What Friends Are For

UPDATE:
A Caring Bridge site has been set up to keep everyone informed of Anissa’s condition and can be found here: www.caringbridge.org/visit/anissamayhew/. There has been encouraging bits of news today but it is still very early. Thank you so much for your wonderful notes, prayers, and thoughts. I know that the Mayhew family will cherish them the same way my family cherishes everything that has been written about our Madeline.

——–

I am incredibly lucky to have many amazing friends in my life, friends that have surrounded me and held me up the last seven months. Each of my friends has brought something different, something that I never would have known I’d need when we became friends. I am so grateful for all of them, and could wax poetic about them for months on end.

My friend Anissa and I bonded because we had daughters with medical needs. Anissa’s daughter Peyton had leukemia, and Anissa knew what it was like to have a child that was sick in the hospital.

We are the type of friends that can pick up where we left off, no matter how long it’s been since we’ve seen each other.

I’ve stayed at her house, had coffee with her husband, played with her kids. She’s been to my house, met all my family and friends. It makes both of us sick that she never met Maddie, but she has plans to come out as soon as Binky is born.

After Madeline passed away, Anissa flew out from her then-home in Florida to be with me and my family. It was then I discovered something about Anissa that I wish I didn’t know, that I wish she wasn’t good at. Because of her involvement in the Pediatric Cancer community, she has friends who have lost children. She knew exactly how to be there for me. She knew exactly the kinds of things I needed to hear, and she knew how to listen.

Anissa and I have had long talks about life and death. The kind of talks you can only have with someone that has seen it, been near it, faced it, touched it. She has let me unburden myself to her. She has no idea how much she’s helped me.

Earlier today, Anissa had a stroke. She’s in the Intensive Care Unit and her awesome husband Peter is by her side. I would give anything to be there with him, helping with their three young kids, holding Anissa’s hand and telling her jokes. I want to press her hand against my belly so she can feel Binky kick. And if I wasn’t so afraid that she’d kick my ass for traveling against doctor’s orders, I’d be there tomorrow.

I am a lucky recipient of internet love and generosity. I am hoping the same happens for Anissa and her family. You can go here or here to help. Both will be updated with information as it becomes available.

Anissa, I love you and I KNOW you’re going to get better. You’re going to meet my daughter and she’s going to drool on you and love you as much as I do. I am always here for you, and as soon as I can be THERE for you, I will be.

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123 Comments

  1. Julie says:

    I’m praying so hard for her and her family.

    November 17th, 2009 at 11:32 pm

  2. pamela says:

    That is beautiful. <3 the pics and still praying strong for Anissa
    pamela´s last blog ..:still alive: My ComLuv Profile

    November 17th, 2009 at 11:32 pm

  3. Monica says:

    This is such a beautiful story of friendship. I don’t have words except that I am praying for her complete recovery.
    Monica´s last blog ..Blast Off My ComLuv Profile

    November 17th, 2009 at 11:33 pm

  4. missy says:

    Sending prayers and good thoughts.

    November 17th, 2009 at 11:34 pm

  5. Nanette says:

    Much love and healthy vibes to Annissa! Get well soon, mama!
    Nanette´s last blog ..Happiness is… My ComLuv Profile

    November 17th, 2009 at 11:34 pm

  6. EmmieJ says:

    Loving the awesome pics everyone is posting. Anissa’s shirt in the first one says it all…she’s legit. (Even if SOMEONE decided to misspell it.) Many prayers for Anissa, Peter, Peyton and the rest of the Mayhew family tonight. And as always love and hugs for you, Mike, Maddie, Binky and Rigby.

    November 17th, 2009 at 11:42 pm

  7. Al_Pal says:

    Great post. Continuing to send the good vibes her way.

    November 17th, 2009 at 11:48 pm

  8. Nicole in LV says:

    I wasn’t expecting that kick to the gut, and it has me in tears for a woman I don’t know. You’re both so lucky to have each other in your lives. While you, Mike and Binky are always in my thoughts and prayers – I will now add your dear friend Anissa and her family.

