Day By Day
It’s been one week since Layla went to heaven. To say I miss her would be an understatement. She consumes my every thought. I think about her every minute of the day. Even when I’m happy, I’m still sad because she’s not there to join in the laughter.
We have 2 other small children, so life still goes on. I can’t lay in bed and cry all day. I have plenty of moments when I cry driving down the road, doing dishes, watching tv or playing with my other girls. There are plenty of times they cry with me. And that’s okay. I’d rather we all cry together instead of me locked in the bedroom and them thinking that there’s something wrong with showing emotion.
I’m still finding her clothes mixed in with the laundry. Her favorite toys scattered around the house. Her car seat sitting in the garage that is a daily reminder that she won’t ever sit in it again. The hardest thing for me has been walking by her room every day. I have to pass her room to get to Jenna and Claire’s. We keep the door shut but occasionally I go in there and sit on the floor and just cry. Evie comes in with me and lays next to her bed. Eventually her room will be made into a “quiet room”. I’ll move all the girls books, puzzles and Layla’s favorite toys in there. I’ll keep the theme and colors the same. It will be a comforting place to go to read, reflect, pray and talk about Layla.
Layla’s Celebration Of Life on Saturday couldn’t have been more perfect. It was a BEAUTIFUL clear day. Breezy and warm, but not hot. The flowers were displayed on the stage to resemble a garden. They were perfect and vibrant – exactly what Layla would have chosen. Pictures and a few of Layla’s favorite things were mixed in with the arrangements. The music was equally as amazing. I hope to have the audio in the next few days and will post it. I could tell you how wonderful it was, but you’d have to hear it to really understand. I will hopefully have some pictures soon as well. At the end of the celebration, we did a balloon release. 1000 pink and purple balloons were sent up to Layla as we listened to Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s version of “Somewhere Over The Rainbow”. I’m sure she was squealing with excitement 
We had tons of flower arrangements. I took home about 10 and the rest we piled into 4 trucks and took down to Texas Children’s Hospital. We handed them out on the cancer floor and left some for Layla’s nurses in the Cancer Center. It was so surreal driving there, voluntarily, without Layla. I’ll do it again though. I’d like to go with something different each time – art supplies, stuffed animals, books, balloons….anything that will put a smile on the faces of the kids. Even though Layla’s cancer journey is over, there are new children starting this journey everyday.
I’m amazed at the prayers and support that is still being offered to us. I assure you, we are feeling it and are so appreciative.
A foundation in Layla’s name is in the early planning stages. Once we’re up and running, I have some BIG ideas. It’s my responsibility to live out Layla’s legacy. It will be tough because I have big shoes to fill, but I have faith that Neuroblastoma will become as widely known as other childhood cancers. I also have faith that funding for research will follow. If I can prevent even one family from feeling the pain that we’ve felt, then I know I’ve succeeded and Layla would be proud.
Layla is ALREADY proud, Shanna. I know that. I’ll do everything I can to help you carry on her legacy.
Love ya!
Jen
You are amazing!
God bless you for your strength of Faith– I cannot imagine how difficult these days must be. Losing a loved one is always so, so painful, but to lose a child after such a difficult and brave struggle is just unfathomable to me. My heart literally burns and aches for you. And yet, you have no choice but to continue on with life for your girls. I so admire your honestly and openness about all you’ve experienced and all you continue to face. Layla is not alone in leaving a legacy for others…
We are continuing our prayers of peace and support for the Marsh family!
AMEN!!!
Layla’s celebration sounds beautiful, I can’t wait for the pics! I continue to pray for you guys and even Layla still.
Layla would be very proud. You guys have been amazing and as the mother of a Neuroblastoma survivor, I have to thank you for telling Layla’s story so beautifully. People are listening and I know that great things have and will continue to come of it. Layla’s Legacy will never be forgotten. If there is any way for me to help, please let me know. I’d be honored. Much love and prayers continue to flow your way.
God Bless you. You have all our support with anything you do. There isn’t a day that goes by that my family doesn’t think of yours. You have done amazing things.
I have been thinking and praying for y’all everyday. Layla sure has been an inspiration to me. To not take any day for granted with my 2 year old son. You and your family are truly amazing. Thanks for sharing Layla’s story.
Sarah
You both absolutely amaze me with your courage and strength. God bless you both!!! I got to meet both of you at the Celebration of Life, and I must say, I have never been so impacted in my whole life. You have definitely brought my whole family closer to God!
You make Layla proud every day.
I can’t imagine the pain you feel, but I def pray for you everyday. My heart truly aches for you and Ryan, and the girls.
I am at a loss of how to describe what I feel about your post. I cried reading the entire thing.
Yes, Layla IS already proud… Her name will live on here too! And I as I tell her story and weep and celebrate and pray I will also always remember God’s promise… Layla was pure love so she is in the only place where pure love can abide – HEAVEN – I KNOW she is there God TOLD me with his PINK BOWS!
Love to you all and many more prayers to come -
Gena and the 3 C’s – Cameron, Carly and Carson!
God bless you and your family.
You will remain in my prayers.
You guys are amazing. I’m sure Layla is proud of you guys.
Please know there are a LOT of people sharing your pain, even though we can’t imagine what you’re going through. But I think of Layla, a lot. I didn’t know her, but she seriously changed my life.
Thanks for letting Layla in my life. I feel so special because I was able to pray for her, and follow her battle against cancer. She has made a lot of changes all over the world.
All the best, Julia.
I still continue to think about and pray for y’all often. Layla has touched so many people and she DOES live on.
I can’t even begin to tell you how many times a day I think about Layla and your family. I have 2 girls that I have always been so thankful for, but because of you and Layla’s journey I have never appreciated them more then I do now! I have also told EVERYONE I know about Layla and Neuroblastoma, and about the urine test that can be done at birth. I’m a nurse and believe so strongly in research and early detection, it really does save lives! What you are doing is amazing! Layla will always live on and be with you through her foundation and all of the amazing things y’all will accomplish! God Bless!!!!!!!
Tami Dabney ~Fort Polk, LA
What a beautiful post. There is no question you are and will continue to do Layla proud. Layla’s story even appeared here in Toronto in one of the biggest newspapers! She’s loved and remembered all over the world.
I am still praying for you and for your entire family. I think of you every day and your precious Layla. You shared your story with the world, anyone who wanted to learn or hear. And we all fell in love with Layla, and with all of you. You are an amazing woman and mother. I will continue to keep you all in my thoughts and will watch for your foundation coming. I know I am not alone. God bless you Shanna. Bless all of you. The world is a better place because of your little angel and because of you. Much love from Kansas!
Your strength continues to amaze me, I am at a loss for words. God bless all of you.
God Bless you and your family Shanna!
God will sustain all of you.
Still praying for your family~ Layla’s legacy definitely lives on and has forever changed so many. I am indeed a better mother and person because of her sweet life! Thanks for sharing your family with us!
<3
Wow…fantastic post!!!! I’m in awe of you. Thank you for keeping us updated on your family!!!! I can’t WAIT to hear about your new adventures – and for your new foundation in Layla’s name! So so so amazing! Layla’s legacy will live FOREVER and EVER!!!!!!!
Thinking about your family and praying for your family DAILY!
I thought about you and Layla as I emptied my dishwasher today. I’m saying my rosary at night for you and your family. Please know that you are thought of and prayed for everyday. One of my best friends lost her 4 year old and, while it gets worse before it gets better, it does get better. Holding you all close!
Sitting in my car reading and “I can only imagine” comes on the radio tears tears. Layla continues to create beautiful moments. God is so good!!
Thanks for sharing your story with all of us.. Layla will always have a little piece of my heart
Tanja-Norway
Also, can I make a request? Can you maybe print Ryan’s beautiful speech/sermon that he gave at Layla’s Celebration of Life? I have to tell you – his words hit my heart closer than any sermon I have ever heard in my whole entire life…. I think of Layla running on that beach all the time…. and I think about my actions and how I want to impact others.
God bless you, Ryan and Shanna, Jenna and Claire. You are all my heroes!
Your family is never far from my thoughts. Continued prayers for your family – I have no doubt that Layla’s smiling down on you.
Continuing to pray for God’s strength and peace for you. God and Layla are both proud and smiling down.
Shes got to be proud you are by the sounds of it always been amazing & nothings changing!
Thank you again for sharing your story, I will continue to pray for your family to have the strength that you need to make it through the days ahead. I pray for great things to happen as you plan on educating people about this cancer. I knwo that Layla is proud of everything that you are doing, She is proud to knnw that you are going to carry out this in her name. God Bless Marsh Family, sending warm thoughts and wishes your way. Keep us updated on the progress.
Love Amanda
You are a perfect example of grace and strength for us all to learn from. I have learned so much from all of you and have prayed for you every since I’ve heard of Layla’s illness. Many many times I’ve broken down sobbing (especially when I see my children, healthy and smiling at me). I haven’t taken a second for granted and I will not, especially with your sweet baby Layla in my heart.
I will continue to pray for all of you and support you in everything!
xx
Praying for you my friend… and how amazing to give back to the hospital… so many people have been touched and brightened by your family and by Layla… you are constantly in my thoughts and prayers!
I am with you. I told my husband the day Layla passed that it was my new goal in life to do my part to get rid of cancer….to make a diagnosis of cancer as insignificant as one of a cold or flu. No parent should have to lose a child.
That’s for taking the time to share. We pray for you often and will continue! My 4 year old wants to send notes to Jenna and Claire so I will send them soon.
You amaze me!
Jody and family from Canada
I am one of so many people who feel touched by Layla’s life. I feel like anything I can say is so inadequate… I just want you to know you and your family are in my prayers daily. Layla is surely looking down on you all with such love and pride. You are all truly an amazing family- and I send you prayers and hugs.
Shannon
You and Ryan, just like Layla, are a true inspiration!
I think of you and your family every day since learing about Layla. I find such strength in your story, and pray for you each and every day. God Bless you.
I KNOW that Layla is already so proud of you all. Thank you for this update. I think of your family all the time. xo
“Layla would be proud.” She already is. How could she not be, having such an amazing family? You will always be in my prayers.
God is Good! And, I believe that God knew what a wonderful Mother and Family Layla was going to have when He gave her to you to raise for Him. I believe that God must be so proud of you and your family right now.
God bless you all.
Your an amazing woman, to say the very least, god bless you and your family. Layla has changed my life for the better. She’s an amazing little girl who I will remember forever.
OMG… i just cried reading that….Shanna, I can’t even begine toimagine the sadness you feel at this time. I knowyou must miss that lilttle princess more then any of us could know. You are so very strong. You and your family are still in my thoughts and prayers everyday. Tara Selfridge is my daughter here in Lexington SC, and we are talking everyday about the “Layla Grace Fun Day” that we have planned for the 27th of this month (through your premission) and we can’t wait to raise awarness of this terrible cancer that took your baby’s life. Keep strong.
Love, Wendy (Lexington, SC)
You amaze me and I’m still and have already learned so much from you. Layla was so lucky to have had you as a mom and I know you feel lucky to have had Layla for a daughter, even it the time was too short. I cry every time I think of Layla and your family and thats pretty much everyday…multiple times some days. My heart is breaking for you but please know I’m constantly sending up prayers for you. I have loved looking at pictures of her on here…she is such a beautiful little girl. Continue to have faith in God and HE will take care of you and get you through this. ((HUGS))
We think of you ALL with love every day, and continually pray for your peace. Thank you for continuing to share your Layla.
I continue to think & pray for your family everyday. Thank you for allowing us a peek into your lives at the hardest moments. Because of Layla’s story and the faithfulness your family shown I am a better mother and a better person. I will continue to pray for your family every day as you guys have changed my life forever. I will never forget Layla and would like to help carry on her legacy through her foundation. Thanks again & God Bless…you are an amazing family.
I truly believe God chooses mommies and daddies like you 2 that he knows will carry on such a legacy! What a blessing for Layla to have had you as her parents. My thoughts, prayers and tears are with you always!
Hello Shanna. You and Ryan have such amazing strength and faith. Not a day goes by that I don’t think of your family and pray for your comfort. You all fought this battle beautifully and Layla is very proud. To continue the battle for other children is a remarkable tribute to your Layla Grace. Your family’s journey has impacted me so deeply. Prayers and love for you all.
Shanna, you and your family have been in my thoughts since I met you and Layla back in October. Its hard to believe her journey has now come to an end and knowing that she no longer hurts or suffers is comfort to know. You will continue to be on my mind daily and I continue to pray for strength, although you seem to have plenty
You, Ryan and the girls I believe will keep up the legacy of Layla and the fight against Neuroblastoma. I too will join you in the cause and pray daily.
Jennifer
You amaze me Shanna! Layla’s legacy will live on in everyone she touched. Anything I can do to help make sure of that, let me know!
Much love!
Jana
I started following you and the whole Layla story the last 2 or 3 weeks of her life. Your faith has been unbelievable through this whole situation and God has big plans for you to live out Layla’s legacy. Praying for you, your husband, and your little ones. Seeing the tweet that your daughter said that she saw Layla up in the sky with the Son, it brought tears to my eyes. God bless and will keep praying.
~Jim~Fort Wayne, IN
Shanna you are amazing! To be going through your own grief, and then to take the time to update all of us is so selfless. We are all blessed that you have come into our lives, even though the circumstances are not ideal at all. We love you and because of Layla I know there will be so much more awareness to this awful cancer. You have been a comfort to all of us through your own pain. I have cried more over this than any other loss in my life, and I can’t imagine the tears you have shed.
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s version of Over The Rainbow was my wedding song and I can’t think of anything more perfect to celebrate Layla’s life.
Every time I’m rocking my 15 month old, and a hundred times throughout the day, I am thinking of Layla and all of you. I am touched, and honored, to know Layla through all of this. You are an unbelievable inspiration.
Thanks Shanna.
Love The Staub Family
Silver Spring, Maryland
Shanna & Ryan,
I am still praying for you, and talking about your family. Just today, I was rocking my daughter (who is 21 months) as she has the flu. I thought of laying her down after she fell asleep, but thought to myself, “how precious is this time with her? Even though she doesn’t feel good, this is time I have with her” so I held her. I held her for almost two hours and watched her sleep in my arms. See, weeks ago, before I started following Layla, I would have laid her back down and returned to bed. No more of that. I am treasuring every moment with my kids, because I don’t know when God will take them home to Him. Layla has done that for me. She has made my life more precious, made me love my kids more, made me treasure the moments more; no matter how taxing they seem to be.
Again, last week, my oldest son (8) dropped three eggs on the floor..yes, uncooked eggs. Now, the old me would have gotten a bit angry. The heidi after Layla, she said, that’s okay, Gavin, I’ll clean them up. And I did. I even walked around the slew of eggs for a few minutes before I did it. Just because of Layla. Through God, she has brought me patience like I have never had before.
Thank you, Shanna. Just because Layla has returned home, doesn’t mean I will stop praying. I sent you a card on the day she died, I am sure that you got it by now. We are Heidi, Mark, Gavin, Hayden, and Klara from Hillsboro, Oregon.
Know we are praying for you, and still watching for updates on twitter. Still praying for you and talking about you every day…and precious Jenna and Claire…I hope God is bringing you all peace.
And, I think your idea to turn her room into a quiet room is an amazing idea…..Layla would love it; I am sure.
Love and prayers to you all,
Heidi
Ugh, I’m sitting at my computer in my classroom wiping tears off my cheeks again. I’ve cried so much over Layla. I can’t imagine what you must be going through. I’ve imagined it and that’s painful enough. I don’t know how you get anything done during the day.
When your foundation for Layla gets up and running, I’d love to help out here in the Northern states (Wisconsin). You name it, I’ll do it.
This little girl changed my life. I owe her so much.
Children with cancer are like candles in the wind who accept the possibility that they are in danger of being extinguished by a gust of wind from nowhere and yet, they flicker and dance to remain alive, their brilliance challenges the darkness and dazzles those of us who watch their light. – Unknown
Thank you for the update, i work as a nurse in the UK and everyday see people who could be saved with vital research and early testing.
My prayers and thoughts go out to you and your family at this deeply upsetting time. I hope that Laylas name becomes a symbol of hope for all the people out there and hope that we can win the right to get further research into this disease and other diseases and win the fight
God bless your family and give you comfort in this hard time. I cannot relate but as a parent I can only imagine. My heart aches for Layla and your family everyday (and has been!) even though we have never met. I prayed hundreds of times for Layla and continue to do so for you, Ryan and the girls.
I cannot wait to contribute to your foundation in any way I can. I look forward to your updates and continue to pray for you all.
Oh Shanna!! Your post brought me to tears and a lump in my throat. I can’t imagine the hurt and longing you are going through. I think of Layla every single day. I think of her when I hug my babies. I think of her when I go to bed. I think of her when I hear of any other sick children. She will forever be in my heart and I wish I could thank you enough for sharing her with us last year and continuing with the story for your whole journey!
I look forward to seeing photos of the ceremony and hearing the audio… Eventhough I know I will cry again. I wish so much that I could have been there.
Hugs
We are praying for your dear family. We have a very dear friend who will be turning 10 years old this month who has Neuroblastoma. He’s lived with it for several years now (it’s a miracle he’s still with us – though he suffers so much and his parents have to be so strong for him and his little brother.) He is an amazing person. We pray for a cure for this terrible cancer and look forward to accompanying your efforts in the fight against Neuroblastoma.
God bless you. Big hugs of comfort and strength for your family.
Janice – Washington State
A beautiful post. I’m so happy to hear that the celebration was a huge success. I think turning her bedroom into what you described is beyond perfect.
You family is truly wonderful and are forever in our hearts.
I can not say I understand your pain because I know that I do not. I do know that sweet angel “Layla Grace” has touched me as well as thousands of others. I have read comments of people coming to the Lord or back to the Lord after hearing her story. Your sweet baby girl is dancing on streets of gold full of energy and pain free right now!! She has done more to bring people to the Lord in her short life than most of us will do in 50 yrs. You should be commended for sharing your story because without your willingness to write it no one could have heard or not near as many!! Thanks for sharing your daughter with us!! I will continue to pray for you and your family!! Peace Love and Joy!! <3
layla and your family are still on my mind daily
i pray that your family find peace and strength through this diffucult time. thank you so much for the update and sharing layla and your family with us! may you continue to get through this tough time….i am sure it will be tough, but the good Lord is there with you always. God bless
I want to say thank you for sharing your journey and your sweet angel Layla with us.I have three kids that have always meant the workd to me but she taught me to not take for granted any time I have with them.Our family has always been a God loving family but Layla’s story brought us back to where we needed to be ,as we all seem to get to comfortable with life.I have a business starting up in April,prettyinbead.com and I want our family and company to play any role we can in raising money for Layla’s foundation so please keep us informed.It was nice to see the picture of Claire with that big smile on her face on twitter the other day.You and your family and sweet Layla are ALWAYS in my heart and in my thoughts.
God Bless you Marsh family.
I still think about you all every day. You are such a strong family. I know Layla is smiling down at you all.
Such a heartbreaking time, yet you still find ways to help others. Bless you and your family. May God continue to comfort you and show you you’re path.
Layla must be SO proud of you. It must be hard without her here, in the physical sense, but in the spiritual sense, I know she will be with you for all eternity–until you see her again.
Layla’s story has made me spend more time with my girls. Layla left behind an amazing legacy and she will never be forgotten.
Thinking of you and your family every single day,
Jake, Lindsey, Alexa, Kailey, and Morgan
Layla and your family has found a place in my heart. I am so thankful to you for having the strength to share Layla and her legacy, her fight was not in vain. God Bless you for that. She is MOST definitely proud of her momma! of all of you…..
In my prayers daily,
I pray so hard for you and your family every night, thank you for sharing her story. Layla has made me stand straight up on my faith, because I know it’s so easy to fall apart. My heart is simply broken for your family. I’m so very sorry you had to let go of your precious baby girl, but what a party you guys will have in heaven with her.
i know you will make Layla proud and i know our little perfect angel is sittin up in heaven next to Jesus watching over you forever all my love and prayers to you and your family xxx
you. are. amazing. and layla is SO proud of you. i can only begin to imagine your pain, yet you are sharing your story with so many people and spreading so much awareness. i think of your beautiful layla everyday. i am sending you love and hugs every day.
AMEN!!! Your family is always in my prayers.
I’ve followed your story and mourned your loss with you. Layla was such a beautiful little girl. Whenever I read your blog I cry because I cannot imagine my life without my son. My heart and prayers go to you and your family and most importantly your precious angel.
I just can’t imagine what this past week has been for you. May God bless your family.
You are an awesome MOM and Layla was very lucky to have you and Ryan as her parents! When you get everything together for Layla’s foundation, please contact me! I WILL help!!
Prayers for you every second!!
randee
Your (and Ryan’s) strength and faith and your sweet Layla’s spirit have touched my life in so many ways.
We pray for y’all every day. We pray for each and every one. You, Ryan, Jenna and Claire. We will continue lifting y’all up in prayer for a long time to come. I know that some people from Cypress have checked in on my blog a few times after finding it via keyword searches for Layla. Seems the majority of the recent blog posts I’ve done have been about the precious earthly angel who touched the hearts and lives of thousands upon thousands world-wide.
She is the only other child, other than my own children, to touch me so. I cried with each Tweet and blog post when she was hurting and struggling and I rejoiced with y’all when she was having a good day. To some extent I still feel the small hole in the middle of my chest and I still cry over her death and struggle, even though I did not personally know her, but I came to know her through your and Ryan’s beautiful words about her.
You have said before that you want to tell her story to so many and I think it’s a beautiful plan! Have you thought of penning her story so that everyone, worldwide, can read it? It would be a great way to garner some of the money needed for starting Layla’s foundation.
I pray that y’all find peace in the midst of this storm in your lives. One of the songs that I remember coming to my mind after Layla went to be in the arms of Jesus is Casting Crown’s “Praise You In This Storm”. It just seemed to fit.
If anything, I know that it brings some comfort to know that you WILL be reunited again in heaven with Layla, that she’s waiting for y’all and while she’s waiting, she’s laughing, running and playing with that spirit of hers making everything in heaven just a bit brighter and more “sparky”.
We keep praying and we hold y’all in our hearts.
With love and hugs from Austin, TX…
Nic Kelso and family
Layla is so proud. She is such a beautiful child. I am and will continue to pray for you and your family. I think about Layla and your family every day. She will always be in my heart. Your family truly is a blessing. I pray every night and ask God to give Layla hugs. Thanks for sharing. God Bless.
Heather from VA
Your Family has taught me so much…. I took so much for granted.. after reading about Layla it broke my heart and i try to be a better parent and i tell everyone i know about your family…. Keep strong Layla is in a better place and i hope she knows how much we all think of her…….: ) God bless u all ….
you are an amazing, strong and wonderful person and mother layla was sooo lucky to have you,and you her i wanted to tell you how much your familys story has changes my life i have a two year old son who means the world to me but i dont think i was giving him all that i had and now everyday is like our last day. i will forever be greatful to your family for that. i know god and love god but now seeing your faith i live for god!!!! thanks you soo much
thinking of your beautiful family.
To an amazing family…GOD BLESS YOU ALL!!! Thank you for sharing Layla Grace’s short life with us. Prayers will continue for you and your family and Layla Grace’s Legacy will live on. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the much-needed life lesson.
Shanna and Ryan you two are so AMAZING and show all of so much stregnth! Layla is already proud!
I was blessed to be able to attened the Celebration on Saturday and it was so beautiful. We had a few hot pink balloons my friend an I brought and wrote little messages to send up to heaven for Layla.
I think about her all the time, I have a 2 year old and there are some days when I’m at work i get side tracked and start looking over Layla’s pictures. She has touched my heart and I feel has made me a better mom. She is such an adorable little girl!! Your family is in my thoughts and prayer always. Thank you so much for sharing us your angel
I cried while reading this post, but I’m so happy that Layla is no longer in pain. I love that your family has the faith and that is what will keep you going…I know it.
I attended a benefit for Layla this past Sunday where 15 minute photo shoots were offered. My 10 month old wore the “Layla” hats and I had such mixed emotions. I can’t wait to see the prints and I know it will remind us of Layla’s GRACE and how important our time on Earth is.
Your family is such an inspiration and I will continue praying for you all.
Courtney Brown
Hello Marsh Family, I have been following Layla’s fight for a while and I have cried with every news you posted.I have been praying for you to have some sort of comfort if that is possible.I wish I could do more to help you, I can only begin to imagine the pain you feel.I have been batling Cancer myself and it is not easy.I have two boys,one is 2 years old, and the other is 7.
I would like to offer you my support in prayers, for a chat, to help spread the other about Neuroblastoma.Please do not hesitate to contact me.Although I live in London, with the internet there are no boundaries.
May God be with you all.
Layla is proud of you and is in heaven watching over you.
Please accept my sincere wishes and a huge hug.
Lana Philippson
p.s. I am on twitter and facebook as well,if you can, please add me and let us keep in touch.Thanks
Every time I read anything about your beautiful daughter my emotions take over. She was such a strong girl, and you have such a strong family. Layla Grace made a huge footprint in this world. She touched so many hearts.
God Bless Layla and God Bless your family. Everyones thoughts and prayers will always be with you guys!
Layla is already proud and thankful that God sent her to you, Ryan, Jenna and Claire to have as family on Earth. Shanna, you are amazing. Continue doing what you are doing, because you are such an inspiration to so many.
Thank you for giving us a glimpse of you and your perfect family.
I have such mixed feelings lately. I feel so relieved that Layla isn’t in pain anyomre. That she is floating high up in the clouds with God and other baby angels. Yet, I still hurt knowing the extreme suffering that you guys are experiencing. I will follow you for as long as there are computers. So keep posting because everyone is READING!
I am in awe of your strength. Your family truly amazes me with your courage. I prayed for Layla every night and will continue to do so. Afterall, Saturday wasn’t a ‘goodbye’, it was a ‘see you later’.
Whenever the sun is shining it’s Layla smiling.
Thank you for being such an inspiration x
All I can say is AMAZING FAMILY…faith, strength and love! I’ve thought and prayed for you daily since I heard about Layla Grace (two weeks ago).
When the foundation is up and running if you are interested in doing some type of running event such as a half or full marathon to help raise money for Neuroblastoma I would LOVE to help and be involved. I’m in Dallas and am involved with Team in Training. I don’t necessarily have any experience setting up the events but I have tons of running friends who do! We could raise alot of money for research and possibly to help other families out.
I will continue to pray for the Marsh family daily!
PS/. **AWESOME** song choice for the balloon release!!!!!
I think it’s amazing what you guys are doing for other families and I can’t imagine how hard it must be for you.
I keep you in my thoughts and prayers!
Layla was blessed to have you as her parents.
I’m sure she is smiling down on your family watching over you. I continue to think about her and your family everyday.. and I think will always will. Her story is incredible. God Bless you!
I think about you guys daily. I am anxiously awaiting pictures from Layla’s celebration of life. I can’t wait to follow your journey to a foundation about Neuroblastoma.
<3 Praying always <3
Manda
Another beautiful post, Shanna. I do wish I could have been at the Celebration on Saturday, but I had already promised my kids to take them to see their grandparents. I think about you and your family every day, and hope that you are doing okay.
If you need any volunteers to help with the foundation that you are starting, I’d love to help. I’m in The Woodlands, and am currently in nursing school. I’d love to go down to TCH and volunteer in some capacity.
What a wonderful testimony of God’s love you have been through this whole journey. Layla’s story has touched so very many hearts and I’m sure that God is using all of this for good and that He had a purpose for Layla, in life and in death. You have made Layla proud and brought glory to God in sharing your story with others. Please know that when you cannot pray for yourself, others are here willing to stand in the gap and cover you with prayer. Your testimony will be a blessing to many.
Shanna you are the strongest person I have ever come in contact with. Stay strong. This is a wonderful thing you are doing living out Laylas Legacy. I know she is looking down and being so proud of her mommy. We care for you guys so much. Prayers will keep coming your way
- Tara
Lexington SC
You ARE amazing, your family is amazing! Layla was blessed to picked you as her parents and she is watching over you now with those big baby blues! I continue to pray for your family and always will. God Bless! I can’t wait to be able to help when the foundation is up and running! My 17-month old daughter and I sent a couple of pink balloons with messages of love to heaven Saturday! Now whenever she sees any balloon, she shreks LAYLA! I love it! May each day bring more and more comfort and peace for your family.
layla changed my life…. i thank you for putting her story out there. i miss her everyday. if i had the power to heal for i would of in a heart beat, no one deserves that. now she is with my niece playing through the clouds :0 i always wanted to do that,lol
but i am soooo sorry for your family’s pain!!!!!!!!!!! my heart breaks everyday u had to Endure that HELL… IT GIVE ME GOOSE BUMPS SEEING ALL THE LOVE FOR YOUR LIL GIRL. AND i know it will be a painful road. but we are all here for u! you just call when u need us!!! oxoxoxox god bless beautiful momma!!! oxoxoxoxox i <3 you Layla!!!
God Bless all of you! It was great to meet y’all as I wish it could have been under different circumstances but unfortunately it was not. Please know that I still pray for y’all and Layla daily. I think about Layla all day every day and how I want to fight beside y’all… She has left an ever lasting impression on me. I have posted so much about her fight and how I was able to see what a wonderful, sweet, precious beautiful baby girl she was as I saw her through y’alls eyes. She went to heaven with a piece of my heart in her tiny little hands and left footprints on my heart making me know that I too need to help in the fight. When my kids get older, they will know about Layla and her journey. You were able to meet Skylar (16 1/2 mos) and Maygen (16 yrs) (my youngest and oldest) at Layla’s Celebration of Life. My son (almost 3 yrs) was with his daddy out of town at my in-laws. Riley knows of Layla as he has said he misses her yet he didn’t know her. I may live across town from y’all and y’all do not know me other than the emails and meeting briefly on Saturday but know that I am here to fight the battle with y’all… for Layla. I am passing on the awareness and know that there are so many that your precious Layla touched that are willing to fight beside y’all. You all were blessed to have such a wonderful baby girl even if only for a short time. Please keep us posted because I am ready to take the journey with you! I can tell you that when I make my way to heaven, I will open my arms to your baby Angel Layla just as I opened my heart for her here. RIP sweet baby girl Layla Grace. PRAYERS & Hugs for all 4 of you and your Angel above.
Sincerely,
Vanessa Higginbotham
I still think of you and your family every day…and I will continue to. I commute to work and in that peaceful hour I pray for your family. I gave my baby boy an extra hug before I left him in his baby crib last night, because I felt so sad thinking about Layla. The truth is any one of us could go home to the Lord at any given time – His time. I feel at peace knowing that you know where she is, and you know what you need to do to get there too. God will give you strength – just look to him always.
Take Care.
Thank you for alllowing us to follow you along this journey. Hearing Layla’s story as well as witnessing the strength of your amazing family gives us all hope. I pray for you all everyday. I would love to help spread awareness for Layla’s foundation and Neuroblastoma where I live (New Jersey) when it is up and running. Love to you all
Thanks for sharing Shanna, made me cry reading as you share your heart w/us. You could eventually write a book, to tell your story & touch even more lives. Wish I could do something to take away some of your pain. I think & pray for you all continually. “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Psalm 73:26 Much love from Round Rock,Texas
I have been following your story for just over a week and half. And I’m consumed. Your story continues to touch my life, as I pray daily for your sweet family. Your strength and devotion are amazing. I smile thinking of the balloon release, as I hear delightful squeels that were sure to come with it.
I hope you don’t mind, but I wrote a post on my blog, and dedicated it to Layla and your family. I also used one of your family photos you had posted on the blog, just a a visual.
Please let me know if you wish for me to remove either, and I will do so without hesitation.
