I have struggled to write this post for some time now.
It is difficult for me to write for many reasons. One being that I know a lot of you visit my blog for ideas, freebies, stories, and even a laugh. But this particular post will be far from any of that.
I can’t tell you how many times I have sat down to write this, and then just clicked out and walked away.
Even now, for the hundredth time, I’m just staring at the screen and words are failing me. I actually like words. I like finding the right one to use in a story, I like playing with them in the structure of a sentence . . . but now, for this post, they are nowhere to be found. I type. I erase. Nothing. Words are not enough.
I told you all in my 13 in 13 post that Faith was going to be my one little word for 2014. This is why.
In late October, one of my kids, a student, a six year old boy, was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor.
His name is Jon.
The diagnosis is devastating. It is called Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma. You can read more about it {HERE}.
I want to stop there.
But that seems so . . . well, it’s not enough.
So I will try to carry on with this post and tell you what this means for Jon, his family, my class, and me.
Jon has gone through 30 rounds of radiation to try to shrink the tumor. In doing so, his symptoms (loss of balance, difficulty walking) have lessened. Now, his family waits for another MRI and then will have to make the difficult decision on whether or not to begin a clinical trial in New York.
Through all of this, Jon comes to school for half-days in the mornings. It is his wish.
It is all he wants.
And, although I know that this is not remotely about me, it’s why I feel the need to tell you how I am doing with all of this.
Because you know me. And I am hoping that by telling you how this affects me, you might also come to know Jon. That this might also strike a chord with you and maybe you would want to pray for Jon and his family. For my class and me.
So. I will try to convey what I have been going through.
When Jon was first diagnosed, it was parent conference week. I found out through email.
Two days later, Jon’s parents came to his conference.
They came to his conference and we cried.
I was not able to pray the first week. I could only get out one word during my daily quiet time with God.
Please.
That was all. Please.
Underneath it was please let this be wrong, please let this be a mistake, please let him live, please please please please.
The first couple of weeks, I cried a lot in the bathroom. The first two weeks were the hardest.
I have to confess that I still don’t know how this is happening. Usually, you hear a story about it. This teacher’s class in that school . . . or your aunt’s friend in another state . . . but this is my class. This is my kid.
And everyone was coming to my room to talk to me about it. When they would find out Jon was in my class, they stopped by. Parents. Substitutes. Teachers. Everyone came by. Everyone had a story to tell. Everyone cried.
I began to pray that God would give me the emotional strength I would need to face this, to face people, to face the future. To handle this the way that Christ would.
And He has provided me with His strength every single day.
There are moments, in class, when grief overwhelms me. It can hit me out of the blue. There have been several times when I have been crouched down to tie a shoe and thought, I cannot do this. I can’t. My eyes are suddenly and inexplicably filled with tears, and I wonder how I will be able to let go of the shoelaces and stand back up.
But I do.
Now, there is a weight, a dark blurry shadow that hovers over every experience, smile, or laugh. It is always there. I am never without it.
And I know that I am feeling absolutely nothing when it comes to what Jon’s parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins are going through. I do not pretend to understand. I do not even try to compare. There is no comparison. I am just his teacher. That’s all.
I am just trying to somehow explain how I feel, as Jon’s teacher. As a teacher with no children of her own, who thanks parents at every back to school night for the privilege and honor of teaching their children, for allowing me to have them. For letting them be mine.
For letting them be my kids.
And now one of my kids is sick.
And even though I am crying while I type this, I have hope and faith and trust in the Lord.
These are just some of the verses that have comforted me.
I have put together a fundraiser with my friends from Freebielicious. Jon’s medical costs are mounting and there are more to come.
Oh Kristin, my heart breaks for all of you. I don't even know what to say. I will pray…for him, his family, you and your class. God has put him in YOUR class for a reason. Find peace in that and know that God will help you all to get through this. Prayers for you all and thank you for sharing this with us so we can all pitch in with money and prayers to help in any way we can. Hugs<3
4th Grade Frolics
I don't even know what to say because sorry doesn't seem to be enough. I'll be praying for him and for you. I can't even imagine! Thanks for giving us the opportunity to help.
I am praying for Jon, for you, your class, and his family. Take care, Kristin. Jon is lucky to have such an amazing teacher during this difficult time!
Danielle
Carolina Teacher
Praying for you all. I'm so sorry you're going through this! My second year of teaching I had a students who's leukemia came back. She had been in remission since she was a toddler. It came back while we were at Science Camp. It's always a struggle when the littles we care about are suffering and there's not much we can do about taking away the pain and disease. You've done a great thing to try to help raise money for him and his family!
