change that both Layla and the two of you as parents have made in my life. I will continue to pray for you and your family (including your other two sweet beautiful daughters) for comfort and peace during this time. God bless Layla Grace and your family!
I am so sorry for your loss. Layla Grace was truly an inspiration and has touched so many peoples’ hearts in such a short time. I will be thinking of you all on Saturday and will release balloons in her honour. She was such a beautiful girl and fought such a hard battle with such grace.
Keep on smiling in heaven, Layla Grace
Lots of love from Glasgow, Scotland.
xxxxx
Layla Grace was a beautiful, bright and shining little girl and I am so sorry for your family’s loss. You are all continually in my prayers.
Thank you for sharing your beautiful daughter Layla Grace, such an amazing little girl to fight so hard, i find my self thinking of her often but i also think of your self and your family because i could not comprehend the loss of a child and for you to share that with the world is courageous, i know you said its like therapy for you but i think you gave therapy to the world you touched 60,000+ people that may be more kind, patient and respectful because of your battle to save your daughter and not only brought awareness to this childhood cancer and i hope you continue the fight for a cure and KEEP blogging about it. Unfortunately i’m in NH so i can not attend Layla’s celebration but it will be my son’s 2nd b-day and after the party we will release some ELMO balloons for her to play with. With deepest condolences Kristen Moore
While I can not be there in person for Layla’s Celebration of Life, my thoughts will be with you.
My condolences. Layla will be fondly remembered in the hearts of those she touched.
I wish I could be there to celebrate Layla’s inspiring life. She is truly an angel and has changed my life.
I am making a donation in Layla’s name to Tomorrow’s Children Oncology and Blood Disorders of Hackensack, NJ. My daughter goes there. Also Don Imus is a big fundraiser for them. God bless Layla. You are truly courageous for sharing Layla’s life with the world. You raised awareness and gave people faith and hope by doing such.
Thank you for sharing Layla’s life with us! I have been following your story for a couple weeks now, but seeing her story has changed my life.We are praying for your family and wish that we could be there for Layla’s Celebration of Life!
Praying for you,
Rachel
My thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of sorrow. But celebrating her life is a wonderful beginning in your time of grief. I can feel your pain as I lost my nephew, Zachary Larwa, on Oct. 24th 2008. He had just turned 18. He was the oldest grandchild and it was devestating for all of us. Seeing his pictures, with him smiling, everyday, makes it easier to move forward. Please visit Zach’s site http://www.zacharylarwa.com for some inspirational poems and music, that helps us move from day to day. God Bless you and your family and hope that Zachary meets this wonderful little girl up in heaven.
I have been inspired by Layla’s story. I had the pleasure, great pleasure, of working for Layla’s “Pappa”. Jon is a great man and a reflection of the whole family. I commend you guys for your faith and positive attitude through such a difficult journey. I truly believe Layla had a purpose in her short time on this earth. I KNOW her purposed was fulfilled and now she is at a huge party with a legion of angels. May God bless your family, her sisters Jenna and Claire, you guys as parents, and the rest of the extended family….. May the peace that surpasses all human understanding dwell within you and may God reveal the good that He promises in Romans 8. Thousands of people includeing myself have been strengthened by seeing Jesus alive in your familly as you have fought the great fight…
Layla Grace… rest in peace, we’ll see you soon!
I recently started following your precious angels story a couple weeks ago, and your family has truely touched not just my heart but I believe hearts nation wide! You all have showen such strength, courage and faith! I will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers!!
I’m Brazilian and Baptist….I am cryinf with you and I ‘m praying for you.
Layla has been in my thoughts ever since I heard her story a while ago. She was an absolutely beautiful little girl, and she has changed so many peoples’ lives and entered so many hearts.
My family and I send you love from all the way over here in England. She has made us realise how precious life is, and that everything has its reasons.
Rest in peace Layla Grace xx
Words can’t express how much Layla has impacted my heart. Reading her story brought back so many memories of a day 2 years ago that I thought would never happen in a million years. I have a niece, Khloe Madison Fryman who at the age of 6 weeks old, was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma. The tumor was the size of a baseball in her tiny little abdomen and wrapped itself around her spine. She is now almost 2 years old and is in remission. They were able to remove it but it was attached to a muscle that controlled her leg movement. Since it was removed, the muscle had to be removed to, so now she is paralyzed from the waist down. I wish there was a way to take the pain and the hurt away. My church has a team for “Relay for Life” and I was just wondering if it would be okay with the family, if we could put a couple of Lumineries out that night of the event in memory of Layla.
Again, thanks for listening. Rest in the Arms of Jesus, sweet Layla. God Bless you and your family.
Thank you for not only sharing beautiful Layla and her story with us, but thank you for sharing your faith, strength, and courage as parents with us. I cannot fathom what you have gone through, but seeing the strength in your faith has also worked miracles. May God continue to bless your family always.
I am so very sorry for your loss of your sweet little Layla. Thinking of you daily.
Your story has touched me so deep, I thank you for sharing your precious angel with us.
Your family will be in my thoughts this Saturday.
God bless you and your beautiful angel. Rest in peace sweet Layla Grace
From Orlando, FL
We will be with you in spirit on Saturday as you celebrate the life of your precious little girl. Thank you so much for all the updates, Layla and your family are on my mind many times throughout the day. I say a little prayer for you all each and every time. I’m so very sorry for your loss and so very thankful that Layla is not suffering and has been fully restored. God bless you all.
Layla has touched me in an unprecidented way. She was truly an angel on earth. She fought with strength, dignity and grace. You are on the other side of the world, but I am keeping your family close to my heart and deep in my thoughts. Layla was a true inspiration to us all.
“God bless beautiful baby girl. Now you are free. Go run, laugh and have fun playing with the angels in heaven. You earned it”.
My heart goes out to you today! Your angel touched me in ways I never knew possible. She filled me with courage, love, and compassion! Her life is not over. Her soul lives on forever! God bless you!
awww…my lil sis’s b-day is on the 13th maybe since i will happy maybe a miricale will come true for Layla…:)
Another complete stranger here sending love. I pray for peace in your hearts.
Sympathies to all of you as you begin to piece your life back together and find a new normal. I am greatful that Our Heavenly Father called her home and has restored her to whole, happy and free of pain. She is now an Angel watching over all of you and I am sure that you will hear her giggle at the most amazing times. I know that she is making her rounds as my young son yesterday kept uttering her name and pointing to the sky. We pray for you daily and will certainly be celebrating her life on Sat.
Prayers for Peace and Strength for you all in the coming months while you continue forward on your journey towards healing.
Margot H.
To the Marsh family,
You will be in my family’s thoughts and prayers on Saturday as we all celebrate beautiful little Layla’s life. She has touched so many people with her courage and strength, and will continue to do so as she dances with the other angels in heaven.
We have only followed Layla’s life for a few weeks, but wow, what a legacy she has left! As I drove in my car yesterday, I was fortunate enough to be able to hear her voice on 104krbe as they played an audio of her “arguing” with mommy about going to sleep, and talking with daddy about broccoli cheese soup. It sure made me smile. Her spirit is everywhere! Such a beautiful, sweet girl!
Through this difficult time, it is my hope that you can stay strong for your other two beautiful daughters, and rest easier knowing that sweet Layla has touched so many hearts across the world…
Rest in Peace sweet, beautiful Layla Grace!
Layla has given many people faith, love and happiness! May she rest in peace with our maker. Hugs and kisses to your other daughters in this time of pain and confusion.
XOXO
Lacy
Hi…I don’t know your family personally, but have read your blog that a friend posted on Facebook….What a legacy little Layla Grace has left behind for all of us…Praying for strength and comfort during your time of loss….Grace and Peace….
May our Heavenly Father wrap His loving arms around you all and you feel the love and peace that He is giving.
Like so many others, I do wish I could be at Layla’s Celebration of Life on Saturday. I will be there in spirit and will be praying for you all.
Thank you for sharing your sweet Layla with me. My life has truly been changed for the better.
Love and prayers from SC.
Rest in Peace baby Layla, your family is still in my thoughts and prayers. What an amazing little girl and family. Fly high with the angels Layla, fly high. God bless you all. Sending you hugs from Ohio!
You are in our prayers! Thank you for sharing your story with us. Layla’s story encouraged me to really appreciate every moment that I have with my daughter.
Little Layla put my own adult life into perspective. I am a new mommy of a 4 month old baby boy and because of Layla, I have become stronger in my faith. I shared Layla’s story with my husband the day before she went to be with our Lord. She IS such a sweet, beautiful angel. We may not understand the why’s and what if’s, we are human and our minds cannot comprehend, but our Lord knows why and he will answer our what if’s by pointing out to all of us the amazing things little Layla did in her short two years on this earth. We might ask why it had to be this way, and God will answer because it is HIS way. Little Layla Grace, you have touched my life and I thank your family for sharing your beautiful life with us. You are an angel to us all and I know you will continue to do great things for our Lord because your legacy will live in the hearts of those you touched for ever.
I can only say, that I am so very sorry for you all.
Layla has made this world a better place and people will never forget her for beying such a lovely angel. She is looking down on you right now and for the rest of your lives and is thankfull for having such a great family.
One day you are going to meet her in heaven and God will give you honour for everything you did. Layla will take you in her arms and hold you for ever.
Rest in peace, little girl. You and your family absolutely deserve all the love we feel for you.
My thouhgts will always be with you.
Lia, Germany
Hugs from Kentucky! Such a precious sweet little girl! My heart goes out to you all during this time. I pray God gives you comfort, peace and strength for the days ahead. Thanks for sharing this amazing story of faith, strength, hope and love. I have been forever changed. God bless you all!
I only heard about your sweet princess a few weeks ago and I was glued to her journey since then. No words that I say will make you feel better. You know that. But I do hope that you can feel the love, prayers and sympathies that are surrounding you by the 1,000s every minute of every day.
I know that every parent thinks that their child is special. I do. She is 18 months old. And I think she’s wonderful. I know that every parent thinks that their child will make a difference. I do. But do you know any child, besides Layla, that has been able to band SO many people together in such a short amount of time? I don’t. Layla’s short life has a purpose. Her short life has a meaning. She was sent here to do a job and then return home. What a job she DID : – )
Look at her Twitter followers; the numbers grow by the second. Look at the FB fan pages; see the money that was raised for her medical care by becoming a fan. Look at all the fundraisers in her honor. So may people are touched by her incredible journey. Thank you for sharing it with us. And thank you Layla for helping me to realize that I need to not take anything for granted. May your tiny body be RIP.
All my deepest condolences,
Elizabeth
Boston, MA
I am truly in mourning and have felt your pain ever since I learned about precious Layla. I know the pain I feel is nothing compared to what you are going through now, but I do hope and pray that your entire family will feel comforted in time. I will never understand why so many children are made to suffer as Layla did. She and they do not deserve to live through such pain, just as your family and other families should not have to watch them endure it. I will never believe there is a reason for the kind of pain you are now having to live through. I am especially concerned for your eldest daughter. I hope she also makes it through this time and can find her own kind of peace. I don’t want her to lose faith, because that is the easiest thing to lose in a time such as this. You all deserve everything good in life after suffering this tragedy. Layla will be missed by the world. Her story has changed me in many ways for the better, and for that I will always love her. Layla will live on in my heart forever as she will in yours. I am so sorry for your loss. She is free and most definitely watching over your family in her place as one of Heaven’s angels.
Thank you for allowing us to have a place to express our love for Layla and thank you for sharing her life with us.
Much love and hugs for your entire family! Lisa
I will be celebrating my aunts 2 year passing on Friday and will be releasing balloons for my aunt AND Layla that day. Its somewhat comforting to know that my aunt now has the sweetest little angel keeping her company. I really wish I had the funds to be able to attend the Celebration of Life for Little Layla…but she is and will always be in my thoughts. I’m sure it will be a beautiful Celebration. RIP Princess Layla<3
God bless little Layla and your whole family. She is the most beautiful angel in heaven.
I just recently started to follow Layla’s story and her brave, strong fight. I’m so sorry for your loss and will keep all of you in my daily prayers. I know God is watching over you as Layla is now, too. I hope with all my might that through her suffering from this terrible disease, it will only shed light on the cause and be of huge help now and in the future. My deepest condolences and know another follower will be with you in spirit on Saturday. May God Bless YOU!!! From Colorado to Texas – HUGS!
My prayers continue to be with your family. Layla touched my life. I have never felt such emotion for someone I have never met. Love and prayers from Edmonton, AB, Canada
I cannot imagine what your family is going through right now. However, know that I am praying for you all. I wish I could be at the celebration of Layla’s life, because NOW she is truly celebrating! I know she is home with her Lord, and she is now a fully restored beautiful creation! God Bless you all! I know he has placed you here for a reason, even though the sting of death is painful, Your Lord has set you aside for a great work! Thank you for allowing us to be a part of Layla’s life, it has been a blessing!