May the Lord bless you and keep you, and may His face shine upon you.
I agree with the others you are truly an amazing family. I cannot imagine the grief you have…but the faith you have in God sure shines forth through that grief. I’ve thought of you a lot during these tough times and every time I think of you my prayers are with you….keep the faith. What a testimony are are and will be for others.
Over the past several weeks, thoughts of Layla and your family have consumed me. The world needs more people like Layla and her family. Your ability to share Layla’s journey with the rest of the world has completely reshaped my outlook as a parent and renewed my relationship with God. Layla’s spirit will continue to inspire me EVERY DAY in hopes to bring awareness and a cure for this disease. May God bless your family today and always, may He hold you close to His heart during this time of mourning, and may sweet little Layla rest eternally in peace with all the angels in Heaven.
Sending lots of love and hugs from Columbus, OH –
Jocelyn
God bless you and your family. Layla’s story grabbed me like no other ever has. Maybe it’s because my daughter is just about the same age. Thank you for sharing her story. It has forever greatly changed my life. I now count my blessings instead of my burdens. I truely believe that Layla is a messenger of God. A true Angel for sure. I pray for you and your family many times throughout the day, every day. I know lots of others do, too. And I pray that you and your family get a bit of comfort and strength from knowing that.
What great parents Layla had not a day goes by that I don’t think of her. I pray for all of you and in the days ahead. I know from losses myself that it will prolly hit you harder in 3 wks once things are starting to fall into the ” new normal” whatever that is. I do alot of crosstitching and I’m working on something very special for you. I have a blog post I want to email you on the day Layla died. It was from my 5 yr old. {{HUGS}} from Carson City , Nevada.We love you !!!!!!
Hugs! I think you you and your family every single day. Especially little Layla.
The pain your family has experienced makes me lose my breath. Your daughter is so beautiful and I’m so very heartbroken for you.
all of you are in my prayers.
Shanna,
I can’t even begin to imagine what you’re going through. I will continue to pray for you all every night. There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t thank Layla for what she brought to my life without even knowing it. I am a better Mom and I owe it all her. I sat here and cried looking at all of Layla’s pictures last night and kept asking myself why, why Layla, why any child? I don’t understand it, can’t wrap my head around it but yet you and your family are the ones this happened to and have become such an inspiration to me on how you can handle it with dignity and grace. May each day become a step closer to your new “normal” and that you not have to suffer much longer. God Bless you and sweet family and most of all Ms.Layla Grace. Her legacy will always live on through you and your family.
I have been so moved by so many things surrounding the life and passing of your precious girl. So many people have witnessed the divine hand of God in all that has surrounded you. I am amazed as I read post after post from Mothers who are forever changed simply because they were allowed a “peek” into the life on an AMAZING family and most especially an AMAZING girl. I pray God will continue to strengthen you, to give you His peace in His time, and to comfort you in ways that may be very unexpected. Layla and my husband share the same birthday (just 43 years apart:). We will remember her always. I so respect your tremendous efforts to make sure that Layla and all children living with cancer won’t ever be forgotten. God’s blessings to you today and always! You are loved!
Your story has impacted me in ways I cannot begin to describe and understand. I have to be honest, at first, I was so consumed and bothered by poor Layla’s battle that I could not stop crying for her and your family. It was just so tragic and upsetting that this precious angel was being taken away…it just did not seem fair. I am a new mom of a 6 month baby girl, Lola, and I just kept thinking, how would I get through something like that…to say I admire your strenght and faith is such an understatement! I spent 5 yrs working for the American Cancer Society and no story has ever had such an effect on me. I thought about why Layla’s story was so different and here is what I came up with:
1. Your precious baby looked so happy and not sick (all the time) her bubbly pesonality shined through her pictures, I think every mom saw a little bit of their own baby in your’s….that’s what made her story so special and personal
2. I know people die, life goes on, and everything is supposed to happen for a reason, BUT I just could not understand WHY Layla had to go….then I figured out why her passing bothered me so so much, it’s because it is not the natural order of things, babies just are not suppose to die, they are not suppose to suffer, it just isn’t SUPPOSE to happen…but sadly it does
3. Layla’s journey has really taken me on my own journey with God. At first I really questioned my faith, I questioned Him, now I have come full circle and realize Layla has done God’s work here and we are ALL blessed to know her story.
If you read all of this-THANK YOU, your daughter and family have been a true inspiration to me as a mother. Your story has raised awareness far and wide- GOD BLESS you and your family!!
Still praying for you and your family. May he keep giving you comfort and strength to take each day one at a time. I’m sure if you could ever amass every person that Layla has touched, you would be amazed. God Bless you Marsh Family!
You are an amazing mom. You’re girls are so lucky to have such a great mother. Since sweet Layla passed I find myself often staring at my baby’s things and just imagining having to look at them everyday if he wasn’t here. It’s so heartbreaking but I understand how you have to be strong and move on for your other girls. I also have a 10 year old little girl. I pray for Jenna and Claire. Dealing with a loss as great as theirs is extremly hard. But, they have 2 great parents to help them through. You all are helping each other heal. Layla will forever be remembered by sooo many. She has been a blessing given to the whole world to cherish and remind us how to love and live life. I thank you for the oppurtunity to follow you and your family through Layla’s struggle. She is still on my mind daily and I know she is up in heaven having fun (pain free) and waiting until she gets to be with you all again. God bless you all for everything you have been through and for everything you plan on doing to keep her memory alive.
I think about sweet baby Layla Grace every day, I cry for her every day, when I am at my work, driving home in the car, and late at night when I am rocking my 5 month old to sleep. Somewhere Over the Rainbow was the song in my head all day Saturday as I think about her and your family. I can’t begin to wrap my head around your unimaginable sorrow. I love her and I miss her and I don’t know her. I am a better mother because of her, I am more patient and kind, I hug them a bit longer and tighter now, and I thank God for them every day. After my sadness comes the anger…anger that something so evil and nasty can touch the pureness that is children. I am angry that beautiful Layla had to go through it. So let’s fight for all the beautiful Layla Graces out there. I look forward to hearing and reading about your BIG ideas. I will be a supporter in any way that I can (I live in the Spring area). My thoughts and prayers are constantly with you and your family and sweet baby Layla.
With much love,
Joanie
Reading your post brings tears to my eyes. I continue to keep your family in my prayers. . I bet the service was so touching and beautiful and I know she is loved and missed by all of you .
Hugs,
Wow, I just got chills reading this. No person should have to bury their child, especially when their child is still a baby. It breaks my heart everytime I think about this family and that beautiful little girl who fought a fight she shouldn’t have had to fight. But it’s only obvious where this bright little angel got her strength and beauty. I read her mother’s comments all the time and think about why there aren’t more people in the world like her. Instead of sounding defeated and angry, she always sounds so grateful to have what little time she didhave with her beautiful baby. It’s very inspiring and makes you wonder why someone as unselfish as her had to go through such a tragedy. There are no answers except to say that God must have a plan up in heaven for little Layla. As tragic and heart-wrenching as it is to see a child go through something like that, it should provide comfort to know that she is among angels now, free of any pain or heartache and that it will not be the last time her family will see her. They will all be reunited once again someday. Lot of prayers to this family as they try to get through this very difficult time in their lives. You all are not alone. You have thousands of people supporting you and praying for you. God bless…
Laura
You are such an inspiration as is Layla. The abundant faith you have teaches us to love what God has given us, for every day is truly a gift. The Lord has really led me to these wee ones (I am praying for direction right now on how I can help a little girl who lives very close to me that is currently undergoing treatment for Neuroblastoma). I believe you will go on to do wonderful things in Layla’s memory and she will be smiling down and guiding you graciously every step of the way.
Thank you for sharing your happiness and joy, sadness and grief with all of us. Know that many strangers mourn alongside your family and ask the Lord to hold you in the palm of His hand. I wish you so many blessings and deeply believe that your purpose on this earth will bring you complete Grace!
Through Grace,
Andrea
you
re an amazing woman Shanna! your story has touched my heart, and your lil girl hasinspired me to be the mother to my 2-yr old, realizing that he needs me everyday, and i need to be that strong young woman for him. I look @ my son, and I think about how strong you are to have filled such BIG shoes to be Layla’s mom. God made a right choice when he made you Layla’s momma! I thank you Shanna, you and your family for bringing me closer to my son, he is the reason i breathe and I wake up everyday. You are a phenominal woman, and God bless your strength, love, faith, and support for that wonderful LIL GIRl! Im so thankful I follow you on twitter, and in any way I can help, whether it be to send a dollar or some puzzles, I will. God Bless you and your amazing family! Love you LaylaGrace! <3
Shanna,
You, Ryan, Jenna and Claire are in my prayers daily! You have shown such strength and I see that comes from your relationship with the Lord. It is so good to know He is always there with His arms wrapped around you all tightly! May God give you comfort only He can give during this time of loss! I am proud of what you are planning to do in Layla Grace’s Memory and I know it will bring glory to God and help so many more families who are facing what you have already gone through! I know helping others will help ease your pain! Thank you for sharing your journey with all of us!
Your whole family is such an amazing testimony to God, His timing, and the way He works. I am so grateful to have read your story and to have been touched by Layla Grace and the Marsh family. I thank God for you ALL.
You are teaching me how to look at life differently and how to see God through it all (the good and the bad). Thank you for sharing your story and testimony. I will never be the same.
Thank you for sharing your story. Layla’s brief time in this world will be felt for many many years to come. Her life has shared grace, strength and patience with so many, and many more than you realize. You are truly an inspiration. Thinking and praying for you.
Let us know how we can help you with donations to the Childrens Hospital. Putting a smile on other childrens face’s is the least I can do for the impact Layla has made on my life. Thank you!
Your family and and Layla’s story has touched my life. I hug my boys a little tighter every chance I get. Thank you for sharing your journey! I will NEVER forget Layla!
Much love to you. I would love to say that in your situation, I would be able to carry on with such grace but I can’t. You are an amazing family with amazing children and the totally awesome thing is that you realize that. You are thankful and gracious through it all. Something that will always reward you. You have all been so strong and have carried it well but don’t forget that you can also be weak and lean on those that love you most. You are truly blessed.
Laya IS very blessed to have a mother and father like you two! I continue to pray for your family. I can’t wait for this foundation to begin. I have been deeply touched by what you have gone through. It has caused me to hug my children more, be more patient and spend even more time w/ them then I already have. It has also caused me to reach out more to others including trying to set up awareness for neuroblastoma in my area and partner with an area childrens hospital. I send my love and always know that Layla is watching down on you.
I have been following on Twitter and was dreading the day you sent that message that Layla had gone up to heaven. She was heaven sent and your story just made me want to hug and kiss my own little ones so much more. God Bless you all.
She is proud ! Like others that have posted Layla has consumed my thoughts and prayers, part of me still upset that God chose her to have the mission that she did and that he called her back, but he knows better than us and we have to trust.
Layla’s story has made me reflect on my relationship with God and most important my faith. She’s made me be a better mom to my kids.
I know that Layla’s death was not in vain when you see all the comments about the impact that she made, but I can’t even begin to imagine the physical loss that you and your family are going through.
Before I checked twitter constantly to see how she was doing, now I check to see how you and your family are doing.
Layla is very lucky to have you and Ryan as her parents and Jenna and Claire for her big sisters… I have been following Layla’s story for a while and i am so heartbroken for you guys! Your story and little Layla has touched my heart!!! I hold my children a bit a tighter!!! I also have a daughter that is 2 and everytime i look at her i think of your sweet little Layla! I have never had a child that has had cancer but i did volunteer at a childrens hospital on the oncology unit and it really puts life into perspective… There’s no guarentees about tomorrow and live life at the fullest! I hope one day they find a cure… I am going to school to be a pedatric nurse… and one day would love to work on the oncology floor! Praying for your family!
There’s that grace of yours that has touched me over and over. Layla has been proud of you since the day you had her, and it will never stop, and your other girls are just as proud, I’m sure of that. I will continue to pray that God continues to provide the strenght you need day by day, and know too, that it’s more than okay to lean on Him when you need. And all of us too. You have so many new friends that will be there in the future to support you in your endeavors. Blessings.
You are an amazing woman. I continue to pray for you and your family.
You and your family amazes me every day. I will continue praying for you all. I couldn’t even begin to imagine the sadness you are feeling.
You have inspired me, to say the least. I have to do a persuation paper for my english class and i have chosen to persuated people that a urine test for neuroblastoma should be required at every 6 month check up.
if anyone reads this post and has info for me, please e-mail me at jessicaboyd18@yahoo.com.
Beautiful. Made me cry my eyes out. I’m praying for you and your family everyday.
Rest Sweetly Layla Grace
I think about your family and Layla everyday. My heart is just breaking for your loss and I am in awe of your stregnth. No parent or child should every have to go through what you all have but know that you are keeping her memory alive with all the work you do to bring awareness to all of us. I had no idea what neuroblastoma was until I came across Layla’s story and for that I thank you. My thoughts and prayers are with you, your family and Layla.
Denise
I just want to say, “You go, Girl!!!!” You may have put yourself in the public “eye”, but you are a REAL MOM and a REAL WIFE. You are a REAL WOMAN who is going to make a difference. You will succeed in doing God’s work, and we pray for you daily that you can get past her room and step around her carseat and fold those stray outfits that come out of the dryer, and we do that so that you will have strength to continue living for yourself and for your family, but also for Layla. Everyone says how “bubbly” she is. Well, I know that she came by that honestly, because you’ve got it girl! You are on the right track, and you know to turn to HIM when that path gets dark!
Still Praying…..
Love, The Muzi’s
Metro Atlanta, GA
Shanna,
So much our hearts would like to say so hard to find the words, there’s nothing in this world that will ever bring you the same joy. Layla was so special to many of us, I really wish she was still here. She was such a beautiful and strong little girl and I’m sure she’s smiling down at you. You now have your personal guardian angel to watch for you, Ryan, and your two other beautiful girls. May the Lord continue to bless you with every memory of joy and that he may bring you the comfort you and your family needs. Always remember that your little angel did amazing things, in two years she did more than what some people ever did in 100 years. You were blessed with such a beautiful girl not only physically but through those beautiful blue eyes you could see a beautiful soul. I keep your family close to my heart I feel like you are part of my family. We are with you in this time of sorrow and I am here to help with Layla’s legacy she truly deserves that we put some effort into always remembering her. We’re with you in our thoughts and you’re with us in each player. Stay strong and always remember that there’s many who continue to pray for Layla and your family. God Bless.
I’m in tears. Your words are achingly raw; as a mom of a fifteen month old daughter – Ava – who shares the same middle name as Layla, every nerve of my body is acutely aware of how precious life is. I saw a photographer’s comments about supporting Layla on Gigi’s Photography Facebook site & when I clicked on your Twitter link, assuming to read about Layla’s fight, I burst into tears upon reading that ‘Layla had gone to play with the angels’. Never has news of someone I’ve never met struck me so powerfully: what wouldn’t I give to return your precious baby daughter to you. Through your blog, I’ve found http://www.littledivatutus.com & am looking into buying a Layla tutu for Ava to wear at her Naming Day this summer.
Her memory lives on in so many places, so many ways. I ache for you & I send love to your family.
I am sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
you know, i dont know you or layla, but ive actually cried almost every day, thinking of your family, and what your going through. I have alittle girl laylas age and without knowing of layla i had many opportunity to take things for granted, layla changed my and my fiance’s life. and we will forever love her!
im the one who made layla the angel doll and sent to her, i hope she loved it, and i raised 100 for the 1 teeshirt which was sent to her paypal. When i designed that angel doll, i dont think ive ever sewn anything with so much passion and love, my daughter was hugging and kissing it, and i felt that this doll would give layla some of the strength and comfort through the energy of my daughter, werid i know, but i guess it was a deperate attempt at trying to make her be in peace. i know it isnt much but every little helps, im in the process of moving, but id love to donate these shirts, make some for your girls, and to sell again to raise money for her foundation, im so proud that your holding on and keeping her legacy alive. I have some amazing customers, and they suported me in helping raise oney for layla and im sure they will continue, if you need ANYTHING please let me know, as id love to help out more and sew my little heart out for the sake of all the other little children walking down laylas road.
You are a huge inspiration to me and how I want to be perceived in my children’s eyes. I am in awe of the strength that you have. I pray for you (and family’s in similiar situations) each day.
I think what you are doing to keep Layla’s Legacy living is beautiful, and I’m sure she is already proud.
I’m glad you are still tweeting and keeping us posted. Yall are always in the back of my mind.
Thank you!
Gabby
You are so strong, keep going and know that we are all thinking about you!
Love from Austin.
You are amazing…layla will always live on through you. I cant wait to hear more details and start to help spread the word on a wonderful cause. Thank you again for sharing Layla’s story.
you have all come a long way in one week. It may not feel like it now, but it will soon. I’m glad to hear that you’re going to start a foundation and raise more awareness of your daughter’s illness. There is not one day that I don’t think of your family. I wish I could have come to Layla’s celebration. It sounds like it was a beautiful event.
*I also got an email back saying that you appreciate the photo I sent you (the one with the picture of layla and song beside her) I sent your comment to my sister in law who edited it. She’s really glad that she redesigned it for you.
-Laura
Your family is amazing. Even though I know it must have taken all of your strength and will to write this post, you do it with such grace.
As you said, life DOES go on and each day things WILL get easier and easier. And, each day you will have more and more energy to spread awareness for this cause. Both of my parents worked at St. Jude Children’s Hospital and they always described how their emotions would be in constant turmoil … one minute estatic to see a miracle patient cured … and distraught the next to see a sick child losing his/her battle. I know that you guys are doing everything possible to see that each precious child is cured. God Bless You!!
Prayers and Hugs from Georgia,
Lauren
I pray that I never have to feel the heartache that you and you’re family are feeling right now.
You are all amazing. You, the girls, and Daddy.
Layla is living on is so many people.
I wish you could hold your sweet baby one more time. I wish you could see her new body and know that she was ok.
Please keep us updated with any events you are doing for the Children’s Hospital.
We are all with you and want to help all these babies to smile.
Thank you, thank you, thank you, for sharing your beautiful and inspirational family with us.
Lifting you up.
Just want you to know that I think of little Layla every day and your family. I hope for nothing but strength for you all in the coming days, months and years. Thank you for sharing your story.
I pray and think of your family constantly. You are so strong. i dont know how you do it. I have children of my own and couldnt imagine going through this. Layla Grace is im sure very proud of you. I continue to follow you as to see how your family is healing. God bless and stay strong.
I am humbled by your courage.
i am so sorry for your loss and you are such a brave woman in my eyes. keep being strong for your other daughters. i’m praying for you
your strength inspires me every day. it’s difficult to imagine being in your position because unless you live it, you aren’t able to understand it fully. i pray that through your family and others like yours, more awareness is created and less families will have to feel and understand the heartache like you do. my little cousin is just two days younger than layla, and it breaks my heart to think that this pain could happen to someone so young. i am so sorry for your loss, although that does not even begin to soothe the pain.
God Bless.
I’m at a loss for words, but I would like to say that my heart and thoughts go out to you and the rest of your family. Ryan, Jenna and little Claire. And as Jennifer stated earlier… Layla is ALREADY proud!!
I just want to say that I just recently found this story through a friend of mine, about three weeks ago. The posts were hard to read. I cried for hours the first night I read them. Then about 10 days ago in class we were talking about cancers, and I brought up Layla and her fight. It was really amazing to see how many people were interested just from me telling it. Then a few days later I told the class Layla had made her journey to heaven. It was really sad to have gotten in on this tword her final weeks, but I feel just as connected as everyone who’s listened. You have amazing strength. I’m a 26yo male, and still not ready for kids, and I think you two are amazing. Much love from Oklahoma.
-JR
Your strength and courage are absolutely amazing…you are an inspiration to all of us! Keeping you in our prayers:)
My daughter and I pray for stregnth and healing for your family every night. She is two weeks younger than Layla and so many things you have said in your blogs and twitters have really hit home with me. As everyone has said here, Layla’s story, through you and your husband, has really touched my life and has defintiely raised my awareness to childhood cancer.
I volunteered at Bo’s Place before I had my daughter and surely you all know about it from TCH. They do great work for grieving parents and children.
Layla’s story has touched my life and changed it as well. I will continue to pray for your family and hope that more funding for cancer research will be provided as a result of Layla’s legacy.
I think about you and your family quite a lot. I absolutely love the idea of turning Layla’s room into a quiet room. That is beautiful.
And I love that you plan to donate toys and paints and other things to the hospital. I think you are off to a great start, filling up those shoes.
Hugs…
I got the privilege to follow Layla’s story about 3 weeks prior to her departure to dance with the angels. I have a 2 yr old son that was born the exact same day/year as Layla and it breaks my heart that you and your family have had to experience what you are going through. I continue to think about Layla and pray for your family. Your family has been such an inspiration to me and Layla has helped me learn to appreciate life and to be more patient with my son. I will continue to think about her and will remember her through my son and she will hold a special place in my heart.
May God Bless you and your family and may you always remember the wonderful memories that were made.
Layla is already proud of ya’ll!!! I think about Layla every day!! She is a beautiful soul!!!
Shanna,
I’m sure right now as I write Layla is splashing in the crystal sea! She is surrounded by the uncomprehensable beauty and glory of heaven. Her first thought might have been, “Look MOMMY no more pain!!” The streets of gold and diamond sapphire walls I’m sure she IS absolutely loving it!! There is no time there so when you and Ryan are reunited with her she won’t know how long it has been. I pray for your new journey in life and that the authority of Jesus Christ will give you a double portion of strength and power to spread His word and the saving grace He offers…..through Layla’s story and life.
Love,
The York Family Lee’s Summit, MO
You are such an amazing amazing family and I am so thankful to have found your story and this blog because as Layla has touched so many strangers she has done the same for my family. Although we don’t know you, we love you all… I know that sounds so strange but its true. We will continue to follow your story and give support in any way we can to help spread the word of Neuroblastoma.
Thoughts and prayers from Clarksville, TN
as a fellow mom, i can’t believe how you are handling all of this. You guys are nothing but corageous, brave, gracious, strong, and kind. To think of other’s on the day of Layla’s celebration? God has a special place in heaven for families like yours. I truly have shared thru prayer and heartache, every time you tweet i smiled, held my breath, prayed, cried. May god continue to bless you. Know many of us love you and keep you lifted in prayer, even though we’ve never met.
Shanna, you are an amazing woman and such an inspiration. Layla must be so proud of you.
God bless you and your beautiful family. xx
Those beautiful blue eyes have left an imprint in my heart. Praying for your family, Shanna.
I struggle to even find adequate words to say to you and your family. I know you have heard it time and time again but your strength is AMAZING and shows the pure love of God. He is very evident in your life! Your family and your precious Layla have changed my life. I cant tell you how many times I have just cried for sweet Layla and felt a glimpse of your heartache. I too can only imagine and in that imagination, it sure does hurt for you..I am so terribly sorry for your family. Layla was a true Angel on Earth, here for a purpose, and it was greatly fulfilled. The fact that you have the strength to carry out her purpose and her legacy, im sure, holds a tremendous blessing from God! Your graciousness in sharing your little angel has done nothing but make me a better person and a better mother. I too will hold my babies a little longer and treasure the time I have here with them bc we never know when God will call them home. I woke up this morning and the first thing I thought was wow, its been a week since Layla passed, I wonder how they are holding up. So I was glad to see your update. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing. God has blessed me abundantly in my life and I pray that whatever blessing He has in store for me next, He give to you and yours! You deserve it! I love your family…*hugs*
Just a quick note to let you know I’ve been thinking of you all today, as I do every day. It’s hard to believe days are actually passing when my heart aches just as much for Layla and all of you as it did when I first read your story and heard of Layla playing with angels. Time for me has literally stood still. At first I wasn’t sure if this was good or bad, but I’ve decided it’s a good thing. Layla’s story has had the biggest of impacts in my life and I’ll carry that with me always. Through Layla I have learned a new found appreciation for….LIFE. I feel like I grew up and was taught appreciation in general and am proud of how I was raised with the ability to appreciate what I had. One thing I didn’t appreciate as much as I should have is what GOD has done for me. He gave himself for me. And everyone. I hate that is had to be through your tragedy for me to realize I wasn’t appreciating my faith like I should. Layla did so many wonderful things in her short journey. God sure pieced together an absolutely wonderful family who is finding meaning in everything, and changing to many peoples lives. On behalf of the thousands of people you’ve touched, Thank you Layla. Thank you Marsh Family.
The Witbecks
Frankenmuth, MI
I just want to say thank you for bringing a true angel into the world. Layla and you have saved my life. Before I read about Layla and your family a few months ago, I never prayed. I believed in God, but never prayed. But after hearing about Layla I started praying and giving thanks everyday,more than once a day. Now these last few weeks have been the hardest time in my life and I believe God and Layla have carried me through it. I was so depressed, I actually thought about suicide. Had I not found Layla, I never would have prayed, and never been at peace with my situation. I just wanted to give up, but I kept thinking about Layla and how strong she was, and how strong your family is and I know I have to keep going because my struggle isn’t half as bad as yours. You are two very strong people. You’re an amazing family. I wish I could give you a great big hug. Thank you again for sharing your sweet angel with the world. Thank you for saving my life. Layla is sooo proud of you both
Your posts are always so powerful. The words you share along with the feelings you put behind them shine through and for each word I read, I can feel the emotion that went into writing them. I’m also the mother of 3, and a mother of a nearly 2 year old, I can’t even begin to imagine what you have been going through and your strength and faith continue to amaze me. Many would have thrown up their hands a long time ago and denounced their faith for much less. Time will both stand still for you and also speed so fast. Time does heal, however it also leaves scars. Those scars are your memories. I know you’ll wear those scars with pride, you’ll proudly “show” others and share Layla’s story. Just as importantly, I’m 100% sure you will fulfill her legacy and Layla will not have died in vain. Layla lives on in every person her story has touched and is yet to touch.
Your family are truly inspirational. Praying for peace…
Your precious family and Layla continue to be in my prayers and in my thoughts daily. I can’t imagine your pain, but I know that God does. It comforts my soul to know that she rests in His arms. I hope that the void in your life will be filled with God’s love and the legacy you are beginning with Layla’s foundation.
I imagine you have hundreds of emails, but I sent you one with an idea for Laylas blankets and clothes. My dear friend died from pancreatic cancer last month at the age of 30. She left behind 3 small children. Her mother took her clothes and made teddy bears for the kids and a blanket for her husband. As you go through Layla’s things, this might be an idea that would bring comfort to your girls. Having a Layla teddy bear would be a nice thing to cuddle with when they are missing her.
Again, you all will continue to be in my prayers as you are all part of the family of Christ. What a sweet reunion we will have one day with Layla.
You have made a difference in my life for sure and for opening eyes to childhood cancer, you’ve turned me into an awareness advocate. My daughter who I have mentioned to you before, now has a GI appointment in a week. That is because of Layla and because you shared her with the world. My son was happy to send balloons up to Laya and really wanted her to come down and play with him for his birthday.
All I can say is you amaze me. In the midst of such great sorrow, you continue to show such grace. Thank you for reminding me that even though sometimes the answer is no, that God is still good. Layla is smiling in Heaven, I am sure.
I know Layla is definitely proud. I know just because of what you’ve already done I will never forget her or forget about Nueroblastoma. I can’t wait to see what you do with her foundation…that will be one of my lifetime charities that I will donate to and work for. I’m a photographer and I’m not sure how I can tie that in, but some day I will use it to help your foundation and carry on Layla’s memory and work. Thank you for sharing sweet Layla with us. I think about her and your family daily and continue to pray for you all.
I am still praying for you all!! Your sweet little baby girl touched my heart so deeply.
~Heather
I’ll never forget the day I first read of Layla…it was February 12th. Since that day, her beautiful face has been on my mind. I joined twitter just to get her updates. There were days that were difficult to read, b/c I just couldn’t understand why she had to suffer the way she had. There were days that we rejoiced, and a glimmer of hope still existed. Unfortunately, her end to suffering and pain didn’t end the way we had all prayed. For better understanding, I read comments on your blog, and FB. Then I found Pastor Michael’s blog. His words were comforting and helped get a better understanding of why your child affected me so greatly.
I will forever be grateful to your family for allowing us in to share in Layla’s journey. I know it all started with you spreading information so that others could be informed and pray for Layla, but what you did was bring so many people together. That’s what Layla did. My words cannot even explain how appreciative I am.
I will continue to pray for your family…today, tomorrow, always. Beautiful Layla will always be in my heart and inspire me. I am in nursing school, and was always wanting to work in pediatrics. Now, I know what specialty I’m meant to work in.
Thank you again for your touching words, they have brought me many tears, and some smiles. I pray God will give you strength as each day goes by and you are faced w/ all her personal belongings. She is surely watching over you and the family, and smiling proudly at all you are accomplishing in her honor.
Much love from Austin
Yvonne
I’m glad the celebration was so beautiful. I, too, have been grieving for Layla. I can’t stop crying. I hope this pain eases for all of us.
I have no doubt that you will carry on Layla’s Legacy beautifully. She, and the world, will be so proud. I and so many of your friends are here for you. I’m ready to help carry out the legacy as well. You say the word and I will definitely be there to help.
XOXO – see you Friday!!
I agree with so many of these comments. Layla is definitely proud of her Mommy and Daddy. She smiles down on you all each and every day, and though I know it hurts to know you will never see her smile, or hear her voice, I am so glad that you are determined to help other families get through this journey.
She has been an inspiration to me, as have you and the rest of your family.
I pray for you all each and every day.
I was able to release a pink balloon for Layla too…clear from Ohio! Haha. I can imagine the smile on her face, and the only way that I know her is through this blog.
God Bless and keep you all!
Huge hugs!
Thank you for this beautiful post. I have thought often of Layla and of each of you, and usually tears come unbidden; more came reading your post. I’m glad you cry with your children, what better way to help them deal with their loss and their emotions.
And like others have said, Layla is already proud of you – what you have already done for her while she was here with you and how you have handled these days so far. I’m sure she loved the celebration for her and the beautiful balloons released for her! It’s hard to think of her not with you, but wonderful that she is in God’s arms.
My heart will continue to go out to you through the days and years ahead. Beautiful angel with a beautiful legacy, to be remembered.
….I picked up my 4yr old daughter frm school today….her teacher told me that she had a bad day of time-outs and not listening! usually I would yell, get very angry, and she would cry…today, the way I parent is different. Ever since the first day I heard of layla(about a month ago) my world and the way I do things, has changed! I talk to my daughter, explain things, quiet time-outs….I’m not perfect but with u and ur family in my heart, I want to be better, a lot better! I will try as hard as I can in layla’s honor…for the sake of mine and my daughter’s relationship! That is just a small part of what ur story has done for me! Thank u so much for sharing–my prayers will always be with u
I agree….Layla is already proud of you! As Layla’s foundation flourishes I would be honored to help in making neuroblastoma as well known as other childhood cancers.
I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive. Acts 20:35
Layla and her entire family have given so freely and I would love the chance to give back to all of you! Thank you for continuing to share your lives, you will remain in my prayers always!
Melissa
Oklahoma
Thank-you for sharing. I find myself thinking of little Layla and your family every day, at random times, off and on throughout the day. Layla has allowed me to have more patience and more tolerance for the sometimes crazy things my 2-year old daughter comes up with. She is 4 months younger than Layla. I cannot imagine the heartache your family is experiencing and I wish there was something that could be done to take that pain away and bring Layla back. Thank-you for sharing Layla’s story with us. It has forever changed soooo many people as evident in her Twitter and FB groupies! God Bless you all.