What I Have Learned
Oh Kristin! My heart just breaks for you. I have read your blog for over a year and very rarely commented. I was just moved to do so. During my first year of teaching (2008) one of my 5 year old boys (I teach K) was also diagnosed with DIPG. It was awful and my heart hurts for you because I know what you are going through. I know how it feels to have one of your own babies sick! It tore me up and my class up as well. He wasn't well enough to come to school but I continued to to teach him through homebound instruction until he was too sick to continue that. Please know that you are doing the best thing for him by providing him the best school experience ever! There is a great organization called A Monkey in My Chair that you may want to look into that works with the student and class when he is not in school. Also the Cure Starts Now has some great fundraising ideas for research about DIPG. We did one at my school called Caps for the Cure. The whole school got involved and it was great to see everyone supporting my little man! If you ever need someone to talk to about the whole experience or any of the organizations please email me at lshee3qx@gmail.com. If Jon's family needs someone to talk to I am sure that the family of my student would be more than happy to speak with them about it. They are a wonderful family and I am still very very close with them. Keep up the faith and I think what you are doing to help this family is amazing! I wish I could have thought of something like that for my student. Best of luck to you and Jon's family and I will keep everyone in my prayers.
Laurie
Kristin, I am sobbing, just sobbing.
I cannot imagine what you are going through. I am so, so sorry!
I felt your pain as I read your post. Thank you for sharing it with us. I have already put the fundraiser pack in my cart. He is so blessed to have you as his teacher. God was working in that placement. Please know how many people you have praying for you right now as you need the strength to help the others who are depending on you. My thoughts and prayers are with you, your class, Jon, and his family. Stay Strong
My heart breaks for you, for Jon, and for his family. I can't imagine the pain you are all experiencing. I am praying for you all. Hold on to God's promises. He is our refuge and strength.
Becky
Compassionate Teacher
Kristin, my nephew Matthew was diagnosed with ALL (a form of leukemia) when he was a little over two. He was in remission before he entered school, though the effects lingered. He was so loved by his teachers — they were so caring and patient. And then it came back. And they, as well as his class and the entire school, were devastated. The things they did for our family were just beyond measure. And I know the pain that they felt was as real as the pain we felt. Full stop. No qualification.
The pain you feel is real. There's no need to quantify or compare because it just is. He is one of your children. Matthew was one of theirs, as much as he was my nephew. So in this time when it is your child going through this, know that you are not alone. Every tear, every lump in your throat, every moment — you are surrounded by love and very real support.
I will be thinking of you. Of Jon. Of his family. Your class, your school. The strength of little boys in the face of something like this is something you can't fathom until it's in front of you. Believe in his strength. His strength — his unbelievable resolve to just *be* — will guide you through this.
I'm so sorry to read this, Kristin. But, thank you for sharing so that we can pray and donate. My family went through something very serious last year, and my son's Kindergarten teacher was such a blessing to us during that time. To know that, when he was at school, he was being loved and supported…she went above and beyond for him and our family. We will always treasure her for the way she cared for our son as our family experienced tragedy. I just know that you are playing that very same role in Jon's life right now.
Praying that your classroom would be the safe place that Jon needs right now. And also that God would be near, and that He would provide strength and HOPE for all of you.
Jill
ABCs and Polkadots
I don't know what words to say in response! My thoughts and prayers are with you and Jon and his family. They are very blessed to have you in his life and I will keep praying that God shares his strength with you through it all. Thank you for sharing so we can help and lift them up in our prayers.
~Jessica
Fun in PreK-1 & Kinder
You did a very nice job with your post – you found the words. Obviously you are more than "Just his teacher". Our kids latch onto our hearts that very first day they're in our class. I am truly sorry to hear about Jon and my prayers go out to him, his family and to you as well. It will be a difficult journey ~ if the Good Lord brought you to it, then the Good Lord will see you through it.
*Hugs*
Cindy
A teeny tiny teacher with a great big heart! Being a mom and a teacher, I can't imagine having to be in a situation such as yours. You and Jon and his family will be in my prayers. I will be most happy to purchase your packet. I know that there must be something I can put to good use….and every time I do, I will think of Jon and you and say a little prayer.
Sending love and praying for your strength Kristin.