    P&PT!

    November 18th, 2009 at 12:20 am

  9. Kate@UpsideBackwards says:

    Friends like Anissa are a rare and precious gift indeed. Sending good thoughts her way, and yours.

    November 18th, 2009 at 12:22 am

  10. Kelly says:

    Wishing for healing for your dear friend Heather. I hope you will be able to share many wonderful days together in the future surrounded by your beautiful children. I loved the post Anissa wrote for Maddie’s birthday. Love to you all.
    Kelly´s last blog ..We Shall Love One and Other My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 12:24 am

  11. Noelle says:

    As always, you’ve moved me to tears. To be so lucky to have friends like you and Annissa. Sending prayers for strength and healing her way.
    Noelle´s last blog ..The Art of Living My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 12:29 am

  12. Cass says:

    Oh, no! I’m so sorry to hear this. She’s in my prayers. Ugh. Thank you for keeping us posted.
    Cass´s last blog ..Kitchen Sink My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 12:42 am

  13. Adventure Club Carrie says:

    I’m so sorry to hear of Anissa’s stroke…without knowing the details of her situation, I just wanted to offer some hope- my dad had a severe stroke this summer that left him unable to sit up, walk, and barely able to eat or talk. He’s now back to “normal” with relatively few problems…it’s been an amazing (and quick!) recovery, and I am praying that Anissa has a speedy recovery as well…thanks Heather, take care!
    Carrie

    November 18th, 2009 at 12:42 am

  14. Kathryn says:

    What a beautiful friend you have. I’m hoping with all my heart she makes a full and speedy recovery! Get better Anissa!

    Hugs from Berlin-
    Kathryn

    November 18th, 2009 at 1:09 am

  15. Amanda says:

    Heather, your link to Hope for Anissa has an extra http:// so it’s not working quite right!

    God, bless Anissa and heal her.

    November 18th, 2009 at 1:23 am

  16. Krissa says:

    Oh dear God. I started crying when I read that your friend had a stroke. She will be in my prayers and I am checking out the links as soon as I send this. The photos are awesome and she sounds like such a wonderful person. Thinking of you, your family and friends and especially your friend Anissa. (((Hugs)))

    November 18th, 2009 at 1:27 am

  17. catherine lucas says:

    Wow, did not expect that turn in the story. She seems way too young to have had a stroke. I thought it was a disease that mostly struck older people. Silly of me. I hope she recovers soon and that you guys can enjoy each other in the years to come…
    catherine lucas´s last blog ..Fountains’ Autumn My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 1:36 am

  18. Jenn says:

    OOHh Sweetie…such horrible news! Thank you for sharing your news. Anissa will be in my prayers and I will do everything I can to help her out.

    I’m glad she was/is there for you. It’s amazing how close friends throw you out life lines without even knowing it.

    Today it is Anissa’s day to begin to heal. Today it is HER turn to receive many life lines from both old and new friends. Anissa feels your support and love even though you are not right beside her. She KNOWS your there. Heather….Anissa is going to be Okay because we are all here for her….. afterall….what are friends for?!?

    November 18th, 2009 at 1:47 am

  19. Tam says:

    Praying for Anissa and her family, and as always, yours. xo

    November 18th, 2009 at 2:03 am

  20. amanda says:

    I was so sad to hear about this – Am sending all my good health vibes her way! She sounds like an amazing friend.

    xo from CT,
    Amanda
    amanda´s last blog ..weekend. update. My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 2:51 am

  21. Lynn from For Love or Funny says:

    I didn’t expect to read that Anissa had a stroke. I’ll be praying for her full recovery!
    Lynn from For Love or Funny´s last blog ..I’m not turned on by sexy men any more. My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 3:08 am

  22. Mim says:

    adding my prayers for Anissa and her family

    November 18th, 2009 at 3:47 am

  23. Jenny says:

    Praying for your friend.