My heart breaks for you. Your sweet girl touched the world. Amazing. She truly is an angel. Rest in Peace little Layla Grace.
I wish we could be there i really do but we live in Indiana kinda far from you. Thank you so much for sharing Layla with me she has changed my life forever and i will forever be grateful for your family! I hope you can find peace in this time of sorrow.
Layla will watch over your family now. I will continue to pray for family and Layla will be in my heart forever.
We will celebrate her life on Saturday with you just from our house.
Thanks again much love
Darcy
Because of Layla I gave my son an extra hug, an extra book and we said an extra prayer; because of Layla I will make sure my son feels extra love on a daily basis.
Thank you for sharing Layla’s life with us. God bless your family. My family is praying for yours.
I pray for peace for your family everyday. Layla was such a precious little girl and had such an important short life.
Your story has taught me what a precious gift life is, no matter how short. I’m so glad your family was blessed with Layla. I’m grateful to you for sharing her story. It has been life changing for me and I can never thank you enough for sharing.
May God, our Father, hold you and your family in his loving arms.
Love from Houston.
Ryan and Shanna,
Lifting you up to your Heavenly Father.
She dances and sings with our Lord, waiting for your reunion.
Grace and peace,
Jeff
Layla Grace you are an amazing little girl! You have affected me more than I ever thought a person I’ve never met could. You brought me closer to God and shown what truth strength is. It breaks my heart that the only way for you to be healed was to go back to heaven but I’m so glad you are not playing with the angels and looking over you family. I pray that God continues to give your family strength as they face the days ahead and that he helps them remember all the wonderful memories of you, Layla. Although I will not be there to celebrate your life I will be thinking of you and will release pink balloons in your honor. Love you Layla and the amazing Marsh family.
May God bless you
Allison from Alabama
Your journey has had me captivated and left me feeling so thankful for the blessings before us.
Your pain is real, thousands from around the world are grieving with you and I pray one day, your tears of sadness end and moments of celebration and happiness return.
Thoughts and prayers are with you, and your daughters. I’m sending them extra hugs too!
Thank you for sharing Layla with me. May she finally be playing in the sunshine, walking in the sand, and sticking her toes in the ocean with the biggest smile lighting up her blue eyes that much brighter.
Yvonne Herrera – beautifully said, and exactly what I repeat to the Marsh family.
Love to you and yours as this journey continues…
Trish Barr & family
Kingston, ON Canada
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I can’t imagine what you are going through at this time. My heart aches for Layla’s sisters.
Thank you for telling Layla’s story. It makes me strive to be a better person and to trust God’s will.
Prayers from Raleigh, NC
Brian, Kristin and Madison Peebles
In reading through the messages you have received it appears that many people who will not be able to attend Layla’s Celebration are planning to release balloons in her honor on the same day. How AWESOME it would be if people all over the world released their balloons at the same time as you will be doing it in Texas. Could you please post the time you think that will be happening? Thank You!! WE LOVE YOU LAYLA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
My prayers are with you and your Family.
I resisted following Layla’s story when all of my friends were posting about her on FB. As a mother, it was too sad & heartbreaking to face the reality that this happens to innocent children all over the world. Eventually I could no longer resist & I’m so grateful that I gave in. Your journey has touched my life in a way that I cannot explain. It makes me want to be a better mother & wife & to be closer to God. It also makes me realize all of the struggles in my own life are small in comparison. The only explanation for that is that Layla was doing God’s work. God Bless Layla, you- Shanna & Ryan, Jenna & Claire & the rest of your family for sharing. I hope that the community continues to rally around you all & Layla’s spirit lives on forever.
I just found out about Layla this week from a friend. I have held so many friends in my arms as they grieved the loss of a loved one and wish I could hold you and your family. You are in my prayers and that is much more important. Please know that your grace and courage- your faith and love has touched and changed the lives of so many. Perhaps that is Layla’s legacy……I have a mentally retarded brother who contracted ensyphalitis when he was two….the fever did permanent brain damage…..he has been institutionalized since he was 5. I watched my parents cope with this so my heart can begin to feel your pain a little more than some. Please feel hugged and loved and lifted up. A friend in NC
In reading through the messages you have received it appears that many people who will not be able to attend Layla’s Celebration are planning to release balloons in her honor on the same day. How AWESOME it would be if people all over the world released their balloons at the same time as you will be doing it in Texas. Could you please post the time you think that will be happening? Thank You!! WE LOVE YOU LAYLA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you for sharing your precious Layla’s life with us. As complete strangers (1 friend in common) my family has been touched by your story. My 3yr old daughter prayed for Layla and now asks questions about God more than ever before. I thank your daughter for that. May you hold your other girls tighter than ever and feel at peace knowing Layla in dancing in a flower-filled field in Heaven. As owners of GarnettMotorcars.com in the southeast side of Houston, we have posted everywhere possible that we will donate $250 to your family each time a customer buys a car from us and mentions Layla’s story. We will continue to offer this and hope that we are able to send many donations your way. We will be out of town with our children on Saturday or we would defintely attend the celebration. We will be sending you some homeade cards and sweet things for Claire and Jenna.
God Bless you and I know Saturday is going to beautiful!
Claudia & Ryan Garnett
GarnettMotorcars.com
La Porte, TX
Marsh family, I live in Bear Creek and I feel honored that you are allowing us to celebrate with you. I cannot wait to share in the love for sweet Layla.
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. You are not only a truly amazing woman but an amazing mother. I have been very touched by your story and wish the ending was much different. She was a beautiful angel that touched your ife the way noone will ever touch you again. I will never forget your story and will keep you and your family in my prayers.
RIP Sweet Angel Layla.
God blessed you with Layla Grace. You did not know it at the time, but she was truly a holy child. It seems unfair to have your child be gone too soon and we prayed for a miracle to save Layla, but Layla Grace seems to be the miracle that is saving us. She has captured the hearts and minds of so many across this world and brought them closer to God and renewed their faith. She has changed the lives of so many people and has given us humility, me included. God bless all of you with the strength to endure the dark days ahead without Layla. You are truly an inspiration.
You are all in my prayers. My heart is heavy with your sorrow. I pray for your comfort and strength. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you. Take care and God Bless.
We will be there in spirit on Saturday! You all are heavily in my thoughts and prayers, especially Jenna. ♥
Layla grace your an amazing gift from god and Shanna and Ryan you guys are beautiful people and her sister are precious angels as well…please take comfort knowing she is no longer in pain and someday you guys will all reunite again
Until then remember shes dancing with the angels…what a beautiful fighter 
We love you layla grace…
I just started following Layla Grace about 6 days ago. May God bless your family and give you the peace that surpasses all understaning.
Ryan, Shanna, Jenna, & Claire,
Thank you for sharing your amazing family’s journey with the world! Our family of four is better for knowing Layla Grace, even if only though online posts and photos. She absolutely was an Angel here on earth as she touched millions of hearts so deeply. Layla Grace will always be one of my greatest teachers as she taught me the true importance of life! I love my children and husband much deeper, cherish every moment…even the chaotic ones and count my blessing every single day. And this is all because you allowed us to love your beautiful baby girl! Your family consumed our thoughts and prayers and your pain, became our pain. We continue to send you prayers and will be celebrating Layla Grace’s life from afar. Your family will be in our hearts forever!
Much Love from Colorado,
Tara Cullen & family
I am so blessed to have heard Layla’s story. My friend shared your page with me a few weeks ago and ever since then I have not been able to get your family out of my mind. I have an 8 month old daughter and everytime I look at her I am reminded how thankful I am to have her in my life and I have Layla to thank for that. We all go about our busy day to day lives and forget to stop and cherish our chidren, husbands, mothers, fathers etc. We do not know how many days we have with them but we all need to learn to stop and take it all in. Thank you so much for sharing your story and helping me to stop and smell the roses along my journey of life. You are an amazing family and I pray to God that you are blessed beyond imagination.
In reading some of these posts, I have heard my own voice saying the same words as so many who have fallen in love with precious Layla and your family. My heart aches daily for you all, but knowing that your faith in God has brought so many closer to Him makes my heart rejoice! I know that soon, we as believers in Christ will come together in heaven with Layla. And there will be no more sorrow, only joy!
This was read at my Mums funeral and it always brings me comfort.
I am standing by the sea shore. A ship at my side spreads her white sails to the morning breeze and starts for the blue ocean.
She is an object of beauty and strength and I stand and watch until at last she hangs like a speck of white cloud just where the sun and sky come down to mingle with each other.
The someone at my side says ” There she goes”.
Gone where?
Gone from my sight that is all.
She is just a large in mast, hull and spar as when she left my side and just able to bear her load of living freight to her places of destination. Her diminished size is in me, not in her.
And just at that moment when someone at my side say “There she goes”, there are other eyes watching her coming and other voices ready to take up the glad shout-
“Here she comes”.
God bless Layla, I am praying for all of you.
Thank you for sharing Layla’s story with the world, she has taught us all so much. May sweet, beautiful Layla rest in peace. Layla and your family will forever be in my heart.
Samantha, Ontario Canada
Layla is so loved and will be remembered and cherished. Never forget how loved you, Ryan, Jenna and Claire are as well. We can’t express that enough.
What an impact your sweet baby girl has made on so many lives. Her life has truly taught me what the meaning of life is and how important each day is. I am a mother of two girls, Riley 4, and Ramsey 2 and I can’t imagine what this has been like for you and your family. Everytime I look at my girls I think of how you must be feeling. Your faith in GOD is amazing!!! Thank you for sharing her story and your family with me. I will continue to think of Layla and pray for you and your family. We will also celebrate Layla’s life with you on Saturday, from here in Florida.
Love to you and your family,
Robyn
I actually attend the church where Layla’s celebration of life is going to take place. Thank you for opening up and letting us all be a part of your journey. I pray for your family and friends during this time. Although we have never met, I feel as though we are all a part of your family. Your story has touched us dearly and I can not seem to get enough hugs from my 2 little boys anymore. Thank you for reminding us that each day could be the last. We must live life to the fullest, love deeply, and praise God for every moment he allows us to stay with our loved ones. You are all in my prayers.
I, like many others, just heard of Layla’s story last week through Twitter and have been fervently praying for you and your family ever since. As a mom of four children, my heart is breaking for the grief that you are now dealing with as parents and for the pain your other children are feeling as well.
Thank you for sharing Layla’s story and for helping her make a difference against this terrible disease.
I’ll continue praying for God’s peace to be upon you all…
Dear Marsh family,
This is not the end.
You shall be reunited in God`s gardens if you follow His path.
My heart goes out to your family.
Keeping you in my prayers.
I am in awe of the things God has done through your beautiful daughter’s life. People all around the world were drawn closer to God as they cried out for Layla! I am praying for peace and strength for your family on Saturday and in the days ahead. “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18
Since learning of Layla, I have thought of her and prayed for her (and all of you) daily. I feel like she is a part of my life, and I am truly grieving over her battle. Last night as I lay in bed praying and asking God for my own peace and comfort I became so truly thankful that Jesus died for us. He died so that we may continue to live. God already knows our pain, and he gave His own child, so that when we lose ours they will not be lost, but be with Him. Praise God! Praise God you will see her again! That is what is getting me through this! I grieve for YOU, for what I can only imagine you are going through. I send you all my love, please know I am hugging you and praying for you. God Bless you Layla, you have been rewarded!
With ALL my <3!!!!
Peace to you. You are in our hearts.
Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I am so sorry to hear of her passing, but I know that she is finally at peace. I have been following your story for the last couple of weeks, and you all have truly touched me. Your love for Layla, your family and the Lord is an inspiration. Layla was such a beautiful and special little girl. I will never forget her. Thank you for sharing your story.
Love, Sarah
Could you please video the Celebration of Life for Layla and post it online for those of us that can’t be there in Texas?
My prayers are with you and your family. What a precious little angel. I’m still baffled at how a child I’ve never met touched my soul so deeply. She is sitting in the lap of Jesus now laughing and playing. She is looking down at us with sorrow as we are the one’s suffering.
God Bless you Layla Grace!
Following Laylas fight with this monster has changed my life. She will be forever be remembered.
I am so sorry for your families loss but I am so gratefull for taking the time to share Laylas fight with us. She will NEVER be forgotten and you family will remain in my prayers.
Your family and Layla’s story has touched me so much and so deeply! I have cried many tears for you both, for Layla, and for her sisters. I have 2 daughters myself, and I cannot even begin to imagine the pain you are feeling for yourself and for Layla’s sisters. I have not been able to get your family out of mind, and I pray for you daily, several times throughout the day. I want to get Layla beanies for my daughters to wear on Easter the day we celebrate Jesus’ resurrection to commemorate Layla’s celebration as well.