Tammy
Cyber hugs.. You are making a difference, tears or no tears
jh
Kristin,
Thank you for sharing your story. Jon's story. Prayers for your strength to smile and carry on being the fabulous teacher he needs and prayers for the wisdom of his doctor's to guide his family in the right direction. He is a miracle worker!
My heart aches for you and Jon's family. My nephew was diagnosed with a brain tumor at the age of 5, at the end of kindergarten. We all fell to pieces. It was a long battle but he is doing well now. I pray that all involved javelin strength and courage for this little guy and that he comes out of his stronger and healthier then before.
Thank you for sharing this heart wrenching situation. My heart breaks for you, your class this child and his family. We often question why? But through prayer miracles can happen. One of my closest friends daughter was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor when she was just 3. Through countless prayers and stays at St Jude's Hospital she has persevered and she will turn 13 in March. Even though it is difficult we have to turn to God and pray, knowing that he has a plan, we just may not understand it at this time. I will be praying for you and this family.
~Laura
I will be praying! You hurt because he is one of your kids. That is what we teachers do, our students are our kids! God Bless and know you are doing so much good that you don't even realize!
I will keep you in our prayers. In August, our school lost an angel from DIPG. Juliana would have been a first grader this year. God bless.
Prayers of comfort, peace and healing for Jon, his family, you and your students.
I am crying with you. As a teacher they are ours for as long as we have them in our hearts. Jon will always be in your heart. Prayers, good thoughts, hope, faith, and maybe a miracle going your way! I'll do the fundraiser and as I do I will ask please….. the same thing you asked.
Pam
Bless Jon, his family, and all those affected by the tragedy of his diagnosis. I'll keep him in my prayers and for all of those, both young and old to find peace, when the answers as to 'Why, God, Why?' cannot be found.
Prayers for Jon, his family, you and your class!
Kristin, I'm so sorry to hear about Jon, my school's secretaries granddaughter was diagnosed with the same cancer Dec 5th. I know how strongly it takes over your every thought and prayer….I will definitely lift Jon up in prayer if you could please add sweet Cabrina to your prayers as she's going through the same journey as Jon.
Amber Burns
I am soooo sorry. Prayers for you, Jon and family.
Recently, I've been feeling frustrated with my job and not sure about lots of things in my life. And then I read your blog. Wow, does that put things in perspective. You, and Jon and his family are in my prayers and I'm heading to TpT to support his family. Thanks for doing this.
I am so sorry to hear about your student and how sick he is. Our students become "our kids" and we love as our own. I feel your grief having gone through a terrible incident with a teacher and her son a couple weeks ago. I took this picture this morning after church
I hope it Faith
Sending you strength and comfort and healing prayers for Jon.
Elizabeth
I didn't finish the sentence…
I hope it brings you comfort <3
Just beautiful…I missed submitting for the bundle but happy to help out and buy it! God bless!
What a blessing you are to Jon and his family. I am sure that they appreciate everything you do to love and support their boy. Thank you for bravely sharing with us and allowing us the opportunity to make a difference for him as well. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers.
Kristin, you are very brave to post this! Thank you for sharing. It has really touched my heart and I'm sure as hard as it is for us to understand, we do because we are teachers who love our kids! And as a mother, I now really understand how much teachers care about their students. Jon is very lucky to have you as his teacher and I'm sure you make him smile everyday!
I send my positive thoughts and prayers to you, Jon & his family during this difficult time.
<3 Elyse
Proud to be Primary
Kristin,
You have courage beyond compare, I don't even know what else to say. You know my OLW is pray, so Jon will be in my prayers, as will you and his family. The power of positive thinking is an awesome thing and I know that through all of us sending out positivity to Jon, his family, to you , and to your students changes will occur. Love you lots and thank you for this opportunity to give back.
Janine
faithfulinfirst.blogspot.com
My heart breaks for this sweet boy and his family. They are all in my prayers. Thanks for giving us the opportunity to help.
I can't even imagine the pain. Praying for him, his family and for you for the strength you all need.