    November 18th, 2009 at 3:55 am

  24. Tricia (irishsamom) says:

    We are holding her in our hearts and prayers. I am so glad that she has you as a friend, as much as I am glad that you have her. Hugs.x
    Tricia
    Tricia (irishsamom)´s last blog ..Blog Award – Honest Scrap My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 4:08 am

  25. cj says:

    oh my, tears again. i am praying for both Anissa and her family and you and yours.

    November 18th, 2009 at 4:13 am

  26. charlane says:

    Saying a lttile prayers for Anissa and her family.
    charlane´s last blog ..Cry Baby My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 4:32 am

  27. Kim says:

    Sending positive vibes, lots of prayer, and so much hope Anissa”s way. So sorry to hear about your dear friend Heather! Take good care of yourself during this trying time.

    November 18th, 2009 at 4:44 am

  28. Claire says:

    Oh no how awful! Sending healthy get well soon vibes to Anissa!

    November 18th, 2009 at 4:53 am

  29. red pen mama says:

    Hoping this amazing woman comes through. Thoughts and prayers.

    ciao,
    rpm
    red pen mama´s last blog ..This is Not My Daughter’s Name My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 4:56 am

  30. Shannon Kieta says:

    God bless Anissa and her family. She will be fine. Maddie will be her guardian angel. Just send her her way. Lots of love your way Heather. I know how sucky it can be not to be able to help someone in need. But Binky is the most important thing in the world, and you MUST NOT do anything to put Binky in harms way, now, go sit down and eat a donut!

    November 18th, 2009 at 4:59 am

  31. Meg...CT says:

    I will pray for your beautiful friend…

    November 18th, 2009 at 5:07 am

  32. Lindsay says:

    Praying for Anissa and her family.
    Lindsay´s last blog ..Fight for Preemies My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 5:08 am

  33. jen says:

    Oh my goodness! Praying for Anissa and her family!
    jen´s last blog ..Wordless Wednesday- Captain Sleepyhead! My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 5:14 am

  34. Heather says:

    i had seen on twitter that everyone was praying for her but couldn’t figure out why. I’m so sorry to hear that she had a stroke! We will definately be praying for her and her family!
    Heather´s last blog ..If it’s not one thing…. My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 5:14 am

  35. Deborah says:

    That’s awful, Heather! I will be praying and thinking about her all day long. Please update us when you find out more.

    November 18th, 2009 at 5:16 am

  36. Aunt Becky says:

    Sending all of my prayers to you and Anissa and to her family. It’s the first thing that was on my mind when I woke up this morning.

    xoxo
    Aunt Becky´s last blog ..Today We Fight My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 5:28 am

  37. Corinne says:

    What a beautiful post, would have had me in tears even w/o Anissa’s hospitalization.
    Corinne´s last blog ..Round and round… My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 5:31 am

  38. Momma Uncensored says:

    :(
    prayers for anissa & her crew…
    Momma Uncensored´s last blog ..story o’ tina My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 5:50 am

  39. J says:

    I’m adding Anissa to my prayers.
    J´s last blog ..We always want what we cannot have My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 5:52 am

  40. Meaghan says:

    All my thoughts and prayers are with Anissa and her family!

    November 18th, 2009 at 5:55 am

  41. Kate says:

    Oh my god. I am thinking healing thoughts for Anissa and her family.
    Kate´s last blog ..Planning My Handmade Christmas My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 5:56 am

  42. Kim Hartman says:

    Prayers and well wishes go out to Anissa and her loved ones today, and every day until she is well enough to come home to be with her beautiful family.

    November 18th, 2009 at 6:04 am

  43. Karen says:

    OH NO! Didn’t she have a stroke a while back? I remember reading about Anissa’s fight to get her strength back after stroke or heart attack…
    Karen´s last blog ..Learning, Loving, and Moving On… My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 6:17 am

  44. Liz says:

    Love and prayers today and every day until Anissa is home and back in good health. Get Well Soon, Anissa!
    Liz´s last blog ..Anissa My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 6:22 am

  45. Lisa says:

    I don’t know Anissa very well but what I do know from reading her blog and her tweets on twitter I know she is one amazing women who can tell a joke like nobody’s business. She is in my heart and in my thoughts. I sending her healing thoughts and hoping she recovers soon and can get back to her family.

