I am utterly amazed at the love shown by Raquel’s friends, our family and many people we don’t even know. Who have reached out to give love and support as she is fighting a terminal illness. I have learned so much about ways to show love to someone sick, just by watching what people have done for my daughter. I was so touched when I learned that her friends were fasting and praying for her. Even before we had the original diagnosis. They have been steadfast friends, who have continued to pray, fast, and visit. Do special acts of service to show their love. And what they just made for her will blow you away as it did me (I’ll get to it at the end).

Friends Visiting Raquel in July

When my husband came back to the hospital this week, he came bearing a large pile of cards and a very special book. Have you seen those books that you record your voice reading it? Some of Raquel’s friends got together and recorded their voices reading this for her, along with funny quotes and messages of love. She loved it!

The young primary children in our church ward made cards for Raquel, and they were so sweet!

I loved this one!

Acts of Love

We have been the recipients of so many acts of service, prayers of course, fasting, meals for our family, housecleaning, tending my children, gifts, fundraisers, hugs, singing to Raquel (over the phone even!). I could go on and on. It makes it easy to feel loved. It has made it easier to see God’s hand in our lives, and all the little blessings and tender mercies.

Our dear friend painted Raquel’s room for us. Most of the walls are covered now, with posters, notes and banners with well-wishes for her.

My “Visiting Teaching” friends came and helped me clean my house one night when I really needed it. The young women of our church are planning to come plant flower bulbs in our yard later this month.

The Cedar City Children’s Musical Theater and Cedar City High School (and my own sister) all did fundraisers for Raquel, just out of their sweet desires to help.

The Cedar High School Track team came to visit, as Raquel had been on the team, and they put her name on their shirts this year.

People have run marathons and dedicated sport games to her. They’ve done so many things to help her know she is loved. And this is what blew me away and brought me to tears today, made by the kids at Cedar High School.

Showing Some Love

Showing love doesn’t have to be a huge deal. It can be as simple as smiling at someone you don’t know. That has lifted my spirits on more than one occasion. It can be a comment on Facebook. Cards and gifts are awesome, but just showing up to help or hug is important too.

I’m not going to allow myself to be too shy to reach out to others in the future. Life is too short.

Thanks to you all who have helped and just loved us, our kids and especially Raquel. xoxo