Thank you for sharing beautiful Layla with all of us. What a gift she has been to my life, reminding me to cherish all the moments we have big, little, nice and not so nice. I pray that God’s peace and comfort will carry you throughout the coming days and weeks and He will give you the wisdom to comfort Jenna and Claire. God is carrying sweet Layla, and I pray that you will be able to find peace and rest leaning on His everlasting arms.
Such a short time,
Such a long road
All this madness
But I know
That the silence
Has brought me to His voice
And He says
I’ve shown her photographs of time beginning
Walked her through the parted seas
Angel lullabies, no more teary eyes
Who could love her like this?
I will carry you
While your heart beats here
Long beyond the empty cradle
Through the coming years
I will carry you
All my life
And I will praise the One Who’s chosen me
To carry you
(“I Will Carry You” song and lyrics by Selah)
I’ve only been following Layla’s story for a couple of weeks, but have been touched so deeply by her and your amazing faith. I’m so sorry. God bless you all. I pray in particular for peace for your daughters.
I am a new mother to a little girl and I cannot tell you how much your story has impacted my life. You have such a bueautiful, strong, INSPIRING little girl, and I am so sorry for your loss. I think as mother’s we all empathize and just know the pain you are going through is unfathomable, my only consolation would be is your little girl has touched and changed so many lives. For myself it makes me cherish my baby more, appreciate life more and question what I am doing to help make a difference! I will tell your story over and over again, hoping to raise awareness and to celebrate the life of Layla Grace!! God Bless you and your family
you have been blessed
I just discovered this blog a few days ago. I have read through every older blog since then while crying at my laptop. I have a 18 month old and Laylas story just breaks my heart. She is truly an angel that was sent here on earth. Bless her heart and may she rest peacefully now. I wish I could be there Saturday but we live in Indiana. We will be saying a prayer and releasing a balloon at that time. Please know how much your precious angel has touched my heart and the hearts of others. Your family will always be in my thoughts and prayers. I will say a extra prayer for your 3 and 9 year olds.
I am so sorry for the loss of your little girl. I’m not sure if you have heard it before but there is a song by Michael W. Smith called Hello, Goodbye. I will continue to keep your family in my prayers during this difficult time.
I am thinking about you and your family.
I was reading one of my other blogs, and saw this. I am sure I am not the first person to send you this and probably won’t be the last, but I hope this helps you.
http://thespohrsaremultiplying.com/
I am so sorry for your loss. “May god bless you and keep you, may he shine his light apon you and bring you peace.” Your family and your daughter touched thousands. Please know she will be remembered. Hugs to you and your family.
When I read that she had passed away; I found myself sitting at my desk crying through out the entire day. When I got home last night, I hugged and kissed my baby girl. Layla was a princess and so beautiful. Your family will continue to be in our prayers.
God bless you from Dallas….
Terry, Georgia, Bayley, Parker & Isabella
My heart is with you and your family and friends. Layla will be missed
I wish I could be there on Saturday to show support for your family. Still praying for you guys all the time.
Reading Layla’s story has changed me as well. I can’t even begin to imagine what you are going through. Know that because of Layla THOUSANDS of people have found their way back to God….How Incredible!!!!
This is a song i learned in primary and it continues to be one of my favorites….
I am a child of God
And HE has sent me here
Has given me an earthly home
With parents kind and dear
Lead me, guide me, walk beside me
Help me find the way
Teach me all that I can do
To live with HIM someday
You taught her all you could and in return she taught all of us! Amazing Parents ya’ll are!!! Your girls are truly blessed.
Enjoy celebrating her life on saturday….i can already see Layla looking down in amazement of what she accomplished in her short time on earth!
God Bless!
I’ve kept up with Layla’s story since I found your site several weeks ago. I have a 10 year old and a 2 year old (boys) and can not imagine the pain you are in right now. I pray for you and your family during this difficult time. And to tell you that Layla has made me a better mother to my children and I will always be grateful for that.
God bless your beautiful, wonderful family. Thank you for being so open about what you were going through as I had never heard of Neuroblastoma and now I want to help fight to find a cure. Layla is your angel now and has made such an impact on so many lives. I pray for your peace and comfort.
Much much love from Arizona,
Marisa, Steve and Madison
Ryan, Shanna, Jenna, & Claire,
Thank you for sharing your amazing family’s journey with the world! Our family of four is better for knowing Layla Grace, even if only though online posts and photos. She absolutely was an Angel here on earth as she touched millions of hearts so deeply. Layla Grace will always be one of my greatest teachers as she taught me the true importance of life! I love my children and husband much deeper, cherish every moment…even the chaotic ones and count my blessings every single day. And this is all because you allowed us to love your beautiful baby girl! Your family consumed our thoughts and prayers and your pain, became our pain. We continue to send you prayers and will be celebrating Layla Grace’s life from afar. Your family will be in our hearts forever!
Much Love from Colorado,
Tara Cullen & family
Dearest Family of Sweet Layla Grace,
You all are constantly in my prayers! I read your posts and I am reminded of the day that I had to visit the funeral home and make arrangements for my 7 yo daughters funeral! I know it seems impossible to bear,but you will get through this! I promise! God is so good and He loves you all so very much! You will use Laylas story to help other families and they will be strengthened by the story of your faith! It has been 5 years since my daughter passed and I continue to share her story everywhere I go! She inspires me to keep going! Please know that we are carrying your burden as are countless other people! I pray for peace and an incredible amount of strength as you face the days ahead! God bless you and thank you for letting all of us love your precious baby!
Sincerely,
Daynia Carroll
Angel came down from heaven yesterday
She stayed with me just long enough to rescue he
And she told me a story yesterday,
About the sweet love between the moon and the deep blue sea
And then she spread her wings high over me
She said she’s gonna come back tomorrow
And I said “fly on my sweet angel,
Fly on through the sky,
Fly on my sweet angel,
Tomorrow I’m gonna be by your side”
Sure enough this morning came unto me
Silver wings silhouetted against the child’s sunrise
And my angel she said unto
“today is the day for you to rise,
Take my hand, you’re gonna be my man,
You’re gonna rise”
And she took high over yonder
And I said “fly on my sweet angel,
Fly on through the sky,
Fly on my sweet angel,
Forever I will be by your side”
I carry Layla’s story and sweet face in my heart today. I am thinking of you all.
i am sending you so much love from california. your beautiful, AMAZING layla has touched my soul. my heart is broken for your family, and i am in awe of all of your strength, especially layla’s! my little faimly is going to release balloons on saturday, and fill our house with flowers in all shades of pink for your beautiful baby girl. i will never, ever forget her. xoxo
I have been following Layla’s story for about two weeks. This precious baby captured my heart. I cried when I read about her. It is amazing the impact that this baby had on me. I did not even know her, but she was always on my mind. She was an angel that that was sent to earth for a short time. Layla has brought me closer to my faith. I do not take anything for granted anymore, ad I appreciated life so much more. I am more patient with my ow children and family. A very dear nice lady that was the Mom of a friend of mine died one month ago. Her grandchildren were her life. I know that Layla will be under her care, because she loved children. I am praying for your family, and especially your two beautiful daughters. I wish I was closer to TX, but I live in NO. I pay that God gives you the strength to get through the next few days. I loved this precious baby the I never met.
I can’t stop thinking about your precious and gorgeous little Layla. She reminds me so much of my own beautiful 1 year old Avery. They look just the same. I look at my little girl and am so in love with her, as I am with my 4 year old son, and cannot even fathom losing them. I would lose a piece of myself, I know. I fight back tears even just thinking about what you have been through, it seems so unfair. I thank you for sharing your story, because even though it may not be any consolation, you have reminded so many people about how fragile life is, and how important it is to cherish each moment with your children. I hope I remember Layla’s story for the rest of my life so that in times of frustration as a parent, I may remember what a blessing my children are to me. God bless your sweet family and may you have a joy-filled life with your beautiful daughters. May Layla’s story continue to impact the world and may you find peace knowing your little angel has already “graced” the lives of so many.
I will be praying for you and your family. I just found your page 3 days ago. My heart is going out to you. May the Lord keep you and your family strong.
You’re family is in my prayers.
im so sorry for your loss.. im a mom also and i would not know what to do if i lost my child… she is still in my prayers and so is your family.
ps.. i seen that your daughters birthday is november 26.. that is also my birthday…
((hugs)) and prayers
I’ll be sending balloons up from California. Praying for your family at this time of loss. Layla has touched so many of us.
Your family is in my thoughts and prayers from Vancouver, WA.
I recently began reading about Layla’s courageous journey. It weights heavy on my heart that you and your family have to experience the loss of your child, but know that Layla is in a better place and is no longer in pain. After reading about your precious angel, I now look at life a little different. I cherish the little things and appreciate every day is given to me, as you appreciate every day that you had with Layla.
I will continue to pray for you and your family. Layla’s story has brought so many people together and I hope that her story will continue to do so. She will live on in the hearts of all of those that she has touched.
Kendra
Hilltop Lakes,TX
Sweet Layla Grace, you have forever touched so many peoples lives with your to short one. God has brought home his most perfect angel in waiting. We will continue to pray for you and your family, and hope that you are not only in the arms of God right now receiving all of the love that so many people are sending to you, but with our own angel baby Amber Dawn.
Love Always
Chris, Suzanne and Delaney Wagner
rest in peace layla! i been following the blog for a couple month now, and it is such a horrid expierence for everyone! at least she is in good hands now and is pain-free…my prayers are with you
Layla, precious baby Angel, you have touched my heart in a way I never expected it to. You are truly a gift from God to all. My heart breaks for your family but I am grateful you were able to be apart of their lives, you are now watching over them and guiding them as they have done for you during your stay! Much love to your family!!! xoxoxo
I just heard of this story… I can’t even imagine. I have two small children. I am so sorry for your loss. You sound like wonderful people.
A friend made me aware of your daughter a few weeks ago. It struck a chord with me because my dad died right before Thanksgiving. I found a book, Heaven by Randy Alcorn, that was wonderful in explaining the scripture on Heaven in the Bible. It moved me from a state of despair over losing my dad to a state of anticipation about where he is now and where we one day will all be…those of us who know Christ. I wanted to recommend it to you if you should ever want something of that nature to read. Our pastor at church highly recommended it.
Dearest Marsh Family..
Words cannot describe my gratitude for sharing your sweet Layla with everyone… My heart is overwhelmed with all of the emotions involved, and I’m sure you all have read this a million times, my love for a family I’ve never met is as if you were a part of my own… A real good friend of mine and I have been keeping tabs on you guys for a month or so, and after reading the first blog post (at the time) we were both hooked, like we wanted to get involved and help in any way we could… So, we got on our knees… We cried out to God for healing, and peace… We live in the Victoria, Texas area, and after much consideration, we decided that we will not make it to Layla’s Life Celebration, for the simple fact that we don’t want to sqeeze in and leave ANY family member out… We have our own plans to celebrate the life of your sweet Layla “Amazing” Grace, and will be letting balloons release as well… I wanted to thank you guys for allowing us all to become a part of your family, and are continually praying for you guys to have peace in this difficult time. Our love for you is great, but God’s love is greater! He will take care of you…
All our love-
The Lynch Family
Victoria, Texas
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q274UAP4×9U&feature=related
Much Love to you!!!
I was so upset to hear of little layla’s passing. I can’t imagion how difficult for you, but I hope these comments help you through and see how much the world cares. I only found out about layla a few days ago, but with every tweet, photo or post on this website, its came with a million tears. I’ve decided crying it out is best, I like to think every tear is a moment of happiness for layla in heaven, and also a pinch of strength and love to your family. Layla looks so cute in all of her photos, just think, one day, when everything is a bit easyer, you can look at her beautiful face and they’ll keep her alive. It will be horrible to get throught, but soon, gradually, every day will get a tiny bit eayer. One day you can wake up with a smile and know shes happy where she is now and not in pain, and thats one days you’ll see her again in heaven. She’s brought so many people together, educated them, made them smile, she was truly a gift to everyone. May the sun shine on her memories and your children, and let it keep the rain far away. Much love from my entire family!
I am praying for your family! Layla Grace was such a beautiful baby girl, she is now a precious Angel!! I am from South Carolina, so we cannot be there. But if we were closer we would definitely come. I ran across her page on Facebook and have been reading blogs ever since!! Her story has truly touched everyone’s lives around here & she will be missed. We will continue to pray for your family!
