SaraCare

 
For the past week, every night I will sit down at my computer and try to write my memory of Sara. I will get half way through and I have to stop. Sara and I were friends before we really even knew the meaning of friendship. I lived across the street from her Aunt Gail's house. We would play for what seemed like hours. We played with our baby dolls, we carried our purses, and of course we then discovered make-up. By looking back at our pictures, we really didn't have the best judgment on when we need to stop applying the make-up.  Our parents worked together at Berea Community School, which was were we both in school. So, unluckily for us we were both always stuck at the faculty meetings. We would play all over that school. I think we probably drove the janitors crazy. My Senior year of high school Sara and I cheered together. She was that girl when she performed you couldn't take your eyes off of her. She was magical. She really enjoyed those few minutes that her feet would hit that cheer mat. I had already graduated when Sara found out she was sick. I had had a son by this time, and periodically I would send her pictures of him with his dinner all over his face (including his hair). I never in a million years thought this cancer would have won the battle. She had so much fight in her, I thought if anyone could win, It would have been her. 2 months after Sara had passed I found out I was pregnant again. Much to everyone's surprise my daughter was within minutes of Sara's passing. In October of 2005 I found out I would be delivering a daughter. Then on December 12 going to my regular doctors appointment I was informed that I would be delivering my daughter the next morning, that I had developed a condition called Preeclampsia. The next morning as my family arrived to the hospital we then found out that I oddly enough had lost all signs of the preeclampsia. I delivered my daughter on December 13, 2005, at 4:42 p.m. She had the biggest eyes, just like Sara. I named my daughter after her, Sara-Kayleigh. As a parent, if I had one wish for my daughter it would be that she would be beautiful person both inside and out as Sara was. I take my daughter to see Sara weekly, we talk about all the fun things she and I use to do together when we were small. No words could possibly describe the sadness we all have after Sara's passing. I will always believe Sara is Sara-Kayleigh's guarding angel.   Kelli McConnell

Norma and Eddie,
I don't know if you will remember me or not.  My name is Selina Robinson and I am a nurse at the Kentucky Children's Hospital in the PICU.  I was the person who Sarah wanted to replace her foley.  I am writing to you to let you know that you were blessed with a wonderful daughter.  I have worked at UK for over 14 years and have never been touched by a patient  before like your daughter's short present in my life.  Sarah was never a patient of mine and I was only around her for short periods of time.  I think of her often.  Her smile, her courage and the way she inspired the people around her makes me warm every time I see her face in my mind.  I speak of her often.  I tell the story of how strong she was to the end.  She told me once that if I would help her to the side of the bed - she would sit for a while.  This was coming from a child who could barely speak.  Sara's humor was inspiring.  I can see her smile and she would blurt out something funny in the most inappropriate times.  I would be doing something painful to her and she would make me laugh.  I would think in my mind "How in the world does this child have a sense of humor going through what she is fighting?"  I would leave her room with the greatest feeling of life.  Sara was so strong and had the perspective of life mastered in a short time.  I am thankful that I met your daughter.  I am sure that the reason why she was taken will never be answered by you, but I know why... God needs angels in heaven.  Your daughter was an angel on earth for me.  The glisten in her eyes and the beauty that surrounded her ( even with her bald head) made her breath taking. God did do something great for Sara while she was here on earth. He gave her great parents.  I admire how you both supported her and were right by her side through it all. Sara will never be forgotten because she touched to many lives in the short time she was here on earth.  Thank you for sharing you daughter with me.  Sincerely, Selina Robinson, RN PICU

I found Saracare on line and I loved reading about her.  In August 2000 my 2 year old son was diagnosed with ALL (Leukemia).  After 3 years of intense chemotherapy he is cancer free.  During the years at Egelston Childrens Hospital in Atlanta we meet many families there.  Some we became very close to.  We sat with one family as their daughter loss her fight with cancer.  To see your child go through the pain that they went through and not be able to do anything is the hardest thing I think I ever went through.  What made me smile the most when looking at Sara's website is the fact that she always seemed to be smiling.  I have always believed we have angels that are looking over our shoulders and I believe Sara is now that angel and she knew she would be.  That is why she acted like such an angel in her pictures and videos of her that I saw.  May God bless you and your family always.  Beth

Hi my name is Brooke Mosher. I can't say a lot about Sara, but she was a VERY sweet girl....she did a lot of activites and did well at it...it was amazing how she fought through her illness untill she couldnt do no more... she was a wounderfull girl to be around and she was a friend to every-body! well..She has very awesome parents, Norma and Eddie. When I first heard the song "skin" (sarabeth) I thought that was very strange how Sara was her first name and Elizabeth was her middle (Beth) and it was almost the same story about her life! well...it was a sad thing..but she’s better bin heaven than down here..suffering. well...she was a very sweet girl!! we all love her. 