Many prayers from Rochester, Minnesota
Thank you so much for sharing Layla and your family with the rest of us. I am so thrilled that you will be starting a foundation in Layla’s name. The Layla Grace Foundation is now at the top of my list of causes that my family and I will support… Anybody that comes within shouting distance of me will know about Layla and Neuroblastoma. I pray that Layla’s foundation will become the Susan G Komen of childhood cancer… You are in our daily prayers.
Your strength inspires me so much!! We are still praying for all of you here in Kentucky. What a beautiful legacy you will be living!! Love and prayers to you all!! Can’t wait for more details for your plans, and the photos and music from Layla’s celebration. God Bless you!!
I’ve been thinking about all of you a lot this past week. I’m sending you a million hugs and lots of love. I’ll continue to pray for peace, comfort, love and understanding for all of you as you continue down this road.
Layla wants you to be happy and laugh. She is smiling down on all of you wishing you could see her NOW, healthy, strong and happy. One day you will but I know it will feel like an eternity until then. I seriously think you should write a book using the blog entries and other stories about Layla and sell them and donate the proceeds to Neuroblastoma research. I know it would be a success because Layla captured the hearts of so many around the world and you wrote the entries so well and drew us in and made us feel, to some extent, what you were feeling. That is just an idea. I still pray for your family everyday for God to bring you all comfort and healing.
Shanna, your family has been in my thoughts everyday, almost every minute of those days. You are truly inspirational. I cannot imagine what you are going through but want you to know that I will help do whatever I can to make sure that Layla is remembered and that her death is not in vain. God bless all of you.
Hugs, Jenn
God bless you and your family, God has really given you all incredible strength. I pray that you, your husband and your little ones will get through this tough time easily day by day. Little Layla is now resting and watching over ya’ll (your personal guardian angel)!! I’m claiming it in Jesus name right along with you that funding will become available for research/cure for neuroblastoma. Your journey with Layla has been an eye opener for so many and she’s touched the lives of so many…wow, what a little miracle worker
. I will continue to pray for your family, thank you for continuing to post (I really do look forward to them, as so many others do too)!
I feel ashamed to say that I tried in the beginning to avoid reading about Layla. It scares me…the thought that it can happen to any child at any time. But I couldn’t help it, I would see her sweet face everywhere, and I did read. Every day, and every new post. I knew what was coming, and my heart broke for you just the same. The pain you feel every day is one I hope to never experience. I pray daily for your pain to be eased. I pray that you and your girls and husband are a constant comfort to each other in Layla’s absence. And while I pray for these things I think about how it just doesn’t seem to be enough. What would be enough in your situation?
I have two young children aged 19 months and 3 years…I can’t even put myself in your shoes for more than the briefest of seconds without losing my breath. What you’ve endured and continue to endure is something no family should ever have to. The fact that you are going to bring awareness to more families is truly inspiring. I want to be involved. I’m not certain if you ever respond or email to anyone who comments here, but I absolutely would love to know how I can do my part for your family in helping to spread the word regarding this ugly disease.
While her life was so brief, she was so very blessed to be loved the way you love her. The way you all love her. She will live on in what you are creating, and in your memories. God bless you and your family. My heart is so heavy with her every day.
Thank so much for continuing to share your blog with all us strangers. You have no idea how much her little life has impacted so many of us. There is not a day, probably hour that you, your family and Layla don’t come to mind. And when this happens my heart aches for all of you. I can’t begin to imagine what you are all feeling, but what I can do is ask our sweet Lord to fill you with unimaginable peace.
It has been weird, but this week I keep hearing the name Layla EVERYWHERE, in books, tv shows, songs…even when I hear my son Jacob call his sister Milla, to me it has sounded many time as if he is saying Layla. You have all been in our prayers and last night Jacob during bed time prayers asked if he could pray for you guys. He is only 4, but from what I have told him about your journey and Layla, he feels like her little friend. Tonight I will ordering the Layla Grace Tutu and hope that when people around us see it, they will ask about it. I will be honored to tell them Layla’s story and about Neuroblastoma. Her legacy will live on. Many hugs and kisses from the Bozovich family. God bless you!
You are an amazing woman, with an amazing family! I can’t imagine the pain you must be going through. I truly admire your strength and courage!
I look forward to hearing more about the foundation! I’ll never forget Layla’s story…
Ryan & Shanna~
You are such an inspiration to me. Your strength, courage and faith during such a difficult time in your life blows me away! If my husband & I can be half the parents that you both are, I will know that we are doing something right.
As I read not only your memories of her celebration of life, but the others, I know you have made Layla proud, as the celebration sounded absolutely gorgeus and I wish I would’ve been able to be there. I saw pictures of the balloon release and it gave me an idea. There is a BEAUTIFUL flower garden in the city that I live in and I know that you have said how much Layla loved flowers. So, on her birthday, I am going to the flower garden with some balloons and I will say a little prayer and release the balloons up to heaven for her to celebrate her first birthday with Jesus!
Thank you for letting so many of us into your lives and introducing us to Layla. She taught us so much in her short time here on earth. I remember hearing Ryan on the radio a couple days after Layla’s passing and something that he said really hit home for me. He said “Shanna & I were honored to have borrowed Layla from God” and that right there shows how strong your faith is and how she was an angel, a “gift from god” from the very beginning!!!!
I admire you for pushing onward for the many voices of Neuroblastoma. Alot of people really want to do something, but dont’ know where or how to start, but I can tell with your determination, you will start something and it will be HUGE and I hope to be a part of “Layla’s Legacy”!! Cancer is something no one should go through, especially sweet babies like Layla Grace and I hope there is a cure for childhood cancer and all the other cancers VERY SOON!!!! I know you will do AMAZING things in Layla’s memory, to carry on her sweet soul and make her happy in heaven. If there is ANYTHING at all that I can do, PLEASE let me know because even though I never got to personally meet Layla, I want her memory to carry on.
God Bless Ryan, Shanna, Jenna & Claire <3 <3 <3 <3 <3
I have been consumed with this story and only found about Layla a few days before her passing. I think of Layla often, checking the posts throughout each day and listening to new videos created in her honor on Youtube. I can’t even imagine how you, Ryan, Jenna, and Claire are feeling, but just know that the world is behind you. I have donated on this site, bought items from Montana Bear Food, and just yesterday bought a Layla Grace hat. If you ever do any fundraising out in the Boston area I would love to help!
It is just amazing to read your words. Even after this horrific tragedy, you are able to get through a day with God’s love. How special it is that you have found such strength and faith in God. I’m so sorry for the loss of your daughter, and hope that God continues to help you heal.
As great as your lost has been… your family amazes me with such courage, strength and hope you show through God’s love! Layla was blessed to have you as her parents, as are Jenna and Claire. I pray you feel the love of God surround you during the coming months and years. I look forward to seeing the Celebration of Life and the pictures you plan to post! My thoughts, prayers and tears from Colorado, were with you that day and continue so day by day. Layla was a special little girl with a message, who won so many hearts in her short, precious life… and now is a special little angel so proud of her mommy and daddy! God Bless all of you.
you are fantastic and Jenna and Calire are lucky to have you as a mummy.
Your family is always on my mind. I will never ever forget sweet Layla, or your family. Still praying for you and will continue to do so. Layla is so proud of you. I’m sure she is playing in Heaven right now.
A picture of your sweet girl is still the background picture on my computer….. because through a wild way of wonder, though I didn’t know her personally, she still meant (and means) a lot! She was beautiful in every way. I keep her there for a tribute really, and a reminder for ya’ll… so I dare forget to pray for you, her sisters, her family and friends. She may not have graced us with her presence long on this planet, but in the little time that she did she impacted many and her wonder still lives on.
Ya’ll are still very much in my prayers!
Dear Marsh Family,
You had me balling like a baby in this post. When I forward it to my girlfriends who have been following y’all like me they will too! Just remember that you have a HUGE EXTENDED Family now and we thank you for sharing your family & letting us strangers into your lives. I to this day get on Twitter 1st thing in the morning to look for updates. I hope that you will continue to post updates & this blog. I know we haven’t seen each other in years in Bailadoras but I am right there with you in this sad time. Following you & Layla for all these months now has made me a MORE patient mother to my 2 boys. Since she passed all I do is hug & kiss them non-stop and miss them like crazy when I am at work. I can’t wait to see the pics and audio of the service. I continue to pray & think about you all everyday a thousand times. I hope & know you will find strength to get through these rough times. All my love you you, Ryan, Jenna, Claire & precious ^^LAYLA GRACE^^. Keep up the great work and keep us all posted on the progress!!!
Forever thoughts & prayers your way,
Janessa (Irvin) Purcell & family & friends
Shanna, I think of you and your family daily. I am so thankful God brought Layla and your family into mine. I want you to know I want to help in any way possible when you get started on awareness for neuroblastoma and other cancers. I will be a tool you can use when the time is right, so please remember this. Much love and prayers to your family:)
Bless you, Shanna. You will make a difference in this world in your daughter’s name because I’m confident your foundation will do for this cancer what Susan G Komen did for breast cancer. You will save lives doing God’s – and Layla’s – work. I have faith in you and I’m infinitely inspired by you. Please let me know when you start a Dallas chapter because I will volunteer to help you make that difference.
I know that your beautiful girl is already so proud of you. She will be there for you always, and she’ll keep a special place in many hearts around the world.
I also agree with the previous entry. I think you all should write a book about your journey. I would buy it for sure.
Shanna – I think of beautiful Layla Grace all the time. I see her smiling amazing pictures and I cry. The strength you and Ryan have outwardly expressed has been a wonder to behold. I am sure, in the quiet moments (and the not so quiet ones) that the strength disappears and the despair hits full force. I can only imagine. I hold my daughters tight, pary for their health and happniess and cherish every single second with them – all because of Layla.
My mind cannot comprehend how such a beautiful little girl is just no longer here to laugh, to giggle, scream, shout and love. Unfair doesn’t even begin to address it
I keep you and your family in my thoughts and hope that you find comfort in carrying on her legacy.
Tausha W.
Fremont, CA
Your family is amazing! I just found laylagrace.org last week and spent many hours in tears reading the different entries. I find myself thinking about Layla daily and I start to cry. I have been very touched by your precious angel. I am the mother of a sweet 18-month girl and I can’t imagine what you and your family are going through but just know you are surrounded by prayers. I am so inspired by Layla that I am going to volunteer some of my time at our local children’s hospital. Please know that your story has reached and helped so many, thank you. God bless you and your family.
I first learnt of your little Layla through Sophie Atay, facebook but like many, I feel you are all an inspiration to us all. My mum has an incurable but treatable cancer and to watch her when she is going through treatment is tough and I can only imagine how much harder it must be to watch your young child. I do my part over here in England to support cancer research, I am doing my second relay for life in July. One day, in our children’s or grandchlidrens lifetime there will be a cure for these nasty diseases. Keep strong. I have a five (today is his birthday) year old and I know what a precious gift our children are. Love to you all x x x x
“Never doubt that a small group of committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
-Margaret Mead
You know that you indeed have a small group of committed people behind your family and the foundation you are starting in Layla’s name. She is so proud of you, and I’m sure she is just as amazed by your strength as the rest of us are.
This post made me cry for how all of you are hurting. It made me grateful at how much you are willing to share with so many strangers. It made me determined to be a part of the fight against Neuroblastoma.
I pray for your family every day. Know that you are always being lifted up to God, even when it feels like the floor is falling out from under you.
My heart goes to you and your family. I have been following Layla’s story about a month ago and like everyone else’s she has touched my heart too. Last night I couldn’t go to sleep and I was thinking about Layla and your family and I was thinking that you are a very special family because God has hand picked you for a very special purpose and that is how you are able to be so strong because with God anything is possible.
Romans 11:36
For from him and through him and to him are all things.
God Bless you
Still thinking about you guys a lot and praying for strength for all of you. I know this is the hardest part, after she’s gone and everyone is back to their everyday life, but just remember we’re all always thinking about you guys and Layla.
Incredibly beautiful post.
I have followed Layla’s journey for about a month now and I often find myself checking your twitter for a new comment or update. I have daily thoughts of your Layla and I have never personally seen her face. Her perfect little life has impacted mine in ways I could only begin to try to explain. The pictures of her I have printed out and the “Rock for Layla” bracelet that I now wear everyday will serve as daily reminders for the life lessons your Layla has taught me. I cannot help but recite the Matthew 25:23 scripture you quoted in one of your previous blogs, especially when I think of Layla.
His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’
Layla continues to do God’s will even though her earthly body is no longer with us. The hundreds and hundreds of comments, messages and stories you are receiving are proof of that. Your daughter was an Angel on loan. She brought me and many others closer to our Lord. She reminded mothers & fathers to hold their children tighter. She taught us not to sweat the small stuff and to enjoy life’s “little moments” along with so many other lessons. WELL DONE LAYLA GRACE!!
Shanna you and Ryan are truly an inspiration. Your grace and strength is unfathomable to me. I know God chose you two to be His helpers with Layla for a reason.
Thank you for your perseverance and your mission. Just you posting Layla’s symptoms on here has heightened the awareness of so many to this monster. You are no doubt earning your “Well done you good and faithful servant…”
Thank you, God bless you and I’m still praying for you!
Tiffany E.
McKinney, TX
Layla’s life and story will continue to live on in my heart and life.
Your story has touched so many people. I live about 4 hours south of ya’ll near Corpus Christi. My family visited our lakehouse on Saturday. (probably about the same time you had Layla’s celebration) We searched all over that small town for a place that sold balloons. We finally found some. We each got one. We got to the house and walked to the end of the pier. By this time my 3 year old was beaming. She knew we were going to send some pretty pink balloons up to heaven for a precious little girl to play with. So my husband, my daughters (3 year old and 10 month old) and I counted to 3 and let them go at the same time. And in that moment, we said a little prayer, held each other tight, and shed some tears for your amazing family. Thank you for that moment. Thank you for sharing your lives with all of us. I will carry your story in my heart for the rest of my life.
Thanks so much for sharing your journey. We continue to keep your family in our thoughts and prayers. May God bless you on your new “journey!”
I have been following your story for quite some time now. My son passed from a choroid plexus carcinoma (brain tumor) at Texas Children just 2 months before his 4th birthday. The loss is extreme
We are only vulnerable through our children. We eagerly throw up our hands they day they are born and hand them our heart. Two years of memories will be all you have for a lifetime. I wish for you the day that those memories bring smiles as often as tears.
Sweet Jeanna and Claire, this journey has ended and a new one has begun without your little sister by your side to teach and hold her hand. But know that the sun on your back is her shining down on you, the wind in your hair is her blowing kisses to you and the raindrops on your face are her tears when she misses her sweet big sisters.
Layla, brave soul and pure heart, Rest in peace little one. You are your parents hero. Shine down on them and show them the love and peace that surrounds you.
Our heartfelt and deepest Sympathy,
Jessica
You and your family are so inspiring and strong. God blessed me with Layla’s story, thank you!
I cannot imagine what your family is going through. I am praying for your entire family. I think it is wonderful that you are making her room a “quiet room” for reading a prayers. This is a wonderful way to keep Baby Layla Grace’s memory alive. I think about Layla many times during the day. Thank you for sharing all your pictures, and I look forward to the audio. It sounds like the celebration of life was beautiful. Much love from New Orleans.
Shanna, our hearts are broken. I admire your strength. Layla’s Legacy will always be. She will always be used by God to touch others. My prayers are now focused on you and you family. I pray for your peace, I pray for your healing. I know you will never get over this. You are so blessed to have had Layla, she was a special gift from God to those who met her and those who did not. Layla is just absent, she is not dead, she lives in God’s Playground, with so many other kids.
Just remember Jesus Loves You and your family.
Hugs, Maj.
Your family’s faith has been an inspiration to me and my husband. We are going through medical issues with my husband, not cancer, but sometimes it seems too much to handle. Thank you for reminding me that our God is bigger than any disease. Know that your family is in my prayers daily and I’m very excited to see what Layla’s foundation will accomplish. Love and Prayers from Savannah.
wow… just wow… her celebration of life sounded amazing. I know she was smiling down on all of you.
What a great way to keep Layla in the girls lives!
Can’t wait to hear the audio
Brittani,
God Bless
Your story and family’s strength has touched me. Know that Layla is smiling down upon you. I will continue to pray for you and your family.
I know I didn’t personally know Layla, but I miss her too.
Thank you for posting so soon after Layla’s death. You are doing everything the right way, although there is no wrong way to grieve. It is wonderful that you cry with the girls and that they know that they can talk about Layla all they want. It has been almost four years since we lost our son and his is now another brothers room but all of Tomas’ stuff is still on the wall, the same posters, the same poems that he wrote. For us, it is important that we live in this house where he lived for all of his 15 years.
Layla is in my thoughts all the time. Tomas is in my thoughts all the time. But I will tell you that the pain softens, but it never goes away. Tonight I have a TCF meeting which is always heartbreaking but I want to be there for the newly bereaved. I understand your feelings about giving back and about her legacy.
Never stop talking about Layla. The friends that can’t deal with it were never true friends.
Your strength is an inspiration to all. Life does go on and that is the hard part. hugs, Rachel
Bless you, Shanna, for your courage. Your words and thoughts illuminate every day and lead us into the mission of what it is to care for others even while your own heart is fractured in a million pieces.
Layla Grace is so proud of Mommy, Daddy, Jenna and Claire. Thank you for keeping your strength up in order to keep us informed of your feelings, struggles and plans for the future…because Layla has not left you; she guides you now!
I’m sure that Layla is so incredibly proud of you. I will continue to pray for your family to have peace. You know Layla must be watching over you and smiling at what great things you are doing in her name. Neuroblastoma is already more well known because of Layla and that’s just the beginning. Thank you for being such and inspiration to us all and for letting us all share part of your lives.
Thank you for posting another blog…as many others have stated, it is something I have been looking for daily. Even though I do not personally know your family, I still pray a few times daily for God to continue to give the much needed strength to all of you. Your sweet little angel has left a place in my heart that will never leave. Hugs to all of you and I look forward to continue to read future posts and hearing about a foundation set up in Layla’s name.
God Bless,
Denise in Pennsylvania
I have been praying peace for your family and I want to say how brave you are to share your thoughts and feelings. I have also experienced a loss and it took me a long time to talk about it. God is with you and you are going to do great things for many children! I didn’t know Layla but I know that she is a very special little girl and she is proud of you.
Thinking of your family daily….
Your story has changed me so much for the better. I continue to pray for the Marsh family daily.
Thank you Layla….for everything.
Tracy in Friendswood
I don’t have words for you that you haven’t already heard from thousands. God Bless you, your husband, and your two beautiful daughters as you travel this new journey together. May he give you strength and grace (although it is clear that you already possess it
**Hugs** from St. Louis.
Layla and your family have been, are, and will always be in our hearts, thoughts, and prayers. This journey is not over and many of us, myself included, want to continue to be a part of this journey offering as much love and support as we can.
Your blogs and Twitter updates are so important to us. We, too, miss Layla….a lot. It’s so hard to explain the profound, deep impact your two-year old daughter–a complete stranger to the majority of us–has had on us and our loved ones. Your daughter CHANGED lives. Your daughter helped rekindle our Faith and relationship with the Lord. Your daughter restored our ability to love, to reach out to strangers, to hope, to help. She has put life into perspective for many of us. I can’t wrap my head around it…I can’t begin to understand it…but I accept it. She’s been a blessing to thousands of people…an instrument of God.
I am relieved to know that the Layla Grace Foundation is in the works. This venue will allow all of us to carry on the work that Layla started. I know Layla is the catalyst the fight against Neuroblastoma needed. Awareness, education, research, and a cure are possible through the Layla Grace Foundation. I may not be able to personally find the cure, but do sign me up to raise funds for the research that will find a cure, to help raise awareness, to provide support to other families, and to continue to share Layla’s story. Yes, these may be big shoes to fill. Do not forget what your daughter accomplished in her little shoes. You can do it! As I said before, we are all in this journey together.
I just want to let you know that I think you are amazing. What you are doing and sharing Layla’s story is very moving. I don’t know if I would have the strength to be as brave. I have followed Layla’s story and have a little piece of a broken heart for her. She touched us all and for her, I thank you. My little girl Lily is 14 months old and I couldn’t imagine my world without her. I believe Layla is watching over you and your family.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love Tricia
You are truly amazing and Layla would be so very proud. Thank you for continuing to share your family’s journey with us. Still praying daily for you and your family. Many Blessings,
Shannon in California
Shanna, you and your family are just too cool for words…i love you much and think of you all often …i too was reflecting today about one week…i love the idea of her room….what an awesome tribute to her…and it will be a place of healing as well…..cant wait to hear more bout fountain…what a lovely gift for all to enjoy and reflect…also a way to raise money if people throw change in ….i know still today i gotta find something to throw in when i pass one…its just what you do…:o) your post shows the example of one to be admired…someone to look up to and to aspire to be more like you values your willingness to walk the walk with grace and elogance…no doubt there are times you cant see it and have no clue what were talking about …you feel like your heart is ripping and how can ya go on and like you said “i have two other lil ones that need me” to be strong and allow the emotions to flow for they are real and should not be ignored or hidden…how beautiful to know someone so REAL / TRANSLUCENT…it is an honor to know you and your family and i just want to keep encouraging you that every time you cry you do not cry alone there is always one of us here praying and helping you and your family along… we cry with you how can we not we all fell head over heals in love w/ layla grace…what an awesome soul God allowed us to meet….and thank you again for sharing her so openly…we look forward to do all we can to keep the word out there bout neuroblastoma….lives are already being spared in the future because of this fight layla has begun and you and your family and all of us will help continue…
Godspeed my sister,
wendy
balt,md
I’m sure I echo everyone’s sentiment when I say that I am so sorry for your loss. But I think it is also important to tell you that though I am but a stranger, Layla Grace has touched my heart in ways I cannot even comprehend.
Your family’s amazing “Grace” and dignity through all of this is astounding and it is such a remarkable example of faith in not only the Holy Spirit but of the human spirit.
May God bless you and keep you during this difficult time and once again, thank you THANK YOU for sharing Layla’s journey with us.
Dear Marsh Family,
I don’t know how you do it. I can’t even imagine the pain you are experiencing. My heart breaks for you each and every day. I am crying over this posting.
I know it’s some comfort to know Layla is in God’s hands now, and free of pain, but certainly doesn’t take away from that absence I imagine you feel every minute.
Your story has touched me tremendously, and Layla’s spirit has certainly touched my whole family. My faith in God has actually grown stronger because of her story, as odd as that may sound…I don’t understand why The Lord had to take such a bright and shining star, and I don’t think I ever will, but I do believe that God has a bigger plan, and that plan has become evident in so many people that Layla has touched.
I wish there was something I could do to help you and your family. We will join in the cause to bring awareness to neuroblastoma (I had not heard of it until Layla’s story), and try to make a difference (already finding an opportunity to volunteer). If I can help you with your foundation, please let me know. I bet it will be amazing. That is certainly a legacy that Layla has left.
We cry for you often, and you are in our prayers each and every day.
I know we don’t know each other but if there is anything we can do to help you and your family, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We are all brothers and sisters in Christ.
God Bless you and God Bless your sweet beautiful baby.
Love from Oregon,
The Johnsons
Layla is PROUD of YOU! You are her rock, you are her laughter, you are her everything. And you ARE doing a wonderful job carrying out her legacy. I have faith in you, as does she, and so many other people. You ARE a wonderful Mommy (as I am sure a wife, daughter, & sister). I will continue to lift up your name to the One that does wonders, for He is a GREAT GOD. May He continue to hold you close to Him and your family. My prayers and thoughts are with you.
and I LOVE your idea for Laylas room. It sounds very comforting and peaceful. I am sure Layla would LOVE it!!!
I look forward to the BIG ideas you have. And I will do my best to spread the word, as I know someone that is battling the same nasty cancer… along with an Aunt that is battling caner for the 2nd time in her life (which had nothing to do with her 1st cancer) and a Mom who had breast cancer last year. cancer is never fun… and you said it… CANCER SUCKS.
I look forward to seeing what you have instore for Layla as I know she is very proud of her Mommy, Daddy and her 2 BIG SISTERS!!! What a beautiful family you have
Give God The Glory forever and ever. Amen
Casey
WOW SHANNA…I’M SPEECHLESS!!!! I TRULY AM BUT OF COURSE WILL FIND THE WORDS TO BE ABLE TO WRITE SOMETHING NOW THAT I HAVE STARTED..THAT WAS SOOOO BEAUTIFUL TO READ AND RIPPED RIGHT INTO MY HEART..I KNOW YOU DON’T FEEL AMAZING..BUT YOU ARE AMAZING JUST TO BE ABLE TO GET OUT OF BED A WEEK AFTER LAYLA’S PASSING..TO BE ABLE TO GO TO A CELEBRATION FOR HER..TO BE ABLE TO TRAVEL BACK TO THE HOSPITAL WHERE SHE ONCE WAS AND HANDS DOWN TO BE ABLE TO WRITE ON YOUR BLOG TO ALL OF US FOR US TO KNOW HOW YOU ARE FEELING IS AMAZING!!! I’M PROUD OF YOU FOR FINDING THE COURAGE DEEP DOWN TO PULL YOURSELF TOGETHER FOR YOUR OTHER TWO GIRLS..IT’S SOOOOOO WONDERFUL THAT YOU DON’T HIDE YOUR EMOTIONS BY YOURSELF…I THINK IT IS SOOO GREAT THAT YOUR GIRLS CAN CRY WITH YOU..LOTS OF US ARE CRYING FOR HER AND HAVE CRIED FOR HER TOO..I’M EXCITED TO HEAR ABOUT THE FOUNDATION FOR HER WHEN YOU GET ALL THE DETAILS IRONED OUT..THAT IS SOMETHING I WILL 100% BE CONTRIBUTING TOO..I JUST WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT I HAVE PEOPLE ON MY FACEBOOK PAGE THAT STARTED READING YOUR BLOG WHEN I FIRST POSTED ABOUT HER AND IT’S TRULY UNREAL HOW MANY PEOPLE STARTED FOLLOWING JUST FROM THAT..AND THOSE PEOPLE ARE STILL PRAYING FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY..STAY STRONG..KEEP THE FAITH GIRL..STILL PRAYING IN NC..STEPHANIE
Thanks for sharing your heart w/us Shanna. We’re continually thinking/praying for you from Round Rock, TX. “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Psalm 73:26
Shanna, thank you so much for this post. Thank you for sharing those thoughts with us.
You answered all the questions I have had for you over the past week. I literally asked myself, what about when they look at the car seat, what about when she finds Layla’s clothes next time she does laundry, what about every time they pass her room, etc? So thank you for helping us understand just a little about how it must be.
I think about Layla and your family constantly. Layla has changed my life. I am searching for faith in my life, something I haven’t had for over 10 years now. Layla has brought one more soul closer to God. Even though I, like you I am sure, do not know the reason she was taken, at least I see the good that has been done since she was taken. I have more patience for my kids and am starting a journey of faith. Two things that may not have occurred without Layla’s influence.
Thinking of you all, and praying for you (something brand new for me) everyday. I look so forward to meeting Layla in heaven one day…
Jean
CT
Thank you for sharing Layla with us.
Thinking of you and your family and praying for peace and strength. You are doing such a great job. Your girls (all three) are so lucky to have you.
xo,
Rachel
You are amazing! God Bless you and your family! I am always thinking of all of you and will continue to keep you in my prayers and thoughts! ((hugs))
Shanna,
I can’t even begin to imagine what you’re going through. I will continue to pray for you all every night. There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think of Layla and your family. You are such an inspiration to me on how you can handle this terrible situation with dignity and grace. Layla’s legacy will always live on through you and your family.
A person I know has a daughter that has this terrible disease she told me that that Neuroblastoma is one of the more common forms of cancer in children under the age of five. In fact, a few doctors and nurses told her that after the age of one, a simple urine test can usually identify if Neuroblastoma cells are present in a child’s body. Neuroblastoma raises the level of a certain chemical found in the child’s urine. I think more needs to be done by the medical authorities to raise awareness about Neuroblastoma.
I think about Layla and your family on a daily bases! Your family is such an inspiration and the strength you guys show is amazing!
I would love to be a part of helping ypu carry out Layla’s legacy if you’ll have me, I would love to help donate and pass out items to Childrens Hospital one weekend.
Thank you so much for the post. I know your heart must be hurting so much right now. I’ve never personally gone through the death of my child, but some very close friends of ours have. They lost their only son very suddenly. It has been tough to watch them go through it.
I send you prayers daily. You and Layla are in my thoughts, so it’s good to see you post something, even though it might be the last thing you want to do.
Keeping Layla’s legacy alive is so wonderful. That’s what our friends have done, and I know it has given them a lot of peace. They created the Taylor Haugen foundation in memory of their son, and it has changed the lives of so many. Today would have been T’s birthday. I know he’s up in heaven along with Layla.
I continue to pray & think of Layla’s parents and sisters. I can only imagine how hard the days ahead will be. I went through that 17yrs.ago when I lost my 8mth old son. He passed away during his 2nd heart surgery and I was lost in depression for many years. I’m so glad Shanna is forcing herself to get out of the bedroom. I sheltered myself away from the world and my daughter was 8 at the time. I regret missing out on alot because of my depression. Now I have grandchildren but they never will take my Angel’s place. They have filled my life with much joy. I pray God gives you strength to endure this sad time and may he give you peace knowing Layla lives in your heart forever. Cry when needed but also allow yourself to be happy with Claire and Jenny.
God Bless you all.
love,
“One day at a time–this is enough. Cherish the past, embrace the uncertainty of the future, and live in the present. Live in the present, and make it so beautiful it will be worth remembering.”
Layla is watching you and all of the beautiful things you have left to give. Thank you for opening your hearts to us.
Much love,
Megan
Shanna, My prayers are with you and your family. Always. When I first wake up I check twitter for updates. Several times a day I check for updates. I thank you with all my heart for sharing Layla with us. Your story has changed so many lives and brought so many families closer together and so many people closer to God.
I was especially glad to read that you are crying and sharing your emotions with Claire and Jenna and not hiding it. They need to know it is ok to cry and grieve for their baby sister. That will make them stronger.
May God hold your family tight as you continue this journey.
Much love from KY,
Shyanna
I am still amazed at your strength. Layla and your other 2 little girls truly are lucky to have you and Ryan for their parent’s.
I believe eveything happens for a reason, and the reason will only be known when we get to Heaven, but I also believe part of the reason for Layla’s illness was for you to do what you are doing now which is bringing awareness to such a horrible illness. Layla is smiling down on you as I’m sure her other friends in heaven who have lost their battle to Neuroblastoma are as well. God bless you.
Shanna, you are simply AMAZING!!!!!!! You continue to give “us” all updates while you are dealing with sorrow, that I can’t possibly imagine. Layla is so proud that you are her Mommy and was blessed to be a part of your remarkable family!!!!!! Always sending prayers to you and your family and so thankful to you for sharing your PRECIOUS girl with the world!!! Her story is the epitomy of strengh, love, and hope and I know you will carry her torch with your loving GRACE. Thank you and God bless you!
You and your family are in my thoughts many times during the day. I can’t even imagine what you are going through. I can’t even imagine going day by day; I think you should take it minute by minute. Be kind to yourself.
Kim
Still praying for you, Layla, and your family every day.
About one month ago I began to follow Layla’s story. There are no words to explain the emotions that cross my heart for you. All the words in the dictionary could not half way wrap around the thoughts and prayers that go to you and the people that Layla touched. I lost a baby recently. An unborn baby. The pain is unreal. Your story has helped me in ways that my loved ones could not for reasons I don’t know myself .
Thank you for that. You are in my daily thoughts. You are in my daily prayers.