Sincerely,
Tara & Taylor Patterson
Well Marsh Family,
Here I am again, constantly thinking of you! The other day as I posted on the FB page, I was feeling honored and blessed to have been a part of your sharing Layla’s story and I am still very grateful! I was feeling true AMAZEMENT in the power of prayer and Christ. But to be honest with you, today I am MAD about this, MAD that this has happened to you and MAD that we as a mothers and fathers, sisters and grandparents, friends and neighbors have to go through this INSANE sorrow! I hope you will forgive me for posting my TRUE feelings right now, but REALLY?! WHY? WHY? WHY, must we be put through this? I know the answers, I just don’t like that YOU and your beautiful girls have to endure this fight. I love you and I am praying A LOT.
God loves us, yes He does…we just have to wait a little longer to find out “why” we had to go to battle with cancer. Hang in there Ryan, Shanna, Jenna and Claire, hang in there and HUG.
xoxo
Mindy
My prayers are with you all as you walk the sad road. May God give you peace and strength, and hope in this sadness. May your older girls be comforted and given peace in their sadness.
There are no words that I can say that would make this easier, but know that I am praying that God makes this easier, that Layla’s celebration service is a beautiful remembrance of her, and a reminder to you all of the thousands upon thousands of lives that your little angel has touched. With my love, prayers and tears
You don’t know me but I’ve been praying something fierce for you! My biggest prayer is for God to wrap His BIG LOVING arms around you and comfort you through this. I cannot imagine. I know it sounds weird for a stranger to say this, but I have shed tears for your loss.
On the day that you will be celebrating Layla Grace’s life, my 11 year old daughter will be shaving her head at a St. Baldrick’s Day event to help raise money for childhood cancer research. We will be praying for your family and celebrating with you in spirit. You little Layla Grace has touched our lives. God bless you. ~Heather May
I wish I could be there. And I really mean that. But I’m all the way in South Carolina. I recently started reading her story, about 2 weeks ago, from discovering it from a friends page on facebook, & have checked the website almost every day. I’ve never considered twitter before, but checked the twitter website multiple times most days to keep up with the story. Shanna, you really truly are a strong mother to have been able to go through this and share your story with everyone. I think your husband and beautiful children also helped you stay strong in this journey. Myself, I don’t know if I could have been strong in all the situations. Layla Grace was a beautiful baby girl, and her life & story has touched so many lives out there. Best of luck towards anything in the future, and if you ever need anyone to talk to, you know you have all these people here following the story.
We wish we could attend the Celebration of Life for your sweet little Layla Grace. How she has inspired our whole family! Perhaps these lyrics from a beautiful song could be used at her celebration. Layla has had a huge impact on my life, and I will always remember her. I am trying to do a better job now of showing my deep love for my children and grandchildren, since one never knows when it may be our last day on earth to express that love. Layla is truly in our dear Savior’s arms now, and surely she is spreading immeasurable joy around in heaven!!
Much love,
Mary from WV
I AM A CHILD OF GOD
I am a child of God and he has called me home.
My earthly journey’s through but still, I do not walk alone.
He leads me, guides me, walks beside me, helps me find the way.
He welcomed me with open arms. I live with Him today.
I am a child of God and I have gone ahead.
My earthly life was brief but oh, such peace and love you gave!
You loved me, held me, stood beside me and though I cannot stay,
You gave me much to help me, and I live with Him today.
I am a child of God and I will wait for you.
Celestial glory shall be ours, if you can but endure.
I’ll lead you, guide you, walk beside you,
Help you find the way.
I’ll welcome you with open arms
One bright Celestial day!
Donna Kulliard
I know Layla is playing with angels now and I’m grateful she is no longer in any pain. She touched us all in many different ways. I followed your story for the past couple of months and I was devastated to here she had passed but I also felt relieved for her. I would like you to know that I have not been to church in almost 10 years. When i heard she had passed, all I knew to do was go to church. Layla brought me back to God and for her I am forever grateful. She will never know how she touched us here but hopefully up in heaven she will watch over us. Thank you Layla for teaching me strength and faith. I have prayed for your daughters every single day. This will be a hard time for them but I hope one day they will be thankful for the little time they had with her. I pray for their peace of mind and for their strength.
I live in Dallas and I am going to come to your celebration on Saturday. I have raised my niece and I look at her everyday and thank God that she is ok. You are an amazing family and I admire you very much. You will be my motivation when times are difficult because through everything, you never gave up.
I want to Thank you for sharing Layla’s life with all of us. I am praying for you and your family to fine peace and for Layla for being such a brave little girl. Always in my heart. GOD BLESS!!!
Dianne (Cypress)
My thoughts and prayers are with the Marsh family. I pray that God will heal your hearts. Rest in peace sweet Layla Grace.
i recently came across your blog and i have followed it every day since. Layla and your family have truly touched so many lives! i have never and will never understand why babies must endure such things as cancer, it is so unfair. its hard enough to watch an older person go thru those things and it is 10 times worse when its a child. my niece was diagnosed with neuroblastoma at 9 months old so im one of a hand full of ppl who have seen this disease first hand and seen what it does to a small child. my heart goes out to your family and me and my beautiful niece and my own children will be releasing balloons Saturday afternoon for Layla in Odessa Tx. May God bless your family and carry you thru this difficult time. Layla Will be always loved and never forgotten in the hearts of everyone her story has reached.
Thank you Marsh Family for sharing her life,for sharing her legacy. Layla will forever be loved and never forgotton. Prayers to all of you.
I just saw a picture of this beautiful little girl a few days ago I clicked on the picture just because I wanted to see who she was. Turns out that picture was a link that brought me to your blog. Ive spent the past few days alternating between reading your blog, crying, and holding my own child (who probably thinks Im crazy now! haha). Most of us never wonder what its like to lose a child. Perhaps because we dont think it can happen to us. After reading this blog I think my reason is simply that the thought of it is just too painful. I felt so many emotions as I read your posts and I dont think I could put any of them into words. My grandmother passed away of cancer at 61, her mother was 82. I remember hearing my Great Great Grandmother saying “It isnt fair for a mother to bury her baby”. It sounds simple enough, right? That one statement brings to light that no matter how young or old, sick or healthy a person is…they are somebody’s child. I am not a religious person, I dont attend church, I dont even pray….until a few days ago. After so much thought, Layla Grace has helped me realize we are all somebody’s child indeed…We are all God’s children. He doesnt give us pain to be mean or make us angry, he does it to help, to inspire, to encourage. Through your pain I realized that maybe my child and I could get up Sunday morning and attend church, that maybe tonight we could pray, and that maybe I should practice being more patient. So today, Im going to forget the mess of toys, the noise of her keyboard and drum set, and let her help me. There is no reason this comment will stick out amongst the hundreds you receive but I do hope you get around to reading it so you know that Layla Grace has changed my life….I am so grateful for finding this page. Layla Grace IS the miracle. If she has done so much for me in just a few short days, rest assured she has done so much more for so many others in the few short years. She was, is, and always will be a blessing!
It takes an angel to touch our lives to bring out the true angel within us all.
For me, my son died in 2000. He brought much joy and love with him to my family, too. While his life was short, his courage, strength, compassion, love, and way of living continues to live on in us all, just as Layla will do for each one of you.
My continued thoughts and prayers go out to your family.
I have been following Layla’s story for so long and knowing her passing was imminent I was torn between praying for more time for you to be with her and for her suffering to be put to a quick end. Now that she is with the angels from which she came, my heart breaks and goes out to YOU, her loved ones, her mommy and daddy, and how broken your hearts must be now that she is gone. She touched so many…she was a very special child and I will never forget her. Please keep her site up if you can so we can still see her beautiful face…. If it’s possible to love a child you have never met…we loved Layla. We will always remember her. And our hearts will be with you on Saturday as you celebrate her life.
Amanda Bill
Ethan and Emily
Aurora Ontario Canada
I followed Layla’s story. And I have to tell you – it reached us in Slovenija (Europe). It was on family forum and have to say – Layla touched a lot of hearts in my country aswell. Even though far, far away, we are with you in our minds, so soory we can not be with you on Layla’s celebration of life. She really has changed my life. Love Nina
Dear Marsh Family,
You have no idea who I am but I want to thank you for sharing Layla Grace’s story. I am thinking about you and praying for you non stop. Layla Grace was the most beautiful and courageous child. I will always remember the sweet face of this little angel I never knew. Hold close to your faith in Jesus and know that you will be reunited with your precious little girl again one day!
God bless you always,
Jana
So sorry for your loss.
I will be praying for your family now and in the future.
May your precious baby girl rest in peace. Her story has touched my heart and I am praying for you and your family.
I have been following Laylas story for about a month now. I was so sorry to hear about her passing. An innocent child should not have to battle something that huge. In December 2008, my mother passed away after battling breast cancer at age 52. Myself, and my younger siblings helped to care for her from home during her final months. I know how difficult, horrendous and unbelievable sad it is to be a caregiver for someone you love while they lose their battle before your very eyes. I am so impressed with you, your family, and your faith. You are incredible people, with huge hearts. I don’t know how you kept your faith in God as well as you did. Its something I still struggle with. I know little Layla is smiling down on you. Your story and family have really touched my heart. The things you are doing for awareness of Neuroblastoma are unreal. I wish you all well, and will be praying for you during this heart breaking time. Rest in Peace Layla Grace, you were an angel on earth, and now an angel in heaven.
Layla brought a smile to my face and a tear to my eye. Thankyou so so much for sharing her courageous battle with us.
Heaven has a new angel and she’ll be looking over your family always. I’m more grateful for the family I have but am also grateful for layla and what she’s opened my eyes to.
Thankyou xxxx
Thank you so much for sharing Layla with us….she was beautiful….May God pour out his strengh to you and your family, and may he give you peace in knowing that you will see her again, when you get to heaven…You guys will be in my thoughts and prayers always…..
My deepest condolences to Layla’s family. I am just so sorry.
Layla is simply amazing. My heart hurts and my eyes fill with tears. In just the past few weeks since I started following your story, I have been impacted almost beyond words. I have been so inspired by Layla’s strength during her journey. A journey no child should ever have to experience. Her journey has made me rethink my own journey and just how important every moment with a child can be. Every time I have a moment of frustration raising my little boy, I think of Layla, and I stop and hug him. Every time I have a moment of joy with my little boy, I think of Layla and I give him a kiss. Now… every time he smiles, I will think of Layla and I will look up to the sky and thank her for watching over us from heaven. In this time of darkness, may God shine his light to help guide you through.
With Love,
Chelsea
I RECENTLY FOUND OUT ABOUT LAYLA GRACE BUT IN THIS PAST 2 WEEKS MY LIFE HAS CHANGE SO MUCH. SHE WAS SO BRAVE AND STRONG IF THEIR IS ANYTHING TO LEARN FROM THIS IS TO CHARISH OUR CHILDREN MORE THAN EVER DONT TAKE THEM FOR GRANTED AND LOVE THEM EVERY SECOND WE SPEND WITH THEM. TO LAYLA’S FAMILY THEIR IS NO WORDS TO EXPRESS HOW IT MUST FEEL TO HAVE LOST SUCH A PRECIOUS ANGEL. I LIVE IN HOUSTON AND WILL BE AT HER CELEBRATION SATURDAY. WE LOVE YOU LAYLA AND WILL MISS YOU DEARLY.
DANIELA
My husband and I have been following your story for the past month. So much that can be said has already been said. Layla touched the hearts of all of us and we praise God for what He did through her short time on this earth.
Ride the waters of grief together……seek His face and each other as you mourn the loss of this beautiful child.
May God comfort you and hold you in His arms.
All of our prayers,
John and Linda
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Wish I could be at the service, but I live in AZ. I will find someway to celebrate her life on Saturday. I will never forget your beautiful little girl. She has touched my life forever! I hope you stay in touch with your new friends. We would love to hear about how your life proceeds……
God Bless,
Stacy H
I just found out about Layla Grace today and I would show my support on Saturday, but unfortunately I have another baby’s funeral to attend. May your sweet baby rest in peace with the angels. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
god bless you’re beautiful family,even tho i didn’t know you personally i felt like i did.it broke my heart that layla passed away,i know she’s up there dancing with jesus pain free. sending loads of love from cincinnati,ohio.
xoxo,
Rachel D.
I wish i could be here, i really do, i’d do anything to be there, but sense i live in California there’s no way. =(
Layla Grace: You are one of the most strongest, most bravest cancer fighters i know. It’s because of you i’m currently working harder to get my RN to work in a children’s hospital to help cancer fighters. It’s also cause of you, i now have faith and believe there’s another life out here after this one. I never believed that before you, you impacted my life more then you know, more then anyone knows. I’m not thankful for everyday i share with daughter, though i do cry for you every 15 mins, i do know your in a better place now and not in pain. Tears are streaming down my face now.. we all love you and you will be missed, your always be in our hearts, and in mind. <3
your such a strong little girl.