    Love and hugs to you Heather, I know it sucks when a friend is suffering and you are too far away to help the way you want to.

    November 18th, 2009 at 6:23 am

  46. Lindsay from Florida says:

    My best friends are everything to me, and I am so, so sorry that one of yours is going through something like this. I felt like I’d been punched in the stomach when I read that this truly amazing lady has suffered a stroke.

    I’m praying for her, Heather.

    November 18th, 2009 at 6:24 am

  47. Nikki says:

    So, so sorry to hear about your friend Anissa. I certainly hope she can come through okay so she can get back to her family where she belongs! I really hope that she gets to the chance to meet your little Binky!

    November 18th, 2009 at 6:36 am

  48. AMomTwoBoys says:

    She knows. And you’re right, she WOULD kick your ass for traveling against Doctors orders.

    xoxo
    AMomTwoBoys´s last blog ..Anissa The Great My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 6:46 am

  49. Amanda says:

    She will pull through, she will kiss that baby and she will get right back to where she belongs— there is no other option.
    Amanda´s last blog ..There but for the grace of God go I My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 6:47 am

  50. Hope says:

    I will keep Anissa and her family in my prayers.

    November 18th, 2009 at 7:09 am

  51. Jennifer says:

    Oh no–I’m so sorry to hear that!! I will be thinking of her and hoping for a very quick recovery!!
    Jennifer´s last blog ..Worst Halloween Evah! My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 7:10 am

  52. Nellie - New York says:

    Friendship, when true is a treasured gift. I am sending up my prayers and well wishes for the beauitful gift in your life, Anissa.

    November 18th, 2009 at 7:26 am

  53. cindy w says:

    She HAS to get better, because in just a few short months, Binky is going to be spitting up into her fabulously epic cleavage.
    cindy w´s last blog ..do I sound defensive? Or normal? (And do I even want to know the answer to that?) My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 7:30 am

  54. Zakary says:

    She’s gonna love this post.
    Zakary´s last blog ..Two Part Deux My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 7:32 am

  55. Lisa_in_WI says:

    How terrible, I pray that there is no lasting effects and that she’s on the road to recovery very soon!
    Lisa_in_WI´s last blog ..59 My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 7:35 am

  56. Nancy says:

    Heather,

    I am sorry to hear about Anissa. I will keep her and her family in my thoughts and prayers.

    November 18th, 2009 at 7:38 am

  57. Mom101 says:

    You’re good people, Heather. Here’s one more voice in the chorus sending out all the positive thoughts in the world.

    November 18th, 2009 at 7:39 am

  58. Jennifer says:

    That was a great post about your dear friend Anissa. I’m sure she knows how strong your friendship and love for her is and it will be the medicine to pull her through this. Best of luck. Your family as well as hers are in my prayers!

    November 18th, 2009 at 7:39 am

  59. Kristi F says:

    I am so sorry to hear about your friend. I will pray for her full recovery.

    November 18th, 2009 at 7:40 am

  60. Trisha Vargas says:

    Dear Lord,

    You are the healer and maker of all things. You have the power to lay hands on Anissa and comfort and heal her. Oh, great One, I ask in Jesus name for you to pour healing over Anissa and her family. To bring comfort to those who know and love Anissa.
    In Your name we pray!
    AMEN

    Heather, I know Anissa means so much to you from all of your posts! Sending HUGS your way!

    Trisha from Florida

    November 18th, 2009 at 7:52 am

  61. Scattered Mom says:

    I signed up to help, but I’m not sure what I could send since I’m in Canada and our gift cards wouldn’t work in the USA. If anyone could give me some suggestions, please e-mail me!

    notesfromthecookiejar (at) yahoo (dot) ca

    November 18th, 2009 at 7:54 am

  62. defendUSA says:

    Sigh. Bad things happening to good people sucks.
    I’ll pray for friends and family and wish Anissa a speedy recovery.