This world is a better place with the beautiful contributions that Layla made simply by being her self. She is truly a heaven sent gift from God. And he has called her home.
Much Love and Respect to you and your family,
Sarah
To think of your strength, makes me a better mom. I think about your family often and love hearing how you are all doing! It’s amazing how wonderful you all are. Layla! What a sweet gift! I think a reading quiet room is perfect!!!!!!!!!
I can’t wait to see pictures. My daughter is 13 months old. I feel like I am more grateful for her and my son. A little more patient I think, because of your story. Thank you sooo much for sharing.
I can’t wait to see the pcitures.
Trina
http://www.mommeville.com (if ya ever want a good laugh)
She’ll always be in my heart…
You are SO amazing! Layla did leave some pretty big shoes to fill – but I just know you’ll be nothing shy of perfect as you carry out her legacy! Still praying for you and your family
BTW – I can tell her story didn’t end a week ago – and I’m super excited to see what’s coming! Rest in peace sweet baby girl.
I am glad to hear you are creating a foundation in her honor. I know I will never forget Layla. I think of her when I am with my own children. It is hard to understand these things but I do know that God was perfectly glorified in her life. Something that many of us never reach. The last day you posted while Layla was alive, I stopped and prayed for her just asking the Lord to either take her home or heal her that day. His will to be done! I read the blog in the afternoon. I felt the Lord speak clearly to my spirit “she is already with me”. I felt his peace. I later heard that day that she indeed did go home and was with Jesus. God bless you all as you journey on in her memory and the fullness of Christs love!!
I was honored to be able to attend Layla’s Life Celebration. It was a beautiful service and touched my heart very deeply.
I am praying for your family daily and want you to know, as so many others have told you, the impact that Layla has made in my life. Not only Layla, but your family as a whole, and how you have responded all that has happened. You are in my prayers daily and I also join with you on the mission to help other children who are sick and fighting for their lives.
Many Many prayers for you today and always.
Esther
I will never ever forget her story. I think about her and you even though I never met you. I am thankful that she is no longer suffering.
God bless you and your family! And thank you so much for sharing Layla with the world…she will forever be in my heart and has changed my life…I am a better mom because of her!! Thank you…
Thinking of you daily! You & your family are amazing! Looking forward to seeing the pictures & hearing the music. Thank you for continueing to share your lives with us. Layla will never be forgotten!
I have been thinking about you all day, knowing it has been a week since Layla went to Heaven. I have been (and will continue) praying for alll of you. To say that the early days of losing a child is rough would be an understatement so you have all of my thoughts and prayers.
I hope you don’t mind but I did go by cemetary and asked my son to look out for Layla and take very good care of her.
I’ve been following your journey since the month after our Taylor was diagnosed with AML…so, October 2008. I’ve thought about you guys so often in the past few months and have loved even harder, which I didn’t think was possible, thanks to you. We also ordered a dress for our Taylor to wear in Layla’s memory and I cannot wait to receive it.
Today’s entry struck me. What incredible love and strength you continue to show. Just the fact that you cry together speaks volumes for what an incredible family you have. I am glad you have each other thru a time that I cannot even fathom.
I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful baby girl. I wish I had something I could say to take away your pain but I know I do not so I simply want you to know we’re always here, always thinking of you.
hugs,
gina
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/taylorjones
I think of your family and Layla everyday. I read your beautiful post and cried. Layla is so proud of you and was a lucky little girl to have had an amazing family. Layla was an angel that had a purpose and changed so many lives. I have shared Layla’s story with all of my friends and co-workers. I have 2 little girls and my oldest is 5 and said the other day “mommy, Layla is an angel that is watching over us. i love her.” i was hugging my 5 year old in tears. It was amazing. my 2 year old ran over to join in the hug as well. Layla has touched so many people. I would love to help with a fundraiser. I am passionate about finding a cure for cancer. I lost my father, 2 aunts, and a cousin to cancer. I e-mailed you on facebook about my idea. May God give you peace and comfort.
I pray for your family everyday.
Kelly Davis
I don’t know how you do it. You are the strongest lady. I cry everytime I think of layla and what you and your family have gone through. My husband doesnt like me visiting your blogs and tweets because i cry everytime but he doesnt understand how connected i feel to you and Layla. you have brought so much awareness of neuroblastma, and i was to see a cure! my baby only 2 mnths old, is my life and heart. my love for her grows by day, I can’t even imagine how much pain you are in. I pray for you daily and you are constantly in my thoughts. Stay strong for your girls, They have a WONDERFUL mommy. God bless.
Your family is always in my thoughts, I would talk to my husband at night about Layla, your family and journey as if you were part of our family. I am so sorry for your loss and what your family is going through. I will never forget Layla, and I wish you nothing but luck on raising awareness, funding and ultimately a cure!
Always in my prayers,
Sandy
I know your pain is great but your faith is in the great physician. We to experienced the heartache of loosing a family member just a few short months ago. Our family was together for thanksgiving and on the way home my brother in law and sister in law were hit and my nieces life was instantly taken. She would have been three in Dec. My sister in law is now a paraplegic and is learning how to not only live her life without her only child but she is having to learn how to function all over again. I tell you that to say that everyday is a struggle for our family without our sweet Helen but with the help of God we make it through each day. I had followed your story for a few weeks and each night I would read your tweets to my husband and I would pray for your family. We will never understand and I sure we will always wonder why. But just know that she is in heaven and she know no pain and that she will never have to go through the heartaches of this world. I know Layla and our sweet Helen our great friends laughing and playing with the angels as they smile down on their families. Just know your family is being prayed for and thought of often. With much love!
I read this earlier and didn’t cry, but I am now. I love Layla and she will never be forgotten. I want to help with finding a cure for Neuroblastoma so badly.
Shanna & your blessed family,
I learned about your precious daughter through a friend Joya, of Joya Baby Collections and have followed faithfully over the past several months. Know that not just Layla, but you and your husband, have inspired thousands throughout this ordeal. Your strength, humanness, faith, love and desire to turn bad to good, has not gone unnoticed and will not be for naught. I myself have been truly blessed and inspired by your posts…I have a 3 yr old son, Rowan, who has already gone through 39 surgeries, the most recent being brain surgery 6 weeks ago. He is hooked up to pumps, monitors and iv feeds through his broviac central line every night. He has had a dozen septic infections and gone into septic shock on 5 occassions. Every day is a fight for him too, and we are blessed for each and every minute we get with him. During these past few weeks that I have followed your tweets and blogs, whenever I was feeling discouraged by our sons medical trials, whenever I didn’t want to go to the Children’s Cancer and Blood Center for yet another transfusion or IvIg infusion, when I grew tired of another week in ICU at Methodist Children’s Hospital in San Antonio…your messages made me pause, put things in perspective, and made me realize that I needed to be uplifted by the fact that I still had those days to spend with Rowan, made me grateful that there still were treatments available to us, and gave me comfort at the same time, that your faith and strength were seeing you through this, and it would see me through as well. I have thanked God daily for you, for your husband, for Layla Grace and your entire family. Know that I am a Mom, wife and life that you have helped inspire to keep going, to keep strong for my son, and he is therefore blessed by you too! You will remain in my prayers, and I’m sure I like many others, will continue to be blessed by you and affected by Layla’s life. God bless.
Now, the second reason for my posting…I love to make quilts, especially memory quilts. It is something that helps me take my mind off things for a few moments, and gives me the opportunity to put my efforts and heart into creating something beautiful to bless people or commemorate loved ones lives and the events of friends and familly. I don’t make these quilts to sell, I make them as gifts! (I cannot re-iterate that point enough! These are gifts of agape!) This past year I made one for Rowan’s hematologist/oncologist who was closing his practice here after 30 years and moving to accept a teaching hospital position in another city. It helped me deal with losing his weekly care for my son (he’d been our biggest advocate since Rowan was 4 months old and saw him weekly and at times daily over the past 3 years), and helped him take a piece of his life and work here with him. I included pictures of over 100 of his patients on the quilt, and it ended up just beautiful covered with all those children’s faces. I am making a quilt for a friend soon who lost her daughter (at age 13), out of some of her daughter’s favorite clothes and blankets. I am also currently working on one for a friend whose son (12 yrs old) has been in remission for a year now. It has pictures that document his journey as he battled Burkitts Lymphoma and went through the transplant process. I make baby quilts, coaching and teacher gift quilts and other quilts too, but my favorites are the memory ones- the ones that take pieces (either through pictures or special blankets or clothes) of precious lives and memorialize them for those of us here missing them or celebrating them. It has been on my heart the past few days to reach out to you, and offer to do this for you…to make you a quilt to commemorate little Layla Grace’s battle, journey, and blessing that she was and will continue to be. I know you don’t know me from Adam, so this may sound like a strange letter. I also realize how difficult and personal this process is, so I fully understand if you are not comfortable entrusting me with this. I would however ask you to pray about it, thing it over, talk to your husband, and get back to me when you are ready. The offer remains open as long as it needs to be. It may takes weeks or months before you could even bring yourself to gather and choose which blankets, dresses, pjs, etc you cherish the most. But if you do get to that point, I would be so very honored and excited to make you the best, most beautiful, honorable representation of her precious life in the form of a quilt for you and your girls to keep forever. It has helped some of my friends, and Dr. L continues to let me know months later, how much it helps to wrap themselves up in a piece of those memories. I think it could help your family as well.
I am going to mail you this letter with a few photos of quilts I have made recently, so you can see the quality and style of work I create. Also, just so you know I am not some crazed peson asking you to send me pieces of material. If these photos help put your mind at ease about this, please just call or email me when you are ready. I can answer any questions you have and we could just chat for a moment if that would help. I also have family and friends in the Houston area and will be making a few trips up that way in the next few months, and I would be thrilled to meet you one of those times, to talk about this or if you decide to go ahead with it, to pick up material personally from you. That may be easier for you than just sending me them in the mail. I’ve seen so many beautiful pictures of Layla, in her pretty pjs and dresses, I’ve read how much she loved her special blankies, and I could totally encorporate some of the flowers and bows from her special hats if you’d like. I can just picture the quilt now…it’d be beautiful, just like her! If you wanted photos on the quilt too, I can iron on transfer photos if I have digital copies of the ones you want. Whatever means the most to you and the girls, or whatever would remind you of her the most, I can make it work out of any number of fabrics, any size of fabric pieces, etc. It would be a one of a kind, personal tribute to your precious Layla.
So, I hope you truly feel my heart here when I say, It would be my honor and a blessing if you would allow me to do this for your family. I know that I will be making one of my son’s special memories one day too, and for now…maybe that’s why it helps me to help others through that process now. You’ve helped me, please allow me to give a piece back. When you get the letter and photos in the mail, please just let me know you got it, and what your initial feelings are. I would love to talk to you whenever you’re ready too. I’ll include pictures of my son and I in the mail too, so you get to know us a lilittle bit. You are also welcome to check out my FB and/or his foundation website to read about us as well.
Thank you for inspiring and encouraging me, for taking the time to read this, and hopefully for giving me the opportunity to create a special keepsake for you.
Continued prayers,
Carrie Windham
I continue to think of your family every day and I’m glued to updates as to how you are all doing. Your family is so brave and courageous to continue to fight for Layla. I think of her everyday and I was brought to tears to hear that my favorite song was played for her balloon release. I’m sure it was a beautiful event. The comment that Claire made the other day in the car I truly believe was Layla saying hi to her. I belive that angels will only show themselves to those that can see them. It was her way of letting Claire know she’s ok. She’s not here, but she’s ok, her spirit is flying high. Prayers and thoughts are with you all every day. I hug and cherish my own “Layla” every chance I get. I miss Layla Grace too.
I think about you guys everday. Your strength continues to amaze me. Your family will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.
I was so glad to read this new post today Shanna! I had to walk away a few times and come back to read it – I was overfilled with tears and emotions and could barely get through reading each sentence.
I cannot even find the right words to express to you how much your sweet little angel has changed my life. I first learned of her story on 3/10/10, after her passing, and I have not stopped crying since. My heart aches so much for you and your family, I have NEVER been so impacted & effected in my 34 yrs. of life! She has been in my thoughts day & night, along with your blog posts that I had read back from the beginning. I still find myself going back to read them over and over again, and looking at your pictures, crying each time.
As I go through the motions of my every day life – taking & picking my kids up from school, washing dishes, doing laundry, playing with my kids, paying bills, running errands, making meals……..I find myself being constantly reminded of your precious Layla. You truly are an amazing mom Shanna, and to say that you are my hero would be an absolute understatement. To be there wholly for Layla and to fight with her every step of the way on curing her of an ugly disease, to know that you NEVER gave up hope. What physical, emotional, and spiritual hell you and Ryan, and Jenna and Claire had to go through together as a family. Seeing your daughter and their sister have to suffer like that. It baffles my mind why any child would have to go through that. I do believe, and as you’ve blogged, it has and will make ALL OF YOU stronger, together, as a family.
My faith has been tested lately, and for some unseen reason, I do believe that God has sent Layla’s story to me for a reason. I have 5 beautiful thriving children, and am so very blessed and grateful to have each and every one of them in my life. I cannot even wrap my head around losing any of them. Layla has truly truly inspired me in ways no person ever has. She has helped me to take a better look at my own life, and made me become a better person, a better Christian, a better wife, and a better Mommy. She has helped me restore my faith in God and my patience in my children. I told my husband today, that it was my new goal in life to make a change in someone elses life, to do more charity work for others that need it.
My family says a prayer for your family every night before bed. And my 8 yr. old daughter, Jailey, says a special prayer request for Layla every Wednesday at chapel in school. I had been at the computer last night, looking at your family photo’s of the five of you, as I do often, and my 4 yr. old son, Jaden, was reading a book right next to me. He had briefly looked up from his book, and asked me, “Mommy, who are those people on the computer again? What are their names? Do I know them?”…as I named all of you off one by one, and then Layla, I explained to him again that she was very ill and is now in Heaven with God….he moved closer to the computer screen, to get a better look at Layla’s face, and turned around and smiled at me and started singing, “Heaven is a wonderful place, filled with glory and grace, I want to see my favorite place, Heaven is a wonderful place!”……my eyes filled with tears immediately and I found comfort in knowing that Layla has made an impact on him too.
I have never even met Layla or you and your family, the emotions that have overcome me make me feel as if I have lost one of my own. It is indescribable!! As a mother, I cry with you Shanna, I struggle and feel your pain so deeply. I admire your raw honesty and endearing openness about all you have gone through and experienced, and all that you continue to face as you try to put your family’s life back together. Thank you isn’t enough to say to you for letting me into your lives and sharing your story with me, and the world. “Well done good and faithful servant”….
I will continue to follow you and your blogs Shanna, till the end of time, and am very much looking forward to reading about and contributing to the foundation you are starting in Layla’s name. I know you will do a beautiful job keeping her legacy alive and making her proud. If you are ever in the L.A. or Orange County area of California, I would be so very honored and blessed to be able to me you in person. Hoping to read of news that you will soon someday be out this way.
Thank you for taking the time to read this………keeping you and your family, and Layla close to my heart always……….I am forever grateful for what you & Layla have taught me.
Jill Phillips
Orange County, California
Wow where to start. i only heard of beatiful Layla a couple months ago, her story has really touched my heart in many ways. You are such a strong women. I could never imangine watching my daughters go thru this. I want to think you for sharing your story. it has truly changed my life and the way I raise my two and three yr old daughters. My prayers are still with you and your amazing family. I wish you all the best.
Shanna,
You and your husband are AMAZING!!! I’ve been following your precious angel’s story and my heart breaks for you everytime I read something or look at her beautiful pictures. I lost a 23 month old daughter, so I can say I know how ya are feeling. The period you go through after the services seems to be impossible because everyone starts to go back to normal life and you’re still there to try to handle the pain and emptiness you’re feeling. I promise, as time goes on each day will get a little easier to get through. I’m not going to lie and tell you the pain will go away, because it never completely goes away. Thank God for your other two beautiful babies and this will help you to wake up everyday and get out of bed and go through life the way Layla will want you to. It’s OK to cry and to show your emotions. I keep looking at Layla’s photos and I keep weeping till I can’t even look at them any longer…but then I just thank God for her and the time you had with her here on earth. Our children are a gift from God and he loans them to us to take care of here on earth, until he’s ready for them to come Home with Him. I know Layla and my baby, Jennifer are dancing around in Heaven smiling down on their parents and family. They will always be near us.
I pray for your family daily and will continue to do so in the days, weeks, months to come. I will say again….ya are amazing and God does have plans for you, I know.
May God continue to wrap his arms around you and your family.
There is not a day that goes by that I have not thought of you and wondered how you are holding up. It’s strange to say that of I family that I have never met or spoken to, but it is true. Your family is touching people in a huge way because of Layla. She was a gift to us all. Thank you for sharing her and the rest of your family with us. I, for one, am rooting for all of you!
Peace-
Carrie
Words cannot express the sadness I feel for you and your family. Honestly, my heart breaks for you. The death of a child is the WORST thing that could ever happen to a human being. I have twins that are about the same age as Layla. They were born on December 28, 2007. I guess as I read your story I thought of my children. I am thankful that you have strong faith and a good support system. Know that I am praying for you and your family. I can’t imagine how hard it is to continue life day by day. I had a niece die 2 years ago on March 3rd. She had brain cancer. Her mother has a bracelet that says “cancer sucks.” Hang in there and thank you for sharing your story. May God’s love embrace you.
Layla is already proud. As I am. Proud and amazed at all of you.
God bless all of you. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
I would like for you and your family to know that you all are in my prayers!! I can’t imagine what it’s like to go through all of this! I just want you to know that there are tons of people thinking about you all. I just cry every time I read one of your posts. Ya’ll are amazing people, Layla is soo proud I just know it!!!
Marsh Family,
Thank you for sharing this with us. I personally can not imagine how it must feel to battle a serious illness with either one of my children let alone loose one. I do have to say you all are very brave to share the journey with us all and daily I come to check and see how you are all doing.
You all are in my thoughts daily and every time I spend any time with my children now or read them a story I go back to your blog about regrets. I now cherish when my 17mth and 3 yr old are under my feet while I am making supper, doing the dishes or throw the folded laundry out of the hamper that I just finished folding. Because I have no control over what happens tomorrow, like you but I do have control over how I am in that moment with them.
Although I have never met your family Ive been crying daily as my heart breaks for you all. My 3 yr old saw me crying the other day while I was cuddling with her and I told her about Layla and she looked at me, gave me a hug, smiled and said its okay mommy cry. I am sure Layla would say the same for you all. There is never anything wrong with crying tears are precious and important for our heart and soul.
much love~
It’s really touching how you’re taking the loss of your little girl – hand-in-hand with your dear family. I hope to be as good a mother as you someday. Layla will always watch over you, knowing how much you love her.
I am so deeply sorry to hear about Layla. I have kept up with Layla’s journey and thought of you all often. I was working the day you brought up flowers to the hospital and wanted to thank you and your family for coming up and sharing Layla’s celebration with us and the patients on the floor. I know the flowers brightened all of our day a little bit. Just know we are all thinking of you and praying for peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Yours,
Kami B. RN
Shanna, your amazing~simply amazing. I cannot tell you how much I have learned from you and your Family over these last few weeks, I feel like a new person. I think about you, Ryan, the girls and Layla quite often throughout the day! I think about Layla every single time I empty the dishwasher and my almost 2 yr old daughter is under my feet, and never ever again will that bother me! NEVER!
Layla is already proud, and I have no doubt what so ever that both you and Ryan will carry on Layla’s legacy with honor and pride.
Thank you so very much for sharing her story with us, as I said I have been forever changed~and changed for the BETTER!!!!
Thank you
We love you all the way from Massachusetts
Lisa Mercer & Family
I am amazed at the strength you have. I still pray for your family each day. Thank you for continuing to share your story with the world.
I am EXTREMELY interested in helping with whatever you need when it comes to raising awareness and/or help with the foundation. Just let me know what I can do ;]
Jesika
Stay strong sweetie. Layla’s spirit is right there with you and she would never want you to be sad. God doesn’t either. Remember Layla’s lesson is to cherish each and every moment you’ve got and you will see her again soon. Life goes by so extremely fast. You will see her again,maybe not as soon as you might like, but soon enough. She will be so happy and healthy and playful and you will be with her forever.
Such a sad day when you loose a child. I hope they find a cure for all these types of cancers. I am sorry to hear of your loss. I read some of your blog several weeks ago and was saddened. She is with the Lord and is in a better place, pain free. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Stay strong for the rest of your family. Take it one day at a time.
Dear Marsh Family,
Thank you for continuing to share your story. I continue to pray for your family everyday. Your strength is amazing and I am thankful everyday that you are getting the word out about neuroblastoma and raising awareness.
As if I hadn’t said enough in my earlier post…..and this is a little off the wall weird, but I just have to share it with you Shanna……….when washing my hair in the shower the other day, and as Layla has been on my mind daily since her passing, if you are familiar with “Philosophy’s” products, you know that every jar or bottle of their goodies has either a recipe on it, words of wisdom, or as it’s name states, a philosophy on it coinciding with the name of the scent/product….and ironically, my Philosophy conditioner bottle I am currently using is the “Amazing Grace” scent….it reads:
“It is not “if” we will lose the things we love, it is “when”. With some, the loss comes in a major catastrophic event. For most, love is surrendered once piece at a time…….first childhood, a promising romance, the passing of a loved one, and finally a child who leaves home. But as we lose, can we not gain a deep knowing that in the presence of grace, love is eternal.”
Needless to say, I read my conditioner bottle with a little more heart today and it reminded me so of sweet little darling, Layla Grace!!!!
You are amazing.
Her celebration was perfect. THank you for sharing her with the world and allowing us to come celebrate her eternal life with you. We continue to hold you in our hears and lift you up to prayer. THe Lord will bless this foundation and Layla’s legacy will be forever… and I’m pretty sure you’ll have about 45 thousand people willing to do whatever for the foundation! God bless you all,
COLEs Prayer Team
http://www.colesfoundation.com
Lindsay Manfull
I can’t begin to imagine what you all must be going through I pray for your family every day and you will get the foundation in Layla’s name up and running and you will do a great job because you had and still have a great teacher Layla, she will undoubtedly be near you guiding you and giving you inspiration to carry on her great work. your wee one was remarkable she was and still is such an inspiration to many many people all around the world. I had never heard of that paticular cancer but now through Layla and through your courage to tell her story I have heard of it and have told people about it.
May god give you and Ryan the strengh to continue you’re doing a great job, thanks so much for telling us about Layla.
Praying for you all.
Karen from Scotland
Although we’ve never met, we share something in common. Our son, Rhett, died in 2002 when he was only 15 months old. Even though your pain is still very deep, you will be amazed at how soon Layla will be a part of your lives from Heaven. Rhett first appeared to my niece when she was only 2 years old while she was in the hospital as the result of a car wreck. I have another niece who has experienced health problems and has been hospitalized several times. She is now four years old and sees him daily and speaks of him often. Another sister-in-law has seen Rhett in the video monitor of her daughter’s bedroom as he watched over her while she was sleeping. It will be so comforting to know that when your family needs Layla most, she will be there. God does not give you what you cannot handle; trust in him as you move through this difficult time and begin the healing process.
Thank you for letting us all know how you are doing… I have been thinking of you and praying for you all each day.
I’m always wishing I lived closer so I could be a true friend and not just one more complete stranger sending prayers!
There are just so many people that love and care about you and your sweet family.
You are a forever inspiration to me and many others!
GOD BLESS!!
Molly, Olympia, WA
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time.
I read what you wrote about life must go one and I seriously give you kutos and think it is amazing!
http://couponmommyof2.blogspot.com/
Dear Amazing Marsh Family,
I have been following your story for a long time. It brings me to tears reading the updates–that sweet baby girl is in Heaven and she is SO lucky to have such a wonderful family. I’m so happy that her service was as perfect as she was. I will continue to pray for your family.
Much Love,
Sally
Have you thought about making a book out of all of your blogs and experiences of this? I imagine it would be very hard to do but a book of your blogs in the order that they came in would be a WONDERFUL tool for parents to read in appreciating their children and families during the time we have with them. I know that reading your blogs each day made me appreciate every second I have with my son, even when he drives me nuts or wont let me get anything done. You could put in some of those wonderful pictures of your family.
Your story reminds me of the books by Mitch Albom like The Five People You Meet in Heaven. It reminds the reader of how precious life and relationships are. I have your daughters initials written on my bathroom mirror in marker. It is a reminder of patience. I love my son very very much but as many people learn you never know how much until a crisis or loss. The way your family has handled the situation you have gone through is amazing and could be a great motivational tool for families all over the world. Thank you.
Reading that post was like reading an exerpt from my site after my son died. I remember writing about how I could not go in his room to change his sheets for weeks and if the door was open I could not breathe until it was closed. We spent so much time in his room, that was so hard. I always cried in the car, it is very hard when you are alone and all you have is your thoughts. I was surprisingly pregnant soon after he passed, and I had to be OK for that baby…..your girls will get you through this. I remember being so glad I was having a girl b/c that meant the room had to be completely made over. I feel your pain, I am crying with you and I promise it does get easier, it actually will get to a point where it will be as good as its going to be. I remember sleeping like I had not slept in years (and really I had not slept in a year), sleeping with out a critically sick child in your house is something you forgot about.
Big Hugs! She is in a better place. I found and still find comfort in this, we are ALL just one breathe or one heart beat away from being on the other side, you are just one breath from Layla…that is really not that far!
Your strength and faith are truly an inspiration! Your family continues to be in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you all.
I THANK YOU FOR YOUR POST IT GIVES ME COMFORT KNOWING THAT YOU AND YOUR FAMILY MISS LAYLA BUT LIFE MOVES ON AND I KNOW THAT YOU GUYS WILL MAKE IT IN LIFE ALWAYS I PRAY FOR YOUR PEACE AND COMFORT I KNOW LAYLA ITS IN A GREAT PLACE WATCHING OVER YOU GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY CANT WAIT TO SEE PICS OF LAYLA’S CELEBRATION
You are a wonderful mother. I am praying for you… Love.
A beautiful post as always, Shanna. We continue to think of you all every day. I am so glad to hear that Layla’s Celebration of Life was so beautiful! So wish I could have been there. I love the idea of the quiet room where Jenna and Claire can remember their beautiful sister. God continue to bless you all and may you feel Layla’s presence with you always.
I am continually amazed by your strength! Your daughter is proud to watch you from heaven now and see all the great things you are doing in her name. I cannot imagine how you are getting through each day but I think your outlook on life and knowing that you have to do it for your other daughters is so important! And crying, hard and out loud, will help I believe…all of you.
I continue to pray for you and your family and think of Layla daily!
I thought today was giong to be the first day in a month that I didn’t think of Layla and cry, but after reading your post I was wrong. Layla is a perfect angel that God called back home because she finished her work here on earth. Shanna, you and Ryan are also angels on earth, you just aren’t finished with God’s purpose for you yet. I continue to pray for you family every day. I can’t wait to help in any way possible once your foundation is up and running.
Karla
Layla is ALREADY proud! How could she not be? She had the most amazing, caring, generous, and profoundly loving parents a little girl could ask for. Just because Layla is gone, the prayers continue. Please know your whole family is in my thoughts and prayers and that Layla is in Heaven having the time of her life being free
I don’t even know you, but what an amazing woman you are. And what an amazing miracle Layla was. My heart breaks for you, and I simply cannot imagine what you’re going through. I think about you every day – ever since Layla’s blog came into my life (about a month ago). She has changed my life…what a hero. She has made me hug my children more tightly, cry silently in the dark and thank God every day…..
I think I have read this post 20 times already and each time, I have tears in my eyes. The comments before mine have said it all. I am just amazed at how much sweet Layla Grace has done in her time on Earth! And what an angel to have looking over you! There is not a minute that I don’t think about Layla…I look at my own daughter and even though they look nothing alike, I see Layla…I see her reminding me to be even more loving and patient with both my children, to treasure each moment. God could not have chosen two better parents for Layla Grace, the strength and grace that you have shown is just mind-blowing!
Even though I live far away in NJ, there are of course children here too that are suffering through this disease. My husband is a physician and sees these kinds of cases all the time…and that is unfortunate. I would love and be honored to help in even the smallest of ways with your foundation. You are all in my constant thoughts and prayers!
Layla and your family are in my thoughts everyday. I pray for you everyday. My 2 year old Kyra prays for your “Layla’s sister” everytime she says grace. I can’t imagine what you are going through. My heart breaks for you. Sending love an lots of prayers.
I’m so sorry for the loss of your sweet girl. She’s so BEAUTIFUL!
You are amazing and inspiring.
I can see where Layla got her bravery it from.
I never met your sweet angel Layla, but I will never forget her.
Thank you for sharing your jouney.
-x-
God Bless you all. Layla has touched more people than you will ever know. I have cried for her, for you and for your two other daughters. I have become a better mother to my two sons. I await news of how her legacy lives on. Thoughts and prayers with you daily.
I still think about Layla everyday. I don’t know your family IRL, just through the internet, but her spirit shined through and I felt like I knew her. I wish you peace and happiness in the future. Hugs to you and your family.
Beth from San Diego
You all are in my thoughts and I want to thank you for what you and Layla have given back to me. I lost my faith a long time ago and after being touched my Layla’s story I now find myself saying little prayers and beliveing again that there is something out there that is bigger then us. And that just because you can’t see it doesn’t mean that it doesn’t exist. I look at my son and I think about future children that I will have and I feel very comforted knowing that when my time comes and when my children’s time comes we will all be together again. Thank you for helping me find my way back.
Shanna,
Your faith under such circumstances is an amazing testimony… and I pray that God continues to give you are your family the strength and the peace that is required to get through this.
I am anxious to see what you’re going to be doing with the foundation in Layla’s name and to raise awareness for neuroblastoma. I’m so far away and so far removed… but I am also starting to do some research to see what i can do to raise awareness or raise money for research in my area. Layla’s story touched my heart in such an incredible way – I want it to mean something more – I want to do SOMETHING because of it.
In the meantime I will keep you and your family in my prayers…. and I will be one more person (one more stranger?!) that REMEMBERS Layla… and loved her in my own way.
A.
I am in awe of your courage and steadfastness! You are a wonderful example of grace and strength. I am able to speak to my daughter’s about life lessons we have not experienced personally, but feel as if we have shared with you. You have a gift of expressing your feelings with words. I too will follow you with support, prayers and a little bit of Layla in my heart. You have 70,000 followers who will assist in achieving your goals. I truly look at my daughter’s differently because of the love you share with Layla! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
Sounds like it was a perfect memorial service. It will be nice to see the video. I am praying for your comfort and strength. ((HUGS)) What a perfect song to play, it’s my favorite version. Take care & God Bless.
I often think of your beautiful baby girl during at different times of the day and cry. My daughter who’s 3 knows Layla’s name. She knows Layla is a special angel and she continues to pray for your family every night! There is no doubt in my mind she is proud of you, as I’m sure your other daughters are as well! You are great parents!! It’s comforting to know you share your emotions with your girls as they will grow up to become as loving and passionate as you both have been through this whole tragedy. I will do anything I can to help you raise awareness!!
With Love from Philadelphia!!
I have been following Layla’s story since last week. She has touched my heart so dearly and I think about her all the time. I have cried for you and Layla so much. I took my daughter to the beach for the first time in celebration of Layla’s life last Saturday. We built a sandcastle for Layla that day. I truly, truly am so deeply sorry and ache for you. My daughter who is 2 1/2 now says “I love Layla” and so do I! HUGS!
I will say it again, grief is just plain hard work and it’s exhausting! I’m praying for you very hard. I had this thought tonight:
Layla Grace will be to neruoblastoma as
Susan B. Komen is to breast cancer
Now that’s something to think about.
