Yesterday we braved the heat and took six of the grandkids to a long promised visit to King’s Dominion — boy was it hot!! My sweet daughter-in-law Cathie volunteered to accompany me and went on many rides with the kids.  We decided to wear our Declan shirts for a variety of reasons, but mostly because Declan is never far from our hearts, minds and prayers.   I spent a good portion of the day while the kids were having fun ???? whirling, twirling and riding upside down, watching people and thinking about Declan.   I was asked a couple of times about our shirts and explained a little to a couple of people.   But mostly I explained that Declan lost his brave battle with cancer but our plan was to continue his fight and focus on pediatric cancer in memory of Declan.   As Sherri noted last week the amount of funding associated with pediatric cancer is appalling.   There are so many thoughts churning in our minds right now, amidst all the raw emotions of the past weeks — one thing I do know is that we have a passion for increasing awareness, helping families and changing the picture of funding for cancer research.   We pray research will lead to more knowledge about cures for the horrible disease of AT/RT.

People have given us strength over the past week.   The hundreds and hundreds that attended the viewing and funeral mass provided so much support.   The balloon release that started as an idea strand by a couple of wonderful people on Facebook turned into another amazing event that helped us maneuver a tough day.   The cards, messages, offers for support — I continue to be blown away by the number of people that were touched by Declan in his short life. Declan’s sweet smile fills my heart each day.   We hope you will continue to follow Declan’s Journey as our fight/plan of attack evolves!  

I’ll title this post with the salutation of one friend and add a poem sent by another, thanks to all

In life we loved you dearly,

in death we do the same.

It broke our hearts to lose you,

Your memories and love remain.

Though we cannot see you,

you are always at our side.

Our family chain is broken,

and nothing seems the same,

But as God calls us one by one,

the chain will link again.