Lend Us Your Strength
Published 10 years, 8 months past
Our five-year-old daughter, Rebecca, is currently between major surgeries at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. We were on vacation in south New Jersey when what seemed to be a serious bout of strep throat turned out to be a large brain tumor. She was airlifted from the regional medical center in Cape May to CHOP and is resident in the PICU, as are we. This afternoon, the surgeons were able to relieve her elevated intracranial pressure by creating an alternate drainage path for the fluids that the tumor had obstructed. Tomorrow, she will undergo a craniotomy to resect as much of the tumor as possible as well as biopsy it to see exactly what we’re up against.
I do not know, as I write this, where we will be in 24 hours. The possible outcomes quite literally range from death to complete long-term recovery with no serious side effects. Everything depends on what they find in her head tomorrow, and how much of it they can remove, and how the removal process goes. Until we know that, we know only that she is still herself and that she has incredible care here at CHOP.
We are well covered for help. We have friends and family here to help us and our other children. But we — me, my wife Kat, Rebecca’s siblings Carolyn and Joshua, and our extended family of relatives and honorary relatives — could really use your support. Warm thoughts, positive vibes, heartfelt prayers, just keeping us in mind…whatever works for you will work for us.
She is so small, and so strong, and we are so scared. Any thought you can spare us is more than appreciated.
Update 17 Aug 13: Rebecca’s surgery went very well, almost optimally well. I’ll post about it soon, when I know more details. Thank you all so much.
Comments (261)
Oh, Eric.
You, Rebecca, and your family are in my thoughts.
Eric, I’m so sorry to hear this. I think I speak for everybody who knows you (or knows of you) when I say that we are keeping Rebecca in our thoughts—please pass that on to Kat.
If there’s anything I can do, anything at all, please let me know.
I will be keeping you and yours in my thoughts and heart, Eric.
I will keep your family in my thoughts. Sending strength and light to your daughter.
Sending positive thoughts to her, you and your family.
I hate this news.
Sending big love to each of you.
Rebecca, you, and your family are in our thoughts.
Eric, I don’t know what it’s like to be faced with such a potentially dreadful outcome, but I know what it’s like to worry for your daughter. I have you in my thoughts; and I hope it turns out OK. Best wishes, pal: let me know if there’s anything I can do.
You and Kat and the family have an ocean of positive thoughts heading your way from upstate New York. Here’s hoping for the very best.
Dear Eric, it’s late here in London and yours was the last tweet I read tonight. I am hoping for the best possible outcome for your daughter. Be strong for her and remember your friends and readers will be strong for you and your family. Good luck, David
This brought tears to my eyes! I have a five year old and can’t imagine how scary this must be. Thinking about you guys.
So sorry to hear about your daughter. I hope for a fine recovery and wish you and your family well.
All of my thoughts are with you and your family, Eric. I will hope she gets better and be here for you all, one internet stranger to another.
To Rebecca: Keep fighting, sweet girl. You’ve got one hell of a family to charm for many, many years to come. <3
– K.
All the good thoughts and moral support I can muster are headed your way.
Oh Eric, wishing for the best for your awesome little girl.
My best thoughts and positive vibes sent your collective way. My very best.
Sending Rebecca healing thoughts and keeping you and your family in mind. Hope everything improves for you.
It’s amazing, the things we are forced to become experts in on a moment’s notice. So sorry you had to add this to the things you already educate the world on.
Hey Eric, God is sovereign over all sickness, including every circumstance of our lives. Here’s a verse I just pulled from God’s word, “O LORD my God, I called to you for help and you healed me.” Call to Him for help, ask Him to heal your daughter. There is no magic formula of course, and He is not obligated to answer our prayers. But, He promises to answer our prayers that are according to His will. And the only way to pray is in Jesus’ name. Anyways, thanks for inviting us to pray for her. I will be praying for you, your wife and family as well, that God would pour out his grace and comfort to you during this trying time. When I get anxious, there is a verse that reminds us what we should do, “do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” God’s peace will guard your heart as you trust in Him, and lay all of your anxiety on Him. “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” God care for you Eric. God is intimately acquainted with all of our ways. I pray that you would rest in His unfailing love for you that He has demonstrated through His Son Jesus on the cross. God bless you guys as you walk through this trial. In Him, Spencer.
Positive thoughts and vibes coming your way! My grandmother recently had a life-threatening brain tumor removed and has fully recovered. I sincerely hope everything goes well and your daughter and family will be enjoying vacations again very soon
Eric,
Kathy and I are keeping Rebecca and your family in our thoughts. Please let me know if there’s anything we can do to help.
Eric, I do not know you personally, but I do follow you throughout the inter-webs and have the utmost respect for your talents and knowledge. Being a father as well, I find this news very troublesome and disheartening. I really do not know what to say to help ease the pain and worry, but I am sure that Rebecca, being the trooper that she is, will pull through and continue to be the amazing daughter that she is. My thoughts are with your whole family.
@cesidio
Sad, scary. Praying for her and your family.