    November 18th, 2009 at 8:00 am

  63. Melissa says:

    So sorry to hear this, Heather… And to happen to a family that has already been through so much already. I am sending positive energy and will see what I can do to help!

    Melissa
    Melissa´s last blog ..Ninja and His Incredible Beating Heart! My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 8:16 am

  64. Jennifer says:

    I’m sitting her sobbing like crazy. I’m 37 years old and I have an abnormality in my blood pressure that puts me at risk for a stroke. It started wtih my pregnancies and has been at stroke levels in the past year for no apparent reason. I have medication, and have forgotten to take it the past few days. I have two little girls and most of the time I feel like nothing could possibly happen. This post has given me a wake up call.

    Prayers to you and your friend. I hope she has a speedy and full recovery.
    Jennifer´s last blog .. My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 8:18 am

  65. AmazingGreis says:

    I have no words. But I do have thoughts, lots of good healing thoughts being sent her way.

    XOXO
    AmazingGreis´s last blog ..Praying… My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 8:22 am

  66. Jenny @ http://motherlawyercrazywoman.blogspot.com/ says:

    I am sending warm thoughts to your friend and her family for her full recovery. Big hugs to ALL of you. I am sorry she has to go through this …
    Jenny @ http://motherlawyercrazywoman.blogspot.com/´s last blog ..Strong My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 8:24 am

  67. Michelle Pixie says:

    Keeping Anissa and her family in my thoughts.
    Michelle Pixie´s last blog ..Fight For Preemies My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 8:26 am

  68. Michelle says:

    Delurking, again, to say this has to stop. The world needs more light, not less. I’m praying ever so hard for Anissa.

    November 18th, 2009 at 8:34 am

  69. Christy says:

    Praying for Anissa! Hope she’ll recover soon!

    November 18th, 2009 at 8:39 am

  70. Marcyr says:

    Prayers for Anissa , for a complete recovery….God Bless

    November 18th, 2009 at 8:44 am

  71. WM says:

    Beautiful Heather! I’ve written a post and sent movie tickets for the kids. I’m wishing her well so I can meet her fabulousness in real life soon.
    WM´s last blog ..Love for Anissa My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 8:53 am

  72. Jenn says:

    My prayers are with Anissa and her family.

    Please keep us posted on her recovery.

    And don’t worry Heather, she knows that you would be there if you could! Your post was an awesome way to show Anissa how much you love her.

    Jenn
    Jenn´s last blog ..To be or not to be…. My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 8:57 am

  73. Chrissie says:

    (((HUGS)))

    November 18th, 2009 at 8:59 am

  74. Glenda says:

    What a beatiful post on friendship!!!Praying for your friend Anissa!!!take care Heather!!! Sending you hugs XXX

    November 18th, 2009 at 9:00 am

  75. Elizabeth says:

    Prayers sent her way.

    November 18th, 2009 at 9:13 am

  76. Mishi says:

    I love you both!
    Mishi´s last blog ..#prayersforanissa My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 9:19 am

  77. kbreints says:

    My prayers are with her, and her family & friends. I am so sorry!!
    kbreints´s last blog ..Wordless Wednesday: ‘Apple’ of my eye My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 9:28 am

  78. CAM says:

    I’m not a Mommy and I’m not a blogger but I am an admitted lurker of her site as well as Aiminglow. I’m just sick at hearing this news… as with the outpouring of love when your darling Maddie passed, I am once again I am amazed an overwhelmed at how the blogging community pulls together. I get an error when trying to log onto Aiminglow. I will keep trying, I imagine there are thousands of people trying to hit that site for updates and donations, etc. My prayers, good thoughts and wishes are with her, her immediate family and her blogging family. Be well.

    November 18th, 2009 at 9:32 am

  79. Gena says:

    She knows that you would be their physically, if it were possible. I am sure she feels you with her spiritually.

