People say and think at times "everything happens for a reason" well on Wednesday October 21st I found that maybe that saying can't be true. My best friend and her family were given news that would change their lives forever.

Her daughter Madison Margaret Bomkamp age 5 was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia a cancer of the myeloid line of blood cells. The news is still too much to believe sometimes.

Maddie is a shy and sweet girl who loves Hannah Montana, the color pink and her brother Brad (he is 3). Since October 21st Maddie has been admitted to Children's Memorial Hospital until further notice. Maddie has started her first Chemotherapy treatment amoungst many other medications, so much to handle for such a little girl. She is a trooper! They say kids are stronger then we know, I have faith in this.

She will beat this, in the meantime will endure many tests, treatments and will be continuing her hosptial visits after she is released (hopefully by Christmas) and will then have to be re admitted once a week every month for 6 months.  

As a mother there are no words to decribe what this news has done to my dear friend's spirit. I try to be that little driving force behind her that says I am always with you and if my strength could be your strength I send it all to you.

In this time of tragedy I ask of all of you to please band together and help this family. My friend will be watching over little Maddie at her bedside and will be out of work for months. The goal is to help with bills, food, Brad's daycare...bascially anything and everything they need.

Please be the angels for the Bomkamps and open your hearts (and wallets) during this time they need all their strength and energy to make Maddie well..any little bit helps. 

God Speed little Maddie my thoughts, prayers and heart is with you and your family during this time.  

I love and miss you my best friend Terri!

XOXOXOXO,

Erica

PS - Please visit the links on this site you can visit Terri's Journal and sign the guest book, all good thoughts and prayers welcome.

Also if you are in need of some Tastefully Simple products for the holidays or any day please see that link - 20% of all purchases will go to the Bomkamps.