Shanna and Ryan: You two are so strong and what you have to go through isnt far, but she's with angels now and isnt in pain. You two are just the strongest parents i know. I know you have to be because you have two other kids that need you, but you two are strong.
May the Good Lord Bless and Keep you, make his face shine upon you and bring you peace. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May the Holy Spirit comfort you and the Lord Jesus make his love felt as he holds you in his arms.
This blog has touched so many people, to think how many people one little person could touch is just astounding! She was a dear blessing! Thank You for sharing your story so that it may help others!!
My heart aches for you and your family. I have a little girl and can’t imagine what you are going through. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
I have a sweet little boy named Zack that is 10 days older than your sweet Layla. I found out about her story last Friday on March the 5th and it touched me so deeply. I am so inspired by her strength and grace during her fight with cancer and even more so by you, Shanna. Through your baby I have learned not to take even one second for granted in my life especially those moments with him. I am a better Mommy than I was a week ago and even a better person. I have always said that losing a child would be the hardest thing in life to ever experience….because of Layla and the new awareness you may save many from every having to endure such a loss. Because of Layla the world and so many lives are forever changed for the good! I have cried tears of sadness for all of you and also tears of happiness because I know she has no more fear or pain! Your family and sweet Layla will always have a piece of my heart! I thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing your sweet angel and miracle with me and my family!
I want to thank you, Shanna and Ryan, for sharing your Layla with the world. She has touched my heart and forever changed the way I view the world. What a gorgeous, courageous, special little baby girl. I wish I could put into words how very sorry I am for your loss, but no words really touch the depth of emotion and sadness. I can only say, I send my deepest condolences. I will keep you all in my prayers and thoughts. I am in Kansas, but will release balloons here in memory of your precious angel. She will never be forgotten.
Thank you little Layla for touching all of our lives and introducing us to your family.All of you are in my thoughts and prayers.I hurt for all of you and i pray God will give all of you the kind of peace only he can.I know Layla is with Jesus and the angel’s and other little babies in a wonderful place where there is no pain,but my heart goes out to your other 2 little ones…..Maybe you guys can keep us updated on your family as well….We have fell in love with all of you…….We will be thinking of all of you now and expecially on saturday in south central alabama……God Bless
Thank you so much for sharing Layla’s journey with us. It has taught me so much. I have a 19 month old little boy, and your story has taught me not to take anything for granted and cherish everyday with him! My thoughts and prayers with always be with you! May her beautiful soul rest in peace. God bless you Layla
Yamili
South Florida
I found little Layla Grace thru facebook, joining in prayer for her… little did I know how she was going to GRIP my heart! I have an eight month old little girl of my own. Yall live only around the corner from me (Spring area) so this is all too close to home. I have been in daily, constant prayer for each of you. I know words can not fix what’s been taken from you. I’ve cried MANY tears over your sweet family. Even though, we’ve never met, in Christ we are united and I have grown to love your family. I have told MANY your story and had them all in tears with me. Please know yall and especially little LAYLA will NEVER be forgotten. She has touched so many and will live in our hearts forever. I hope the Garden-like flowers will bless many who can attend the celebration of layla’s life and many more children that they go to who are walking down this road. all my love and prayers-
Thanks for sharing laylas story. It has broke my heart. Love from Kentucky.
God bless your beautiful little angel and your family. I started reading about Layla a month ago and have prayed and cried pretty much non stop for your family. Layla made me realized to never take one single moment for granted. She was an amazing litle girl and had amazing parents. I cant imagine what you are going through right now and I pray I never have to. I will be thinking of your family on saturday and everyday there after. God Bless!
I am so deeply sorry for your loss. I know words cant really ease the pain at this point, but I have to say you are one blessed family to have such a beautiful angel looking over you ’til you meet again. My heart feels aches to the point of tears everytime I check the sites, I can only imagine how you all are feeling and dealing. Just know there are so many of us out here trying to ease your pain by crying with/for you. I hope these next few months are good to you and your family. I will continue to pray… Kasey – Orlando, Fl
I am so very sorry that your sweet Layla Grace has lost her fight with cancer. I hope you can take some small comfort in the fact that she is not longer in pain now, that she is happy and at peace up in heaven.
As a parent, I know what it is like to have a child leave this earth too soon. I am glad that yuou have faith and family and friends who can support you through the dark days that are to come.
I will continue to pray for your two older daughters as they struggle to understand and accept the death of their baby sister. Again, I am very sorry for your loss.
This was given to me when we lost our granddaughter(3) and her Mom(22) in an auto accident.
Remembrance
You can shed tears that she is gone,
or you can smile because she has lived.
You can close your eyes and pray that she’ll come back,
or you can open your eyes and see all she has left.
Your heart can be empty because you can’t see her,
or you can be full of love you shared.
You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday,
or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday.
You can remember her and only that she’s gone,
or you can cherish her memory and let it live on.
You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back,
or can do what she’d want:
SMILE, OPEN YOUR EYES, LOVE AND GO ON
… but rather, rejoice because your names are written in Heaven
Luke 10:20
Many prayers from Massillon Ohio
And GOD will raise her up on Eagle’s Wings
Bear her on the breath of dawn
Make her to SHINE like the sun
And hold her FOREVER in the palm of his hands.
I am finding great comfort in knowing that sweet Layla is now an angel looking down on all of us.
Thanks for sharing her story with all of us. My life has forever been changed because of what you have done.
All my love,
Cindy from Wisconsin
My heart goes out to you and your family. I live in Houston and feel blessed to get to be a part of the Celebration of Layla’s life. I will be there, to remember her and how precious life is… Thank you for sharing your story with us.
You could not have given your beautiful daughter a more fitting name…. for by the grace of God your daughter was spared more pain and suffering, and by the grace of God you shall be carried through the trials ahead, especially in the next few days as you lay the body of your precious girl to rest. We will pray that you will be reminded of that grace daily, and that you will be blessed with the strength you need over the next days, weeks, months and years.
You are in our thoughts and prayers. I wish I could be there to celebrate your special girl. Layla’s story helped me to be a better mother to my own children, Thank you.
You are a rock!
God bless! Layla’s life feels so right to me. In no other way could anyone move so many people! What a blessing to be a part of that, for you and for me (a stranger).
May God wrap your heart with His hands!
Jen
The story of your beautiful daughter Layla has touched me in a way that I could never have imagined. Seeing your family remain strong in their faith through such troubling times has made my own relationship with God so much closer. I wish that I could be there on Saturday to celebrate Layla’s life, but that is not an option since I live so far away. Instead, on Saturday morning I will tie a flower to a balloon and release it into the air with a little note. Hopefully the bravest and most beautiful angel in heaven will see it.
MY HEART GOES OUT TO THE MARSH FAMILY REST IN PEACE BEAUTIFUL PRECIOUS LAYLA!!!
I AGREE WITH THIS POST: (and would like to help out in ANY way)
# On March 10th, 2010 at 8:57 pm Therese Lundgren Says:
Okay..It’s me again after doing some figures…..If you wrote the book and charged $30.00 each and if you had 60,000 followers and they all bought a book that’ under $2 million dollars …one million and eight hundred thousand dollars!!! That could help alot…I bet you have more then 60,000 followers!!!! That could pay all your bills off!!!!! and Layla would still be doing her work from Heaven!!!! Think about it and let me know what you think? I was in the process of writeing a book but diden’t finish it because I have no idea mine will sell? But you are guraenteed to sell you’s because everyone loves Layla and everyone loves you and your family and everyone would be getting to keep part of layla with them all the time through the book….It wil sell……Let me know what you decide but between the other funraisers and this book you will meet your goal amount and possibly have extras to invest for retirement and further research to help find a cure for cancer……
I have only recently learned of your brave ordeal, and the passing of your little Layla…however, I could not go without saying that I am so sorry, and pray your strength in the Lord…from all I read, it looks like you had a real angel with you for a time, and never doubt that you will see her again someday.
God Bless and Keep you
I first heard about Layla from a friend onthe day she went to heaven. That same day my 14 year old daughter told me she was ready to cut her hair and donate it to Lock of Love. Locks of Love doesnt allow for personalized donations but in our hearts we will donate her hair in Layla’s memory.
God bless you all.
Thank you for sharing little Layla Grace with us. I will forever hold my own children closer because of her, and will not take them for granted. May you have peace knowing that Layla is no longer suffering bbut waiting for you in the arms of God.
Our continued prayers and thoughts are with the Marsh family.
My heart is with the family.We wil contue to pray for you. You had amazing little girl. She never stop fighting. Maybe all of us can learn a lession on how to be strong. I think there should be a movie so the whole world can learn from Layla Grace. LOVE AND PRAYERS AND GOD BLESS YOU>
Thank you for inviting the world to Celebrate the Life of Your Perfect Little Angel Layla Grace. I would love nothing more than to come down and celebrate her life with you but we are in Colorado Springs and just can’t make the journey. We will be thinking and praying for your family’s strength on this most difficult Saturday and will be letting balloons go at 10:30. This spring I start my first garden and will be planting flowers for Layla.
I have only been following for about a week but I can’t begin to tell how much your family has changed mine. I have two daughters 2 1/2 (just two weeks older than Layla) and 1 1/2; no matter what they are doing I have started appreciating every second of every day that I have with them. I have prayed hard and more than I have in years for Layla and your family.
Since learning of your perfect babies passing I have had a lump in my throat that just will not go away and I cry at the drop of a hat. Tuesday I don’t know your family but feel like have known you all for my whole life. My heart breaks that you no longer have your baby Layla but please know that she is watching over you all so very closely and giving you kisses and big hugs.
You and Ryan are such great parents I know Layla is so very proud of both of you. I know that Layla will watch over her sisters and give them kisses everyday for the rest of their lives.
Layla has a strong fighting spirit and that will always be remembered. I will tell everyone I know what a brave special little girl she is.
Ryan, Shanna, Jenna, Claire and Perfect Little Angel Layla Grace will for the rest of my life be in my thoughts and prayers and you will always have a piece of my heart.
Thank you for sharing your story with the world, your love and strength has change lives lives of many and I thank you for that.
I pay that the Lord give you strength, peace, love and acceptance no matter how long it takes.
With all my our greatest sympathy,
The Weis Family (Scott, Jennifer, Addison and Lillie)
Tallahassee, Florida will be thinking of your family on Saturday. Layla Grace taught us all so much, in such a short amount of time. I am so sorry for your loss, but you will be in our hearts and prayers forever. From parent to parent, my heart breaks for you, but is immediately filled with love when I think of Layla Grace. She really did teach me to love my child more, and to appreciate my time with her. May God bless you all, and keep you save in His arms.
Praying for strength and comfort for your family that only God can give you during this difficult time. Layla Grace touched thousands of lives during her short time here on earth. What a special gift from God!
Love to you all,
The Gudgen Family
Spring Hill, TN
I can say nothing more than I am praying for your family. I have shared your story with many others and we’ve all cried with you. Blessings all around knowing Layla is at peace running and playing in the biggest play yard ever.
I have been praying for you and your sweet girl for some time now. I am so sorry for your loss. You are an inspiration to many of us who are struggling with smaller problems as we have watched you go through this. I know our Redeemer has carried you through and He will continue to move you through life. Allow Him to carry you on and fully rely on Him. You will see Layla Grace again and she wont be sick! I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I recently learned of Layla’s story through a post on facebook and it touched my heart. Your post re: valentine’s day reminds me to treasure every moment with my children. Thank you for sharing your story.
I have just learned 2 days ago about your daughters fight. I have had friends in the past that have had children with this type of cancer here in north texas one survived another little angel didnt. I know this is devastating to all and my prayer is that God will surround each of you and pull you closer to Him than you have ever been. Heaven rejoiced when your little Angel came to Heaven. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Kristi Morrison
Stephenville, Texas
R.I.P Layla, sweet Angel… May God hold you in his arms, your pain and suffering is over, now you can play and laugh with the other Angels that waited for to come and play.
I’ve already made a donation to our town’s Cancer Walk-a-thon in Layla’s name. I’ve made my friends and family all aware of Layla’s life and her battle. I even wrote about her in the journals I have for my two little boys. I don’t ever want to forget her and how she impacted the way I live my life. She is amazing! Your family is amazing! Just remember she is watching over YOU now. She is your family’s guardian angel and she will never leave your side or your heart. God Bless!
“…and Jesus said,” My peace I leave you, My peace I give unto you”, at this time I offer the peace that comes only through faith. Death at anytime is difficult. When we lose loved ones, especially children, in such a way of which we have no control; death becomes closer to us. It touches each one of our hearts in many different ways, but we must not forget what we are taught about faith and hope. Death speaks through our circumstances and guides us, closing doors as well as opening them. As the door on sweet baby Layla’s life is closed, we mustn’t forget that she will always live on in our hearts.