I’m a friend of Ferrett, Gini, and Joan, and sadly, though I have read a ton about you guys, I have never gotten to meet you. That said, please know that me and mine are praying and lighting candles for you and yours.
Wishing you love, healing, and strength. And more love.
Lyssa (lyssabard on LJ, silent but still always reading)
Eric,
As a father of an 8 and 2 1/2 years old I can’t imagine what you’re going through.
Be sure you and your family will be in my thoughts. Please keep us posted and we hope for the best for you and your family.
Oh, Eric. We’ll be thinking of Rebecca, and of all of you, with all our love and hope.
You are all in our prayers. We hope she recovers well and quickly and returns to her old self.
It’s a heartbreaker to read such news. I’ll keep you, your little daughter and your family in my thought. Wish you have good news and everything to be alright. My appreciation and love.
You are in our prayers. Keeping vigil in the hospital is the hardest thing I’ve done as a parent. ((hugs))
What a terrible news Eric. Thinking of you all and sending all the positive energy i have.
My children and I send our love and support out into the Universe for your little one, you and your family. Let her know that she’s in our thoughts, and that we’ll be honored to keep strong and support her from afar, when it’s tough.
Very sad and scary. Warm and positive thoughts from my family to yours. Stay strong.
You have all my prayers and good energy, hopes, and heart.
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Eric, my thoughts go out to you and your family. Your beautiful daughter doesn’t deserve this.
Stay strong, the world will still be here for you when you get back.
So sorry for all of you, Eric. Thinking of and praying for you. Deepest hope for comfort, good news, peace, grace.
Your beautiful daughter and family are in my prayers.
Sendind light, prayers and most importantly… Hope. I say this as the mother of a stage 4 cancer survivor. Diagnosed at age 9, now 21 and in stable remission. Your whole family is in my heart as you go through the most terrifying phase of surgery and diagnosis.
Lea – a friend a Gini and Ferrett
I will keep your strong little Rebecca and her family in my thoughts tonight, thankful she is getting the best care she can and has such a loving family for support. My heart goes out to Rebecca, you, Kat, Carolyn, and Joshua.
My thoughts and most positive vibes from Brighton, England. Rebecca, whatever tough times she is going through now, is so lucky to have you and your family to help her through it. I’ll be thinking of you and her, Eric.
Eric, I really hope that Rebecca makes a full and speedy recovery.
I could only imagine what you and your family are going thru.
Every positive thought for you guys.
Love from Lima, Perú.
I hope for the best for Rebecca and all of you.
I am Jennifer’s cousin and just wanted to send good thoughts and prayers for your beautiful daughter Rebecca and your family. Speedy recoveryy Rebecca!
Sending you all wheelbarrows full of good thoughts and good luck.
Praying for your little girl.
Take a moment when you see her to really feel the impossible magnitude of your love for her. Let that be your strength and reprieve from the ravages of fear and apprehension.
So sorry to hear this. Thoughts and prayers are definitely with you all.
My thoughts are with you and your family, as well as my prayers.
Regardless of who believes what, I will commit to praying once every hour that I am awake.
Your daughter is extraordinarily beautiful.
IF this helps you have hope: Nothing is known, nothing is the same, but my sister-in-law had a tangerine-sized tumor last summer, discovered when she was slurring her words and feeling dizzy. My brother whipped her via ambulance to the nearby hospital, a top NY hospital for this, which I’m glad you did, too. Upon arrival at the hospital, she was already in a cascade of organs shutting down as her brain sort of separated itself from her body. They didn’t even pause to do an MRI, just raced her in to relieve pressure and then a second surgery on the thing itself, on the same day. Then a few days to a week of the doctors saying terribly dire unknowns. She not only came out of the coma, she has been traveling and going to work for months now. She has therapy on a throat problem caused by this and she probably will get special glasses, but what seemed IMPOSSIBLE those first few days and then that week came true. Alive and without any effect on her cognitive abilities or her personality, and pretty close to 100%.
I have a distant but real and admiring love for you and therefore your family and hate that you are going through this painful time, heightened by the fact that you know so, so much more than she does. If it’s any comfort, as a child in the hospital MANY times, not much made me fearful (not true now!) because I had my parents. I looked to them and THEY were my reality. So, I wish you the ability to do the virtually impossible and that is to have the appearance of steadiness, calmness, and being your loving selves.
Love,
Carolyn
Every thought, prayer and good wish in the world go out to your beautiful daughter.
Eric, I’ve never had the pleasure of meeting you or your family, although I’ve known you through your work for a long time. This must be a nightmare for all of you; hopefully the knowledge that there are many people out here wishing the best for Rebecca helps. Good luck, and stay strong.
Sending good karma your way from down South. Good luck to you all.
Eric…while I haven’t seen you in many years, I wanted to know you, your wife, your daughter – Rebecca, and the rest of your family are in my thoughts. I only have a small idea of how difficult a time you are going through. One of my students went through a similar scenario a little more than a year ago. I am friends with his mother and would be happy to put you in touch with her if you just need someone to talk to who has been through this too. Luckily, Spencer (my student), is quite a trooper, even though he has been through so much. You have my best wishes, positive thoughts, and deep concern as you face these challenges.