Sending love from Marengo, Illinois
Layla is in my thoughts and daily prayers. I know she is praying for comfort for all of you. She is a tremendous young soul, who I know will change the world through her journey. Thousands of people are praying for you.
All our love,
Liz and friends in Dallas
You all are constantly on our minds and in our hearts. So many prayers are said for you.. Each and every single day. Our lives continue to be touched by the hope, faith, and heartbreak that you have gone through, and we vow to do whatever is in our power to support your continued journey as well. We love your family more than words ♥
To say that I cried during the reading of this post would be an understatement.
I was looking at some of Layla’s pictures the other day and did really well until I saw her precious little hands. Those teeny little fingers hard at work discovering new things. The fact that they stayed so perfect through all the hell her body was put through. I bet you miss holding her hand, but now that’s God’s job to feel her perfect little fingers wrap around his hands as they dance together. I am beyond sorry for your loss and feel the sorrow of her absence on Earth as if she were my own daughter.
Hugs! I am just so sorry.
Thanks for sharing your love of Layla with us. She has been in my heart ever since I saw this site. She has taught me to embrace life in a way that I had never done before. I wish there was something I could do to take away your pain. Layla’s beautiful, and she will be your Angel looking down upon you and your family until you are all together again! Much love!
Words cannot even begin to express how deeply sorry I am for your loss. I still think of Layla everyday. Everytime I look at my daughter I can’t help think of her ( my Katie is 22 days younger then Layla) I see pictures of Layla and some of her outfits are the same as my daughters. I cannot imagine your grief. I just have to say thank you though. Thanks for sharing Layla with the world. Her life was short but it had so much meaning to so many people. I truly appreciate all I DO have instead of dwelling on what I DON’T. I have Layla to thank for that. Even though we never met she is in my heart forever!
Summer & Family in California
I sit at my computer every evening.. and you and your family come to mind always.. I am thinking of you and praying for your continued strength Shanna.. Your girls are sooo lucky to have you and Ryan as parents.. Your faith and your courage throughout this heartwrenching process is so amazing. When you lay your head down at night to sleep(which I am sure is so hard to do) just know that you and your family are in so many peoples thoughts always. Your little angel is always right beside you and is soooooooo proud of you.
BIG HUGS
You are such an amazing woman, with an amazing beautiful family! I am always checking for your updates. I think of you and Layla all of the time. I’ve grown to love you all. I can’t thank you enough for sharing your daughter with us. I agree with the others that you should do a book or video tribute to Layla, to raise funds for Layla’s foundation to find a cure for Neuroblastoma. I also am more than willing to volunteer my time & service to help in any way that I can.
Also, I sent this to the gmail acct, but not sure if you personally get those, so I am posting here hoping you will read it:
Dear Shanna & Ryan,
Seriously, I’ve cried my eyes out and prayed & yelled & begged Him for so much. I don’t understand how this could have happened, I don’t think it is fair, I think it is worse than horrible how Layla & your family has suffered. Obviously it is not for me to understand, but at least I am talking, thanking, & praying to Him much more. I just want you to know that your daughter has changed my life, and therefore changed the lives of my entire family. I thank you for that. If I could thank Layla I would, in fact I hope that I can someday if I am lucky enough to meet her in Heaven. Layla will live on in your sweet girls Claire, Jenna, & in the both of you, she will continue to do good things in this world. I have much faith that Layla’s imprint on this world and in the lives of other children with cancer, has only just begun. I hope reading this has given you some sort of comfort hearing how much your precious Layla has made a difference in my life & this world, even to complete strangers. If there is ever anything you need from me, please do not hesitate to contact me. Layla will be carried in my heart forever and I will love and pray for your family for the rest of my life. That is a promise!
I can’t thank you enough for opening your arms and hearts to the public
and allowing us to be with you at the celebration ceremony for Layla. It
meant so much to me to be there. Though I only had a moment or two with each of you to express why I had come so far and what I needed to say, it really meant so much to me to be able to do that. I know you all must be in a whirlwind of emotions right now and may not even remember meeting me, which is more than fine & understandable. My name is Alicia and my one year old daughter Aubrie & I flew in from California so that we may be at Layla’s celebration. To be surrounded by so many people who love Layla and have been tremendously impacted by her life, was absolutely amazing & beautiful. I just wanted to write you and tell you once more what an impact your beautiful, precious baby girl Layla has had on my life. I know Layla hasn’t just touched me, her reach has spread farther than you can imagine. She has touched people across the world. She has been so very important to so many of us. I have grown to love Layla so very much. She was an amazing little girl who has inspired so many to do good, to be better people, to be better parents, to restore their faith in God. She has done all of this for me and more. I am a wife and mother of four girls and have felt very frustrated too many times, now when I look at my children I appreciate them so much more, I have learned to have much more patience, I talk to God and thank him more for my blessings. I have prayed so much over the past month for Layla & your family. I think God may be a little tired of hearing from me
With Much Love,
Alicia Hernandez
cadj44@yahoo.com
Tehachapi, CA
My family is still praying for you.
My family has been following Layla’s story for some time now and have really been touched by her. I can’t imagine the pain you must be feeling! I have a daughter who is 15 months and I am a better mother to her because of you and Layla. I cried when I read that you played somewhere over the rainbow when the balloons were released… We let a balloon go on Saturday and right after we did I saw the most beautiful rainbow! I have NEVER seen a rainbow so bright and full. It was amazing, we took it to heart and felt like it was a sign that Layla was happy. I wish you all the very best! May God be with you!
Layla is still touching so many lives, and will continue to do so for a long time. I know of a foundation, http://www.believefoundation.org that was founded in honor of another sweet angel who had neuroblastoma. Her name was Kayla. Maybe you could get in contact with her parents for guidance? They are in Colorado, but I would imagine the basics are the same….
My prayers are with you as you miss your beautiful little girl. I wish I could offer something more than that, but I know nothing but God will make this bearable. So, so sorry for you. Mothers should never have to live their lives without their babies.
You’re in the thoughts and prayers of so many families, including mine. We can do nothing but admire how you’ve handled your hardship. You deserve happiness and love in the highest form.
Shanna, it’s an undeniably a beautiful post. Thx for comforting us about your condition with family. We know it’s tough our Gracious Lord will heal your pain. Layla is so proud of you, Shanna! She’s happily playing in Heaven now. It’s a beautiful place…
It’s your time to live her legacy. Be a strong witness of the Lord!
Love from Jenny & family.
Thank you for continuing to update us throughout this extremely difficult time. I have been thinking of your family throughout this past week with regularity. I find myself looking at pictures of Layla and I am completely heartbroken. I cannot even begin to imagine the pain you are going through. I feel like a part of me has died with Layla. She has definitely taken a piece of my heart. I wish there was a different outcome for Layla, but I am very confident that you will do wonderful things in Layla’s name for years to come. She is so proud of you!!
I know that Layla is in heaven, playing, laughing and most importantly HEALTHY!!
Your family is always in my thoughts and prayers and I am so excited to see what Layla’s foundation has planned!!
4 months ago Sunday my sweet boy got his wings. I know the pain that you are feeling. My heart and prayers go out for you and your family every single day because I know how bad the pain is. I know how deep it goes. It’s the simplest little things that can make me cry now. I miss my son more than I ever thought possible.
I hope you can find your way in healing. We are in this journey together and I can tell you know that so far, it hasn’t been at all easy.
What a beautiful person you are. How loving you are. I am glad that you feel comfortable in sharing your true feelings with us. I know we can’t begin to understand your loss. Looking at Layla’s pictures tonight brought tears to my eyes. I am so glad that you have your faith to help you through. I saw this video tonight and thought of you. I thought you might like to see it. If not now, maybe sometime later. You are in our prayers.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o2aLSat3h0w&feature=player_embedded
It is “Going Home” by Liberta. It’s really nice.
Thinking of you,
Jan from Canada
I bet she looking down at you from Heaven and has a big smile on her face.
You are so amazing. I have been thinking about sweet little layla and your family for days. Can’t get y’all out of my head. My prayers are with you and the family. I know she is up in heaven having a ball and just playing..She is also looking down smiling ear to ear I’m sure. Thank you oh so much for sharing your sweet little girl with everyone. Wished I could have actually been there to meet her but I’m happy I atleast got to know her this way.. She was truly a gift from God.. My mother is up in heaven as well.. && I’m sure my mother is having a field day with her.. She is just so precious. Keep your head up.. and May God Bless you && your family!
I just want to tell you that I too have been thinking and praying for Layla and your family, constantly… It is crazy how I am mourning the loss of a baby girl whom I’ve never met.. I lost my little 7 yr old cousin to leukemia, so we know the pain the family goes through. I know you take comfort in the fact that she is no longer suffering but playing with the angels up in heaven. I also live in Houston, and I wanted to go to her Celebration of Life so badly, but i had to work
.That day I kept thinking of sweet Layla and your family.Sending love and prayers!!And im sure Layla will visit you in your dreams just like my grandpa(r.i.p) does 
Your grace and strength as a mother, father, human being has touched me so profoundly, words are not enough. From the moment I read about Layla and her amazing family (you), I have not stopped thinking about the journey God chose for you. I proudly say that he chose the right angel on earth – you, for I have felt my faith grow stronger in such a way that is unexplainable – and I have read some of the comments of people that have been moved in the same way, some even reconnecting with God – thank you for sharing your precious family and the journey you are on. The Marsh family will always be in my prayers without end. I look forward to the day that neuroblastoma has full awareness and a cure. May you be getting all the rest, love, comfort and strength you need. Love, Cassandra
I think of Layla everyday and cry, I can’t even begin to imagine what it must be like for you. Layla became the poster child for childhood cancer and herdeath will not be in vain, as I will do what I can to shed light on childhood cancer. As I’ve told you before,Layla changed my life in so many ways, I am eternaly grateful
Thank you Shanna for sharing. It is good to hear feedback from you to know you and your family are OK. God bless you sweetie and your beautiful family. I pray ya’ll have continued faith,hope,strength and comfort.
much love,the Dovey family
Magnolia,TX
What a wonderful little girl Layla was (I feel like I know her even though I am thousands of miles away) and what a wonderful Mom, Dad and sisters she had!!! My wife and I pray for all of you constantly now that Layla is with Jesus. I can’t fathom the pain you feel and I am praying that the Spirit will minister comfort to you like you could never imagine.
Thank you for continuing to share and allowing us to pray.
Jake
Shanna, I truly admire you. Your blogs are SO moving and transparent! Thank you for allowing family, friends, and total strangers to truly see the journey that has been placed before you! God must be SO proud of His faithful follower and angel on earth! Layla has to be smiling down on you too and I am sure she is already proud of you! What an amazing mother and pillar of strength you are! I am proud to be your sister in Christ, even though I have never met you! I only wish that Ashland, KY was closer to Texas! I’m sure we could be the best of friends! As I watch my 8yo son and my 2yo daughter play, I know that I am better thanks to you and your beautiful angel Layla!!! Words aren’t enough to thank you! I continue to pray for you, Ryan, Jenna, and Claire! I can’t imagine having to endure what the five of you have, but you have done it with such grace!
Love & Prayers,
Meredith
Layla’s celebration of life was the most beautiful memorial service I have ever attended. What a blessing to have you as her parents continue on her legacy, not letting her struggle be in vain. God has a much bigger plan and purpose than we can even begin to imagine. I will look forward to seeing how His story unfolds through you and Ryan as you raise awareness and share the hope of Christ with a hurting world. May God bless you and hold you in His loving arms continually.
Praying for comfort and strength,
Julie
I continue to pray for you daily. Layla is in a better place – no pain, no pain and only joy and happiness.
I will watch for your foundation – I have mentioned you in my blog and also will post the links when you get it started.
*hugs*
Karen
All of you are such brave beautiful souls and little Layla is so proud of you. I can only imagine how much you miss her. You are so lucky to have two beautiful girls with you. I’ve been thinking about Layla and God a lot and though I do not understand why so much pain, my faith is somehow still stronger–I see Layla as a beautiful angel in Heaven and maybe some day I will get to meet her. Like most people on this blog, I hug my daughter longer, I have so much more patience, I am such a better Mom and person and I never met Layla. I will always see her eyes though. Will never forget her face. I will be following your foundation and I support you all the way. Just please, take your time, heal, rest, have a quiet moment. Stop for a second. Layla will be there in your heart. Always. And in mine. Always
<3 Layla is so proud of you, and so am I ! I cry everytime I read your post and think of the hurt you must be feeling, my heart breaks for you. You are such an amazing woman and I love your Faith. Thank You for sharing Layla with us, and I can't wait to see what the future holds in her name. She is and will always be apart of our family as well! I look forward to following this journey with you and your family and can't wait to see those photos and listen to the audio……May God continue to keep you all in his hands <3
Thank You for the beautiful post today! You & your family are truely amazing to me. Like SO many others, Layla & your family have touched my life in a awesome way. I have a 2 year old Madeline who I can’t get enough of. I use to wait for nap/bed time so I could FINALLY get something done. Now I don’t mind if she doesn’t nap or go to bed early. I just love to spend time with her & my older children. I have realized that sometimes, everything else, can just wait. They are only little once. Thank You for helping me to see that!! Thank you for sharing SWEET Layla Grace with me…with the world!! I will NEVER forget her!! I will continue to pray for your family…Julie from WV
You and your family truly have left an impression in my life that will never be erased. Layla Grace is always on my mind and I pray for her as well as for your family every chance I get. I got to meet you on Saturday and it was truly an honor, I know Layla’s legacy will live on forever because of you and your family! I have the program from Layla’s celebration of life and looking at her beautiful picture on the front of it as I pass by it always reminds me that life can sometimes be too short and to just take a minute and hug my babies or even say I love you more! I’m sorry for all the pain you and your family are going through and I pray that God comforts you!
For over a month now, tears have not stopped flowing from my eyes for you all, and you’ve all never been out of my thoughts for more than a few minutes. I imagine it’ll be that way for a long time. I wish you lots of comfort and peace as you figure out where to go from here. xoxo
I am the about the 320th person to write a reply….Can you see how God’s glory is being shown through all of the sorrow & pain? What an amazing family, whom I’ve never met, never spoke too. God is using you all in such a mighty way. It can’t be explained. That is what makes us stand in AWE of our Creator. Layla did more in her 2 years of life, sharing the love of Jesus, than most people will do in their 70 years of life.
I am mourning the death of a beautiful angel, named Layla Grace. I never met you sweet girl but your story has captured my heart, my thoughts, my prayers.
Being the mom of 3 little girls, I can only get a glimpse of the pain you must be feeling. Your strength, your courage, your wisdom encourages me beyond measure. May our precious Heavenly Father be with you & your family through this difficult time & may you have peace knowing that you will one day see your precious baby girl greeting you at the pearly gates with her savior, Jesus Christ.
Please know, I am praying for you & your family. Thank you for being so honest & real.
In Christ,
Ashley
Wow, your blogs just fills me up with a world of emotions, some good, some not too good! At the end, as a mom, I am so proud of your courage, and thank you soooo much because thru your story and specially thru Baby Layla I know that God is amazing and He and only He will give you the strength to follow your path!Because this is something to die for, and you are head up and willing to go beyond. No doubt, He has a purpose, and He chose YOU for it! God bless you and your family always!
My heart is breaking for your entire family. I continue and will continue to pray for you all and for the goals and dreams you have to carry out Layla’s legacy and to help spread the awareness of childhood Neuroblastoma.
Through the tough moments, I pray you find comfort in Knowing God is holding you, through all of this, the tough moments, the easier moments, the peaceful moments, the heartbreaking moments.
I will never forget Layla Grace and now pray for all of the children fighting Neuroblastoma and their loved ones.
Thank you for sharing your family’s story, and for sharing Layla Grace with everyone, you already have shared with so many hearts what this awful cancer does to families.
Here is a song, Natalie Grant’s HELD ~ when you are ready for the lyrics of this song. Please find comfort in knowing that through each moment, happy, sad, hearbreaking, He is there holding you and He is holding Layla close.
sending your family so much gratitude, so much love and an endless amount of prayers!
What you let us know about your precious little girl, has changed a part of me forever. I miss her too and I did not ever get to meet her, but I feel like I did, thanks to her Mom and Dad! Thank you!
God Bless,
~Rebecca
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iOufqWodFNo
There hasn’t been a day that goes by that I haven’t thought about your sweet angel.. whether its a song on the radio, a picture or a little girl wearing one of her hats.. Lately I’ve been thinking about her more often. I realize how much more I appreciate my life and family since reading Layla’s story about a month ago. Her death made me cherish my life and feel so blessed to have a strong health family. I pray for periodically through out the day, and I hope your family finds peace. God Bless.
Continuing to pray in Alaska. You have an amazing faith and so much courage. God Bless You!
I’m on vacation with two of my three boys and my husband in Colorado. All I can think about is Layla and your family. I have honestly thought about her more than my one year old I left back at home with his grandparents in Texas. I only recently heard about Layla’s story and since I did, I have a new appreciation for the gifts from God my children really are. I have you, your husband and your sweet baby girl Layla to thank for that. I have shed so many tears for you and my prayer is that one day you and your family will shed no more tears because I know you must hurt so badly. I pray when you think of her or find her belongings that you are able to simply smile. What a legacy Layla has left behind for so many to honor. I will forever honor Layla Grace. She has a piece of my heart forever as my own children do. With love, Chasity
Continuing to lift up prayers!
Psalm 31:19-21 Oh how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men! Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence…thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion…Blessed be the LORD: for he hath shewed me his marvellous kindness in a strong city.
Prayer Bears
My email address
Please tell me how I can get more information about testing. I recently read a comment about urine testing. Thank you for sharing your story and bringing this new awareness about Neuroblastoma to all of us.
citlahli, my 21 month old, and i still pray for you and layla each night. you and layla continue to teach me to have patience, to slow down and relish each discovery my girls make (the other baby girl is 7 months old)… and when i begin to feel overwhelmed because “big sister” wants to sit on my lap or she wakes from her nap crying, i just hold her and think, “this is what layla and her mom would want me to do.” i smile and hold it together when both girls are pulling me in two directions…. thanks for sharing your journey with all of us. you’ve made one mom, and many other mommies, daddies, etc, a lot more understanding and patient.
Shanna,
God has given you many talents, courage, faithfulness and commmunication. The way you put things in words that are indescrible to many amazes me. Layla and your family has brought so many people together, just today I was asked “when did you start following Layla Grace?” We then talked about your blogs and shed numerous tears, knowing we could not handle the journey you all have been on with such grace. Your family is amazing and I am constantly in awe of your strength an courage. You will be in my prayers for a lifetime.
Your sister in Christ,
Mary
Your family and darling Layla have touched me so much and had such an impact on my day to day life with my own darling daughter Grace. I think your idea of setting up Layla’s room as a quiet, reflective space sounds perfect. Thinking of you always and praying for strength for you all x
Thank you so much for posting all of the pictures of Layla. What a beautiful, extraordinary child. I wish I could express in words how Layla has touched my heart and soul. I may never have met her, but I feel her in my heart-her smile, the way her eyes are so full of light and life-she truly is an angel. I can only imagine the strength and courage, the spirit that she had-so amazing and gracious. Looking at her you know that the Lord lives. I pray for your family and I will always have you all and Layla in my heart. I know she is proud of you all. I am so touched by your strength and your faith. May God bless you and keep you. With much love in Christ,
Angela
Your strength is so amazing! I have been consumed by your story and look at my 9 month old daily and just can’t imagine your strength. PLEASE post the information on Layla’s foundation. I visit Houston often and have family there and we would all love to donate/get involved and help other families. God Bless you and your amazing family.
I cried all through your blog. Layla’s carseat struck me, also. Your strength is a gift…and it is hard to write anything right now through all these freaking tears.
I am still soooooooo very sorry Layla is no longer here for you to hold and give your wonderous mother’s love to. My guess is that much of what made her so amazing stems from who her parents are.
My love to all of you. I wish words could be adequate right now…
My prayers for you is that God will continue to wrap his arms around you & your family, easies your grief and gives you peace, you are an amazing person and you are a inspiration to all that reads your story. I can not begin to tell you how my heart aches for you, and your family. Please know that you and your beautiful angel Layla have touched my life. God Bless You.
Kelly bell
I, like many others, am amazed by what you all are doing in Layla’s name. A foundation is a wonderful idea. Let us all join together and do whatever part we can in accomplishing this goal of curing this horrible disease, and if it be God’s will that we can not cure it, let us at least find it in the early stages to give our children a better chance at survial from it. If you need any help, let me know what I can do. You can call on me. mallen06@yahoo.com Much love and prayers as always, mary
I’m keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. Layla is already proud of everything you do!
I have been following little Layla’s story for awhile but this is the first time I have commented… I cannot even begin to imagine the pain your family is feeling right now, but I think you are amazing people and God’s work is being done through you. You have changed my life, and you have brought me back to my faith. I think about Layla all of the time and I KNOW that her legacy will live on forever here on Earth. Starting a foundation in Layla’s honor is a fantastic idea and a great way to honor your little angel. God bless you all and you will forever be in my thoughts and prayers.
~Christin from Edgewater, MD
I’m based in the UK and have been following you on twitter, as a father of a boy, Jenson, similar age to Layla, I’ve been really touched by what you’ve had to go through. I get choked up every time I read a post on twitter. Your strength and love shown throughout this ordeal has been inspiring.
I think a foundation is a fantastic idea. I run my own design company and we’ve just taken on a pro bono project of redeveloping the website http://www.georgies-fund.com/. Georgie’s Fund has been set up in memory of a dear little boy George Hayhoe who lost his battle against Neuroblastoma on 21st January 2004 aged 8 years old. This is a really great charity and hope that you too have great success in setting up your foundation.
I wish you the best of luck for the future and send love to your family, and a special hug and kiss for your little Angel.
Praying for each of you to find strength for today, and every day.
The Witbecks
Frankenmuth, MI
Shanna, you are a wonderful mother and I know Layla was and always will be very proud of you. I pray for you and your family every single day.
You are amazing….I’m sure you don’t feel like it, but I am inspired by you’re faith and strength through this time of your life. Since I found Layla, I have been trying to find ways to get involved in support for Children’s cancer in order to help. I would LOVE to be apart of the foundation you start for Layla as I am sure MANY others would be as well. Please keep us all aware so we can help FUND research to fight for this cause! WE WILL ALWAYS LOVE LAYLA GRACE and pray for your family- you’ve captured my heart!-
I have been reading Layla’s journal for a while now. We don’t know each other and as I read your post this morning the tears started coming down. You seem like such a strong person and I don’t know if I could have been as strong as you and your family if I were in your position. I want to say thank you for sharing the story with everyone because I have learned from this and pray more and more everyday. I hope each day gets better for you. Remember it is ok to cry because that is a part of healing.
Lafayette, LA
You don’t know me but I feel that I know you through Layla’s blog. Layla has touched my heart in many ways. After I first read her blog she changed me as a mother. I have two boys who are 4 and 5. I find that I am more patient with them then I was before. I think about your little angel all the time. I cannot even begin to imagine what you went through and what you are going through now. I pray for you and your family often. I pray that God will hold you in His arms through this difficult time. What you are doing in Layla’s name is truly AMAZING. Thanks for sharing your story with me. I will continue to pray for your family.
Love and prayers to you and your family,
Megann
Shanna – I know you’re very busy these days, but check out my blog sometime. I lost my newborn 7 days after her birth. And whereas this is not nearly the same as what you’re going through, I had the same exact thoughts regarding the bedroom and baby clothes. It was the hardest thing to do. It has been almost one year since her passing and I still get weepy at moments (especially when reading about your pain). Take time for yourself and take care of those girls. You are a powerful person and have done so much for all that you care for. Good luck and take care!
Wow, such a powerful blog. I have only followed you for a short time and my heart breaks for you. As I sit here and read your blog, I cry my eyes out for you and your family. When looking at Layla’s pictures, I feel like I KNOW her, through her eyes, just from what all you have shared and to see how strong SHE was as well as you and your family.
You are right, life goes on.. as HARD as that is. I think it is wonderful that you will be getting a foundation started and having those pretty big shoes to fill will be a challenge but a GREAT one and carrying on Layla’s legacy is something that you and your family NEED to DO. This will help you heal as a family.
It isn’t easy when your heart aches for someone, like you said, even when you are happy, you feel sad because she isn’t there to share. No parent should ever have to face this and I am so sorry that you and your family are.
Thank you so much for allowing us into your journey with her and PLEASE know, you are not alone.
Hugs!
Still praying for you and your family everyday, may you be wrapped in God’s love and find strength, courage and ultimately some sort of peace as you continue to mourn precious Layla. I cannot imagine how you pick yourself up every day….you must be such an incredible person! Looking forward to hearing more about the Foundation and ways we can all help when you are ready, you know you have an army of people out here in cyber world ready to help! Layla’s reach and hold over people is nothing short of a miracle! Much Love, Lisa
as an aunt who lost a niece who was 7 months old, I can tell you that you will survive. Slowly but surely with God’s mercy. Just when you think you can handle something, something reminds you of her. At first it bothered us but no wlooking back it kept her in our hearts and minds. Yes, we found Marcy’s bottles in teh cabinets, clothes in the laundry and toys under the seat of the car. Marcy had two older brothers and one swears he knows exactly when she died because he saw Jesus come in the house and take her with him. When the other kids say they can see Layla Grace in heaven, know that they are telling the truth and believe them. It’s been 5 years since she’s gone to be with Jesus and yet there are still daily reminders of her short sweet precious life. You will make it and she will always be a part of your life. you are still a mother of three. My sister chose a lady bug as a symbol of Marcy. One day when she was most upset and remembering her her husband called her to come outside. An entire tree was covered with Ladybugs! God will not let you forget her. She must be pretty improtant to him for him to want her home so soon. Hang in there and keep the faith.
Helloo..my name is Carla and Iam from Brazil and for the past three weeks i’ve been following your blog and your story… Im a mother of two, Davi is 3 1/2 and Julia is 16 months and i cannot imagine what you and your family have been though. Layla has touched my life in so many ways that i couldn’t describe…I pray for you and your family everyday and im sure taht precious Layla is in peace now..with our Lord Jesus Christ by her side…
Gol bless you and your little girls!!
You are still in my thoughts and prayers. I just got back from overseas yesterday and I’m sorry I missed what sounds like was a wonderful celebration of little Layla’s life. We are still always here if you need us. Please tell your other little one’s that we are praying for them as well.
I really can’t say anything other than what I said to you at the celebration-thank you. Thank you for sharing Layla, for letting us take this journey with you. God has used your openness and willingness to share such a painful ordeal to touch so many. Lives have been changed because of what you have done, mine included. So thank you. Praying and think of you always.
Shanna and Ryan – I continue to be amazed by your strength, and for being able to take the time to continue these posts and updates when your heart is broken. My heart aches for you and your girls at the loss of beautiful Layla, but I, like so many others across the country–and world–have been touched forever by her and by sharing your story of the courageous battle your family has gone through.
I couldn’t help but cry when reading this post, because I have been thinking of you all every day, wondering how you’re doing, wondering how you’re able to get through each day, and praying for your strength during this time.
I just wanted to thank you again for allowing us into your lives, for making us aware of Neuroblastoma, and for sharing precious Layla with us. My heart and soul have been forever changed.
As many others have said before me, I have become a better mother, a more patient mother–and more patient daughter even. I have become more grateful in my life, and I just wanted to let you know I would be honored to help however possible once your foundation is in place.
Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers always.
Melanie in Ft. Lauderdale
You are all in my thoughts daily. I think you are doing the right thing by showing your emotions with the girls…they do need to know it is O.K. Layla touched us all. Please know you are never far from my thoughts.
Day by day….one foot in front of the other…that is way more than anyone could expect!!!! Your strength and grace alone PROVE that a might God (and Layla Grace too, of course) must be walking hand-in-hand, every step of the way with you – how else could you ever manage that grief? Jenna and Claire are beautiful reminders of the hope we have in Jesus…
Still praying for your peace and comfort…
The Harris Family
Alpharetta, GA
Way to go Mommy!! I know you guys are mourning and will be for a lonnnnnnnnng timmmmme, but I think it’s amazing that you are allowing your girls to see you do it, and making them comfortable in their own mourning process. Layla will be your angel forever….amazing
I’m excited to see where Layla’s story takes Neuroblastoma awareness/funding etc… Gosh…it’s hard to imagine a little 2-yr-old had such a HUGE task in her short, sweet little life
I think you are an amazing momma, an amazing child of God, and are doing an incredible job of living…
Never met you, but LOVE you all so much!!
I know Layla is already proud of you- You are such a great Mommy! My prayers are with you and your family. Hope you keep of being as strong as you have been and that you can move on with your life as your other two daughters also need you and need to be loved and cared.
Oh Shanna, your blog, makes me cry. Layla
IS:) very proud of you and your family. This is all GOD’s PLAN-&-WILL you see. I still shed tears for her, really wishing she was here on earth with your family, but I know she is with your family every day anyways. It has to be so hard to not be able to give her hugs and kisses in person. I would love to spread awareness and see if I can help out with paper, crayons, stuffed animals, anything to make the kids going through cancer forget what they are going through being stuck in a hospital…a child’s smile is the best thing in the world! I’ve thought of the kids in our local hospitals too. I used to have a home online business, but once I get my website back up and running, I’d like to dedicate a page to Layla with your permission to spread awareness. So hard not to cry, I’m at work and taking a deep breath to keep it together. Will be checking back to be updated on your plans. Love & Prayers, Suzi
One word comes to mind…..”Inspiring”
Layla and your family are on my mind constantly.
An Irish Blessing: I read this and thought of you so I wanted to share.
Remembered Joy
Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free!
I follow the plan God laid for me.
I saw His face, I heard His call,
I took His hand and left it all…
I could not stay another day,
To love, to laugh, to work or play;
Tasks left undone must stay that way.
And if my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered joy.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss…
Ah yes, these things I, too, shall miss.
My life’s been full, I’ve savoured much:
Good times, good friends, a loved-one’s touch.
Perhaps my time seemed all too brief—
Don’t shorten yours with undue grief.
Be not burdened with tears of sorrow,
Enjoy the sunshine of the morrow
i am sosorry for your loss miss layla was a beautiful angel this story has touched me very deep i have a 8 month old little girl and ever since i heard of this story i have treausered every moment of her cuz u truely never no what could happen u are a very strong women and you wll get trough this my prayers are with you and your family good bless you!!!!!!!!!!
simone houston tx
still thinking of and praying for you daily. much love to you and your family.
Was just listening to this song for the 100th time and it hit me that I didn’t know what the lyrics meant.. I ended up smiling through a big lump in my throat as I picture Layla, brilliant and shiny in Heaven looking down on everyone
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RGoGf9lhANk
I can’t stop crying when I hear about Layla’s story. Thank you so much for sharing such an inspiration story with the world. I know it will never be easy but your faith will carry you through this. Even though Layla is not here physical she is still alive in your memories. You both are amazing parents amazing people. God Bless!
From the mouths of babes….Claire has vision we could only hope to have. I was looking at the site at a picture of Layla when my 3 year old son walked up and asked who that was. I told him it was a little girl named Layla. He asked where she was and I told him she had gone to live with the angels. He looked at me and said, “Like Roseanne and Taz?” (my sister’s cat and dog) and I told him yes. He said Layla could play with them now since they were all there together.
Your family continues to be in my thoughts and prayers. I hear the song “Temporary Home” by Carrie Underwood and envision Layla telling you not to cry, that she will see you again once you return home too. She is in good hands, I’m sure she was welcomed with giggles by Carson and Caden who recently made their trip Home.
Your family is still in my thoughts daily.