It never fails that a student will accidentally call us "Mom/Mommy/etc". It is a reminder of the bond they feel with us. Some times we become their "safe zone". Kids tell us things they don't tell their families, and miss US when WE'RE sick/injured. Sending love, hope and prayers to all the "MOMMY-TEACHERS" and our "BABIES". And "DADDY-TEACHERS", too. vhair61215@gmail.com
It never fails that a student will accidentally call us "Mom/Mommy/etc". It is a reminder of the bond they feel with us. Some times we become their "safe zone". Kids tell us things they don't tell their families, and miss US when WE'RE sick/injured. Sending love, hope and prayers to all the "MOMMY-TEACHERS" and our "BABIES". And "DADDY-TEACHERS", too. vhair61215@gmail.com
Our students become our children and always have a special place in our hearts. We spend so much of our time together. Last year I had a student who was out with a tumor and had chemo treatments each week. Thankfully, his last MRI showed that things were stable. It was, and continues to be, a challenge. As the teacher, we try to keep things as "normal" as possible. I encourage you to check out http://www.monkeyinmychair.org. This program really helped his classmates to understand a little of what was going on. The monkey went with us everywhere and helped us to never forget the student when he was out ill or getting treatments. Jon and his family are blessed to have you. Be a listening ear and just love on him as much as you can!
It is part of God's plan that you are who you are and His sovereign will that Jon has been entrusted to you during this particular season of his life. Prayers for healing for Jon but, more than that, strength and peace as you and he walk through this time together. Thank you for sharing and please keep us posted. <3
Jon, his family, you and all your kids are in my prayers…stay strong! God bless.
Jon, his family, you and all your kids are in my prayers…stay strong! God bless.
Kristin, I have no words to tell you how my heart breaks for you, your class, and that family. I've watched students with cancer go through my school and I just can't even ponder what it's like for them and their families. Your OLW will help you this year. Tomorrow, I return to school. I've been dreading it for various reasons. After reading your post, I want to go back just so I can hug each and every one of my third graders. You, Jon, and everyone affected are in my prayers. I pray that you all feel the comforting hand of God through this most difficult of times.
Praying for strength… Jer. 29:11
I will add my prayers and buy your bundle on TPT. I don't know you or anything, but as a fellow teacher I am moved by your story. Thanks for sharing.
I cannot even imagine. I am thinking of him, his family, you, your students, everyone. You are strong enough to be there for those who need you and be there for your students and him. He was placed in your classroom for a reason. This fundraiser is a great thing you are doing for him & his family!
Erin
Creating & Teaching
I am praying for you and your class and of course–Jon. I will share the news with my class and we will remember him too! I was glad to contribute!
Kristin, as I have read your blog, along with all the comments of others who have been moved by your post, I can only offer my cyber hugs…and prayers to all of you.
Since January of 2013, I have been battling breast cancer, and although my diagnosis has been extremely positive, the worry and fear have been there as well. I have been fortunate to remain working throughout this adventure (minus a few days for surgeries, treatments, etc.). When asked by others why I didn't take the past year off, I have simply replied that going to work has been my "normal"…it has kept me going…and when I come back in the afternoon after a morning treatment, and a few of my kiddies give me a smile and a hug, that beats all the medicine, doctors and so on. I have been very open with my kiddies, parents, etc. and they in turn have been very supportive, knowledgeable and positive.
You are giving Jon his "normal" in a very un-normal situation, and that is a very precious gift to him and his family. This is probably one of the most difficult things you will ever deal with in your classroom, but you are doing so with grace, kindness and love (and definitely faith!).
Take care,
Tammy
Praying for this little guy, his family, and you!! What a great statement that he wants to come to school!!! Without knowing it he is a NEGU kid. 🙂
Faith is an amazing thing! I followed/follow the story of Jesse Rees…and her battle and her goal to NEGU (never ever give up). If you get the chance find her daddy's blog, I hope you will be inspired. (Jessicajoyrees.com or negu.org)
Our staff will pray for this for sure!
Jan
Praying for your student, Jon and his family, and praying for your strength.. Please God, please.
Kristin,
I am like so many other teacher sending hugs and prayers to your school family as well as Jon's family. You have been given a gift. The time that you spend with that little boy is priceless. He wants to come to school…to see his friends, to learn and to be with you. Teaching kindergarten is such a special grade to teach. The students are still babies and we have the privilege of getting to me mommy, boo-boo fixer, hug giver, teacher and and many of the students their first experience with school 🙂
Kristen,
I didn't think, I went right to TPT and bought your package. Thank you for being the kind of caring teacher that makes us proud to be a teacher. Sending you hugs and prayers.
Cindy
Meaning I didn't stop or delay…I went right away.