You and your daughter are in our thoughts and prayers. God bless you.
Good luck through all of this. You family is in my thoughts
Holding you and yours in the Light.
I am praying for Rebecca. I am heartbroken that she is so ill and feel like she is my own grand child. She calls me Nonna like Elianna. I know she will be alright – she is a tough cookie. If there is anything I can do, please, please do not hesitate to call or email me. Please accept my love to you and your family.
Donna Finney
Eric,
My heart broke for you when I started to get enough snippets in FB to realize what was happening. I cannot even imagine how hard Rebecca’s illness is for your entire family. Warm, healing thoughts are with you all in the coming days. I wish I were closer to help in some more tangible way, even though we have barely corresponded since graduation in 1992. You all are in excellent hands at CHOP; my half brother has, unfortunately, had to spend much time there. They have literally saved his life multiple times, and I have every confidence they will help Rebecca along to the best outcome possible. She is one beautiful little girl, and I can see in her eyes, in the photo you posted, that she is a fighter and will come out of this ordeal all the stronger. Much love, Wendy (Kearns) Linkous
Can’t imagine what you guys are going through right now. Hopes and prayers for your daughter, yourself and the rest of your family.
I’m so sorry to hear about what you guys are going through, and can only imagine the emotions you must be feeling right about now. My thoughts are with you and your family, hoping for a full recovery.
Julie and I were shocked to read this. We have Rebecca in our thoughts for a full & speedy recovery.
Best of luck to you and your family.
Our deepest sympathies and hopes are with you. If you need anything at all in the Philadelphia area, don’t hesitate to ask.
My son has had lots of troubles too. I know how scared and helpless the feeling is. You will rise to the occasion. My family and I will say prayers for you.
Gosh. Gosh. Words fail.
I am so sorry.
What a nightmare.
My heart aches for you and your whole family. I am and will be thinking about you and all the things that are happening with the medical staff and procedures. Aching for Rebecca and all she is going through. Hoping for the absolute best.
You are such a dear father, Eric. Every time I’ve seen you in one town or another, a big piece of you is always rooted back home, thinking about your kids, missing them, imagining when you’ll get to see them again. You love them so much and are deeply connected to them — more openly than most. This must be incredibly hard.
If there is any way I can help, let me know. I’ll hop on a train to Philly to be there.
I can’t even imagine what you are going through right now. All my thoughts and prayers…
Wishing all of you, but especially Rebecca, the very best, Eric.
I’m sending all of my positive vibes your way, Eric. Best wishes to your whole family.
I have placed your daughter and all her family on the prayer list of which I am a member. These powerful prayers will give strength and comfort to all of you. You don’t know me but I am Lisa’s second mother in Rochester NY. Hugs and prayers .
All of you are in my prayers, Eric.
Eric, every part of me is sending good thoughts and prayers to Rebecca, your family, and to you.
All of my good thoughts are going out to Rebecca, you and your whole family, Eric. Take care, all of you.
Please know that the Woda Thornton family is thinking of you and sending positive wishes your way.
Madelyn and Rebecca were very close friends in daycare this year, and she is very special to us.
Thank you for the updates, and know that there is a lot of love heading her way from Cleveland.
Jenny
Prayers with all of you.
You and your family are in our thoughts Eric.
Praying for her healing and your families strength to endure.
Sometimes He Heals the Sick through the Gifts and Prayers of Others
Matthew 10:1 And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.
Mark 16:15 And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.
Luke 9:1 Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases.
Acts 14:3 Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave testimony unto the word of his grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands.
Acts 28:8 And it came to pass, that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and of a bloody flux: to whom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid his hands on him, and healed him.
Hebrews 4:16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
James 5:15-16 And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. 16 Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.
My thoughts are with you and yours, Eric.
Eric… What a nightmare you are going through. The terrifying flip side of the joy and happiness of being a parent. While no one can truly feel your pain and that of your family, know that many are keeping you in their thoughts. You are not alone.
Eric, I met you once in 2000 at a New York event, and I’ve been a big (if quiet) supporter of your work all along. I’ve also admired how you and Kat are doing such good work in your family and with your family. Nobody should have to suffer what you are suffering, and I’m beaming as much hope as I can.
Our thoughts, love, prayers and hugs are going out to Becca and you guys! Thinking of all lots and sending prayers by the load!
Strength of the universe is being directed to your daughter, your family and to you.
Eric,
I’ll tell you something. I see your name every single day because I have this line in my SCSS files:
@import “compass/reset”; //Eric Meyer’s reset
If it wasn’t because of you, I wouldn’t do the things I do as a professional of the Web, and for that I Thank You immensely.
Now is my chance to give you (and your family) something back in such tough moment: I just did a small prayer to God in honor of your daughter Rebecca.
I’ll keep you, Rebecca and your family in my prayers so you can have the strength to endure these moments and ultimately overcome all obstacles.
Be strong mi hermano (brother).
I hope everything goes as smoothly as it can. Best wishes, my thoughts are with you and your family.