Dear Shanna, Daddy, Jenna and Claire,
I cannot express to you how much I feel for your family. I can only express to you how much my heart is breaking with yours. I, too, am a mommy and I cannot even begin to fathom what is in your hearts. What I can express is how grateful I am to you and your family. You’ve helped me to strengthen my relationship with God, you’ve showed me that faith and prayer can get you through anything. You’ve made me a better mommy because you’ve taught me to NEVER EVER take a single moment for granted, and most of all you’ve helped to raise awareness that there are these awful diseases out there doing these awful things and taking other babies away form their mama’s and daddy’s too. Thank you so much for allowing us to share in this very very personal and bitter-sweet time with you. My mother’s heart is weeping with you, breaking for you and praying for you to find comfort, solace and peace.
I can promise that sweet little Layla is so very proud of you and that she KNOWS how loved and missed that she is. God bless you all. I’ll always keep you in my heart and prayers.
Silent Tears…
We go through life with a broken heart, though most days you will see us smile.
We get through those days knowing it is just one more, closer to seeing them again.
We still laugh, we still play with other children, ours or our friends’, and we still live,
Yet the spark in our eyes is gone, yet the joy inside has left.
Some days, we adventure out, some days we just don’t.
And sometime when we do, reality hits hard so we turn around and run back to safety.
We can be strong but mostly because we have no choice.
If asked how we are, we will usually say ok just so we can escape,
Escape more questions or unwanted advice about how it is time to move on,
We are afraid and we panic at the thought of forgetting a little more each day,
Their voice, their smell, and the way they kissed us, the way they felt in our arms,
How it sounded when they said our name and even their favorite food…
You might see us walking through graves at all hours or the day and night,
You might hear us talk to a picture on the wall, or a box setting on a shelf,
Remember to never question why we do this; it is not an easy thing
To go sit on our children’s grave to share our day with them,
Or lay in their bed, reading their favorite book,
Knowing they will never be there again to turn the next page
Before we are done saying the last word.
See, we don’t really want to go on without them, we just don’t.
They are our hearts, our souls. They make the sunshine and the rain fall,
They send us snow kisses and flower petals in the wind,
They paint rainbows and sunsets, they bring us butterflies and lady bugs,
They always have, just now; they do it from Heaven…
Heaven is where our children had to go so they could be free…
But we are left behind…
And now we go through life with our broken hearts, though most days you will see us smile,
But remember next time when you see us smile as you go by your day,
Remember that at night, as you go to bed and close your eyes,
Silent tears roll down our cheeks as we cry ourselves to sleep one more time
Lifting you up every day.
-Kris
My heart is completly broken for you. I went back and looked at Layla’s pictures again and began crying for such a sweet sweet baby, a baby I will never know, but that has touched my heart. I can’t wait to meet her on the other side! I can’t imagine the pain you are living through right now. I would want to just curl up in the fetal position on my bed or hers and never get up. The strength you have is amazing. I pray that God continues to give you strength. I know you can’t do it on your own and it only through HIM that you can rise out of bed each day.
My love and prayers to you and your family! Since we will never meet here on earth hug yourself real big for me!
Misty Hoffmann
I am so so so sorry about Layla.
You are an amazing mother to all of your daughters and have made me a better mommy to my girls.
I pray for you and your family daily
Hang in there hun!
You and you family are truly AMAZING!!!!!! I don’t think I could go on if this where me. Thank you for sharing your story. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Watt Family
I send my prayers for all your family, it is amazing how tecnology can really conect us , i live in venezuela , a small country in the north of south america , and i was really touched by your girls battle with cancer , i can only hope for the best for your beautiful family , you dont know what a lesson your little baby daugther has teached to all kinds of people all around the globe , i couldnt be part of her celebration of life allthought i would have loved to , but i would really want to keep in touch if your going to make a foundation in her honor i would love to know about it .
I have nothing but good wishes to your entire family , and hope that you get to feel your baby with you even if her body isnt here on earth, you got to be sure she is watching over you .
GOD BLESS YOU ALL
You are all forever and always in my thoughts and prayers. In regards to Laylas clothes, Have a quilt made out of them.Instead of storing them or giving them away..That way you can sleep with it to always feel her near =) Sending lots of love
Layla is already proud of her mommy, daddy and sisters!!! No need in trying to say she isnt or you need to make her proud! I pray for comfort for your family. Healing takes time. I dont know much about that type of cancer either! As I didnt know muc about SIDS until our friends son died from sids. But I am willing to learn because layla has touched my heart!!! Thank you for posting your journey. Cant wait to see pictures of the celebration!
Courtney
Thank you for your updates and for letting us into your special lives.
I along with everyone else is thinking and continually praying for your family.
I have been following you since Valentine’s day. I have become, every day, more and more aware that as a mother of two children under two years of age, I have a responsibility to learn more about the disease that took Layla’s huge and beautiful life. In addition I feel a responsibily to spread your word about funding research and fighting the disease. I would be doing a disservice to my own children and other children just like them and just like Layla if I did not.
Please keep us updated. Please let us know how we can help.
Jenny
Dear Marsh Family~
I have recently learned of your family’s struggle and the loss of precious Layla. It touched me to the core and brought me to my knees.
You ARE creating change already. I was so touched and saddened by your story and Layla that I actually made a monthly donation to a Children’s Hospital in my home state. Layla’s legacy is happening is places you don’t even know!
I think of your family daily and wish you peace.
Your painful yet inspiring journey makes me grateful for every moment I have with my children. I pray for God’s peace to surround your family.
Stephanie Burke
Charlotte, NC
I have been following your blog for a few weeks now and just want to thank you for having the courage to share your family’s story with the world. I think all of us as mothers are holding our own a little closer and learning to not sweat the small stuff. When my 2 year old wets the bed I praise God that his body is functioning properly. When he wants me to read his favorite book again and again I am thankful that he can demand my attention. We are all a little more patient and more thankful for the blessings we have and that is a direct result of precious little Layla. I lost two baby girls about half way through my pregnancy and want you to know that I asked them to greet Layla when she got back home. I have no doubt that they are rejoicing and playing together in their perfect, pain-free place. My God continue to bless your family as surely your family has blessed mine.
Thank you for this update. I have been thinking of your sweet Layla for days now, and of course wondering how you all are doing after her passing. I think your plan for her room is such a wonderful idea. I know you miss her terribly, and I’m so sorry. I know you will do amazing things with her legacy, and I am excited to learn about the foundation once you have it up and running. Layla and your family are in my daily prayers. God bless you all.
Layla’s Legacy will continue on because of your great strength and courage. Not a day goes by that I don’t think of her sweet face. I pray for you all constantly and know the good Lord is giving you the daily strength you need.
Many blessings to your beautiful girls who are dealing with the loss of their sister. I have 2 sisters of my own…in all we are 3 girls…with no brothers. Because of Layla’s story I find myself saying I love you to my sisters more often. I don’t know what I’d do without them and i feel for your beautiful girls who will forever be without their beautiful sister.
Thank you for keeping us updated….I honestly check the site and Twitter multiple times a day to see if you updated anything. We are all greiving with you and your family. You are definitely not alone in this.
I look forward to hearing about your mission to get the word out about Neuroblastoma….and hope to be of some help when the time is right.
Many blessings to you all.
I am taking my 22 month old daughter to her first gymnastics class tonight and it all is an effort on my part to appreciate more moments with her, that would not have happened if it hadn’t been for Layla’s inspirational journey. She has change my life and my families. May God bless you in this difficult journey. My thoughts and prayers continue to be with you and your family.
I have followed you here and on Twitter for months. Tears are rolling down my cheeks now and have been several times a day when I think of Layla. She was absolutely one of the most beautiful children I have ever seen and her sweet spirit shines through all of the pictures. I cannot imagine the pain you and your family are feeling, words are inadequate. Just take comfort and know that the Lord is with you, He will never leave you even when you feel alone. May you be enveloped in peace. Layla changed my life as a mother, I will never forget her precious face.
Dear Marsh Family:
I just recently learned of your family’s struggles. My heart hurts for all of you. I can not even begin to imagine what pain you must be going through. Tears come to my eyes everytime i read about Sweet Layla and look through her pictures. She’s a beautiful little angel. Your story has touched the lives of so many people and Layla’s legacy will forever live on. You will forever be in my thoughts and prayers.
I have followed Layla’s journey since the end of January, and I have never been so personally moved by the story of someone I have never met before. Maybe it is the fact that I have a son who was born just a few days before Layla, and I can’t even allow myself to imagine the heartbreak you must feel. Maybe it is the fact that you so graciously shared your personal message, even through those last, painful days. What I think strikes me most, though, is your faith in God and your ability to draw from His strength even in your darkest days. I pray every day that you know that Layla touched many, many lives, but you have also changed lives by bringing her message to the world.
I wish you and your family peace and healing through this difficult time, but I also want to say thank you. You truly are an amazing familiy, and Layla was as blessed to be a part of you as you were to have her.
I have been following Laylas story for a few weeks and my heart is simply breaking for your family. Every time I read these updates I end up with tears streaming down my face. You are in my constant thoughts and prayers and your grace and strength are so amazing.
Sweet Layla Grace will live on and her work here on earth will continue. It is amazing how many people she has touched – she did so much during her short time here.
I lost my dear sister in law to adrenocortical carcinoma 5 years ago. We had 4 months with her before she passed on to heaven in my arms. I will never forget that day she went Home.
I look forward to hearing more about Laylas Foundation. These rare cancers need a voice and more funding and awareness.
God Bless your whole family.
We continue to keep your family in our thoughts and prayers. The service was lovely. How wonderful your mission to further Layla’s legacy by creating a foundation to advance awareness, treatment of neuroblastoma. I am very impressed and proud of what you as parents have done in your grief.
Shanna & Ryan, I have listened to your radio visits and followed your story everyday for months now. I have 3 girls the same ages as your own. My family looks a lot like yours – my oldest has olive skin, brown eyes and hair and my 2 youngest have fair skin and look a lot like each other just like Layla & Claire. I pray for you and cry for you and I know that your suffering has not been in vain. You have already raised tremendous awareness about Neuroblastoma and inspired all of us to help find a cure. I was thinking about how hard it must be to have her car seat not in your car and see her toys, stuffed animals and blankies around the house without her. Then I read your blog and saw that you were writing exactly what I was thinking. It must be so difficult. Hang in there and I hope that time starts to lessen the rawness of your sadness & loss. Layla will never be far from you but I know that in this lifetime you will always miss her beautiful face. Take care of yourselves and I’m sending your two sweet girls love and prayers too.
Close to 400 people have commented on your post, and it’s tempting for me to not comment and instead just read, cry, pray and hope with thousands of other followers like I did for the last few weeks. But, I feel like you need to know about each and every life that Layla and your family has touched through this journey…so I will comment. Layla is so gorgeous inside and out that I can understand why all of on Earth and all in Heaven were fighting over her
Unfortunately for team Earth, God and the angels won and everyone here is experiencing extreme sorrow and shattered hearts. Fortunately for Layla, this beautiful girl gets to be without pain, sickness, hurt and sorrow. I’m thrilled that she is experiencing all the wonders of Heaven! Thank you for sharing her story with the world – you have been critical in the lives of thousands! It would be very easy to be selfish and keep her all to yourselves. When a childhood friend of mine died at the age of 13, I was annoyed at all of the people that suddenly decided they were friends with him without even knowing him. It didn’t seem fair to him. It would be so easy for you to be annoyed at all of these strangers pretending to have had a relationship with Layla. Your ability to share her is brave and all of us strangers are so thankful to have the opportunity to learn from your journey. Your ability to share your feelings as you move into life without Layla is powerful. Your ability to keep your family faithful is beautiful. My grandparents lost two children; their only son at 8 years old from leukemia and their baby girl 2 months of age. They were strong and did the best they could at the time. They did not cry. They did not communicate. It created a strain on my grandparents for the rest of their lives – to the point where I always thought they hated each other until the day of my grandma’s funeral. I’m excited for you and your family’s future! I’m excited for your relationship with your husband to reach new levels of connection! I’m excited for your foundation to make unfathomable impact on Neuroblastoma! I’m excited for the powerful testimony you can share with millions! I’m excited for your beautiful girls to live a life of not taking anything for granted! I’m excited for Layla who is experiencing nothing but JOY! Thank you, thank you, thank you for sharing her and your family’s journey.
I wish I could of known your little girl. I wish I could of known her beauty, strength, courage, grace and beautiful smile. She will forever live on in the work you are doing and in our hearts. Thank you for having the courage to tell her story. It has forever touched me.
Thank you for sharing you sweet Layla with us. What a difference she has made in so many lives. I am truly amazed by your strength and faithfulness during this painful time. God Bless you and your sweet family.
WOW… that is all i can say… I only recently came to your blog about your sweet precious gift, Layla, but when i started this reading, i absolutley couldn’t stop… You have given many many people, including myself, an added value in life. To not go everyday without realizing how very blessed we are. Now while that may not be of much comfort to you, btut thank you still, because it is to me… I am absolutely amazed at your strength and faith in God. I can’t begin to show my apologies for your huge, huge loss… But like you said in your ‘Miracles Happen’ post “I’ve spent all this time praying for her to be healed. AND SHE WILL BE. It just might not be in the way I want. Within a few short days, one way or another, Layla will be healed and absolutely perfect” that is a wonderful way to heal…
i wish you and your family nothing but the best in this difficult time. Also the best of wishes in spreading the word of this horrible disease. If you can save even 1 child from this, Layla’s work will have been completed.
<3 Lindsay
You are so amazing and I know Layla is already so proud. I am so touched by Layla’s story. Ya’ll are forever in my thoughts and prayers.
My heart breaks for you, nothing but tears everytime I read your post. Sweet Layla is smiling down on her momma and beaming with pride! Yout strength is encouraging to us all!
My nephew was diagnosed with liver cancer at the age of 3, after 6 rounds of Chemo and a liver transplant he is now cancer free and getting stronger. There were time they gathered the family together to say our goodbyes cause they didnt think he would make it threw the weekend. That tiny little guy is the strongest person I know.
Much Love to you and your family threw this tough time!!!
You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Whatever you need from me to help continue on the legacy of Layla I am there. My email is stacey0608@yahoo.com and you just show me what I can do to help.
Hugs to you and your family.
We have been deeply touched by Layla, and by the example of true faith set by your family. I’m moved to tears by every post. My daughters remember your family in their prayers every night. May God’s precious Spirit carry you when you cannot walk, may He comfort you when you feel hurt and alone, and may He pray on your behalf, when you don’t know how or what to pray.
Love and Blessings,
The Roberts Family
On March 13th somewhere in Minnesota a baby girl was born to friends of mine. They named her Laylagrace and want to tell her all about her namesake some day.
You are such a great mother and I know Heavenly Father is watching over you and your family with Layla. I will keep you in my prayers!!!
I want also talk to you about helping on bringing stuff to the Kids are the hospital. I read you want to keep doing that, and I would love to help. I always want to find people to share my talent with and I always think about little kids with cancer. Please visit my site cutebabyboutique.blogspot.com and let me know if you think my hats would do something. I think little girls look so cute with hats and flowers!!!
Thank you so much!!!
Analia
May the road rise to meet you; may the wind always be at your back; may the sunshine warm your face; may the rains fall soft on your fields, and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.” (an Irish blessing). Rest in Peace Little Angel ‘Layla Grace’
Shanna, your faith is strong! Layla Grace is so proud of you! Jesus is shining His light through you and you will help so many other families. God bless you and your family.
What an amazing Mom you are! God bless you and your wonderful family!!
Your family has left a lasting impression on my heart.
I think and pray for you all often. I’m glad to hear the weather was so beautiful for Layla’s celebration of life, and I look forward to seeing pictures of all those balloons! That must have been an amazing moment!
Sending love and hugs from Canada.
Nancy
I just stopped in on your page…I am so sorry I missed Layla’s passing. I am so sorry for your loss. I will be praying for your family as you go through this next season…grief. It will be long & difficult, but God will be walking it with you & He is also holdling Layla’s hand. Oh that we could see her in heaven right now. Continuing to pray for your family & esp. your girls.
Sharon
COLE’s Prayer Team
http://www.colesfoundation.com/
I feel so blessed that you continue to communicate with us. After Layla passed, I thought about how much your daily life will change and then I thought about how all the people who were touched by this would feel also feel a daily change if the blog and Twitter went silent.
I cannot wait to help spread Layla’s word when the foundation moves forward, and I hope people like Ryan Seacrest continue to help.
Thank you for being a truly amazing person – there’s no doubt where Layla got it from! Many blessings for every moment you move through whether it is filled with joy, reflection, sorrow, peace, chaos, humor, anger, frustration, happiness, inspiration, or simplicity.
Your family has been on my heart since I heard about your story through a friend on Facebook. I wanted to reach out to you and let you know how truly blessed I believe you will be for maintaining your testimony and faith through all of this. The enemy meant it for evil, but God is bringing such incredible good out of it. Know that you are being used as a MIGHTY tool in His hand.
Layla is more alive now than she has ever been, basking in the glory of the Lord’s presence! How glorious your reunion will be one day. Until then…Romans 15:13 – May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
still praying for your family through this hard time.
my heart hurts….I know and trust God but I have a baby same age as Layla and you are a strong and amazing mother! Praying diligently for you and your family
I find myself coming back daily to your website not only to read your new twitter posts but to stare at that adorable face! What a beautiful little girl your photos are priceless!
Amazing post. Your wonderful parents, Layla is so proud, looking down and smiling knowing what a wonderful family she has.
hi shanna and family , how ya doing today…thinking and praying …and also hoping you got a chuckle at my previous post on 3/16 416pm…i totally need glasses….after i sent hubby and i were talking bout it and i mentioned fountain and he laughed and said wendy it wasnt fountain you goof it was a foundation…oops but you know that would be also a cool idea…take up a fund for a fountain for the childrens cancer center…in honor of layla and then $ collected could go to hospital…anyhow blind and blond here in maryland….am also happy bout the start of a foundation…i know must be and at times will be overwhelming, how could it not be…i selfishly hope i never know….and can only feel my heart bleed for you …i dont even know layla but the pitures along w/rryans and your hearts breaking loud and clear… if we can put man on moon….then why hasnt a cure been found….space been there done that …enough lets put space $$$’s into gov fund for research of all cancers as discovered …..huge task…whoa…where would one start?….love you all and pray a restful slumber, good night…
Reading your latest post, brought tears and heartache for you, Ryan, Jenna an Claire. I can’t imagine the longing you have for sweet Layla. Your precious little girl that fought so hard. She has amazing eyes, and a sweet little grin. I have been following your blog/Twitter posts for about 3 weeks. She touched my life so much, and she will always be remembered. I had a premature daughter that sustained a brain bleed an developed hydrocephalus. I would try and keep people updated, but you and Ryan have a gift with words. Along with the sweet pictures of your family. Layla touched so many hearts and will never be forgotten. I pray for peace and comfort for your entire family. Whenever you feel the pain is too much to bare, just let your Father in Heaven know, because I know He can carry you through this time of heartache. Your family will remain in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Monica
I had the honor of attending Layla’s Celebration of Life and I have her program with her beautiful picture hanging on our frig. It is a constant reminder of her beautiful life, and your journey. Thinking of you and praying for you.
XOXO
http://www.handprintsfromheaven.org – my blog
http://www.hopecollage.org – memorial site created in my daughter’s name
I haven’t posted since Layla went to be with Jesus in Heaven because I’ve been at the hospital with my son, but I have prayed for you all every single day (especially so yesterday) and will continue to do so. You all are in my heart and always will be. I pray many many things for you, Ryan, Jenna & Claire — but most of all I pray for our Heavenly Father to carry you all through your days on this earth until the day that you all are reunited in Heaven with beautiful Layla Grace. I pray for your peace and happiness. Thank you again for sharing a piece of Heaven, Layla Grace, with us all…she changed so many, I think it’s even safe to say she helped “saved” so many – because I think she brought many to our Savior’s feet. Much love to you beautiful Marsh family
I have been praying for your family. We just had a three year old angel who’s family are members of our church pass into Jesus’ arms about 4 weeks ago. If you feel that you can, you may want to check out their Blog. It is called, “I Am Especially Fond of You.” Her name is Emma Dunnam.
My prayer for you is that time softens and smudges the harsh images you no doubt have of Layla being sick, so they will not be so hard on your heart. I pray that over time you will only remember happy times and peaceful images of her. I pray that you will no longer feel sadness or heartache for Layla, but instead, your heart will be filled with love and peace. Above all, I pray for you to find peace.
I still think about Layla and your whole family every day. My older daughter (almost
even mentions Layla from time to time. Her journey, your family’s journey, touched our hearts more than you know.
I can’t even begin to imagine how you all must feel right now. In some ways, I’m sure the daily reminders help heal your heart. In other ways, I’m sure it makes “moving on” (if there is such a thing) so much more difficult.
I’m praying for you. Thank you for being an inspiration to so many people, especially me.
Hugs from Charlotte, NC! <3
Beverly
Haha. 8 followed by a parenthesis =
Who knew!
I guess <3 doesn't = heart on this blog, though.
LOL!
Hi, I started following your story about a month ago and was almost addicted to reading about your story. Each day I was nervous to open your page on twitter in fear that Layla passed that day, while on the same side each day I opend your twitter page and was praying she passed quick and with no pain. I always said a silent prayer for your family as I could not begin to imagine what you were all going through, as my heart ached every day for you all and I don’t know you. I am sure you have seen this poem before but it brings comfort to me when I thiink about my family members who have passed:
Footprints in the Sand
One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord.
Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky.
In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand.
Sometimes there were two sets of footprints,
other times there were one set of footprints.
This bothered me because I noticed
that during the low periods of my life,
when I was suffering from
anguish, sorrow or defeat,
I could see only one set of footprints.
So I said to the Lord,
“You promised me Lord,
that if I followed you,
you would walk with me always.
But I have noticed that during
the most trying periods of my life
there have only been one
set of footprints in the sand.
Why, when I needed you most,
you have not been there for me?”
The Lord replied,
“The times when you have
seen only one set of footprints in the sand,
is when I carried you.”
Mary Stevenson
All that said know Layla is now in peace and no pain being the best gaurdian angel to your family.
Erica.
About a week ago I heard about Layla’s twitter page…I visited and have been back every day since. What an amazing, beautiful, and brave little girl! I am so terribly sorry for your loss. My heart truely breaks for you. I can’t even imagine. How lucky for little Layla though that she was blessed to have parents as loving, dedicated and amazing as you and Ryan. I just wanted to let you know that reading on your twitter page and reading in your blogs has forever changed me.Your strength and your unwaivering faith in God is incredible. Some of the things you wrote in your blog Sleep, Regrets, and Valentines Day hit me really hard. I have 2 children (8yrs & 2 yrs) and what you said about waiting for them to sit still for an episode of Dora and the unloading the dishwasher taking forever with the kids under your feet…That was ME!! I was just trying to get through day to day, going through the motions. but because of what you wrote and because of sweet Layla, I realized that I need to cherish the little moments so much more. I need to take the time out more often to get on the floor and play. Thank you so much for sharing your story with us. You are truely an inspiration. I will NEVER forget your beautiful Layla or you. God bless your family.
So that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:17-19
Shanna – your post is beautiful. You are an inspiration to me as a mother and I know Layla is very proud of the Mommy, Daddy, and Big Sisters that God blessed her with. What an impact the entire Marsh family has had on this world…my love and prayers keep coming from Kansas.
I read this versed today in my devotional and thought of you. He knows your tears and is comforting you!
You know how troubled I am; you have kept a record of my tears.
Psalm 56:6
I have been thinking and praying for ya’ll often. Although I never met Layla or your family you have been close to my heart since I found out about your journey. I am an adult and am currently recovering from my battle with cancer. I have three young children 7yrs, 4.5yrs, and 18mos. I can’t imagine losing one of them or seeing them go through the battle that Layla had to face. You have handled this with such grace. God is smiling at you and your family. Know that he is holding you all in the palm of his hands right now. Truly blessed by your transparency and faith.
Just wanted to let you know that The Kinkaid School in the Memorial area of Houston held a Lacrosse Tournament that benefitted MD Anderson Children’s Cancer Hospital last Saturday. It was called “Beat Cancer with a Stick” and was the inaugural tourney. They raised $10,000 for children’s cancer research. I was there last Saturday to give the check to one of the Doctor’s from the hospital (my husband is a coach/teacher at Kinkaid). I was thinking of ya’ll that day and praying for you too. How special is it that on the day you were celebrating Layla’s life, money was being donated to research children’s cancer.
Constantly praying for your comfort and peace.–amyz
i just want to say you are a BRAVE FAMILY , eachand every day after reading your blog a little piece of me thinks of you daughter and all those kids out there that are sick ,hurt or just not so lucky !! Your little girl is in a beautiful place and she will always remain with you looking over you and her family everyday she is only a pray, a thought and dream away !!!
I hope and wish you much strength , love and future happiness ! God Bless xx
I love how God will take a crisis or tragedy in a family and turn it into compassion and desire to help other people that run into the same things we’ve been through to get through or try to prevent it. Before our first baby was born premature we knew nothing of why babies were in NICU or of how organizations like March of Dimes helps families. I wonder how much you all thought about cancer before little Layla got it. Proud of you for running strong to get the word out and raise awareness about Neuroblastoma. Thanks to the internet to have it spread like wildfire helps a bit too! You’ve already made a huge impact on me and many others. Praying for you.
Your little angel has touched so many hearts. I still think about your family all the time; pray, and cry for you. Your story has TRULY helped me become a better mommy to my 2 year old and I thank you so much for that! Lots of love and prayers to you and your family!
When tomorrow starts without me,
and I’m not there to see;
If the sun should rise and find your eyes,
all filled with tears for me;
I wish so much you wouldn’t cry,… See More
the way you did today,
while thinking of the many things,
we didn’t get to say.
I know how much you love me,
as much as I love you,
and each time that you think of me,
I know you’ll miss me too;
But when tomorrow starts without me,
please try to understand,
that an Angel came and called my name,
and took me by the hand,
and said my place was ready,
in heaven far above,
and that I’d have to leave behind,
all those I dearly love.
But as I turned to walk away,
a tear fell from my eye,
for all life, I’d always thought,
I didn’t want to die.
I had so much to live for,
so much yet to do,
it seemed almost impossible,
that I was leaving you.
I thought of all the yesterdays,
the good ones and the bad,
I thought of all the love we shared,
and all the fun we had.
If I could relive yesterday,
just even for awhile,
I’d say goodbye and kiss you
and maybe see you smile.
But then I fully realized,
that this could never be,
for emptiness and memories,
would take the place of me.
And when I thought of worldly things,
I might miss come tomorrow,
I thought of you, and when I did,
my heart was filled with sorrow.
But when I walked through heaven’s gates,
I felt so much at home.
When God looked down and smiled at me,
from His great golden throne,
He said, “This is eternity,
and all I’ve promised you”.
Today for life on earth is past,
but here it starts anew.
I promise no tomorrow,
but today will always last,
and since each day’s the same day,
there’s no longing for the past.
But you have been so faithful,
so trusting and so true.
Though there were times you did some things,
you knew you shouldn’t do.
But you have been forgiven
and now at last you’re free.
So won’t you take my hand
and share my life with me?
So when tomorrow starts without me,
don’t think we’re far apart,
for every time you think of me,
I’m right here, in your heart.
Author David M. Romano
I first learned about Layla Grace from a friend on Facebook and have followed her story since.I can’t even imagine what your family has gone through. I am still praying for your family for the strength God can give you to continue to tell Layla’s story. Please let me know what I can do to help make your Big Ideas becaome a reality..
wow! you’re a Superwoman! I just cry and cry while I read the post!
I sure that Layla is so happy, because she have a super mommy and a beautiful family!, is incredible how a little baby could touch so many hearts! since the first moment that I knew about her and her case, I just was thinking all the time in her and praying a lot! Now, I’m praying for you and the family, because is so hard the time that you’re living.
The most important thing now is be with the other girls, because they’re little girls still, and they need you and the daddy too!
All your family will be in my heart forever, and I will be follow this blog everytime!
Love and a big hug for all the family!
Your right, Day By Day is what you have to do. You are an amazing woman, mother, wife, etc. I get so emotional just reading your journey I can’t even imagine living it. Our prayers continue to be with your family. Layla is free of pain now and thank God for that. The last days for Layla sounded so rough and I wasn’t even there. You guys did a wonderful job on keeping all Layla’s followers up to date. And she touched so many lives in her short time here. We are having a really tough time with the children in our home and when I think I have had enough and don’t know what to do I always think of Layla and her Family. And it makes our problems seem so small. Hang in there, the Lord has plans for your family! We will keep you in our prayers.
I am so amazed by the face that I never had the pleasure of meeting this sweet, little girl yet she has impacted my life tremendously! I’m a young mother, I had my now 2 year old son at 18 and had no idea what to expect. I use to loose my attitude with him and get so frustrated when he wouldn’t listen or act out. Now I am so thankful for all of his little tantrums. I hug him a little harder and kiss him a little longer each night and thank God every chance I get for bringing him into my life. I can’t even begin to imagine how you feel or what you are going through. You have to be one of the strongest women I know because I would lose it all. Thank you so much for sharing Layla’s story with me, she truly is an angel! <3
Still praying for you all everyday. I hope that everyday you find peace knowing that Layla had a huge impact on many people and that her short life was not in vain.
With love from South Africa
your strength continues to comfort me. here i worry about little things and things like leaving maturnity leave to go back to work or not. where as your still somewhere dealing with such a lose. everyday i am more greatful and cooler tempered with my girl because of your story, laylas story, your familys story. i thank you for that. for being able to share it with total strangers. your post about not wanting the house to be quiet, about wanting her under your feet and not being able to get things done.. about once wishing for quiet when now you just wish she was there… thats what i hold on to everyday. and i see my kids faces and remember how lucky i am and send up a prayer for how lucky i am. thank you from the bottom of my heart. your still in my thoughts.
Hi,just checking.I’ve read about layla room door shut..Claire looked out the car window looked at the sun and said layla in heaven,so true Layla in heaven..I would open Layla room door ,plus,open the blinds or pull the curtains back and let the SUN shine threw…
I read this blog and it made me cry. I then played “over the rainbow” and read it again and it made me cry more.
I thank the lord every day for touching my heart & soul through his earthly miracle…Miss Layla. She is forever in my mind has left the most memorable stamp in my faith.
Continuing to think of Layla and your family each and every day.
May you continue to find strength in the Lord with each passing day. Lifting your family up in prayer from Charleston, SC.
Layla is an angel now and will continue to watcch over her amazinmg family. She is with you in spirit until you are together again! My prayers!
I found your blog through one of my friends who listened to you & your husband on the radio. She also went this past Saturday to help celebrate little Layla’s life, I just wanted to stop by though and say my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I cant imagine having a 9 & 8 year old myself.
RIP Layla!
Shanna and Family – I have never met you and I only learned about your story the day that Layla went to play with the angels but in this short timeframe you have all changed me forever.
Layla’s story is amazing and you have shared it so gracefully – how you have done this amazes me. I think about Layla and her struggle and all of you 100 times a day. Almost everyday I sit down and cry and just wish for one second I could wrap my arms around you all.
Your story has changed me and I thank you for sharing it. I have a 15 month old daughter and was beginning to take special moments for granted – your story stopped me dead in my tracks and now these moments are precious and priceless to me. When I feel myself get frusterated I simply think of Layla and what you have said on this website. You have taught me how important it is to slow down and just ENJOY every day. How emptying the dishwasher for 20 minutes is fun. How stepping on all of her play dishes in the ktichen as I walk to grab a soda is funny instead of annoying. How folding the laundry is now an adventure vs. a chore because she wants to help and place everything in one pile and then randomly move it to another pile so nothing actually ever gets folded =)
I realize this stuff is probably so trival to what is going on in your life but I just want you to know how much you have impacted not only me but thousands of families. Thank you so much for sharing everything with us and your family and Layla will not be far from my mind or heart.