    My thought and prayers are with Anissa and her family.
    Gena´s last blog ..My "Yummy! Yummy! Yummy"! Christmas Bash is HERE! My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 9:42 am

  80. suzanne says:

    This is horribly unfair news. I am sending Anissa all the well-wishes and healing thoughts that I can muster, and will extend a helping hand to her family.

    November 18th, 2009 at 9:50 am

  81. Janice (5 Minutes for Mom) says:

    I am so glad that you and Anissa have such a strong bond and that you are there for each other! What a blessing in the middle of such nightmares!!!!!

    I am sure that even though you are miles away, Anissa knows you are with her and knows how much you are helping Peter and her precious children.

    {{{HUGS}}} Thank you for all you are doing for Anissa!!!!
    Janice (5 Minutes for Mom)´s last blog ..A Very Wiggly Christmas My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 9:55 am

  82. Leah @Bookieboo says:

    I love that Anissa has been there for you in ways that other people couldn’t. It goes to show that God puts special people in our lives for very good reasons. To lift us up and to teach us.

    November 18th, 2009 at 9:56 am

  83. Tammy and Parker says:

    I am so thankful Anissa has you for a friend.

    When you see her, please tell her I’ve added her name to the Temple roll here in Utah. She’ll know what I’m talking about.

    Oh, and that I promise to once again vote for her boobs for BlogHer ’10.

    And how much Parker and I love her.
    Maybe you could tell her that most of all.

    November 18th, 2009 at 10:08 am

  84. Lisa says:

    I am praying for Anissa!
    Lisa´s last blog ..Little Nut Nut was Working on His Family Tree at Preschool My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 10:13 am

  85. Courtney says:

    Praying for Anissa and her family!

    November 18th, 2009 at 10:39 am

  86. Tara @ Feels Like Home says:

    Oh, Heather. I am just sick about this. You’ve lost so much.

    I’ve been praying for Anissa since last night when I heard the news.

    November 18th, 2009 at 10:48 am

  87. Sheila says:

    Praying for Anissa

    November 18th, 2009 at 10:52 am

  88. Leslie says:

    Thinking about Anissa, her family and her friends.

    November 18th, 2009 at 11:14 am

  89. Amy says:

    What a beautiful, beautiful post. I am praying so hard right now. Anissa is one of those people that instantly becomes your best friend even if you have only known her for five minutes.

    My heart hurts right now just thinking of her family going through this!

    November 18th, 2009 at 11:20 am

  90. Jen L. says:

    I’ve only twittered (tweeted?) with Anissa and read her blogs, but she has always stuck out in my mind as one of the coolest, kindest people I’ve ever met in the online community. Praying hard for her and her family.
    Jen L.´s last blog ..Wordless Wednesday: A Dean Fix My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 11:34 am

  91. Caroline says:

    I can’t stop thinking about you today. And Peter and her kids. While her body struggles, I cling hopefully to the notion that she has earned her own little blissful spot of peace for the time being. But you, and those whom are so closely connected to her, my heart is with you.
    Caroline´s last blog ..Bending in the Wind for Anissa My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 11:41 am

  92. Erin says:

    She is in my prayers.
    Please keep us posted.

    November 18th, 2009 at 11:56 am

  93. Heidi says:

    Oh Heather, I am so sorry. She sounds like a truly wonderful person. Best wishes to you, her family, and all those who love her.
    Heidi´s last blog ..Anger Management My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 12:11 pm

  94. Lisa says:

    What a wonderful story of your friendship. I am so glad she has been there for you to help you through all of this heartache. I will definitely say a prayer tonight for her and her family.

    My love to you all!
    Lisa´s last blog ..A Night of Enlightenment My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 12:21 pm

  95. Mama Kat says:

    I”m just sick about this Heather. And I don’t even personally know Anissa. She makes me laugh almost daily on twitter…and she’s not even talking to me most of the time!!