Wow, Eric. We have no words. Laura and I are thinking good thoughts for you and yours. Hang in there!
You and your family are in our thoughts Rebecca – keep fighting!
So sorry to hear this. Best of luck. We’re all pulling for you.
Rebecca is adorable. Prayers and best wishes to you and your family.
I will keep you and yours in my thoughts and prayers. God will help you through this. God bless you all!
Eric, we’ve never met, but this crazy, wonderful Internet has allowed me to learn from you, both as a developer and as a person. Rebecca and your family will be in my prayers and those of so many others, and I hope that you receive the strength and healing wishes that we all are sending.
Oh no! I hope you’re all holding up as well as you can in these terrifying uncertain circumstances and that the results, when they come, are as positive as they can be. Much love to Rebecca, you & Kat and the family.
It’s heartbreaking to see your struggle in writing. I am from India and honestly I don’t know you but I do know pain and suffering and that everyone goes through these, some more than the others and I sincerely wish as I write this that your lil daughter does get better and stronger and that you get to enjoy many more moments of life with her.
Thank you for calling to check on my daughter in the midst of your great trial. You are a kind soul, Eric. Not only does my heart go out to you, but I’ve been lifting up Rebecca in prayer frequently throughout the day.
I’ll say to you what I’d say to anyone I care about who is scared of something they have no control over or idea of what’s next: “You are not alone.” and “I’m here for you.”
Thinking of you – wishing for the best possible outcome. Hold tight.
May your family and you have peace, healing, and the warmth of love. In my thoughts And prayers. -mike
I believe that God is with us, with a hand on our shoulder. I will pray for your daughter.
My thoughts are with you and your family. If there is anything we can do, let us know.
Wishing Rebecca and your family all the best tonight, tomorrow and everyday thereafter, sir.
So sorry to hear about your little girl, man. My wife and I will be praying for you guys. Our 2 year old seems to get a fever every 6 months or so, and my wife thinks it might be some kind of genetic issue/thing. She went to the pediatrician’s today and they said her ears and throat looked fine, etc. and she refuses to take any medicine!! Hoping it’s nothing serious and that it will pass tomorrow etc, did your girl’s signs begin with a fever? Hoping for the best for you and your family.
Oh, Eric. I understand scared. Real, unadulterated heart-in-your-mouth fear. And the hardest part of fear to handle is when it is fear for our loved ones and we have no idea what comes next. All the screw-your-eyes-closed, heartfelt prayers and begging to the powers that be to hold your family tight in love as you go through this awful and frightening path wherever it takes you and Rebecca.
Godspeed.
Hang in there. My thoughts are with you. Wishing your daughter makes a full recovery.
Eric,
Know that you are in the best hands possible. There is no better place your daughter could be. Trust in your doctors.
My daughter was struck by a car five years ago, and we faced very similar circumstances. This is not a sprint, this is a marathon, so settle in for the journey. Accept help from others when it is offered. Ask for help when you need it. Allow others to coordinate providing for your daily needs.
Try to make time for just you and your wife to spend time alone together, even if just for a quick meal. Consider blogging your daughter’s progress as a way to keep your supporters up to date on what is happening. Try to be honest with your feelings. Now, more than at any other time in your life, try to live in this moment. Be with your daughter and your family as much as you are able. Tell them your true feelings often.
Your family will be changed by this. Change is always unavoidable, especially now. Accept that things are different, and do your level best to embrace this new reality. Your daughter needs you, to see that you care for her, to know she’s done nothing wrong, and that this isn’t her fault. Show her.
Five years on, my daughter is still in recovery. Miraculously, although her progress is slow, it is ongoing.
If you’d like to discuss anything, contact me by email and I’ll provide my cell—call anytime of day or night.
Wishing you and yours all the very best.
Om tare tuttare ture svaha
Om mani padme hum
_/\_
Our thoughts are with you and your family this weekend, Eric. Hoping for the best.
You and your family are in our thoughts. Words feel unequal to the task, but know that we are wishing you all strength, and hoping dearly for the very best.
Positive thoughts coming your way from Brighton. I can only begin to imagine how scary this must be for you all. Wishing you the very, very best for you, your family and your daughter.
You’ve touched the lives of people all around the world and I’m keeping you and your family in my thoughts here in Istanbul.
Sending you, Rebecca, and the rest of your family strongest wishes for the best possible outcome.
You are such a great inspiration for so many of us.
Now it is our turn to give some of that back to you.
Keep your head up and keep hoping for the best!
My thoughts are with Rebecca, you, and the rest of your family.
Oh Eric Honey, So much love to you and Kat and all your beautiful kids.
I’ll do Mettā for you today on my flight.
Nicole
I can’t imagine what you’re going through, faced with such a horrible unknown. Seeing how eloquently and openly you’ve written about it here, I already know you’re stronger than me.
I hope this event becomes nothing more than an anecdote your daughter tells at dinner parties and such in her adult life.
Brain Tumor { display:none; }
Take care, sending our hopes & best wishes for you and your family from The Netherlands.
We’re thinking of you and Kat and your family.
