HOPE... 

In November, 2004, a pastor and his wife, (who were both strangers to us), walked into our hospital room bearing gifts for myself, my wife, and both of my children. Timmy had been sick since early spring, and for two months now, we knew it was considered terminal. We also knew that we had very little time left with our son. Anyone who knows our story, knows how blessed we were to be able to stay together, and spend each and every moment as a 'family' throughout our whole ordeal at Children's Hospital in Morgantown.

This man and his wife did something that day that we will never forget as long as we live. It wasn't the money that his congregation so generously gave us, or the thoughtful gifts for us and our children. It was the sincerity in his eyes as he talked to us, about his own chidren. He told us that he just couldn't imagine something like this happening. He did not attempt to provide answers, or offer explanations. He made it clear, with his voice, and with his heart what he was there for. He was there to tell us he cared. He was there to share the most perfect message of Christ that one can share. I'll never forget the words when he handed us a check from his church. "With everything that you guys are going through, the very least that we could do is help you be able to stay together as a family, and hopefully help you not have to worry about money before Christmas this year!"

Our faith was strong throughout Timmy's illness, and we were at peace knowing that God had a plan for Timmy's life that we hadn't seen yet. But the gift that HE gave us when this man and his wife walked through our door that day is the most meaningful gift that we will EVER receive. It is a gift that reminds me every day that God is good, and His love and goodness shine through, even in the most un-imaginable times. PLEASE help us pass on this 'gift' of hope' to each and every family who are going through their struggle with childhood cancer this year... It could be enough to change their lives.... It did for us!