Rachel,
What an tribute. Though from Michigan, we knew/knew of Brooke. You see, my in-laws know the Clemons family through their church in Kentucky. We finally met this wonderful family last August at Give Kids the World in Florida (my son is battling Leukemia). They always had a smile on their face.
May we all face our challenges the way Brooke did ... with a smile.

Reading this wonderful tribute to Brooke and her family was therapeutic. As a parent of a nine year old who had a liver transplant and then battled cancer, I am so inspired by the Clemons family. Their love, commitment and faith are truly admired by those who know them. Thanks for the great "Lessons in Life", Bryan and Stephanie. And thank you, Rachel, for sharing their story, allowing those who didn't know Brooke to be touched by an angel.
Julie Okruhlica

Thank you, Rachel, for the heartfelt tribute to a heroic young girl and her family. I am an RN at Kosair Childrens' Hospital and witness firsthand the incredible strength, steadfast hope and profound love demonstrated by all the parents of our children with life-threatening illnesses. They handle their fears and sufferings with such grace, that one cannot remain untouched by their exemplary courage, trust and faith.

Ms. Platt,

Thank you for you tribute to Brooke. My wife and I were also at the memorial service for Brooke and continue to marvel at the strength of the Clemons family. My wife and Bryan work together and their battle these past two years have been a constant discussion in our house. Mostly, the way in which they have dealt with it. All of the Clemons family-- especially Brooke-- have been an inspiration to us.

Thank you so much for this tribute. In an era when the news media is scrutinized for only bringing the public "bad" news, it is refreshing to see a truly newsworthy and uplifting story.

Rob, Stacey and Noah Ellis

Beautiful words to honor a beautiful life.

As the mother of a 5 year old son still fighting Wilms Tumor, the death of one of these warriors raises my worst fears. I only hope that I can continue this journey in the same manner as Brooke's incredible family.

Thank you for writing this!

Sincerely,
Rene' Losurdo

Mommy to Christian-5 (dx: 12/21/05 Wilms Tumor Stage III), Devin-3 and Brendan-4 months

www.caringbridge.org/visit/christianlosurdo

I learned of Brooke from the online support group for all kids with Wilms. There is something captivating about her smile and face, something endearing and full of hope. That is what Brooke continues to give...hope

what a beautiful way of putting into words the meaning of a family of faith and love, and that is the Clemons Family, I hope if ever I am tested I would have this kind of faith, I am not sure, I would hope so, what wonderful Christians. we love them.

Thanks Rachel. My name is Peggy Karman and I had the great honor of singing Brooke's service. I was just checking her Caring Bridge site and saw the link.

How kind of you to share her story. I too, stood in awe at the example of Bryan and Stephanie and the strength of their faith.

Peggy Karman

You have to understand that ALL families that are forced into a situation with a sick child are STRONG people.
You have to be strong for your sanity. If you let it overtake your emotions, you will go insane. Families of cancer take it hour by hour, day by day. The Hope for a cure for your sick child is what empowers you.

I think that this is a very beautiful story about Brooke. She was a very close friend to me and I agree with so much that you are saying. Thank you for the tribute to Brooke, now I get to hear her voice any time I want.

Thank you for that beautiful story.

Brooke and her family have touched me deeply and have demonstrated how love and faith can guide one through illness, death and the wonderful FUTURE ahead for all of us.

Dear Rachel, Thank you for this lovely piece about Brooke. You have really relayed the special qualities of Brooke and her wonderful family. We live next door and feel their grief but are also touched by their great faith and strength throughout these 27 months. It is a great blessing to have enjoyed Brooke and to be inspired by her short life and also by her wonderful loving family. Thank you and God Bless, Carol O'Koon

Excellant story Rachel. My wife and I miss you in the mornings, but catch you when we can. You are one heck of a reporter/anchor. Take care, and God bless...

I had the awesome privilege to be Brooke's kindergarten teacher while she was at home unable to attend Holy Trinity School. She and I shared many jokes, books, and learned a little along the way. I was immediately endeared to Brooke, and ultimately to her entire family. You are so right, Rachel....the Clemons family is amazing!! We can all learn a lot from them. Brooke taught us all a lot...we owe it to her to never give up 'hope'. Hope that someday that ugly disease called cancer will forever be eradicated!!

Rachel,
What a beautiful tribute. I didn't know the Clemons family, but have followed Brooke's journey through her Caringbridge website, where I know two other precious children battling cancer. I met you years ago when our children took gymnastics together. I always enjoyed our conversations and knew what a nice, down-to-earth person you are. Thanks for writing something for all to enjoy.
Julie