Its hard not to question God’s motives. Why would he take such a precious life, so young?? Layla means “night” and Grace, well it speaks for itself. To the Marsh family, I hope your “nights” are filled with grace and get easier and easier to deal with.
May God hold the four of you in His hands, hold tightly and rock you each to sleep tonight. She’s always watching you!!
You’re family will be in our hearts on Saturday.
Big Hugs,
Ashley and family from Salisbury, Maryland
I just read through all your blogs. I am so sorry for your loss. May the lord bring peace to you and your family during this time. Sending prayers from Sacramento, California.
God Bless you all and I know Layla’s celebration of life will be wonderful. I wish I could be there. I have followed her story and this site for a couple months and feel like you all are family. My heart is braking and I cant even imagine how you must be feeling. I will continue to pray…for comfort and strength for you and your family. Layla is a precious angel that has touched the world and will never be forgotten. My life has been changed forever because of her, Thank You Layla!! Rest in peace sweet baby girl…we love you!!
Bakersfield, CA
I’m naming my first daughter Laila. I’ll forever have little Layla Grace in my thoughts.
I too had a little one with neuroblastoma. He lived 2 years 3 months and 27 days. He has been with Jesus 40 years, 4 months and 25 days now. My hope is that he was waiting to greet your beautiful Layla. It is going on half a century for me – it does get easier dear ones, it will just never be far away. My heart is broken for you….
YOUR transparency and trust and faith in God has also touched so many lives. We know you are human and you struggle daily to trust that God loves you and has a plan. But you continue to come to that same spot of submission to this sovereign God Whose ways we don’t understand. I know He is pleased with how you have walked this valley.
Much love and comfort to you,
your sister in the Lord
Bec
Rest In Peace Angel. I know she’s looking down on her family smiling. She’s no longer in pain and will be happy for the rest of eternity.
I started keeping up with the story of you family and Layla a couple of weeks ago when my daughter came home from work and was telling me about her. I have kept all of you in our prayers. Just know that she is no longer sufferen. I know that there are no words that will help ease the pain for yours family lost. But, you know that she is in the arm of Angels and she will be watching over all you until you meet again one day. You are the bravest family that I know. Stay close to God and he will carry you and your family through is time as he had carried you this far. You are a inspirationaly person, mom, and wife. GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
Thank you for sharing Layla’s journey with us. She has an amazing soul which has touched thousands of lives. May you find peace now that her pain is gone.
I am so so sorry for your loss. I became aware of sweet Layla’s journey through Babycenter, where she has touched many many hearts.
Prayers for your family.
My thoughts are with you in this most difficult of times. I was almost in the same position as you with my youngest who is only a week older than Layla Grace. I found that her left eye dilated differently than her right and at first the doctor brushed me off then after another month I finally got a referral to a ped opthamologist and they diagnosed Horner’s Syndrome and then the next words out of the doctor’s mouth I was told to get blood work and other tests done to rule out cancer! Thankfully all tests came back negative and the MRI was fine, it’s just a genetic anomoly and she’s going to have a fun time explaining it in the dark when one eye is bigger than the other! I also have a 4 year old who would be lost without “Her Baby” as she told me the day my little one was born. Those two are nearly impossible to break up and when one is away the other is lost so I can only imagine how your other child feels. My oldest who is 11 would be devastated as well as I am sure your oldest is at this time. Time can only heal so much but they will move on and be stronger from this and always have the wonderful memories of such a short life to look back on and be stronger having been through this. Again my thoughts are with you and thank you for sharing this with the world, as now I am going to hug all three of my wonderful daughters very tightly and make them wonder what’s wrong with mommy! Stay strong and know that this too shall pass. Goddess Bless.
What a beautiful angel! My thoughts and prayers are with your entire family and all those touched by such a moving story of strong hope & loss. Your story opened our eyes to something that can drastically change anyone’s life, and for other children out there letting us know it can be prevented with a simple test. I hope Layla’s Legacy will live on by saving others!!!
vorrei essere li con voi ! ma dal’litalia….con il pensiero e lo spirito ci sono!
DIO VI BENEDICA !PREGO X VOI
My husband and I have lost 2 girls (ours not to heaven)but to an aunt that came out of no where to take are to be adopted girls away! (our girls are not angels in heaven, just angels in someone eles home the loss of a child is so painful we have lost several babys before birth. BUT GOD IS SO GOOD!! My heart ach for your loss, but is joyfull your darling is in no more pain and is sitting in heaven on JESUS LAP. I WILL PRAY FOR YOUR HEARTS TO HEAL FAST…LAYLAGRACE HAS LEFT TINY LITTLE FOOTPRINTS IN MY HEART!! THANK U BABY ANGEL
My heart goes out to you and your family. You all are in my prayers.
I just found your blog today and I can’t stop reading, I am literally in tears at work. I am so sorry for your loss, your blog is such a tribute to your beautiful little girl. Know she will always be your little angel watching over you! I am a dog lover and I couldn’t help but smile as I read your “Puppy” post so cute and what a wonderful memory for you! God Bless!
May Layla Rest In Peace. You and your family will continually be in my thoughts and prayers.
I still look through your family photos and photos of Layla and break down crying. I don’t understand why any child ever has to be torn from their mother and father’s arms. I keep listening to the song Held, to remind me that God loves us all and everything is part of His plan.
I cannot stop thinking of Layla and all of you. I wish I could go to Layla’s Celebration of Life. Your little girl forever impacted a part of my heart, in a way I cannot even yet explain.
Your family and your faith in God, has brought me closer to Him, at a time I was sort of pushing Him away. Thank you.
Still, even though I should not question, I wonder why.
Please know I will continue to keep you both, Shanna and Ryan in my prayers and your other two beautiful girls, Jenna and Claire.
I wish I could take away your heartache, I would have given my life so Layla could have had a longer life with all of you.
Love and so may prayers,
Rebecca in ND
My sons and I will be planting a flower garden in our backyard in Layla’s memory this year. Thank you for sharing your daughter and yourselves with the Hoosier State… Indiana has been blessed by Layla Grace!
We are going to try to release balloons, but if not I am spending the time that you are at the celebration of life remembering Layla and watching videos and making a book of her (Yes, I am going to bring out pictures and make a book of her!). Hopefully I’ll be awake by then…..lol.
I cannot begin to express my sympathy to you. As the mother of an almost three year old, your families story has touched me very deeply. What a beautiful little girl,an beautiful family. Heaven has certainly gained another angel, although WAY,WAY to soon. My thoughts and continued prayers are with your family. I thank you for sharing Layla’s amazing story with me. God Bless!!
saw this on the AOL homepage this evening. i wish you all strength and peace.
http://www.parentdish.com/2010/03/10/opinion-is-tweeting-our-family-tragedies-the-new-normal/?icid=main|main|dl5|link3|http%3A%2F%2Fwww.parentdish.com%2F2010%2F03%2F10%2Fopinion-is-tweeting-our-family-tragedies-the-new-normal%2F
There are no words that can even sum up the emotion and sadness felt by the loss of your little one. I am truly heart broken for your family.
The lump that remains in my throat for your grief pales in comparison to the grief your family shares. I know that because my kids and I experienced a terrible loss in 1996 with the loss of their father to suicide. I also know from experience that faith in God is sustaining. Grief is just such hard work. For that reason, you will remain in my prayers for a long long time. My sorrow for your family seems just so inadequate, but I will do what I can for you in prayer. Little Layla Grace looked to be a wonderful, darling little girl. She will always be a part of your wonderful family. Take care, you guys, just take care. I love you. Just a friend. Pam
My heart aches for the pain you are feeling. Know that another mother is crying for your beautiful little girl and the family she has left behind….
I’m so sorry for the pain you are experiencing now. What a blessing that we have hope that Layla is with Jesus now and in no more pain. I am praying for our Sovereign Father to comfort you as only He can.
I read this and thought it sounded like something that Layla would say to you, Ryan, and her big sisters…
If ever there is tomorrow when we’re not together.. there is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we’re apart.. I’ll always be with you.
– Winnie the Pooh
Your family will be in my prayers as well as in my heart.
My heart and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Please know that others are holding you close and loving you.
I am praying for you and your family. We lost my 8 yo niece to cystic fibrosis. We did a ballon/butterfly release to celebrate her first bday after her death. The ballon release for Layla Grace will be very powerful! It was a moment I will never forget. So sorry for your loss. My niece Kyla loved babies so I have to think that she is showing Layla around heaven. One day we will see them again!
My condolences to your family.
ALL my love and prayers will continue for your family.
I was so saddened to hear that Layla Grace lost her brave battle. Thank you for sharing the beautiful photos of Layla Grace and your family. My thoughts & prayers are with all of you during this time of sorrow. May God keep you strong and help you hold onto happier times & the beautiful memories you were able to make with Layla Grace.
To layla family I hope u will keep this website up for awhile b/c I’ve put it w/ my favorite & I will check back to say,”HELLO & SEND A HUG..When I see it go down I will see that the rest of Layla family doing ok..Many..Many.. prayers to each and everyone in LAYLA family….
So very sorry to hear about Layla…may she live on forever in your hearts and mind…you will see her again…
God bless you and your family. I am so sorry to hear everything you have gone through and to read it. When I read about the full extent of her cancer, the tumor wrapped around her, not wanting to let go, it was like how she didn’t want to let go of you, her family, not wanting to let go of her life so young.
Gentle fingers, gentle hands,
Lord give her a helping hand.
Baby girl, sweet as pie
She lifted up to a place so high.
God help those still on this earth,
Help her family keep their mirth.
She’s in a better place so now,
We let her go, no more “ow”s
Once again, God bless you and your family. Just remember she’s in a better place now, and you will reunite one day.
Mana’olana means hope.
It’s hard to pray for anything and feel our prayers are not answered, but especially “a miracle.”
I find quite apparent the Miracle of this lovely child with the frank, serious gaze, and it seems to be no less of one for her brief time here on earth.
What a remarkable, unforgettable Self to be able to complete so much, in so very little time! And what an honor and a blessing to be her family, even though the pain of her illness and loss must be incredible.
Your story is a gift to the World, thank you for it.
Rest in peace sweet Layla Grace. She accomplished more in her two short years then most people do in a lifetime. She will most definately have a special place in heaven with the angels. Just remember that God never gives us more that we can handle even though it sometimes seems that way and your love for her will live on forever. “Love Lives On”
God Bless and Hold Your Family,
Lacy Bridgers
Greer, SC
My deepest sympathies to you and your Beautiful Family.
I just saw this tonight on aol news and decided to join twitter just to read your page..
I have been reading it for 2 1/2 hours and have been crying since the first paragraph I read. What a strong little beautiful angel she was, to go through everything she did.
God Bless you and your Family and your little angel that will be looking over you ~
Massachusetts
I’ve been following your blog for a few weeks, but have found so much inspiration from Layla’s story. You have a beautiful family, and Layla will always be a part of your lives. Praying for Grace & Peace to be near during this most difficult time. God bless all of you!
Ruthie in Pennsylvania
I’m so sorry. I am praying for your whole family. My 21 month old daughter is also named Layla Grace (also youngest of three girls) Everytime I say her name I will think of your Layla and your family.
Thank you for sharing your story.
God Bless
Beth in NJ
Oh my gosh.. I stumbled upon Layla’s story on Twitter.. and my heart just goes out to you and your family. I can not imagine what you are going through. I will be praying for all of you. Your faith seems extremely strong, and I am so glad that is the case. I know it may not always seem fair, but God never hands us anything that we can not handle. When you look back at this extremely hard time in your life, you will be able to see God’s hand over you. You will understand why Layla was brought into your life and what her purpose was. I wish I could have been able to meet Layla, but I can already tell you that she has made a huge impact on my life. I pray that strength and comfort will be brought to your family.
God bless.
I can’t be there but I will be thinking of your family and beautiful Layla Grace.
Your daughter was so brave…its so sad that she had to be but she was…I wish this wasn’t happening to you and your family….I hope your faith, friends and family help to get you through this!
Perhaps they are not stars,
but rather openings in Heaven
where the love of our lost ones
pours through and shines down
upon us to let us know
they are happy.
~ Eskimo Legend ~
I can not say how much this beautiful child has touched me.
I continue to pray for your family the strength to endure the days to come.
I know from experience, losing a grandbaby of 18 days old due to medical neglect. It is hard, but over time you will find a new normal… you find small reasons to be happy and joy will slowly return to your life. You will NEVER forget Layla Grace, you will find a new way to live your life with your girls, Jenna & Claire and your husband. Layla has changed SO MANY lives for the better… she lives on in all of us. Thousands of children will be more loved and cherished because of her.