Cindy
Frequently I say "I am just a Teacher Asst" but I know to the children I am their teacher without that qualification. I remember walking into school the day after Newtown happened and I couldn't look at any of my students "my kids… MINE" without tearing up and thinking what if it had been her/him? These children become part of us, part of our hearts. It just is because we love them so and no matter what they will always be OUR kids… no matter who their teacher eventually becomes. I will pray for your Jon, you and your entire class of kids. And even though I cant really use the packet in the TPT store I will purchase it to help his family because they need all the support they can get. Thank you for caring so much about your kids!
Kristin,
I really hope this fundraiser helps and please keep us up to date about what is happening. I posted about the fundraiser on Facebook, my blog and in the Teachers Pay Teachers forum. I hope that it might bring more to your fundraiser! Best wishes for it and prayers to his family.
Ashley
http://teachinginbroncocountry.blogspot.com
Kristin – Jon was put in your class for a reason. I know it is hard for you, but oh the lesson he is teaching you and your students. You will forever be impacted and what more can we ever really ask for as teachers?
My friend I taught with last year had a student who had two brain operations while in her class. She did fundraisers for him. I went with her one day to visit him in the hospital. It made her feel better to have someone with her. I will never forget it. My friend moved to a different state to teach, but every time I see her student I give him the biggest smile and hello on her behalf. Keep taking care of each other. You're doing more for him and his family than you will ever know.
– Lessons Learned
Oh Kristin this is just heartbreaking. Our cousin passed away a few years ago from a brain tumor (battled for years). We went to visit right before he passed away and as we were on our way out, his wife came to us and said he asked for one more hug from us. He just knew. He passed 2 days later 🙁
As Sydney above said, he was put into your most capable and caring hands for a reason. You have an amazing way of warming people's hearts. As you know, God has intentions for everything.
Sending you and Jon's family prayers.
~Christy
I remember reading about him a few months ago. Are they going to have more fundraisers around town again? If so, can you keep us posted on that as well?
I can not even think of what to say. My heart breaks for Jon and his family. They will be in my daily prayers.
Sandi
It is no coincidence that Jon is in your class. All of our children are given to us for a reason. I am so grateful that he has you AND the resources that you can pull together to help his family.
You're all in my prayers,
Irene
You always move me. Usually it is to tears of laughter and sometimes to thoughts of "oh I am so happy that wasn't me"— in a sympathetic/humorous tone. Today I share tears with you…. tears of sadness, confusion, and grief for you and your class. I know that often we do feel we are "just their teachers" but what people fail to see is that we form our own types of family and that you are the "Mom" to your own little room. All of the positives we share in and celebrate, and all of the hurts we are expected to explain and comfort. God has selected you to have Jon and to share in his incredible journey. I know for certain that he is a fabulous little man who has quite the journey ahead of him. I will be praying for you and your school and your student and his family. I am also sharing your post with our elementary teachers— I am sure they will be more than willing to purchase from your store. Keep the faith! Continue to share and update us so we can be your strength and your comfort.
Amanda
Teaching Texas Teens
I am crying as I read this! Your beautiful, heart-felt words touched my heart as they have the others who have read this and commented on it! You and Jon have been brought together for a reason. I will be praying for Jon, for his family, for his classmates AND for you! I love the verses that you quoted and believe them with all my heart! Please let us know if there is any other ways we can help! May God bless you and bring you comfort! <3
Jeannie
I cried as a read your post…for Jon, for his family and for you. You are facing what I think most teachers dread the most…the loss or potential loss of a student. And you are doing it admirably. I purchased the fundraiser and will donate it in Jon's name to a K-2 teacher friend of mine. It is such a small thing to do to help, but I know every bit counts. Please keep us up on Jon and his family and on how you are coping too. <3 Laura
There are no words that haven't already been shared with you about this special little boy who has been put in your care for this year- God has a reason for everything that happens, even though we may never understand them. Take things One Day At a Time. {{{hugs}}} to Jon, Jon's family, you and your class, and your school too- so many lives are being affected each moment with this precious little boy. Continue to be one of those shining lights for him.
Shar W.
My heart breaks for Jon, his family, and you! I'm lifting prayers up now!
Wow. I am speechless. My heart breaks for you and for Jon. You both, as well as his family and the rest of your kids will remain in my thoughts and prayers. I could not imagine dealing with this as you have but I have so much confidence that you are doing it wonderfully. Keep up the great work and we will keep up the prayers!
My second grade class is praying for all of you daily!
Very inspiring post. Prayers to you and his family. http://craftygriffin.blogspot.com
I am so very sorry, Kristin. I know you are the reason he wants to come to school. All of you are in my prayers. What a beautiful tribute this post is.