    My heart is breaking for what her husband and three kids must be going through right now. I’m praying for all of them…and you. She’s has a strong spirit though, she will pull through!
    Mama Kat´s last blog ..In The Mind Of A Four Year Old My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 12:42 pm

  96. Jennifer Taggart, TheSmartMama says:

    Heather – That brought tears to my eyes. My thoughts and wishes are with Anissa and her family.
    Jennifer Taggart, TheSmartMama´s last blog ..Non Toxic Homemade Halloween Makeup My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 1:26 pm

  97. Erin says:

    That is so sad, i hope she recovers soon and healthy. My prayers are with her and her family.
    Erin´s last blog ..Thinking Back My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 1:27 pm

  98. Tracey says:

    I usaully have tears for you and Maddie but today they are for Anissa. I found your blog through hers and have faithfully followed both of you for some time now.

    My thoughts and prayers are with Anissa and her family (and as always, with you and yours)

    November 18th, 2009 at 1:34 pm

  99. Kristen says:

    Heather,

    You never cease to amaze me. While you are going through your pregnancy ups and downs, you take the time to help a friend in need (not to forget Jackie!, either). I wish I had a friend like you in my life – we all need a Heather Spohr for smiles and encouragement! You are truly wonderful. I hope that Anissa makes a full recovery – much love and prayers to her family, Jackie! (and the Spohr’s of course).

    Kristen in NC

    November 18th, 2009 at 1:39 pm

  100. Single Mom Paying Off Debt says:

    My prayers are with Anissa and her family for a speedy recovery. Great friends are a blessing from God.
    Single Mom Paying Off Debt´s last blog ..Extra Money for Christmas My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 1:43 pm

  101. Holly says:

    Anissa, her family and your family are all in my thoughts and prayers.
    Holly´s last blog ..Snails in a circus? My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 1:48 pm

  102. Rumour Miller says:

    Thinking of you, your friend Anissa and her family!
    Rumour Miller´s last blog ..Wordless Wednesday My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 2:00 pm

  103. Rebecca says:

    She looks so young and healthy. Strokes are so very scary because they can happen to anyone at anytime. She’ll be in my prayers.
    Rebecca´s last blog ..Bzz Agent Reporting For Duty My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 2:17 pm

  104. Jess L. says:

    Unreal… Strokes are so scary. She’ll be in my prayers!

    November 18th, 2009 at 2:46 pm

  105. Stacy says:

    I’m so sorry to hear about your dear friend, Anissa. I am praying for her and her family really hard that she pulls through this.

    November 18th, 2009 at 4:13 pm

  106. Jennie says:

    I just read this over on Send Chocolate Now and was absolutely shocked. Yet another reminder of how precious life is. My thoughts are with you, her friends and her family.
    Jennie´s last blog ..Six month progress report My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 4:46 pm

  107. Molly says:

    Oh, shit, Heather, I’m so sorry. Keeping everything crossed and double crossed for a full recovery.

    November 18th, 2009 at 5:39 pm

  108. (another) karen says:

    one of my closest friends (41 years old) died on the tuesday night before my “miracle baby” was born on that saturday. she had left me a message that fateful morning and she was on my “to do/to call list” for that wednesday. instead, i got “the call” and my world, as i knew it, forever changed.

    in the heat of the moment, i spoke to our mutual friends who had, nervously, passed on the news. i spoke to her husband, who threatened me within an inch of my life should i attempt to fly down for the service (actually what he said was something more along the lines of “kristen would never forgive me and, by god, if he had to, he’d cancel the f’—ing service if that’s what it took to keep me off a plane.”

    now, mind you, my due date was weeks away at that point. i still, honestly, thought i might be able to travel. what the hell did the doctors know. they’d already told me months before we’d “never” spontaneously conceive and carry to term, so i was playing with the bank’s money anyway as far as i was concerned.

    in the end, after a placental abruption that almost cost us both our lives, i brought my baby girl home the same day they buried kristen 1500 miles away. had i been on an airplane at “the wrong time” that week, there is NO question but that neither of us would have made the return trip home.

    even now, the whole thing seems surreal. but i know, without a doubt, that kristen understood. she KNEW we couldn’t be there. and, she KNEW, we WERE – in all the ways that really mattered. she would have come back from the dead and killed me herself if i had let anything bad happen to my little one for the sake of trying to see/help her. she was THAT kind of friend.

    i never met Anissa – but something tells me she’s that same kind of friend. DON’T fuck with her heather. you and binky stay safe and stay put. she wouldn’t have it any other way.

    and she’ll tell you that HERSELF when she gets there to meet binky in a few months…..

    take care,
    karen

    Laura Reply:

    Wow. That story gave me the chills. Good for you for doing what your friend would have wanted and protecting your little one!! And good advice for Mama Spohr!!!!