When Alex was the same age as Rebecca, he contracted pneumonia and after weeks of mis-diagnosis at our local hospital was ambulanced to an ICU 100 miles away from home where we spent the next few months. He underwent major chest surgery that same day and I will never forget the feeling when the nurse came to tell us how he was. Or even that he was alive. He spent the next few months in hospital, as did Sue who never left him for a minute. 17 years later Alex is fit and makes me proud every day.
Good things dan happen and I truly hope and pray things work out for you as they did for us.
You’re in my thoughts and prayers. Stay strong and God bless!
Hi Eric
My thoughts are with you, your family and especially your daughter today. I really hope she comes through okay.
All your family is in my heart and prayings. Kisses from Seville, Spain.
Thinking of you, your family and Rebecca. Stay strong & keep fighting.
My thoughts won’t do anything to help (what do you think I am, my own religious deity?) but my prayers will, because I pray to someone far more powerful than me. Praying for you all. X
I can’t think of a worse feeling, seeing your young child suffer is absolutely heartbreaking. My thoughts are with you and your family, keep strong.
All of the above, Eric. All of the above work for me, and I hope our collective efforts in those areas will work in your family’s behalf.
Best wishes to you all, Eric.
I wish you all the strength you will need, and I wish your daughter all the luck in the world.
Hello Eric, Kat, Carolyn and Joshua,
Having three kids myself, I can just imagine how hard it must be to see one of the suffering like this. I am so sorry to hear this and wish all of you and especially Rebecca all the energy she needs to get thru this.
Sending many many warm thoughts and wishes to all of you!
/marc
Prayers from Fort Worth, TX
My thoughts are with your daughter and the rest of your family.
Hi, Rebecca.
It’s ok. It’s going to be alright.
You just breathe. It’s going to be alright.
So sorry to hear this, Eric.
Sending positive thoughts across the Atlantic.
All the best wishes to you and your family, Eric. My thoughts are with all of you. Let’s hope that everything works out well. *hugs*
I am praying for her better health and complete recovery.
Positive thoughts being sent from London to little Rebecca :-)
My heart, thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family for a positive outcome for your daughter. Remaining optimistic all the way.
I pray for Rebecca, you and all of your family.
Eric,
Not much to add to what everyone else has already said so well. I’ll be thinking of you and the family and sending good thoughts in your direction. Hope the doctors are successful and that Rebecca can go on to live a healthy life for many years to come.
All the best,
Stephen
Beeing a father of four, I got so scared and sad from reading about what you are going through. I really hope you make it through this well.
I really hope she fully recover?
Our thoughts goes to your family.
This is truly heartbreaking – I wish you and your family all the best.
We’ve never met, but I’m pulling for Rebecca and sending good vibes for strength and a return to joy for your whole family.
Sending you all our love and support. As Cary says, it’s never exactly the same, but both of us have close family members who had serious brain aneurysms and made pretty much full recoveries after getting to hospital in time.
You are one of the strongest families we know and parents we most admire. You don’t need our strength but it’s all at your disposal anyway. In our thoughts, constantly. Lots of love and hugs.
So sorry that Rebecca and the rest of your family are going through this. I hope for the best for you all.
Dear Eric, I have a five year old daughter. She’s a fireball, loved and endeared by all. You, your family and Rebecca are in my prayers, my friend. May good things happen from here.
I wish you and your family strength when you get weak, hope when all seems dark and a safe clear passage from whatever this is… They are never as ‘small’ as we see them to be. Her soul must be huge and it will endure. I send all my thoughts and energy so that she comes through with a “complete long-term recovery with no serious side effects”
I don’t know what to say. You, your family, and especially your daughter are in my thoughts. I only wish there was more I could do.
I clicked over here from Jesse’s FB post about Anna. Just wanted you to know that I am praying for your family.
Sending you positive thoughts from London, mate. As long as you stay strong, the positivity will transfer to your daughter. As a parent of two girls (10 and 8) I know how terrifying even the smallest thing that threatens them can feel, never mind something as serious as this.
Thank you for everything you’ve done for us, wish we could do more for you, Eric.
All the best.
Eric, I neither know nor follow you, at least not before this, but this is just heartbreaking and you gotta be sure your girl and your family have my most positive thoughts and energy. Be strong guys!
Eric,
I wish all the best to your daughter and to your family. My thoughts are with you and I hope that all will be well soon.
Be strong. Best wishes also from my five-year-old son.
My thoughts are with you. CHOP is the best there is. You’re in good hands.
The Best to you and your family.
Eric, I just learned about this and wanted to let you know that I have you, Rebecca and your entire family in my thoughts. I can only imagine what is everyone going through at the moment. Take care of yourself and be strong. I am sure Rebecca is a little fighter and will overcome this.
Prayers for skilled surgeons and a strong daughter.
I couldn’t breath reading this. I’m stingy with my good vibes so I’ve got a lot spare. Sending it all your way. Hoping for the best for Rebecca, and your family.
We’re praying for you and your family, Eric, and especially for your daughter. Hoping you find strength in all of the well wishes and warm thoughts you’re receiving.