I can’t wait to hear more about the foundation for Layla – if it’s anything like what you have created while Layla was here – it’s simply going to be beautiful!!
May the loving arms of Jesus hold you tightly until you can hold sweet layla again.
What a testimony- and Layla is so proud of her work here on Earth as she is of her earthly family.
When you announce your foundation plans, if you need helpers, please contact me. I would love to help any way that I can.
I am so sorry for your loss. I have been reading your posts and following your daughter’s battle. She was such a strong little girl. Just looking into her eyes, I am sure it is made known to many that she had wisdom beyond her years. She will be remembered in the hearts of many. She is looking down on her mommy and daddy and sisters now and well aware of all the love everyone is pouring into her (and will continue to!). God must have had tremendous plans for her and seen something in her that many of us on this earth cannot or will not understand. I am so positive she is up there with all the things she loves, warm and happy. I myself have lost 3 immediate family members to cancer in a span of 5 years. It is incredibly difficult to see someone you love in that position, knowing you cannot do anything to help them. I prayed to family members in Heaven (all which loved children!) and I told them to take care of her and watch her.
I do not have children myself as I am still a young woman in school, but I volunteer with children weekly, all with significant life-altering disabilities. I constantly am asked by friends and family how I offer my own time and am able to cope with the saddening issues I see. To me, it’s quite a no-brainer: This is the reality of things and there are so many children that need whatever we can offer to them. I see many parents who are frustrated and negative and do not believe in their own children. Your daughter was incredibly lucky to have such a beautiful family, spreading their love to her in any which way possible.
I will continue to pray for you, family and friends. Your story is such a heart-warming one and it makes me want to give that much more to those that I can and live my life to its fullest. I hope you find it comforting that your beautiful child can do that for myself and for many many more.
Thank you for sharing everything you have shared about Layla. You are all so amazing, and I have been blessed by your story. I have a 19 month old girl, and thanks to your stories, I see everyday as a gift. It’s easy to get caught up and grumble about things that are inconvenient, but life is so precious. Your “Over the Rainbow” song holds a very special place in my heart – we played it at our wedding! I teared up when I read that you played it when you released the balloons because it’s such a magical song. I am sure Layla and Jesus were both tickled pink seeing that!
May God bless and comfort you and your darling family. Thank you again for sharing your life with strangers.
The entire time I was reading your post I pictured Layla in heaven sitting in a garden with a lot of other little boys and girls her age. Swapping flowers and laughter as she looked down and watched the balloons inching their way closer to her hands.
I can’t imagine the struggle your family has gone through, but little Layla has impacted so many lives with her story. That in itself is one very impressive achievement for such a young heart.
You are so blessed to have such an amazing and beautiful family to share the rest of your life with
It was nice seeing you and Jenna this afternoon at the store. It took me by complete surprise and made me completely speechless. You are always on my mind, in my prayers and in my heart. I had a million and one things to say but could not get anything out. All I could do is hug you and Jenna over and over (sorry by the way). I still might be shaking with emotion and love for you. You and your family have touched so many hearts and I thank you for enlightening me and helping me to become a better mom to my newborn- much less a better person. I admire your strength and will continue to pray that God holds your family tight. If there is anything at all I can do please let me know. I am only a email a way
Thank you and God Bless
I’d like you to know that I’ve made a $100 donation in Layla’s name to the Cure Kids Cancer fund at Sanford Children’s Hospital in SF, SD. I found out about neuroblastoma by following a little girl who was fighting the disease at this hospital. Luckily she is doing well with her fight against stage 4 neuroblastoma, but stories like Layla’s just break my heart. So anything we can do to help find a cure, we’ll do. I’ve posted before…just learned about Layla about a week before she passed and I think of her and your family so often. I will keep sending up prayers for you all as you learn to live this life without your precious girl.
I just want to first and foremost say how beautiful Layla is what a precious precious lil angel. I also wanted to say that I am so sorry for your loss. Reading your blog has taken me back a couple of years where we lost our granddaughter she was born silent. I look at Layla’s sweet pictures and what a treasure you have in them and her. Reading her story has touched me so much and I pray for strength for you and your family. I love the idea of turning her room into a quiet room that is awesome and what a great memory of her as well. Take care and know that you are loved if not up close then for sure in cyber space (((((HUGS)))))).
I see you said you have big shoes to fill but you dont have to fill them you just have to follow along side where they left off like foot prints in the sand because no one can fill those shoes and you are doing a GREAT job and i am so happy i found your familys story about this beautiful blue eyed angel she has touched my heart and oh so many others THANK YOU for sharing your story and THANK YOU Layla for helping so many others have a little more faith and to know LIVE FOR TODAY!!!!!
You are an amazing mommy. The time you have taken to pour your heart out on this blog, is beyond words. I don’t think I could have pulled myself out of bed, much less blogged. But your blog will be a memory like nothing else…and certainly a memory that thousands of us will have in our hearts forever. I will never forget Layla, she has changed the mommy that I am. I will never take life for granted and will savor every moment that I have left on earth because of Layla’s story. I hope you continue to blog, your family is so precious to us now. I cannot wait to meet your sweet Layla when it is my time to return home…..
“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust.”
Psalm 91:1-2
My heart still aches for you but it rejoices for sweet Layla. I just know she is the happiest little girl right now in heaven. I’m continuing to pray for you to have strength to get through each day without her. ((HUGS))
Marsh Family,
There are no words…I still continue to pray for your family and Layla. Your story is an amazing testimony for your trust and faith in God. A day does not go by that I do not look at Layla’s pictures/youtube videos or read your recents blogs over and over (unable to fully comprehend the whole thing). I do know one thing, you were blessed with an amazingly strong, beautful, baby whom I am truely excited to meet in heaven one day! I would like to thank yall for sharing your story with so many of us, Layla and your family became a familiar name in so many of our homes, prayers, and thoughts. I hope you will occassionally update us who feel like we were so close to yall through following your story and falling in love with Layla. Sending much love and prayers you way!!!
I have no words to comfort, only to tell you I pray for your family. As you read from hundreds of people, Layla and your family has touched many lives including mine. Many, many, many prayers will continue to be said for your family and other families dealing with childhood cancers.
Thank you for sharing yours and Layla’s journey.
So Proud to have followed you through your Journey, you are an inspiration, My Grandpa just joined Heaven, hopefully Layla can meet him, he never got to see my children.
HUgSSSSSSSSSSSS
please if you do the foundation or any other fund raiswers, email me, I would love to help you get the word out…
militaryfamilyof8@yahoo.com
hugs!
I would just like to tell you how much I admire you and your family, and especially Layla Grace! She has put my life into perspective, to cherish all those little moments. Remembering to enjoy the time you have with your kids is sometimes something that gets lost in the shuffle of life, and Layla has taught me to just let the laundry go or the dishes for a bit so I can be there for my babies. She is in a great place now with God in Heaven, and she feels no pain, and I am sure she just is so happy to see her family keeping her memory alive! Stay strong! God Bless You!
Marsh Family,
I am deeply sadden to hear about Layla’s passing. Y’all will always be in my thoughts and prayers and just know that if you need any help with anything, just shoot me an email. Your family is such an amazing, strong, beautiful family who not only touched my heart but so many others.
I am a volunteer at Texas Children’s for B.I.G. (Brooke’s Incredible GIft) Love Cancer Care and if you need any help/guidance with getting your organization started, you can email the founder, Jessica Phillips at jessica@biglovecancercare.org. The Angleton Ice House has adopted B.I.G. Love Cancer Care and will be having a Bike Run (motorcycles) on April 10, starting at 10:00a.m. to help raise money for cancer kids and their families at Texas Children’s Hospital. You can contact Jackie Graham 979-849-0084 or email nataliemolock@gmail.com for more information.
“We cannot all do great things, but we can do small things with great love.” – Mother Teresa
Layla has her angel wings and will be watching over all her loved ones.
LOVE B.I.G
Crystal Cantu
Angleton,Texas
You guys amaze me. I am in awe with the strength you carry in your hearts each day. It a true testament to your faith that God is in your every day lives and you live it to the fullest. How lucky Layla Grace was to have you guys as her Earthly family.AWESOME! She has touched my heart in so many ways but most of all her smiling face is etched in my memory forever.
Guardian Angel Prayer
ANGEL OF GOD MY GUARDIAN DEAR,
TO WHOM GOD’S LOVE ENTRUST ME HERE.
EVER THIS DAY BE AT MY SIDE ,
TO LIGHT, TO GUARD, TO RULE ,AND GUIDE.
This is a Catholic prayer that little children start learning early at church. We say it every night in Memory of Layla Grace.
I have followed along here and there, Layla and the family’s journey. I just want to say I have and will say prayers for the family, for your comfort and for Layla in Heaven. Seeing her photos she was/is a beautiful little girl. Much blessings to your family.
still praying for your stenth & peace at this time. Julie from WV
May God give you strength today.
Praying for you each & every day.
Shanna,
I’m not sure if you have ever heard of/met the Cruse’s from Dallas. Their son, Connor, went to Heaven last July from Neuroblastoma. He fought it half his life, until he was 8 1/2. He had treatments in Dallas, Houston, Boston, New York and Guatemala. They are an AMAZING, AMAZING family and also started a foundation a couple of years ago. They have raised hundreds of thousands for Neuroblastoma research. If you want to or get the chance, you can visit their site (www.teamconnor.org). The posts Connor’s mom, Joy, wrote after Connor passed were poignant and beautiful and heart-wrenching.
We will continue to pray for your family.
I know Layla will always be proud of you and your family as you gave your loving support for her and continue to carry on her legacy. Through you and your family she will never be forgotten and always cherished.
I am continuing my prayers of peace and support for the Marsh family today and always.
Dear Marsh Family,
Our prayers and love go out to you. We are at a loss for words to convey the emotions and feelings that we are feeling for your family. We think of you every day and check your website frequently to see how you are doing. We wish we could take your pain and agony away. Please know you are not far from our thoughts. Love and prayers from Vermont.
John, Kelly, Emma & Sophia
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers and especially you for strength as you raise two other children.
I am still praying for your family everyday. My older sister is too. And a bunch of my friends are praying too.
-Libby M. from GA
I’m only 14, but I KNOW that Layla was proud of you the minute you conceived her. You are her hero and she’s proud of you for just getting through the day, and that’s a fact. I am so sorry for your loss, I was praying while testing on March 11th in class, that God would free her from pain and heal her. But when I got home, I learned that she passed and I started crying.!
I pray for you every single night. And your daughters, husband, all your friends/family.. everyone that knew you or Layla.
I cannot wait for pictures of Layla’s celebration. I wish I lived in Texas! I would’ve come in a heartbeat!
Lots of love, Emma xx ♥
Thinking of you in your loss.
I was thinking about you and decided to stop by your blog. Your sweet baby girl has touched the lives of so many people. Please continue blogging and letting us know how you all are doing.
I’m praying for peace, strength, and comfort for you and your family.
You’ve all touch my life deeply thank you for share and god bless your family. Rest in peace Layla
God saw you were geting tired
And a cure was not to be
So he put his arms around you
And whispered, “Come to me”
With tearful eyes we watched you
And saw you pass away
Although we loved you dearly
We could not make you stay
A golden heart stopped beating
Hard working hands at rest
God broke our hearts to prove to us
He only takes the best.
I just wanted to let you know that I’m thinking of Layla a lot today. I miss her and I miss you tweeting about her. What you are feeling has to be nearly impossible to handle. I hope you all sleep well tonigt. I hope she visits you in your dreams tonight.
I am continuing to pray for you and your family. May God give you strength, peace, and comfort the way only He can.
Dear Marsh Family,
My thoughts and prayers continue to be with your whole family. As a mom of a young toddler, I can not imagine having to experience what your family has gone through in the past year.
I know these words are commonly expressed, I only wish I knew how to convey how much Layla has touched my life. On the day that Layla passed I did not know what to do. Thoughts of Layla and your whole family consumed my mind. I was so heartbroken for your family. I wanted to do so much, but nothng felt right.
I hope this does not come across wrong, but the only way I could think of honoring Layla was to take my daughter to the park and just play with her. We played and laughed… and at times I wept.
From one mother to another – I thank you for sharing this journey with us. As I mentioned earlier, I learned not to take one moment for granted. But with that same thought in mind, I do not know why it had to be Layla to teach us this message. With that in mind, I am so profoundly sorry for your loss.
I sincerely hope that these words may bring forth some comfort. Please know that my family continues to keep your family in our prayers.
With love,
The Palmer Family
Can you please send me the HTML code for this blog template? I love it
“our finger prints don’t fade from the lives we’ve touched”
even though she is an angel now, she will never be forgotten.. she has touched so many lives, more than most people ever will.
God laid you and your family on my heart last night as I was doing the dishes, seems a strange time to think of someone I’ve never met in person, but then it was somewhat quiet around the house, and maybe that was the best time to get my attention! I said a prayer for you at that time and resolved to let you know that, even though this part of your journey is over, you still have so many of us thinking of you, praying for you, supporting you. Your new journey, which you have already embarked on, will touch so many lives and bring such hope and encouragement to those who are and will be starting down the same path that you took with Layla.
I have such admiration and respect for the both of you in that you didn’t just lay down and say ‘why me, my life is over’ … instead you pulled yourselves up by your bootstraps determined to prevent this from happening to another family. Yes, there are those days when you may say ‘why me’ and that is normal, I can’t imagine loosing a child in the way you did, but instead of wallowing in the muck and the mire, you have chosen to turn this around for good and are working for the benefit of others.
I know that you have probably heard this a million or more times by now, make this one million and one, but I wanted to encourage you, to let you know that I am crying with you, I am praying over you and I will encourage you in your new vision. Layla will live forever, in our hearts and in the work you are doing on her behalf … dare I say, ‘Long live Layla?’ …
-Karen
You are a truly remarkable person. You handled this tragedy with such grace and dignity. My heart breaks when I read your blog, yet I can’t stay away. Layla was absolutely gorgeous.
Losing a child is the most unbearable thing a parent can endure. A very close friend lost her son more than 5 years ago. She still thinks about him every day and his room is still “his” room but she is living her life and trying to move forward. She/you will never forget but it’s okay to keep living. That is what Layla would want.
Hi Marsh Family,
I wanted to let you know that I continue to pray each and every day for all of you and that sweet little Layla is always in my thoughts as well. She IS incredibly proud of her family and all that you are doing for neuroblastoma research. I am so proud of all of you and we have never met but I feel as though you are family. Much love and hugs to all of you and I hope Jenna and Claire are doing well. I think of them often. Shanna and Ryan you both are true examples of unconditional love and it is inpiring to witness and be part of that through your blog.
My friend baby boy just turn 3 years old 2 weeks ago went to play w/the angels yesterday he had cancer as wel.. All I could do was be silent & by her side..Today her family w/her which I would like to be there but right now it family time,tonight is the awake..When I found out about Justine I thought of Layla as well…Phyllis, the mom is in a daze for now,plus her husband as well….I hope all is well with Layla family….
I don’t even know what what to say…I have two small children and I can only imagine what you are going through! I know that your precious little Layla is no longer in pain, she is probably laughing and playing with the other children right now!
She will never be forgotten! I am thinking of your family, please keep updating the blog. Thank you for bringing awareness.
Bianka
Layla is with ou every minute of your day..and I am more than sure she is beaming ear to ear proud as she could be , showing all her new friends in Heaven…see that wonderful family there on earth.. they are mine…
I know when you feel low, the gentle breeze that touches your hand is actually Layla, that new bloom that simply captures your attention is her smiling at you,that you get that sudden feeling of calm, when your heart feels like its breaking..that deep sigh you let go is Layla reminding you to breathe and keep moving towards your goal…and those times when your eyes seem like the ocean and tears won’t stop flowing..itis just your love for her overflowing and every drop she sees and wipes with kisses that stain your face…not once with you or anyone else in your family ever be alone…what you will see as your shadow, will be your guardian angel Layla….,as much as you miss her physical presence.. that little angel daughter is always by your side…
For me, when i think of angels, and the face i see is of Layla..praing for strength and courage to meet your goal…i know what we as adults couldn’t achieve, liittle Layla legacy will…..
I saw this video on youtube and thought it was beautiful how people who couldnt make it to her service released balloons at home http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9UbzdySC0RY
I forgot to mention that today while I was working the song “Layla” came on the radio..and I immediately thought of your sweet angel.Love and prayers your way..I hope you know the intensity of Layla’s impact on people’s life.
Not a day goes by that I don’t think of you and your family. I pray for you all everyday! I hope the girls are finding some peace with your new normal.
Lot’s of prayers!
Danielle
Mongomery, TX
I continue to pray for your family daily. It is so awesome to know that you have the Lord in your lives and in your hearts and will one day be reunited with Layla. I think about that beautiful little girl often and am still heartbroken that she had to be stricken with such an ugly disease. I have never lost a child, so I have no idea what you are going through. I did lose my very best friend, my mom, to cancer as well when I was in my early 20s. Cancer awareness is so important, and I commend you for wanting to start an organization in honor of Layla to educate people about Neuroblastoma. I am sure with you passion, neuroblastoma will be well known and well on it’s way to a cure in the next few years. God bless your family, and I will continue to pray and follow your blog. There is no doubt that Layla is proud of you and what you will accomplish in her name. She will never be forgotten.
Like so many others, your family has captured my heart. When I read your post that Layla had gone to heaven, I was at work and heartbroken and after I gathered my composure and made it through the rest of the day, I got into my car and re-lived the emotions to JJ Heller’s, “Your Hands”.
I actually found your story at the very end of Layla’s earthly journey from Caden Ledbetter’s site on CaringBridge, where I have followed so many others who have gone to heaven as a result of neuroblastoma.
Today, I have two healthy little boys but I feel compelled to join your cause in honor of the precious little ones who are now healthy in heaven – Kayla Weber, Marissa Monroe, Caden Ledbetter and of course Layla… to name a few.
I have never met any of these children or their families but they have brought me to the realization of where I feel called to serve. I live in the area (League City) and would be honored to assist your foundation in whatever capacity and whenever that next journey for you begins.
and, of course, I will continue to pray for your family
That is lovely Shanna… What a sweet tribute to your precious daughter. I am praying for you – don’t ever forget that God is with you!!!
LOTS OF HUGS!!!!
Charity
Love you Layla!
God Bless you and your family!
I am always thinking about your family and praying for you. I am amazed and humbled by your strength, love, devotion and faith. May God always watch over your family. Layla Grace will always be a part of my life and be in my heart. I hope you realize the profound effect she has had on so many. Thank you for sharing her with us, she was a bright light in an often dark world………..
I just wanted to say that I continue to pray for you and your family every day. And I hug my little ones that much tighter, and am better able to keep things in perspective. Layla was a gift from God to inspire us all, and you, her amazing family, are continuing to share that gift- thank you.
I have ordered a beautiful Layla Grace tutu for my 19 month old little diva.
love, from WA state
I think about you and your family everyday…..I pray for peace and understanding…..The night Layla died, I prayed to my father, the most wonderful man on this earth, who we lost in October, that a little girl was suffering and needed peace. I told him that she was around Paisley’s age (my daughter) and needed an angel. The next morning I read Layla had passed, and I know she was greeted by a wonderful man named Barry Edgerton who his grandchildren were his whole wide world. Loss is hard, but stay strong….
Cancer is hard, I know….I am 38 and have been in remission for 3 years in May. We must find a cure, and I fight this fight with you.
God Bless you and your family….may your find strength with each other and your sweet memories.
My 2 1/2 yr old tells me at bedtime, “Mommy,sing Amen.” She’s asking me to sing Amazing Grace…so I sing a few chords and then she starts to sing along. I cherish these times as I did when my 3 oldest children were younger.
To have done what you have done, you and your husband is truly remarkable. You had an angel living with you and that perfect miracle of a daughter will always be at your side. Your daughters are beautiful and I pray that your family will be given peace for you all have fought a mighty battle and with nothing less than GRACE….peace be with you always. ♥
I can’t even imagine the pain you must be feeling right now. I will continue to keep your family in my prayers.
I am in awe of your strength, and I still think of you and your family often.
I just came across your blog this morning, and I wanted to say that I am terribly sorry for your loss. I cannot imagine the pain and agony of all that you have gone through. You are both so VERY courageous, brave, strong and so much more. I will be praying for you and your beautiful girls. All of your lives have been SO blessed by having Layla. What a wonderful gift from God. Right now, she is dancing on streets of gold, singing with Jesus and is in no pain. God will take this tragedy and will work miracles. I pray that God’s arms of love and peace surround you today and always. God Bless!
Layla and her wonderful family are in my mind every day. I look at her pictures every day….and a tear is always shed for her loss.
You guys are tough in ways no parent should ever have to be. You all have my admiration, complete respect, and love.
Layla was one beautiful little girl!
Hugs for all,
Pamela & Derek (my son)
You are truly amazing. You have all been on my mind, every day……even though I don’t know you, other than your blog posts. It sounds like your little angel’s celebration of life was wonderful.
Sending you lots of love and hugs…
Your posts, your family, your story and yourself never fail to inspire and amaze me. I just know this foundation is going to be huge.
God bless.
Layla was amazing, as are you! I am so touched by the strength and will to live on in her shoes, and do the things that she would have loved to do. If only there were more people out there in the world like you both, our world would be a happier place. I think the things you are going to do are amazing. I will support you in your journey with as much as I can. I am getting fans for Facebook, so you can have that donation. Keep us updated on the Foundation, and if I can do anything to help, please let me know.
I think of the song “I Can Only Imagine” and picture Layla sitting up there in God’s lap giggling and playing with the clouds like balloons. She feels no pain and has no more wires attached to her. She is talking up a storm to all of the angels telling them about Jenna & Claire and her mom and dad. This was just a comforting thought I had and wanted to share it, even though I am sure you guys can already picture her sweet happy self in Heaven. Thinking about you guys all the time.
Still praying for you Shanna, Ryan, Jenna & Claire — everyday. Much love to you.
..My best friend has cancer. That word is just so.. heavy. Medicine can’t help her, so we are looking for alternative cure.. Browsing around, reading about cancer, I found this blog. When I saw Layla’s face, I was struck by her beauty and innocence. I am sorry, but I can not believe in God. I just can’t. How could he let such a dear innocent baby suffer? How can he let my most positive and loving friend dying in front of our eyes in pain and still wondering if she will ever meet the love of her life. She doesn’t know that there is not enough time. And then I try to find comfort looking at this beautiful angel. It makes me cry and it makes me wanna scream because it is just so unfair!! I hope you will have enough strength for future days and I know that she will never be forgotten. I wish you all the best.
I have followed your journey and have admired your strength and temendous faith in our Lord Jesus Christ! Please know that Layla and your family will never be forgotten. You have changed me and my relationship with my own family. I appreciate them so much more and don’t take one day for granted now. I just want to say thank you to Layla and to the rest of your family. I love you and will continue to pray for the comfort that only Jesus Christ can give. May God heal your heart!
Your strength is amazing. I can’t even imagine what you are going through.
I pray for you daily and your family. Keep going on even though I know it
has to be hard. I come to the site everyday to see if you have updated…
Layla sure was a lucky girl to have you guys as her familly while she was on this earth such a short time….Praying for you in NY….
Still praying for you to have strength and love to go on.
Praying God’s guidance with all of your foundation planning & decision making. Layls is so proud of her parents carrying on her legacy.
Thinking of you all and continuing to hold you up in prayer.
I have been following Layla’s story since January.
I havent been around a computer for a few weeks so I havent been able to check in, and I logged in today to find out that Layla had passed.
The tears just started pouring. And I immediately started to pray for that little angel.
My heart aches for Layla, and her family.
And she is so lucky to have such amazing and strong parents.
I cannot imagine what you are going through and your strength and courage is truly inspiring.
I was looking at her pictures, and couldnt help but start crying all over again.
She was obviously a very happy and beautiful little girl. And looks happy and content in all of those pictures, which reflect on what a wonderful job her family was doing.
Although I do not know any of you personally, Layla’s story has truely touched me and inspired me.
I am amazed at the strength of this family and the courage that such a young little girl had.
You have made me cherish every single breath that my own child takes.
Thank you so much.
I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.
My daughter is now 3yrs old, she was diagnosed with stage 4 high risk Neuroblastoma at the age of 17months old. She has been cancer free for 13 months and we just were informed that the tumor came back. It came back in her right shin bone. I believe that God knows what is best for everyone and he only does the right things. I too pray for my daughter not to have to go through all the pain and suffering as she did when she had the bone marrow transplant. I feel so horrible about your daughter and don’t even want to imagine how hard it must be to lose a child. This could happen to us if God feels it is best for Tatiana (my daughter). I will keep your family in my prayers to keep you strong through this rough time. With out God we are nothing. I would like to know what treatments your daughter underwent as I have to go speak with the doctors to see what is her best “option”. If you can share that with me I would be greatful. my email address: heatha221@gmail.com thank you and God Bless you and your family.
Heather Bayer
Long Island, NY
Layla would definitely be proud of her whole family. She was blessed to have you guys as were youu. She’ll always live in your guys’ memories and will forever live in your heart. My prayers go out to you and your family. Were all here to show our support. She must of been an amazing young girl who enjoyed the life the she got to live.
<3. GOD BLESS.
If you need any inspiration for Layla’s foundation, check out http://www.jaxsonswankfoundation.org . My sister in law’s husband had a little sister that was run over by his nanny in their driveway 5 years ago. He was 2, almost 3. They have set up a phenomenal foundation and Sherry and Larry are just the most caring loving parents, who have never let Jaxson be forgotten.
Still thinking of you and your family and praying too…
When God leads you to the edge of the cliff, trust Him fully and let go, only one of two things will happen, either He’ll catch you when you fall, or He’ll teach you how to fly!
Always thinking of Layla and the entire family!
::HUGS::
I just read your story, and I am so touched. The pain you must feel from losing your sweet Layla. I will continue to pray for you and your family as you begin to heal from the tremendous pain. I would love to send a donation of headbands and bows and such to the hospital. Please contact me with the information. thank you so much. And may God have His hands on you and your sweet family.
I think about you and your family and what you are going through. I lost my son also…it will not be easy and I, too, think it’s okay to show your emotions. I have found that it helps to talk about my son…when he fits into the conversation…you know, “He would have loved that, etc.” Talking about Layla will help. I, too, have been working on a foundation in my son’s honor. It’s hard work and takes some time, but worth it…we, as mom, must find peace in continuing our child’s legacy. I will pray for you everyday…
Dana
Here you are, comforting US. I think of your sweet Layla often. As sad as I am that she is not here with you, I am comforted by the fact that we have another sweet angel watching over us.
God saw you getting tired and a cure was not meant to be, So he put his arms around you and whispered “Come to Me”. With tearful eyes we watched you, as we saw you pass away. Although we loved you deeply, we could not make you stay. Your Golden Heart stopped be…ating, hard working hands at rest. God broke our hearts to prove to us, He only takes the best.
Thinking of you ((HUGS))
Just wanted to know that I think of your family often; hope you are all doing as well as can be.
You guys have remained on my mind and in my heart, everyday I think about you all. You touched and changed a lot of lives. I don’t think I will ever stop thinking about you guys, you have a permanent place in my heart, love to you all. <3
Still thinking of you all daily. God bless you all and wishing for a brighter future for each of you, with your beautiful Layla watching over you.
Hi,
I wanted to thank you for sharing your story, it has changed my life and outlook on life. You have a beautiful family and you are all so inspiring!
I will continue to keep all of you in my hearts and prayers!
Dear Shanna:
I think of you and your sweet family often. It is amazing how one little girl can practically change the world. I can’t wait to hear about the foundation for baby Layla! Thank you for sharing your precious baby with all of us. I know I will never forget her.
April
You are an amazing mother, and an amazing family. I got goosebumps reading your entry. Stay strong and know Layla is always there with you guys. Forever!
You are so wonderful, you and your whole family! I know that Layla is so very proud of you and her sweet family! You are fighters just like your baby girl was! You all are and will always be in my heart, thoughts and prayers!
I don’t know who your are. I just came across your blog from a link that my on one of my facebook friends page. I am so sorry to hear about your lose. I cannot imagine what lossing a child must feel like.
I wanted to thank you for opening my eyes. I have a very healthy little boy, and as I was reading your blog about being regretful I wanted to hit myself. How dare I get angry because my little boy is helping with the laundry, or making a mess in his room with all of his toys, or is crying because he wants to play outside longer. How dare I get angry about that? I should be down on my knees thanking my Savior for giving me a happy, healthy little boy, because I don’t know if a day will come that he won’t be there to help with the laundry or make a mess in his room.
I think that your little girl would be super proud of her mommy. Super proud with the fact that you are helping other mommies realize that anything can happen. We are not above anything. Thank you caring enough to share your story and for opening my eyes. I am going to be a much more thankful mommy after reading your blog!
Just thought I would drop by to say,”HI & hope all is ok”.Time will adjust the family..There will be times u will see Layla when u least expect it,and when it happens blow Layla a KISS …..I went fishing at the beach over the week-enn and I wasn’t thinking of daddy at all for some reason..I caught A goupie & I heard this guy say,”Nice catch at least it not a BLOW FISH”.I looked up & there were no guy around just all women..I just smiled and said,”YEAH DAD”…
OH! u might not see Layla at times it just could be her little voice just like the guy voice at the beach ,and I could feel my dad presence..
Shanna,
You have brought many childhood illness’ just by sharing Layla’s journey and story with the world. I have also been doing some research and am truly amazed that people have no idea about some of these. I admire your strength and courage to help other as you go through your journey. This may sound really crazy to you and everybody else, but sometimes when your outside and look up at the sky, you see something that reminds you of a loved one lost. Its almost like they are looking in on you and saying hello. Example, my mom loved angels and butterflies. Sometimes I’ll look up and there will be a cloud shaped like one of them and sun rays all around it. When i see it, it brings me great comfort. Just thought I’d share that with you.
I am also really glad to have this foundation going and maybe somewhere down the line we will be able to have walks and runs to help raise money and make AMERICA AWARE OF THESE ILLNESS!
May God bless you a thousand times over and I applaud you for sharing and educating the rest of us!
We just want to say that your story has touched us deeply and we’re happy that you seem to be finding peace. Your family is truly amazing and inspiring to us all. It’s great to see you on a mission to make this world a better place. God bless you all and little Layla Grace.
With love,
The Gopperts (Michael, Amy, Marlee and Michael Tyler)
I have always loved this version of the song but now it has new meaning for me. I will never hear it again without thinking of Layla. God bless you all.
KEEPING YOU AND YOUR FAMILY IN OUR PRAYERS AM GLAD YOU ARE DOING WELL I BET LAYLA IS PROUD OF HOW YOUR FAMILY IS HOLDING UP GOD BLESS YOU
praying for you every day. i know you are trying to keep it together because you have to. please, keep doing that. i cannot imagine the pain. but, please, think of Layla as the light in so many lives, and in yours too. she will always bring that light to you. all my love
Prayng for you still…..
I don’t know you but a friend published your story on their facebook site a few weeks ago. I have been following your blog and am so heartbroken every time I read it. I am pregnant with a baby girl and had been having trouble deciding on a name, but we are now leaning towards Layla Grace after reading the about your beautiful, inspirational little girl.
God bless you and your family, you are in my prayers.
I know Layla is proud of you. Of everything you gave for her. She is beaming in heaven. I pray for you family daily. Layla’s legacy will forever live on through so many. Continued blessings.