Carolyn
I am so, so sorry to hear this.
My father-in-law was diagnosed with a Glioblastoma, stage IV cancerous brain tumor last April. I know how hard it has been for us, and I cannot IMAGINE what it must be like for a little boy, a kid who hasn't even gotten to live life yet.
You and Jon and his family will be in my thoughts.
Prayers for you to continue to be a light for Jon and his family. Prayers to his family for strength and for his doctors to guide their hands. God bless you for helping in such a wonderful way. I hope my budget will allow me to participate.
I just read this with tears in my eyes. My thoughts are with Jon and his family and friends. Through this fundraiser, and just caring so deeply for Jon, you really are doing such a wonderful thing – I'm wishing strength your way.
Love to Learn
I found your blog through a friend who shared it on Facebook. A good friend's two year old got the same diagnosis a few years ago. We now do the brain tumor walk in his memory. I will be sharing this with my teacher friends and family and buying your packet later today.
Hi Kristin, Your story is familiar to me. Years ago, I experienced a similar situation…an inoperable brain tumor…one of my kids. The brain tumors were caused by a different condition. I will pray that God continues to give you strength. Let your heart be reminded that he is choosing to be with you and your class and that you are making a very important difference in the life of a child at a time when him and his family truly need you to do so. Sending hugs and prayers…
Kimberly
Kristin, My heart goes out to you and to Jon and his family. I want to share with you about when I was a stay-at-home-mom. I ran a pre-school out of my home 2 mornings a week. I had a special little girl who had leukemia. Through all of her time with me I tried to make every one of her days special. When she had to spend weeks at Children's Hospital, we raised the money and bought special playhouse furniture for her, had it sterilized, and donated to the hospital. Through it all, it was her parents who I prayed for. I can't even wrap my head around the agony that they had to endure. But I do understand one thing that helps me to relate to what you are feeling and going through yourself. A teacher can be so close to her students, spending so many hours each week with them. Our students become part of our extended family. We know them well. We smile when they are happy and we hurt when they are in pain. Many people don't understand how close we can get to them. I know that you must be feeling so many feelings of despair, fear, anger, and disbelief. I am sending you the most heartfelt prayers and I will pray for Jon and his family. He is so lucky to have you in his precious life. Hugs and blessings, Palma
Prayers for Jon and for all of you around him as you go through this very hard time. I can't imagine how hard it is. How precious time is but how great for you to be in each other's lives.
I have been following this group below for awhile and it might be good visiting to request a "Joy Jar" for Jon.
https://www.facebook.com/JessieReesFoundation
I am so sorry for everything that Jon, his family, your class, and you are going through. This is an absolutely heartbreaking story. From this time forward, please know that you will all be in my prayers continuously. As a fellow teacher who has hurt along with my students as they've suffered personal losses, I know what a toll this can take on your entire class.
I will most definitely participate by making a purchase, and as a TpT seller, I would be so honored to donate product to this cause if you offer an additional fundraiser or add-on to this product. Feel free to contact me at mrsloweskindergarten@gmail.com if I can be if any help.
May God have mercy on all of you.
My heart breaks for you, Jon, and his family and friends. Last year I lost 3 former students in a 4 month period. 2 to automobile accidents (16, in April and a 10year old in June). The 10 year old had just finished chemo for a brain tumor. Then in August a child I had taught last year drowned. It was almost to much for me to handle. But God's love got me through. I will be keeping you all in my prayers. May God give you all comfort and peace.
Thank you so much for sharing! I AM PRAYING! Praying for Jon and his family. AND, praying for you and for all the students in your class. This is hard stuff, but God is ABLE!
I want to thank you for sharing Jon´s story. Through reading it and all of the comments (the ones I could manage before the tears just wouldn't let me anymore), I realize how deeply blessed we are to be teachers and to have found great resources like blogs and TpT. I do not know you, and I had not heard of your blog before today, but through our mutual TpT connection, I have been blessed to be able to be supportive of this young man and his family. I will pray for him, for his family, for his doctors and for his "school siblings" as I pray for you. I am also going to follow your blog, hoping for occasional updates about him. Lots of hugs!!!
I found your TPT site by accident tonight and cried the entire time I read through your blog. Thank you so much for taking time to share what was on your heart. I cannot imagine what you are going through much less what his parents are as well. I can only say, that Jon has an amazing teacher, who prays for him and loves him as her own. You are such a blessing to your school family! I will be praying for you.
Can people still donate?