Sending strength. Thinking of you and yours, Eric–all best thoughts for Rebecca. May the power of the universe be hers for a full and speedy recovery.
Eric, you and Rebecca have not left my thoughts since I heard the news. Sending strength to her this morning! Even though I have never met her, I know she has amazing parents who are raising a strong girl, and she will bring that strength into this surgery.
Wish Rebecca a speedy recovery. I will pray for her and your family.
I’d like to second Jake Archibald’s comments.
I hope that the outcome is “complete long-term recovery with no serious side effects”.
Warm thoughts and positive vibes to you and your family.
The best of luck in an incredibly difficult situation.
Dear Eric, Kat, Carolyn and Rebecca,
I saw this link on my friend Bruce’s facebook page, so don’t worry that you can’t remember me!
No one can imagine how much your entire world must have changed in the last few days. Everyone will however be able to offer advice and support. Thank you for taking time out to tell others.
Mine would be take each hour as it comes, and remember to ask for what you need. Your journey will be long and hard; to make it easier try be kind to yourselves.
I hope to be able to follow your journey and offer my thoughts and prayers.
Saying a prayer for your little girl and the family.
You are in our thoughts Eric! Sending over a big hug and best of luck to you and your family.
I’m praying for Rebecca and your family.
My prayers are with you, guys.
My heart goes out to you guys. Stay strong.
Best of luck
Keeping your family in my thoughts. Stay strong!
You’re definitely in our thoughts. Here’s hoping this is a case of caught, fought and beat completely in a short amount of time.
Please know that maximum positive vibes are being aimed in the direction of you, your family, and all the doctors and staff at CHOP. Some of the toughest times in our lives are when our children are sick. And regardless of experience, that doesn’t make it easier. Take time to pray and be close to your family. And know that CHOP is an absolutely wonderful hospital. While I don’t have any direct experience with it, having grown up in south Jersey, I heard a lot of good stories about it. I’ll be praying for you all during this challenging time. Be strong and sensitive for Kat and the kids.
Hey Eric, you don’t remember me I’m sure but we talked at #aeaatl for a while the first night. Just wanted to first off let you know that I will be praying for you, your family, and your daughter as you navigate these uncharted waters. My little girl was just released from the Children’s hospital in Illinois a few weeks ago after learning she had a great rare genetic disorder that required invasive surgery. It was crazy scary but one thing I learned and am extremely thankful for is the amazing talent and passion these doctors have for their young patients. No one knows what the future holds, but I believe in a God who does, and will be asking for the protection of your daughter and wisdom for those treating her.
I’m so sorry for you and crossing everything I have for you
<3
Eric,
Oh my, I am so sorry to hear about Rebecca. Praying for you and your family.
If you are still there after today and need help, email me…though I am in upstate NY, we have many friends in Philly, some of whom work at CHOP. Our son is on the parent advisory council there (my grandson has special neurological needs, so they have spent a lot of time there).
Hoping for the best for you guys. So sorry that you have to go through this.
Praying to Jesus for a miracle, with bold expectation of healing and an abundant life after this chapter.
Sending my best thoughts and hopes to you all!!
My thoughts, prayers, and warm wishes of love, support, and health are with you and your whole family.
Eric, thinking of you and your family and especially brave Rebecca this Saturday morning. Hoping for the best. **hugs** -t
Dear Eric and family—thinking of you, and the courage of your daughter, at this most difficult of times.
My thoughts are with you and your family.
A relative was found in a similar situation. Although the tumor in his brain is not malignant, it is persistent, but he’s been able to live and grow up through it. Hope your daughter’s condition improves at least as well…
I’m so sorry. Wishing you and Rebecca the best.
Toda la fuerza para ella y la familia. Positive vibes flying your way from the other side of the ocean…
Eric, best wishes to you and your family and hoping for the best for Rebecca. May you have the strength and patience to get through it all.
I wish her the best and will have your whole family on my own prayer list. I wanted to share my own experience with brain cancer.
First of all, the doctors will evaluate the tumor and be able to tell you what it is. Some tumors are easier than others. Some are cancerous, others not. Some grow very quickly and are difficult to fight unless you were able to remove them 100%. Others, not so difficult.
Second, there is treatment done on cancer cases after the operation. The effectiveness will depend on what type of tumor she has, whether it is cancerous or not, and how much of the tumor the operation was able to remove. In the case of a cancerous tumor, she would be treated after the operation with chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The purpose is to kill anything which could not have been removed in the operation. The process can be difficult, and its effectiveness depends on the tumor type and how much was removed.
I am lucky. It was the worst possible tumor, but found very early. I hope your daughter shares my luck, even if it is in a different form. I will be praying for you.
So sorry to hear about this. Godspeed to Rebecca and her family. You will be in my thoughts, and those of my family.
Eric/Kat/Carolyn/Joshua,
Rebecca is in the thoughts/prayers of all the friends you’ve made in Belfast…
child:…… inherit properties:…… parent:……
<strong>love</strong>,fears, tears,hugs and kisses.Ian
<b><strong>Ian Fleming,
Lecturer: Interaction Design,
School of Art and Design,
University of Ulster, Belfast.