I will let balloons loose on saturday. I would love to be above the Earth on Sat when ALL the balloons are released from around the world… what a wonderful site that will be!!
Thank you for sharing your sweet darling with all of us during your most private, intimate and SADDEST experience of your life. We are all the better for it.
You are most loved!
Angels on your body!
Wow…what a beautiful blessing God gave to you for two years. Though it was only two years, they sound like blessed years and you have moments that you will cherish for eternity. Struggling to begin a family of our own, my husband and I were deeply moved by your family’s story. Eventhough our life is hard while we wait on my husband’s kidney transplant, we know that other families, like yours, have struggles of their own. Layla’s story has reminded us how important it is to love each other each and everyday.
I read over some of the other comments and it is amazing how many lives little Layla has touched. From Australia, Canada, Holland…ALL over the US. What a precious gift God gave your family to share with the world. I hope you find some peace and solace knowing that without Layla, and what she taught your family and mine, the life God had planned for you would be incomplete. Although your heart is aching with the loss of your little one, her strength, willpower and love of life has graced thousands of hearts which may have gone untouched without her help.
God bless your family and wrap you in peace,
Cristy & Lowry Johnston
Rosenberg, Texas
I know that it may not seem like much, but my prayers and condolances are with you. I just recently heard about Layla, and I too have a precious girl that is 2 yrs old. I can’t imagine what you have endured, but I know that the Lord has and will work through this. Again, my prayers and thoughts are with you. God bless your family.
Shanna, Ryan, Jenna and Claire – I can’t imagine what you all must be going through but know that there are SEVERAL arms giving you hugs, SEVERAL hands holding you up in prayers and SEVERAL people who have shed many, many tears for your family. Thanks again for sharing your journey with us – for it has touched SEVERAL people in ways you may never know. I am blessed to have crossed your path and Layla’s journey. I write this with a heavy, heavy heart. I miss the little angel I never met and although I wish I could be there for her Celebration of Life, I will be sending flowers so that we will be near in some way. God bless you all and LOTS of prayers and hugs from San Diego!!!
RIP and please know that we are thinking about ALL of you from our home in Austin. Thank you again for sharing her story!
Your Layla has left such beautiful heartprints behind. I thank you for sharing her story and giving each and every one of us the chance to renew our love with kindness, tenderness and patience. A prayer:
Thank you sweet Layla Grace, your love and work on this earth is bigger than you can ever imagine. I pray that your little heart is filled with all the positive energy and love that your story has generated. You have touched so many lives in just 2 short years….you’re an efficient little angel aren’t you? You have done in 2 years what takes a life time for the rest of us to accomplish. I pray for your miracle, whether that be on this earth or in God’s heavenly realm. And, I pray that your family finds peace in that miracle.
Heaven has opened it’s door for a sweet angel. It is sad for us left on earth, but she will forever look down on her family and all who loved her and know that love will always grow. She will continue to be a guardian angel now for you. May peace fill your hearts and calm your soul.
prayers, blessings and healing hugs to help for the coming days to pass, until you shall she her again and hold her in your arms forever.
Ryan, Shanna, Jenna, and Claire – Our hearts go out to you in this, the most difficult time you could ever experience. Please know that your little Layla touched so many lives. I now can’t hold my 14 month old son tight enough at night. I kiss him a few more times and have more patience with him. As I was listening to Eric Clapton’s “Tears in Heaven” tonight I was brough to tears thinking about your family. And I was also reminded that all of us who grew to love Layla will finally get to meet her along with our awesome God when we are called to him. I look forward to the day I can give her a hug and tell her thank you for making me a better mother. “The Lord bless you and keep you, the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and give you peace, Amen”
She was lucky to have such wonderful parents the little time she did have! RIP Layla Grace! Gone but never forgotten, memories last a lifetime <3.
A poem I’ve held onto for years (great for kids). May you and the girls find comfort in it.
When somebody dies, a cloud turns into an angel and flies up to tell God to put another flower on a pillow. A bird gives the message back to the world and sings a silent prayer that makes the rain cry. People disappear, but they never really go away. The spirits up there put the sun to bed, wake up the grass, and spin the Earth in dizzy circles. Sometimes you can see them dancing in a cloud during the daytime when they’re supposed to be sleeping. They paint the rainbows and also the sunsets and make waves splash and tug at the tide. They toss shooting stars and listen to wishes. And when they sing wind-songs, they whisper to us, “Don’t miss me too much. The view is nice, and I’m doing just fine.”
No words can express enough sympathy for what you are currently dealing with. I pray that God gives you and your other two little ones the strength you need to lean on Him during this time. It is so bittersweet because she is no longer with you, but she is no longer hurting. I will certainly be praying for your pain to be eased.
As you celebrate her life on Saturday, please know that your beautiful, baby girl changed many lives in the short time she was with you. She is loved by so many people, and will be remembered. My heat and tears will be with you on Saturday. May God Bless and Hold You.
The poor florist isn’t going to know what hit them! Layla lives on in every petal, every color, every leaf under the sun… her light and love surrounds us and the Celebration of Life will be a beautiful tribute. I cannot attend, but will be there in spirit, prayer and love. May God surround you with grace and peace. Sending extra love and sweetness to Jenna and Claire as they also cope with their loss, and as they witness how much their sister’s life touched everyone. Layla’s legacy lives on in them… in their hearts and memories of their sweet baby sister!
I am so sorry for your loss. You have a beautiful family, and your little Layla was such a fighter. I saw your note about the song. It’s always been a favorite of mine, too, and it will remind me of your girl when I hear it again.
God bless your family.
I don’t know that I can possibly compose in words just how much you’re daughter has impacted my life. As I sit here sobbing at the key board once again, I’m thinking of what you must be enduring. I have children similar in age to yours, one of which was just a bit younger than Layla. I’ll be planting a perennial flower (something bright pink) at our home in memory of Layla. She’ll be doing works of kindness for years to come.
Much love to you all from Michigan. Layla’s story is far-reaching.
My heart goes out to your family. I lost my mom on Dec 30 2009 to Leukemia and her final days were a tough situation for our whole family. With her in hospice she was able to pass peacefully at home just like little Layla. I am praying for your family and that you may get through this difficult. Your little girl is at rest now.
God bless
Arianna
Over the last few weeks, I’ve prayed and prayed for your precious family and sweet Layla. Your story and her amazing spirit touched me so deeply. Thank you for sharing her with us. We’ve prayed and mourned with you and now rejoice that Layla has been made whole again and is at peace. We will continue to lift you up in prayer and will hold Layla’s memory tightly as we cherish our own little blessings.
i’m sorry for your loss….gracias por compartir la vida de un angelito y una gerrera como LAYLA con todos nosotros!!!! ke dios colme sus vidas de amor y bellos reuerdos de la bella layla!
I am so completely moved by your sweet Layla Grace. I cannot imagine the utter devastation and heartbreak of losing a child especially one that only arrived two years ago. I have two little girls- one is two years old. I try so hard to savor every single moment with them- every sniff of their hair, bat of their lashes, every kiss on their soft necks. When I place myself in your shoes my heart stops. I have wept with you. I have prayed for you. I hold my girls tighter tonight and forever because of your sweet angel. Your faith is beautiful. I hope that it brings you peace, comfort, and strength. May God bless your precious family.
I think about Layla and your family so many times a day…too many to count. Your daughter has made me a better mother…you have made me a better mother. I can’t put into words how Layla has changed my life but I CAN tell you she WILL forever be in my heart. She and you taught me to love the little things. Take pleasure in cleaning the living room 10 times a day cause as soon as you pick up a toy, that is the one they want to take back out. Your daughter was an angel on earth. In a perfect world I would have never know about Layla Grace but in this world my children, husband and I pray for your family every night. In this world Layla Grace has taught me how to be a better mommy and in this world Layla Grace is angel my children will always hear about.
God Bless your family, my heart breaks over and over but please know your daughter’s death was not in vain. She has taught me more than any “old soul” could.
Wrapping your family in prayers
I’ve been praying for your family a lot, but I’ve also been praying to God asking that she’s among the most special angels right now, asking that He always has angels around her to make sure that she has plenty of yammy things to eat and hugs to get, and always an angel to sleep in his arms when she’s tired. I ask that she gets kisses on her chubby cheeks all the time–she has chubby cheeks now, I’m sure! I also ask that you live a beautiful life with your two beautiful daughters here, and I pray that it is a very very very long life, your time apart from Layla with be such a small fraction of a second compared to the eternity you will spend with your little angel. Until then, she will be waiting for all of you, smiling, clapping her chubby hands, with angels all around her.
I’m so sorry for your loss….I can’t imagine what you are going through, my thoughts and prayers go you to the whole family. Rest in peace sweet angel!
I can just see her looking at Jesus with those amazing blue eyes and that little grin … I am sure He is as amazed at not only what a beautiful creation He made in Ms. Layla, but also in how her momma and daddy and sisters took such great care of her precious little body … do what Layla would want you to do and draw even closer as a family and enjoy the little things ….. Layla’s family only deserves the best !
I just started following your blog a little while back and I want to just wrap you up in love and let you know the world is crying with you.
I am so sorry. So very sorry. I can’t even express.
My niece had a very similar form of cancer and I remember watching her going through this. I remember the hell. That was almost 20 years ago now. (I can’t believe it!) And I still think of her every day. I miss her every day.
These kids – they were angels on earth. Here with us long enough to teach us true love.
You’ll be in my thoughts and prayers. May you find peace and regain joy in time.
I didn’t even know she was gone. My heart is broken for you. I cannot imagine the pain of losing a child. When I first read about Layla’s story I bawled like a baby. I cannot imagine living her story. She was such a strong, beautiful, darling, sweet, little girl and I am so sad to see her go, but also praising God that she is now an Angel in Heaven. I am sure there is a celebration in Heaven to bring home such a sweet angel. God bless your family and my heart genuinely breaks for you. I live in Ky and will not be able to make it to Texas, but you all will be in my thoughts. I am so sorry.
You may probably never get to read my comment seeing as there are about 400 something comments already. But i am truly sorry for your loss. When I found out of Layla’s passing I cried for most of the day and just could not imagine what you are going through. I really wish that I had the words to console you and to let you know that one day you will be able to smile again…..but i do not have those words! I just pray that God will guide you through this. Your family is a true hero in my eyes for having had gone through something so tough, but remaining so strong! I read your blogs daily and checked to see if there was any new development, she became a part of MY family and I truly will miss her.
May you find comfort in God.
Thank you for sharing Layla with us.
Hugs
I am so sorry for your loss. I cannot imagine what you are going through. Layla’s story has touched so many lives- mine included. By following your story I have become a better mother. As a mother of a 3 year old daughter named Grace, and an 11 week old son, I feel truly blessed each day to be able to clean up after them, bathe them, play with them, all the small things that I used to take for granted. I think of Layla and your family several times a day and pray for all of you each night. On Saturday my family and I will be releasing balloons in honor of your beautiful Layla Grace and her amazing life. Thank you for sharing Layla with us! May God continue to hold you up and give you strength. Lots of love & prayers always from Indiana.
Dear Shanna & Ryan,
Part of me just can’t believe your beautiful Layla Grace is really gone from this earth. She was such a little fighter and stayed much longer than the doctors had said that I fooled myself into thinking she would stay with you. We prayed so hard for her miracle to make her well on this earth and in your loving arms.
The only comfort I find is knowing that she is now in the loving arms of Jesus and she will never feel one tiny bit of pain. She was an angel on this earth and through you, she gave so much to the world. Thank you for taking us into your family, your lives, your struggles and especially, blessing us with knowing your precious child.
You will remain in my prayers.
In His Love,
Sue
Dear Shanna,
I am deeply sorry for this painful loss. I was also hoping for a miracle, but God had another plan for Layla. It is amazing how many lives she has touched through her story and her battle. I am sure God will still give you strenght to continue carry on. I will pray for you and your family
Jessica
May your beautiful sweet princess now be at rest with all the other angels. Although I only followed her story for only a very short moment, Layla touched my heart and the hearts of many others.
I have endured the heartache that comes with the loss of a child, and hope that in time the pain will fade, but for now we remember and celebrate the short but courageous life of your Layla Grace. May the peace of the lord be with you during this difficult time. I will be thinking of Layla on Saturday. God bless and lots of prayers
Marcie
After the clouds,
The sunshine,
After the winter,
The spring,
After the shower,
The Rainbow
For life is a changeable things…
After the night, the morning,
Bidding all darkness cease…
After life’s cares and sorrows,
The comfort of sweetness and peace.