    November 18th, 2009 at 6:13 pm

  109. AlisonH says:

    I too hope fervently you’ll be able to show her your new little one in person at the right time. With prayers–because the prayers of so many others saved MY life in January, along with seven blood donors, many doctors, many nurses… I owe much. May Anissa later be able to thank all her friends and medical personnel too.

    November 18th, 2009 at 6:48 pm

  110. gypsygrrl says:

    what a beautiful friendship story and such lovely photos… i am holding anissa and her family and all who love her in my thoughts and prayers.

    and as an old country song says: Love Travels. she will feel your love, from the distance and knows you are there deep in her heart and soul…

    much love to you all,
    gypsygrrl

    November 18th, 2009 at 7:19 pm

  111. willikat says:

    F*ck. Not fair.

    I’m pulling as hard as I can for Anissa.
    willikat´s last blog ..Let’s Get Literary My ComLuv Profile

    November 18th, 2009 at 7:34 pm

  112. Adventures In Babywearing says:

    Perfect post. Oh, I’m praying.

    Steph
    Adventures In Babywearing´s last blog ..Prayers For Anissa My ComLuv Profile

    November 19th, 2009 at 6:32 am

  113. Marissa says:

    My prayers are with your friend Anissa and her family.

    November 19th, 2009 at 7:13 am

  114. Whitney says:

    I donated $15 and put a banner on my website. I hope this helps a bit and my thoughts are with you all.

    <3
    Whitney´s last blog ..Help For Anissa My ComLuv Profile

    November 19th, 2009 at 10:20 am

  115. Jen L. says:

    Sending lots of love and prayers.
    Jen L.´s last blog ..Anissa My ComLuv Profile

    November 19th, 2009 at 10:30 am

  116. Julie says:

    Heather, you sure have been dealt some cards sweetie, I will pray for Anissa. As for your shoulder I hope it is feeling better. I have a lil guy that was born in August and I had terrible pains in my kidney, test after test came back normal, but I could not get out of bed without feeling like I was being stabbed with a rusty knife then about 2 weeks before my due date all sorts of tests came back out of whack including my blood pressure and my urine tests so they induced me. So it could just be your body reacting to the rapid changes it goes through from pregnancy. Gives you a good excuse for a massage!

    November 19th, 2009 at 5:44 pm

  117. Anne Y says:

    Beautiful post Heather. Anissa is so lucky to have a friend like you and the other ladies of Aiming Low.
    Anne Y´s last blog ..Open Letter #9 My ComLuv Profile

    November 20th, 2009 at 12:25 am

  118. Jenny says:

    hope she gets better soon :D
    Jenny´s last blog ..The Buddies are Coming to Town My ComLuv Profile

    November 20th, 2009 at 5:50 pm

  119. Naddez says:

    Anissa and her family is in my prayers. Thanks for keeping us posted.
    Naddez´s last blog ..MckLinky Blog Friday Giveaway Blog Hopping! My ComLuv Profile

    November 20th, 2009 at 9:15 pm

  120. Kathy says:

    Terrible tragedy! So sorry for you and your family. I also am praying for you.

    November 22nd, 2009 at 2:08 pm

  121. Hope for Anissa « Toddler Planet says:

    [...] community, a blogger, a mama, and a force behind the Friends of Maddie that supported MamaSpohr with the loss of her beautiful child earlier this year. She’s good [...]

    November 27th, 2009 at 6:05 am

  122. Annette says:

    Praying for a speedy and FULL recovery!

    November 29th, 2009 at 6:05 pm

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