No word can describe all of that.
Hope for going better.
You all will be in our thoughts.
Emiliano e famiglia
Your story touched my heart. I am sending prayers out for Rebecca and all of your family. I’m wishing you strength and the healing power of a family’s love.
This is a hard, unfortunate thing. You and your family have all of the good vibes and hopeful thoughts I can muster. Godspeed to her recovery and safety.
Sending warm thoughts for strength and fast recovery.
Thoughts and prayers for Rebecca. Be strong little one! <3
Eric, I’m praying for Rebecca and your whole family. Best wishes.
As a father of young twins, you are currently living my nightmare, and I can’t begin (or want) to imagine how that really feels.
I can only send the strongest wishes for a positive outcome, that the doctors can work their magic, and that your daughter makes a full recovery.
Gary.
Sending all the best hopes from San Francisco and Palo Alto.
Heartfelt prayers coming your way!!
Eric,
Will keep you and your family in my thoughts…
❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤
❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤
❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤
❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤
❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤
❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤
❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤
❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤
❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤
Whatever strength, positive thoughts, or good vibes I can give are there for you and your family…
Hang in there Eric. You’ve had an immense positive impact on many people’s lives, including mine. I’ve been through similar tough times, just stay positive and remember there are always still positive outcomes. Rebecca and you’re family are in my thoughts, and things are going to work out!
I only wish there was more I could offer than just positive vibes and prayer. Being a father, also, to a five year old daughter makes it hit home a little harder.
Sending you prayers and love!
Many positive and peace-filled vibes to you and your family . . . praying that the medical staff does their thing with strong hands and even strong hearts.
My thoughts are with your little girl xo
It doesn’t matter that we’ve never heard of each other until today — I saw the post on Unvirtuous Abbey and wanted to let you know I’m lifting prayers for all of you.
Hi Eric,
I am lifting you and your family up in my prayers. I hope that God’s mercy and grace will give the surgeons strength and insight to help your daughter, Rebecca to full and complete recovery.
In the Name of Jesus Christ, AMEN.
awwww praying —
Eric, I’ve read your books & blogposts for years, and have gained a lot from you. I hope that prayers & best wishes from us here in Gisborne, NZ, can be a small token of our gratitude and support. Blessings to you, Kat, Carolyn, Joshua, and especially Rebecca at this time.
My thoughts are with you and your family.
I’m a father of two and shuddering in sympathy. Hoping for good outcomes for all of you.
Though everything will change within your family tomorrow, no matter what the news, and though you are quaking and fearful, the one thing that won’t ever change is where you are–held close under the mighty wings of our loving God. My prayer is for you all is that you lean, and even fall, into those wings. There may you find safety and peace, draw courage, hope, wisdom and rest, everything that you find you need in the place where God holds you fast, and keeps you.
My warmest thoughts, best wishes, and fervent prayers for a speedy recovery to all of you. While I do not have kids of my own, I have small children in my life that I love a great deal and cannot imagine what this must be like. I hope that Rebecca is back on her feet enjoying life very, very quickly!
Evening prayers from England for you all x
payers, thoughts, love, hope … everything you need!
I affirm that every cell and atom of Rebecca’s body responds to God’s love. Sending love and strength to Rebecca and your entire family.
Sending prayers for healing and strength!
Sending love and prayers…she will be the one to show you the way, I have no doubt.
*A piece of pure rainbow for you!*
God be with you and her!
So relieved to see your tweet of just over an hour ago saying that you could hardly have asked for a better outcome.
Really good news.
We all hope that good news and better than could be hoped for outcomes keep on coming for you. Our thoughts and best wishes remain with Rebecca, you, and all of your family and friends.
All strength to you and the evidently great medical staff..
Keeping Rebecca, you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. Here’s looking forward to a speedy recovery.
Eric, I truly hope for the best for your daughter. You’ve been the best CSS/HTML mentor I’ve ever known and I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for you.
Praying for you, your loved ones and your daughter. May the peace of God that passes all understanding keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
You are in my thoughts. I send you the best wishes from Germany. I hope all will turn out well.
Hey Eric, it’s me again. I thought these songs might encourage you…
Matt Hammitt & Audrey Assad – Little Light
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHjPHT-homc
Matt Hammitt – Trust
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=maRMivc5vB4
Ginny Owens – If You Want Me To
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qVYRc7LtvUA
Laura Story – Blessings
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQan9L3yXjc
Matt Hammitt’s story of his little girl
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WoeGKOXeO-s
My thoughts and prayers will be with her tonight. Hope the surgery goes well and she recovers quickly.
You are in my prayers – and at church tomorrow in community as we celebrate the Holy Eucharist.
Pax et bonum!
John+
Sending you and your family positive thoughts. I cannot imagine the emotional roller coaster you are riding right now, and I hope that you receive good news and Rebecca recovers quickly!
Hang in there, Eric. I have a four month old daughter who was born after a touch-and-go pregnancy, and I know that the helplessness and numbness must be overwhelming. Remember that you are not alone — there are hundreds, if not thousands, of us wishing the best for Rebecca.