I miss you Layla!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I miss hearing things your Mommy said about you. I miss seeing the pictures on your mommy’s blog of your beautiful face. I miss you! I do. 
Praying a lot for your mommy, daddy, jenna and claire.
You and your family have been in our thoughts and prayers since reading your blog about a month ago after a friend had posted it on FB. We will continue to pray for you in the days ahead. Thanks for sharing your story. It touched us greatly and we pray that God will bless you and your family in a very special way!
You and your family continue to consume my thoughts and prayers. Layla and her sisters are truly blessed to have you as their mom. Layla’s legacy will continue, as she lives in the hearts of all those that she touched. I hope you find some peace in your memories and feel comfort in knowing that Layla’s life had so much meaning. I can personally tell you that I will never forget her and the lessons that your family has taught me. Lots of hugs from Southern California!
Dear Shanna and family,
We have not stopped praying for you and your family and won’t stop soon because you still need it. You are such a strong powerful and inspirational person, we have learned so much from following your story.
I am so sorry I couldn’t be at her service but I was surely there in mind and heart. I got to celebrate 2 birthdays this week my oldest daughter turned 7 on the 17th and my little boy 2 today and our newest baby was 2 months yesterday and not a day/ moment goes by that I don’t count my blessings, even when we have a crying baby at night or the 2year old wakes up for no reason at midnight. I do not get upset ever again, but see that as another moment to spend with them. I am so sorry you had to go through what you did, and I feel bad saying that your writing about wishing you could experience all this again had made me realize to enjoy it all and I am every day.
Your family has been such an inspiration to so many and definitely to all of us.
We will be there to support your foundation and look to see what you will be doing with it. I am very good friends with Michelle Imler so I will keep in touch with her about Layla as well.
Layla will never be forgotten, she is a True Angel and such an inspiration to us and we never had the opportunity to meet her.
Thank you for all you have done and all you continue to do, and know that we will continue to pray for all of you and especially the girls,
Lots of Hugs,
The Carr Family
Brian, Nathalie, Brandon, Gabrielle, Tristan, Jadon and Juliana
I was looking through Etsy for a cupcake stand, and the name Layla Grace caught my eye. You see, myy beautiful great niece Lelia Grace (pronounced Lay-la) , entered this world on March 7. I was drawn to your website…and reading about your beautiful Layla Grace, filled my heart. I can’t help but wonder if somehow their little souls touched each other in some way that we cannot comprehend, and I wanted to write and share my condolences and my appreciation. While I may be a perfect stranger, am so grateful for the wonderful life you provided your sweet Layla, for the short time she was on this earth, in the arms of a loving family, who adored her. I know that she is smiling down on you, and that she too, is eternally grateful to you. You and your beautiful family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Rhonda
Hi, it is me again… my friend is getting worse each day, and I am so, so far from her…continent far. I come to your blog every day, I look at the pictures of this beautiful angel, and I cry.. and cry. She is the prettiest baby I have ever seen! I wish I have met her…
Just found and read your blog. I cannot stop crying. I will be thinking of and praying for your family. I myself have two and three year old girl, I cannot fathom what you are going through. May you be able to find peace in all the happy memeries of your beautiful daughter.
I made it through 2 line before I started crying.
My son died when he was 6 1/2 months old. He spent his whole life in the hospital. Our situations were very different, but reading your blog brings back so many memories – some great!, some painful.
You and your family are in my prayers.
My oh my…I have been reading your blog…sobbing. I find myself asking “why” and “how”…things I know you have asked yourself. You have put things in perspective for me and many others. I am so blessed to have a healthy baby boy.
Layla was such an angel- IS such an angel. Maybe that was her purpose in life. I have a quote that I found after my grandma passed. I would love to share it with you and your family.
“If tears could build a stairway, and memories build a lane, I’d walk right up to Heaven and bring you home again”
Prayers to you all.
Jennifer
Shanna,
You are such a great mommy. Layla was so lucky to have had you. I still think of you all everyday. I keep you all in my prayers, and I will continue to do so. I will keep an eye out for news of Layla’s foundation. What a wonderful tribute to her. Hang in there, and just know that you are not alone
HUGS
Liz
This blog was shown to me by a friend a few days ago and after reading this blog i had to read the rest. For the past few days i have read a few entries as much as my heart could handle at a time; and each time i would cry.. whether it was because of an accomplishment or bad news. I have a 2 year old myself and i couldn’t imagine going through what you’ve gone through and also post about. You an your family are strong.. layla is absolutely precious and i will remember her everytime i look at my little girl… my heart and my prayers go out to you an your family… it shows what amazing work your little girl did for God in the short time she blessed this Earth… thanks again for posting her story.. your family will be in my heart.
Stefani
This blog was shown to me by a friend a few days ago and after reading this blog i had to read the rest. For the past few days i have read a few entries as much as my heart could handle at a time; and each time i would cry.. whether it was because of an accomplishment or bad news. I have a 2 year old myself and your story has made me slow down an cherish every moment with her because I never know when it could be the last.. the strength that you and your family has is unbelievable.. Layla is absolutely precious and i will remember her everytime i look at my little girl… my heart and my prayers go out to you an your family… it shows what amazing work your little girl has done for God in the short time she blessed this Earth… thanks again for posting her story.. your family will be in my heart.
Stefani
I continue to pray for you. My family and I went to Bullritos in Deer Park and there seemed to be a good crowd there. I just wanted to let you know that there are still many people praying for you and supporting your cause. I think of your family daily. I pray that yall continue to heal and for peace for your family.
Tracy
Little Miss Layla, gave us all a gift…we did not even know we wanted. That gift was reminding us to hold each day a little tighter. To enjoy each moment as if our last breath was escaping. To love like they’ll never be another opportunity to do so again, and mostly, to grasp each precious second and dearly hold on to it. For it can all go…as quickly as it came. Thank you Layla. Thank you for that wonderful gift, of reminding us what HAS been given to each one of us, and reminding us to enjoy every opportunity and every relationship. What strength and courage in such a tiny little package. Prayers continue for you little butterfly, and for your family.
I still check for your tweets every day and continue to pray for your family. It breaks my heart to hear Claire’s questions or statements regarding Layla….such a sweet and thoughtful 3 year old. I know that must be tough on the rest of you because she just does not understand. Continued prayers for peace to all of your family!
-Dianna
I have been lurking–reading each post–my heart caught in my throat and my prayers surging forcefully UP, wanting a miracle for you.
For Layla.
Right now, a stranger from far-away I want to tell you that I love you and your family as a sister in the Lord. That I can’t imagine what you’ve been through–still praising and standing firm in your faith.
Your daughter is a beautiful inspiration and God has used her so much, in the lives of so many.
But, you know that.
Just wanted to tell you that you were being thought of.
Sara Sophia
My heart goes out to you and your family. I think and pray about your family often. I came across Layla’s story a few months ago and started following it. Soon after I signed up on twitter so I knew what was going on as you posted. My heart has never felt so heaving as it does when I think about the pain that your family has suffered through. I myself have a 3 year & 10 year old daughter and as I read you tweets and blogs it made me think about the possiblity of your story being mine. I am truely blessed to have had the chance to get to know Layla and your family even if only through the stories you have told. I will forever more cherish all the little moments that I have with my daughters now because of your story. Thank you so much for opening your lives and most of all the love that you have. You are all a truely amazing family. I know Layla is smiling down on you and is ever so proud to be able to call you Mommy and Daddy. Her legacy will live on beautifully through you because of what exceptional people you are.
I saw your most recent tweet and it just broke my heart. I am continuing to pray for your family. I am so sorry for your loss.
Just saw your latest tweet…heart wrenching. Just wanted you to know that we are still thinking of you every day. We continue to be amazed at the courage you all have shown. Layla continues to reach out to the world. Our prayers are still flowing your way. Stay strong, and find comfort in eachother. You are an inspiration.
I too have been keeping up with your site along with your tweets. My heart breaks for you and it is because of you and your entire family that I now hug my 3 kids a little tighter everyday and make sure that I tell them I love them every chance I get. I continue to pray for you all. God bless your wonderful family on earth and in heaven!
Thinking of you – breaks my heart to read your updates and Twitter updates. Even though I dont know you I think of your family often. I lost my daughter at 3 1/2 months old and felt a sense of guilt when I tried to move on with life to the best I could. It was one of the hardest parts of grieving I experienced. Please know that Layla would want you to live on, and remember she is always looking down on you and your other children.
(((hugs))) to you.
Love,
Michele Wallace
My heart breaks for you, I am sorry your family has to go through this. I keep praying for all of you and check in often. You are in my thoughts and prayers and I will NEVER forget Layla.
I continue to keep you all in prayer. I know she is with you and wants you to move on, to one day be together again.
I’m sorry you have to go through this horrible loss and the grieving. I wish I could take it away and bring her back to your arms.
I know God has her in His, and that Layla is proud of you all and proud that you will continue her legacy to help others and to spread awareness.
Lovingly,
Rebecca
I mailed you guys a card the other day, you should have gotten it either yesterday or so. I hope that you soon realize that Layla seems to have gotten all of our attention to watchover you when you need it the most.Layla is special and always will be a special girl. i am sure she loved the balloons!! The card i sent is purple with a flower on the front of it. I thought it seemed to have fit layla, it was the veryfirst card i picked up at the store! Sortof stood out to me like a sore thumb so i got it for you guys and i hope it helps to know you always have friends to talk to! I love your idea of Layla’s room! I dont know if i would have your strength if this ever happend to my son. God Bless you all!
Love,
The Howell family (Crystal)
I deel so sorry for your loose i hope layla is up in heven and is happy there and you just keep praying for her and dont forget about her cause she is still loveing you.
so very sorry to hear of your loss – layla sounds like an amazing little girl who’s legacy will live on forever. thank you so much for including ava on your prayer page – we are touched. please know that ava and i are praying for you and your family.
with love
chrisie and ava holder
I want you to know that Layla will live on in memories forever. I lost my daughter in December to a rare form of sinus cancer. She was 22. We have started a foundation in her memory and all funds go for research for SinoNasal Undifferentiated Carcinoma or SNUC. I visit her grave and get upset that other parents, siblings or friends didn’t do it for those who went before her of the same disease, so she might still be here, but then I realize it is just God’s will and that Ashley was the one to get the research and awareness started. That is a true blessing and the ultimate honor to Ashley. God chose her! We have a fundraiser scheduled for May 1 and we’ve already seen other smaller fundraising efforts to support this larger one. I tell you this because I think you have the same vision for Layla and you’ve got the passion, so go for it. I’d love to get updates on your progress.
It was a blessing that Ashley knew she was going to the “Happy Place” (Heaven). She loved kids and was a nanny. I am certain that she has already taken Layla in and is giving her plenty of love and comfort.
i know this is a difficult time. It’s been just about 4 months for me and I still have what I call “extreme moments of sadness”. But I believe what you said. Life has to go on for the others in our lives and we can’t just lock ourselves up and grieve. And I don’t think our daughters would want that either.
God bless you.
Barb
The Marsh Family-
When I first saw this update, i was at school. My computer at home wasn’t working, but I had to know how Layla was. I hadn’t seen the celebration of life update, and I hadn’t seen twitter. But When i read this….. I guess I knew in my heart that it would happen sometime. I cried. Layla was a sweet, sweet girl. I know how hard it must be, though I cant relate at all. But look at how much Layla did for this world! Layla raised so much awareness to childhood cancers!!! Everyday, more and more people see Layla’s story, and other similar stories. People are now working harder than ever before to find cures! Part of that is Layla’s doing! Layla WAS beautiful! Layla loves All of you, and shes wrapping her tiny arms around all of you. Layla is comforting you from heaven. Always remember that Layla loves all of you, and she is watching over you from heaven. There was another little boy that I followed, Jeremy Spikes, and his mom took him off life support a week ago. Jeremy died 30 minutes later. His mom did a public celebration of life for him, just like you did for Layla. They were both so precious. Layla and Jeremy are up in heaven playing, running, eating sweets, and having fun with lots of other children. They are doing what they couldnt do when they were on Earth. Im sorry for your loss, truly sorry. You do have big shoes to fill, but you can do it! I know you can! I dont even know you, but I know you can! Layla won’t be proud later on… She alerady is!!!! Layla is alerady proud of you and Ryan and Claire and Jenna! Im praying continuosuly for your family!
Love and prayers,
Kellie Beal
Heres the link to Jeremy’s caringbridge: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/jeremyspikes
I am so sorry. Layla will be very missed. Her celebration sounded perfect, and I bet she would have loved it too. I will be praying. *HUGS*
A few days ago I was sitting on my balcony trying to enjoy the sunshine, but my heart was very saddened because I missed sweet Layla so much. I have only read about her and seen her through pictures. Her smile captured my heart. However, it was her incredible strength that tied me to her. I grieve every day for her.
As I sat on the balcony and thought about Layla (in the West University area), I looked up to see a hawk gliding on the air currents. I watched this hawk circling above enjoying the day and slowly the pain began to ease. Later that day, I read you were at TCH and I just smiled. I just know Layla is still here in spirit sending us signs to help us heal. And, I know you feel her too.
Take care of yourself and thanks for sharing sweet Layla.
My prayers are with you and your family. Oh how my heart aches but know that she is with our father and One Day we will see her again.
Thank you for your blog and sharing your lillte wonderful Layla with us. She is so beautiful. She touched so many lives and I am very grateful that you did.
I pray that God gives you the stregth to get threw each day and that he will make the pain easier on you and your family.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
God Bless you.
Pauline
My heart aches for you. I lost my first born son 25 years ago on April 15th. I have no words to comfort you as there are none. I know. I’d like to tell you that time heals all; it doesn’t. Time only teaches you how to deal better with it each passing year. There is a hole in your heart that will always be there as it just isn’t right to bury ones child. Cry, scream, laugh, remember, hug and talk to people who have been through it and can truly relate to your grief and pain. I wish you all the best.
Little Layla changed my life, I think. I read about her and realized I think on another way.
Her strenght and your family is amazing.
Layla is on my mind every day, and I pray for her and you all.
Still thinking of you and sweet Layla.
Praying for you all every single day — I still think about Layla & your whole family everyday. Ryan’s interview w/Ryan Springer was awesome. You guys are amazing…and loved by so many. Can’t wait to see Layla’s Foundation blossom into something as beautiful & life changing as your darling Layla Grace. Much love to you all.
I’m praying for you and thinking of sweet Layla nearly every day..Layla and her battle really touched my life and I’m so sorry that your little angel left and I really wish you the best!
I can’t really tell what I’m feeling, I just wanted to let you know, you were a great family and Layla’s happy to have such a lovely family!
I really wish I could give you some support, but I’m from Germany, so I think this is somehow impossible, but I’ll be praying for your family and your Layla-Grace!
Still thinking and praying about your family many times throughout the day!
Thank you. Thank you for sharing your story, your precious Layla, your strength and your faith. I followed your blog for some time celebrating in the smallest positive news, crying and praying for a miracle. I pray daily for your family and all families who have lost children or have children fighting this horrific disease and will continue to do so. I looks forward to watching your foundation grow and will do all I can to share the foundation with others. May God continue to grant you strength and peace as you continue your journey, now with a beautiful angel watching over you.
God Bless.
I still pray for your family. Thank you for sharing the Celebration with us. I think of your family daily along with other families that I have read about who have children fighting the same fight. It is just amazing what your angel has done. God Bless your family.
Praying for you from friendswood
So very sorry for your loss.I read your story of your precious little Layla and I am brought to tears.I cannot imagine how you must feel.I have to say that I am humbled by the amazing amount of faith and strength you have. I am deeply saddened by your loss. I pray that God lays his loving hands on your family and gives you all the comfort that only he can give.She is a special little person with him now and she will always live in this world by remebering her each day.May God continue to shower your family with love and know that he has her in his loving arms and there is no pain. Prayers to you all.
You guys are still in my thoughts. Glad to hear a little note of positivity in your tweet posts.
Just watched Layla’s Celebration of Life through tears. Your family has touched me in ways I can’t even begin to articulate to all of you. I lost my father to cancer in January of this year and I have an 18 month old daughter. I can’t even imagine what it must have been like for all of you to watch Layla fight her battle.
I lost my faith in God a long time ago, but began my journey back to His fold when my father was still fighting his battle. Reading your blog and hearing of Layla’s battle has brought me back to God, much like the Porodigal Son. I think about all of you daily and remember Layla and the rest of your family like you are one of my own. I will never forget Layla and her impact on my life. It is forever changed because of her and because of the faith of your family in Him and in His plan.
If there is anything I can do for Layla’s foundation here in Toronto, Canada please let me know! I would love to be able to honor Layla and the Marsh family …. I feel like I owe you all so much.
Dear Shanna, as the mother of an 18 months old baby girl, I can not even imagine what you did go through, what you had to live. Only by reading your posts I feel a deep pain in my heart, a pain that will never go away. With all my heart I wish your little Layla peace in heaven. I can not find words that can describe my sadness. I’ll go home now and hold my little girl tight as if she is your Layla. I’ll never complain about her not sleeping long, not eating more, having cold, having allergies. Thank you for making me understand how precious every second is.
I’ve just watched laylagrace celebration …It was just heavenly,and I even thought WHY? but it not for me to know…I will continue to keep the family in my prayers..My friend,she doing some better since she lost her son,Justin…
Have kept up w/ your notes and my heart has been w/ you all ever since I’ve read about your family. Sharing your love for LaylaGrayce openly w/ everyone through your diary, I believe, has given an opportunity for others to realize love knows no boundaries, it is all that matters and we can join together in that love. Your family represents a constant reminder of how strong love can be for everyone and how we can all reach out to one another in that love to recognize we are all truly one family..Thank you for being a messenger….my love is there w/ you all during this healing time.
I just want to say how amazing you and your family are, you all have touched so many lives! I want to thank you for sharing Layla’s story with us! I can sort of relate to what Jenna and Claire are going through because I lost my only sister at age 4 and I was around 7 years old. I’m 22 now and she stays on my mind constantly!! I have been and will continue to pray for you and your family!!!
Still thinking about layla, I’m praying for you and your family
Hello, my name is Brittany Teasdale I am 18 years old and I live in Georgia. On october 8, 2008 I lost my “boyfriend” of two years to brain cancer. He was a week away from his 16th birthday. I can’t understand your struggle from a parent’s stand point but from my own I do understand how hard it is. We watched Ryan die helplessly in a span of a very short 4 months. It is the hardest thing I have ever lived through. But that is our job. We witnessed this great struggle so that we can go forth and tell the story of their strength and passion so that others might see the power of God. Everything you are doing for Layla is amazing. You seem like an amazing family and I pray that nothing but the best comes to you all through all of this. Your story has reached georgia and help to spread the hard truth of cancer.
May God use you now the way he used Layla for his works.
God bless you and your family!
Hello,
My name is Brittany, I am 18 years old and live in Georgia. On October 8, 2008 I lost my “boyfriend” of two years to brain cancer. It is the hardest thing I have ever lived through. Walking into the funeral and his one year memorial and hearing “oh that was the girlfriend, poor thing” still hurts to hear. I can not understand what you are going through as a parent, but I know how hard it is to watch someone pass due to cancer, I lost Ryan in a very short 4 months. I believe God gives us these people in our lives not only so that their story can lead others to God’s side, but also to tell a great story of faith and strength in some of God’s smallest blessings. Ryan taught me that our job as survivers is to not only live on with them in our hearts but also to tell their story. Layla’s story has reached Georgia and I’m sure farther than that as well.
keep up your good work layla would be proud of you!
God Bless you and your amazing family.
Thinking about you guys today…we are still here for you.
Hello. I stumbled upon this website through Facebook and I am so glad I did. I am deeply sorry for your loss, but on the same note so amazed by you and your strength. So amazed by Layla’s strength. I could never imagine going through what your family has gone through. God is with you and Layla is with Him.
I will be praying for your whole family.
Nicole
I think and pray for all of you several times a day. You are not alone.
Still thinking about little angel…
We’re so grieved for you and your family at the passing of your precious baby girl. May the good Lord Jesus Christ comfort and keep you all in His care.
Dr. J. Vernon McGee wrote a piece called, “Death of a Little Child” I shared with my sister when my baby nephew went to be with Jesus. Here is the url:
http://www.thruthebible.org/atf/cf/%7BFEA5B386-48F1-4797-9023-5F77EED319B7%7D/Death%20of%20a%20Little%20Child.pdf
Happy Easter Little Layla Grace. I know your happy in Heaven hunting Easter Eggs…we love you darling!!
What an Amazing Family! What a gift, if only for a short while to have Layla in your lives. I think of you every day, and pray that you find peace knowing Layla is at peace now.
The tomb is empty! HE IS RISEN INDEED! I just watched Layla’s celebration of life today and can’t think of a more beautiful Easter service. Wow! God must really find favor in the two of you as parents to have blessed you with such a precious gift as Layla! What a privilege to care for and love one of his most precious angels and what trust He had in you to return her to Him with such grace and dignity and strength of character. I’m moved and inspired and SO thankful I found your website. God bless you today and all the days to come. HAPPY EASTER!
In Christ,
Cyndi Davis
I literally got dizzy reading this post. I cannot imagine what you are going through. God bless you all and God bless you for moving forward and turning it into a positive.
Praying still everyday for you dear Marsh family. I am sure Easter, your first holiday since Layla went home to Heaven, was difficult- to say the least. I thought of you all many times yesterday, especially in church when our pastor, who has also lost a child, talked about the gift of Eternity. I still get very sad when I think about Layla, but I am comforted by the knowledge that one day you all will hold her in your arms again…and that it will be forever. I am also looking forward to the day that I can give your beautiful angel a hug and thank her for the gifts that knowing (of) her gave me
I am praying everyday for peace for you all, for healing and for our Heavenly Father to hold you close and tight. Much love to you.
I just saw the memorial service. I felt like I was on Holy Ground. The Gospel and the hope it brings was so real. I was blessed to see how the Lord used (and still uses) your little girl to bring Him glory. I hope and pray that even though I am sure Easter was very hard for you that you were also able to have a blessed Easter. Praise the Lord HE IS RISEN and has destroyed the sting of death and we can have hope in the midst of the all the pain, grief, and sorrow. I continue to pray for you and your family that He will continue to surround you with His mercy, love and peace.
I think of Layla and your family every day, both praying God to help you through the struggle and mourning you are facing and thanking God for bringing sweet and strong Layla and her strong family into my life, even if only by “technology”. You have changed my life forever, my faith forever, and my hope and believe forever. My confirmation verse when I was 13 was Hebrews 11:1. All about faith. I wish I could go back and rewrite my confirmation speech. I have a whole new perspective of having faith and hope and assurance in our Lord. In church Easter Sunday I couldn’t help but think of your family. I prayed that amidst the pain and sorrow, you were able to thank God for his pain & suffering that has given Layla eternal life! And that will give you eternal life. You will see Layla again someday. Thank the Lord for all he endured so we all may have a hope and faith that death is not eternal and we will all be reunited one day.
HE IS RISEN!
I just wanted to let you know that we think about and pray for your family daily. Your beautiful little girl made such a profound impact on the hearts of many around the world. Thank you for sharing her story and yalls journey. I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Hi Shanna! I just wanted to check in an see how you guys are doing. Please update when you can. I miss all of you (your tweets, your blog entries etc..) but I especially miss sweet Layla!
xoxo
Praying for ur family. This story has touched me so deeply. You are such strong parents and ur children has to love u so much. Best wishes to helping other children in Layla’s name. She will be looking down smiling bc she knows she was able to help other children as well.
I came across your page today by the grace of God. There is so much that I want to say but even my fingers can’t find the words. I am a 21 year old college student and I have ALWAYS said that I was going to name my little girl LAYLA GRACE (crying). I just love every part of that name but the main reason I wanted to name my little girl this, I didn;t know ANYONE with this name.
After reading ALL of your posts today, I will name my daughter this BECAUSE I now I can say I KNOW a little angel that was here on earth with this name and I can only pray that she will be as strong and beautiful as your Layla Grace.
I have so much joy in my heart right now. Thank you for sharing.
Stay strong x
I have never met you, but I feel inspired to tell you what a great mother you are. Our Heavenly Father must have thought a lot of you to send you such a precious angel. This poem I am about to share is my favorite poem. I found great comfort in it when my mother died. I hope it gives you the same comfort as well….
I am standing on the seashore. 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 her until at length she hangs like a speck of white cloud just where the sea and sky come down to mingle with each other. Then someone at my side says: ‘There! She’s gone.’ Gone where? Gone from my sight that is all. She is just as large in mast and hull and spar as she was when she left my side, and just as able to bear her load of living freight to the place of destination. Her diminished size is in me, not in her; and just at the moment when someone at my side says: ‘There! She’s gone,’ there are others watching her coming, and voices ready to take up the glad shout ‘There she comes!’ And that is dying.
I came across your story tonight and can not tell you how touched I am by your precious angel Layla. What an absolute beauty of a gal! I “thumbed” through the pictures you have posted and feel as though I have met an angel tonight. Even as she became more ill, you can see so much love, personality, sweetness and strength in her eyes. Your blog, pictures and celebration of life video beautifully illustrate Layla’s life and legacy.
Your March 16th post about regrets has touched me so deeply. Thank you. I will remember your words as I go through my daily routine of raising two small children. When my 14month old twins wake in the morning and I go into their room and am greeted with their usual ear to ear smiles and laughter I know Layla will be watching and she will remind me to enjoy every second of the day as if it were the last. I know in my heart that for in the morning as I look at my son’s and daughter’s smile, I will see Layla’s smile beaming through. She will be smiling with my two little ones because she will be proud that yet another person has *heard* her. She will be happy to know that her mommy and daddy have helped her legacy touch others in the way she intended from the day she was born. Her legacy will serve as a reminder to me of how special and important each moment that I get to spend with my children/family truly is. Thank you for sharing your precious baby girl. What a gift she is!
And remember, she is healthy and pain free again. She is playing and smiling, laughing and watching and looking after her family that she loves so dearly. She is saving you all a very special place.
I can only imagine how difficult a time this is for your family. Even though we’ve never met I feel like you are all a part of my family. I worry that you’ve been so silent here, on Twitter and Facebook and wonder how you are all coping.
There are so many things I would like to do to help Layla’s foundation, but don’t want to intrude by messaging you directly. I can’t explain how strongly I feel about helping and participating in Layla’s legacy. Something in Layla’s eyes and your blogs and tweets spoke to me in a way I have never been touched in my life. Not the Haiti earthquake, not the tsunami, not Hurricane Katrina nor 9/11 touched me the way the story of your sweet Layla did. God bless and keep each and every one of you in His strong embrace.
I hope your family posts an update soon, even if its only to say you’re going to disappear for awhile to grieve your loss. I am torn by my desire to know how you are all doing and the respect to allow you to mourn privately.
Praying for you constantly.
Just wanted to tell you I still pray for you very very often. Just read your tweet about Claire – praying for her now…and for you. This is much smaller of an issue than you had with precious Layla. I cannot imagine the memories that you are wading through right now. Claire is blessed to have such a good mommy!
In prayer!!
Heidi
Shanna,
Keeping you in prayer — and hoping Claire only has a sprain.
I cry as I read that you are missing Layla like crazy — I can only imagine…that your sorrow must feel just bottomless. I am so sorry. I will be praying for God to lift you up and hold you extra close. That He would give you some peace and comfort.
I think of you so often and wish I could give you a hug. Is there anything we can do for you? Praying for you, Ryan, Jenna & Claire. Hugs to you all.
Just wanted you to know you are in my thoughts everyday.
Shanna and family,
I just wanted you to know that you’re still in my thoughts and prayers. I also wanted to pass along a story. My sister ordered one of Layla’s tutus from Little Diva Tutus for my 15 month old daughter, Cate. Ever since I’ve followed Layla’s story it hit very close to home because of Cate’s age. Cate absolutely LOVES the tutu, but the main thing I wanted you to know is that every time I went to your blog to get an update and got your Twitter updates, Cate would point to Layla’s picture and repeat “baby” over and over — she was absolutely fascinated with Layla’s picture — she even gave her kisses many times. When the tutu came, she pointed immediately to the paper that accompanied it that told of Layla’s story and said “baby!” The next day she headed toward the tutu and kept repeating “baby” — even without the picture. She’s seen the image enough to know Layla and to connect with her. If you ever doubt how much Layla has affected this world, please remember that even a 15-month-old little girl knows “baby” when she sees her picture.
Continuing to lift up prayers!
Zephaniah 3:17: The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.
Prayer Bears
My email address
You don’t know me, but I came across this site through a FB friend. All I want to say is that my heart aches for you and your family. What an angel from God, a beautiful little angel. I could not imagine the pain of your loss, and am so, so sorry. I will pray for you all.
Praying extra hard for you tonight. Been drawn to Layla’s story over and over again. She reminds me so much of my little Kaydence. It hits close to home….I know this month has felt like and eternity for your family. I look forward to the day when eternity in heaven is a reality. May God send you extra comfort tonight and tomorrow. Blessings and Love from Michigan.
Shanna,
I came across your story writing in a prayer journal on my iPhone. The prayer that I read stated: “please pray for Miss Layla Grace Marsh. She is so young, do you want to take her so soon, God? Pray, protect, and love for the Marsh family, they need you, LORD.”
I’ve heard of many stories of young cancer patients, but your daughter has left a hug mark on me. I told my friends, and they posted this as one of their top links on their websites!!
You are loved,
Leah, Laura, and the entire Miller family
thanks for sharing layla’s memorial with us…. my 21month old (citlahli), my 8month old (pilar) and i watched it together two nights ago. when the music began, cithali stopped playing and looked up and said “baby” when she saw the painting of layla and her “doggy.” i then said, “this is layla, this is who we prayed for, she was sick and was hurting, she is now with God.” citlahli then said some baby talk, did her version of the sign of the cross and said “amen.” i just held my girls, tears rolled down my face as we listened to the songs and scriptures…. a
Its been one month since Layla went to play with the angels. God bless you Layla. I know you are watching over your beautiful family. You’ve changed my outlook on life and I’ll never forget the impact you made in your short time here on earth. I know your legacy will live on through your foundation.
“…Prayers are deathless. The lips that uttered them may be closed in death, the heart that felt them may have ceased to beat, but the prayers live before God, and God’s heart is set on them. Prayers outlive the lives of those who uttered them; outlive a generation, outlive an age, outlive a world.”
Still praying for you Marsh family
One month has passed already. I can’t believe it and I can’t imagine what you all must go through on a daily basis in order to be the strong parents/people that you are. Still praying for you all and your precious daughters. Layla Grace made a huge impact on my family’s life. She is severely missed. God Bless you all today and always.
Your story is touching and heartbreaking. I cried for you and your family and keep you in my thoughts. I wish you all peace and serenity and happiness once again.
Was at church this morning and I just wanted to let you know that your family is still in my thoughts and prayers. My family continues to pray for you daily!
Tracy
Your strength is amazing. I tear up just reading your words. You give me inspiration to not only enjoy, but truly appreciate every nano-second with my daughter. May God bless you all and may your little angel always bring you such inspiration, hope, and motivation!
I’ve been thinking about taking my two girls down to TX Children’s to visit. We live about an hour or so from downtown. They are 3 and 18 mo. I wanted to know from a mother’s perspective, what are your thoughts on this and any tips? Activities/gifts/cookies to bring? Are parents open to visitors or are they worried about infection? When is the best time to go?
It’s been so long since I’ve been on this site. I was thinking and I was like oh I’ll get on Layla’s website. I am still thinking about you guys everyday. I think I will name my daughter after Layla. When I have one.
Thinking of you always and forever
Kayla Russ