I wish I could be there to help yall celebrate Layla’s life. I pray you be in comfort knowing Layla is with her creator, and no longer in pain and you have a precious little angel watching over you. May God bless you and your family.
Sweet Layla Grace you touched my heart. I will be with your family in spirit. My daddy went to heaven when I was a little girl. I asked him if he would look out for you where he is. Mr. Mrs. Marsh thank you for letting us know your precious little girl.
Praying God brings his peace to your family. May Layla enjoy an eternal life of peace and one of no pain and suffering. May you find comfort in each other as you remember Layla everyday. Peace to you all. We’ll be holding you close to our hearts on Saturday in Christ’s Love.
I know you dont know me, but I want you to know that what has happened to your family has touched and broken my heart all at the same time. I lost my brother to neuroblastoma. I hope to live to see more research in Neuroblastoma as since my brother died over twenty years ago not much has been done. You and your family will be in my thoughts and my prayers. I hope that you are able to find peace in all of this. My dad tells me that God takes the special ones early, he has a bigger plan for them with him than down here on earth.
In dealing with the pain I know another’s words cannot ease the hurt, so I won’t try. I will share with you a poem though that I read at my husband’s funeral. While it didn’t (and doesn’t) make me not miss him or take away the hurt, it does remind me that he is in Heaven and not in pain. While we don’t always understand why, everything does happen for a reason.
You and your family are in my heart, thoughts and prayers.
I’m Free
Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free,
I’m following the path God laid for me.
I took His hand when I heard Him call,
I turned my back and left it all.
I could not stay another day,
To laugh, to love, to work or play,
Tasks left undone must stay that way.
I found my peace at the close of the day.
If my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered joys:
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss;
Ah yes, these things I too will miss.
Be not burdened with times of sorrow,
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life’s been full, I’ve savored much,
Good friends, good times, a loved one’s touch.
Perhaps my time seemed all too brief,
Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief.
Life up your heart and share with me,
God wanted me now—He set me free.
A mother holds her child’s hand for awhile…..Her heart forever!!!!!!!!!!!
Not even death can separate a mother from her child. Your love will live on forever, you are her mother forever!!!!!!!!!!
I don’t know you or your family or anyone who knows you. Yet your daughter has changed my life forever. Her short life was FULL of purpose and she left behind an amazing legacy. You are so blessed to be her mother. God knows just how very special you are!!! He chose YOU to be Layla’s Mommy forever!!!!!!!!!!
I’m so sorry for your loss! Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Hi, I am from Brazil and live in Rio de Janeiro, but it has been some time since I am following Layla’s beautiful story. I have a baby girl who is 22 months old and she prays for Layla everyday. On monday there was something wrong with me, I am seven months pregnant and I could not work. I sat in front of the computer and just prayed for Layla and cried the whole day.
When I went to pick my daughter from the daycare she was just the same and the teachers could not explain why. I learned that she was finally in God’s arms from babycenter. I don’t know why God brought her life into ours, being so far away, but she has taught me so much, she has taught me patience and love, and endurance, and love, just love. My mother told me that she stayed here for so long because she felt loved.
I also have two angel brothers that I did not meet because they were born before me, but I believe that one day we will be reunited and I will finally meet them.
God bless you and your family, I wish I could be there and I wish I could do something, who knows what God expects from us in the future, as of today, I just wanted to tell you that I am here, and that Layla has touched my life so deeply that I think I will never be the same.
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Know that she will always be remembered. The hardest thing was watching her slip away but the best thing was having her in your life….Love to Layla always…Strong,precious,and sweet…Beautiful baby.
Thank you for sharing Layla Grace with the world. She was such a beautiful baby. She has forever left a footprint in my heart!
I want to firstly express my sadness and grief for your loss..I am a mother. and I cannot imagine what it is like for you.
I would like to commend you.. for sharing your experience with the world.
For writing this blog, which i know will be an inspiration for others in your situation.. knowing they are not alone.
For your strength and keeping your faith through it all, all the while knowing it’s ok to cry..
Lastly, for working hard and making sure you remained a FAMILY through it all..
My heart goes out to you..
My heart breaks for your family. I am so deeply sorry for your loss.
I just wanted to tell you that Layla touched so many and because of her the awareness for Neuroblastoma. I have a son and I pray for strength for your family. I lost my mother to cancer a little over a year ago. It still weighs heavy on my heart and I too want to raise awareness for cancer. This is a 4 letter word. I pray for you all each and every night and will continue to keep you in my heart and prayers. Layla was beautiful and I thank you for letting us into your life. She is now in heaven and I pray to my mom everynight to keep Layla safe and to look after her. She is no longer suffering and she will be with you, watching over you all, for the rest of your life, until you meet her again one day in Heaven. God Bless
Love Vanessa, Rafael and Rafito Angulo xoxoxxoxxo
We will be thinking of Layla here in the Midwest.
My thoughts and love are with you all xxx
Like so many others, I fell in love with a little gir I never met, a family I’ve never talked to and a story that wrecked my heart. Your transparancy through all of this has made neuroblastoma a topic we are all talking about and brough awareness to a disease that needs more funding, research and conversation.
May God bless you and your family during this time. And PRAISE JESUS for Layla who was an intergal part of your life….and became an important part of the lives of so many she never even met.
Much love from Birmingham, Alabama.
Ever since I heard of your story, I have prayed and cried every night. I am so sorry for your loss. At least Layla’s story can be heard around the world. She will be remembered as God’s Little Angel forever more. God Bless You and I will continue praying for your family.
I just wanted to let you know that your courage has been truly inspiring. We will be thinking of Layla and your whole family here in PA. You will continue to be in our prayers.
Layla has certainly touched the world…. She is, in the eyes of many…forever immortalized in spirit and as testimony to the power of love..
I will be there in spirit for her celebration….
What a beautiful girl she is….and what a wonderful family she has:)
In honor of Layla, her celebration of life, and her legacy, we will release balloons Saturday from here in Michigan on Saturday.
We still think of Layly several times a day, thanking the Lord for bringing her into our life – teaching us the power of love, life, and faith.
God be with you all,
Kerri, Adam & Delaynee
My heart goes out to you and your family. May this beautiful angel rest in peace. I heard her daddy this morning on the radio and he said that she radiated in her pictures her beautiful spirit. And WOW! He was right! She’s absolutely georgous.
We are sorry that we won’t be able to attend Layla’s celebration of life tomorrow. She has truly touched our hearts, and your family will remain in our prayers. My 10 year old daughter is especially praying for Jenna. Layla was so very strong, and we will not forget her beautiful face and grace. I’m praying that you will be uplifted by an overwhelming peace tomorrow.
i think everyone who has fallowed this little princess should relese a balloon in her honor at the same time her family lets there balloons go.. i think it would make an amazing site to see …
I just heard Ryan on the radio via live internet feed. Wow, I’m still in awe of his and Shanna’s determination to turn one of their worst nightmares in to something positive for children that they don’t even know and may never know. People like you all, Ryan and Shanna, are what give us hope for this world we live in. I am praying for Jenna and Claire. I am praying for you all, your family and close friends that were blessed to know Layla. I also am praying for all the strangers, including myself, that Layla brought together and who are now in mourning for a complete stranger that worked a miracle without even knowing it. Like Ryan said, everything in your lives must be busy, busy, busy right now and it all seems chaotic but in the weeks to come, when things slow down a bit, I hope you all know that we will still be praying for you all and your sweet girls. Lean on us if you need/want to. I personally would be honored to have you call or write me if you feel the need. I am sorry to miss Layla’s Celebration of Life service tomorrow. If I lived closer, I would attend no doubt. I can’t stress enough how much work Layla Grace has done in my family and we never met her personally. She will be greatly missed but never forgotten. I pray that you all can get through the next couple of hard days. You and your sweet family are always in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you for allowing complete strangers a look into your lives during this tragic time.
Love from Oklahoma,
Whitney
P.S. My son Ross is three days younger then Layla and he was sitting on my lap at the computer last night as we watched Layla on youtube having broccoli cheese soup and not wanting to go to sleep with Shanna. Ross kept pointing at Layla saying “pitty Mommy, pitty!” That’s Ross language for PRETTY. This morning he woke up and grabbed my hand, walked me to the computer and said “gin, pitty?” meaning, AGAIN, PRETTY? So we watched her this morning too. Her legacy will live on and even more great things will happen in this world because of you all and precious Layla Grace. God Bless you all.
I just found your story today from another blog, and I want to say how very sorry I am for your loss. I’ve only read a few posts so far, but I am touched by the strength and courage of your family, and your precious little girl. It is evident that she has touched so many lives, and will always be remembered.
God Bless
Thinking about you every day and praying for you everyday. Praying God will hold you close… I have so much love for Layla and her family… God bless you….
I am so sorry for you lost. I can’t imagine what your family is going through, but Layla’s story has touch my heart and so many others. Thank you for sharing your journey with us. I will pray that the Lord comforts and gives you all strength through this difficult time.
May God bless you all,
The Adams Family
I have followed Layla’s story for just a few weeks and her story has truly and deeply affected my life. When I first read your blog, I cried and prayed and prayed and cried for Layla. God is SO evident in her life story. Now she is with Jesus and suffers no more. I continue to pray for strength and peace for your family for you will only be seperated for a time (I Thes 4: 13,14). What a blessing for her to be a part of your lives! Rest in peace sweet and beautiful Layla Grace.
May God continue to hold your family in His hands & give you comfort, strength & peace. He sees every tear drop fall & He is the God of All Comfort. Layla Grace is finally healed & playing with all the other children on streets of gold. Will continue to pray for all of you.
We love you guys. We are always thinking and praying for you. We love Layla and miss her.
I have been following your story for a while now, and was crushed to hear that Layla is gone.
I am in NC, but plan to release balloons on Saturday with the boys on my sons baseball team. They are playing this tournement for her.
Prayers are still with your family, and remember, you now have a perfect angel looking over you.
I can’t make the trip from Florida, but I will be there in prayer. I’ve been keeping up with Layla through your website.
Only know of your family from email prayer chains I received. With that said, just want you to know you have been in my thoughts and prayers since I first laid eyes on sweet Layla. I will continue to pray for your family and know that God will bring you through this and give you comfort only He can provide. Your sweet baby had a huge impact during her short time here. Be proud, be blessed and stay stong.
My deepest sympathies, thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Words cannot express my sorrow for you or my admiration for your courageous bravery. I can tell from the pictures that your daughter was just a precious little girl. I will pray for her and your family. Much love and thoughts your way from North Carolina.
I am so sorry for the loss of your precious baby girl! I myself have a 3-month-old baby named Lily, and I cannot imagine what it would be like to go through what your Layla Grace had to go through. I will be praying for you and your family! May God be with you through this terrible storm and comfort you as only He can! God bless you!
your suffering is over now sweet angel…..
and though your time here on earth was too brief…
you filled our hearts, our lives and our souls
with joy beyound belief.
Your smile…like a ray of sunshine
your giggle,how full of mirth!
how wonderous the love you gave us
though short your time on earth.
Our love now stronger than ever
reaches out from places so long
to hold your family sl tightly
to surround them and hold them strong.
You will always be with us my sweet child,
For what I say is true,
This angel who lived amongst us,
This angel, my child, is you.
I heard Mr. Marsh on the radio this morning. I want to thank him for sharing that clio of Layla.. what a beautiful being! I can’t agree with you more… that is the first thing I noticed was how much spirit she had in her lil eyes.. I admire your family for your strength. I hope to be able to attend this Saturday.
love
The Jaeger Family – Crosby, TX
I have followed you for a short time, but my heart feels like it knew you all personally. I have prayed, cried, and hoped for you and your family. YOU ARE A STRONG women and I am certain GOD has prepared you to be so amazing. I am a single mom and I work too much. After reading your first blog I made a REAL effort and I stuck to spending more time with my kids. I thought every day about Layla and because of that I laid down with my own daughter when I would have been cleaning or working. I have took your advice and started treasuring each moment I have with them. My heart breaks for you and I have so much respect and admiration. I will never forget Layla. May GOD NEVER LEAVE YOUR SIDE. The stars will shine a little brighter than before she left because there is a new angel in the sky.
Wow!! This little baby girl captured my heart!! She is absolutely beautiful. Thank you so much for sharing her with us and your family. My heart is aching for your family and what you all had to endure. I hope you find comfort in knowing Layla is no longer in pain and has her wings now and can watch over her beautiful family. I will continue to pray for your family that you may feel comfort and smile everytime you remember your sweet, baby girl. God Bless.
Your beautiful family is in our hearts and prayers. You are all truly blessed to have an amazing guardian angel to watch over you and meet up again with one day.
We will be releasing balloons for Layla in Oxford, MS on Saturday with our little angel and lifting up a prayer for you.
May you soon find comfort and peace.