Prayers for you and your family, especially your beautiful daughter… God still does work miracles!
My prayers are with your daughter and her strength, for God to guide the medical staff to remove all traces of the tumor while keeping her whole and healthy, and for you to feel God’s comfort surrounding you during this horrifying time.
Best wishes!
You and your family are in my thoughts.
Best wishes for Rebecca and the entire family.
Eric, as a mother I can understand your worries though I have never been faced with such a situation like the one you are living. You and Rebecca are in my thoughts.
Eric, you and your family are in my thoughts.
I’m so glad your daughter’s surgery went well. I’m definitely praying for your family’s peace and comfort as you deal with all this and your daughter’s complete recovery.
Just saw this. All my utter complete and unconditional love to you, Rebecca and your family. x
Charlie / @sonniesedge
May god protect this little angle. Prayers and wishes for you and your family to be well.
Regards
May God bless her with strength to overcome her illness and may she get a speedy recovery and in no time she be in front of you playing and having fun.
My every prayer is with Rebecca. I pray to god to help you with this immense test and sincerely hope that Rebecca recovers quickly.
I don’t know you but saw this tweet. Hold onto your other children and let them know they can not fix it or your pain. Siblings in these situations suffer more than many people understand. Godspeed.
The Levine family is keeping Rebecca and your family in our thoughts and prayers. She is a strong, beautiful girl and a fighter. We hope you’ll be back home soon.
Dear Entire Meyer Family,
I only know Rebecca from a far…as the adorable smiling child running thru in the halls of Fairmount Temple ECC. But please know that we are thinking of all of you and praying for all of the best for Rebecca.
Jeremy and Melissa Bilsky
My heart goes out to you all, I hope you’ll be back home soon.
Eric, what can I say that hasn’t already been said? I read about this following something that Bruce L wrote. I, too, had been on holiday and literally just switched my phone on after a week of being incommunicado, and after what *I* thought had been a rough night on board a boat with two very tetchy twins who woke up at stupid o’clock, several times. My moaning about not having a good night’s sleep suddenly felt very, *very* trivial after reading about poor Rebecca. I wish you all the very best of luck – and I hope that some of the other commenters’ stories of their kids going through rough patches and coming out the other side in amazing ways can give you all a sense of hope.
Cathy Meyer’s cousin here wishing you all a speedy recovery period. I’m in love with this child just from the smile in her picture.
Prayers…
The entire Kay family is thinking and praying for Rebecca. We are sure she will be back up and running soon.
Keeping you all in our thoughts. Positive healing thoughts heading your way.
I am so sorry you all have to go through this. My heart aches for you. I will be thinking and praying for you often. Love you all.
So terribly sorry to hear about the ordeal but relieved to know that the first few steps have gone as well as possible. Keeping the Meyer family in my thoughts this month.
I shed a tear whilst reading your blog post. My thoughts and prayers are for your family and especially little Rebecca.
x
Eric, I have a 5 yr old too and can’t imagine what you must be going through, I’ll be thinking about you and your daughter tomorrow. Be strong!
brent
@
mimoYmima.com
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The Official Blog-Policy On Children. The Official Cost Of Fame. | Ferrett Steinmetz
[…] I named Rebecca, but I only did so after her father did (and Eric has an audience far larger than mine). And I did not give the names of either of my […]
So terrifying. This sort of thing causes such a strain on relationships – no matter what the outcome. May you all fine strength in each other. I will include Rebecca in our prayers. May she have a full and non-traumatic recovery.
Please know that we are thinking about you and your family every day. We pray for renewed health for sweet Rebecca, faith & strength for your family and for God to bless the doctors with the knowledge and skill to treat Rebecca and the bedside manner to make your family (and friends)feel she is getting the best care possible. XOXO
Sending prayers for Rebecca and your family as tears run down my face. Hope for a possitive outcome. Eric you have done so much for the web community, how can we help you?
Sending thoughts and positive vibes, a whole lot of them, your way.
Sending you All the best thoughts and wishes
All the best Rebecca
Praying to Jesus for the healing and full recovery of beautiful Rebecca and for strength and peace to Eric, Kat and the whole family.
Psalm 91
1 Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.[a]
2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust.”
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The implicit promise of good luck | Aceso Under Glass
[…] summer, five year old Rebecca Meyers was diagnosed with brain cancer. It was one of those bizarre situations where, aside from the malignant mass growing in her […]
I got here via a link on Jon Armstrong’s blog, but I also have Facebook friends who have occasionally posted updates about Rebecca from other blogs or sites. I’ve been sitting at my desk going through the photos of Rebecca today, one of which links to this particular post. I just wanted to say that I’m so sorry for the loss of your daughter. I can only begin to imagine what your family has been through and continues to go through.
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Eric, I was touched by your writings about your daughter Rebecca. I am so sorry that you and your family had to experience this. I hope your writings help everyone fully appreciate what is in their lives each day. May the memory of Rebecca keep your family close and strong. My best wishes to you and your family. Thank you, Charlie