I wasn't really close to Sara. I do remember her when I went to school. We would talk every now and then. When I found out about her being sick I couldn’t believe such a pretty young girl like her would have to go through with all that. I had Eddie Saris Father as a Drama teacher. He is the sweetest guy on earth. He means a lot to me. I think of Sara a lot of times. I’ve been listening to Chad's CD and the songs he has about her and they are all so true. She had a smile I don't believe anyone has. I know everyone misses her because I know I do. But I'm glad to say I knew her. God Bless Norma-Eddie and Chad   With Lots of Love Malicha Lunsford-Stewart
p.s. We love and miss you so much Sara!!!!!!!!

I worked at KY Clinic the summer that Sara was diagnosed with cancer. I know you probably don't remember but I transported Sara in a wheelchair from the Pediatric Oncology dept to the 4West of the Children's Hospital when she was first diagnosed and admitted to the hospital.  I will never ever forget that first day I met her and her family. I remember that everyone was in shock and crying. She was so scared and I remember her saying to her Dad, "You aren't going to leave me are you?" He said, "No, Sara, we will never leave you." It was such a touching moment. I am a mom with 2 children and I can't imagine what this has been like for you. I could tell from that short walk over to the hospital what a special girl she was and what wonderful parents she was blessed to have!  I transported Sara a few more times over the summer when she was in the hospital but never knew what happened to her. I left KY Clinic in September 2004 and moved to Louisville. I just recently heard the "Sara Beth" song on the radio and just knew it was about her. I don't know how but I just did. I have often thought about how she was doing and then found all this information on the internet. I am truly sorry for the loss of your daughter. Please know that your family will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.  Sincerely, Beth Kurnat

As I found out about this website SKIN came on over my mp3 player.  I now realize how much Sara has touched your guy’s life and how much it touched mine.  I can't wait to meet her someday when I die and go up to heaven.  I think it so amazing how she stayed so positive through it all.   I now know through the stories that Sara was an amazing person I know that it was probably hard. But you guys have amazing memories to remember her by.   Even though I am 14 this website has helped me not to take things for granted and it has touched me in so many ways.  Just keep up what you are doing.  It has touched me and I know it has touched many other people.  Nancy Thompson
 

Sara was my “little cousin” and I have so many memories of her that are all just so wonderful. When she was little I remember when she and I would play make-up together. Of course even then she could have been a model. She was one of the best kids that I have ever known, I’ve said and probably will always say that I hope that my daughter will grow up to have such a loving heart and the thoughtfulness that Sara had Even as a baby she was so giving. My son Jacob was admitted to U.K. Children’s Hospital with a ruptured appendix and we had had such a rough night we hadn’t even noticed anyone or anything for that matter around us. The next morning I was walking up the hall when who do I see in front of me but my aunt Norma, of course her first question was what was I doing up here, and I explained to her why and told her where our room was. Well to our surprise we were in the room right beside each other, Sara hadn’t been feeling well that day so I waited till the next day to see her and there she was beautiful as ever and of course she had put make-up on to make her self feel better. Even though I knew she had been feeling so bad the night before, one of the first questions she asked me was how my son was doing and if we needed anything. She was always thinking of everyone but herself, and I feel that even though she’s gone she has touched all of our lives in such a way that just makes us want to be better people.  Jeannie Gregory

I was thinking about Sara today. I do that a lot because Sara put a desire in my heart to be someone different in the lives of those I meet. She is the inspiration behind my dreams and the memory of her smile helps me through the rough moments. I remember how she lived her life and I try and follow in her footsteps. Looking back at all those years spent with her in school I remember most the moment we first met. I was nine and my life had taken a drastic change. My family and I had just moved from New York to Kentucky.  It was late April and spring break had just begun at my school back in New York. I walked into my third grade classroom amazed that kids could learn in an atmosphere without walls. Everyone was so much further ahead of me in school and I remember sitting down at Sara's table and she smiled at me and said” My name is Sara it's nice to meet you." I answered telling her my name and she took control of a situation in which I was shy and nervous and introduced me around. I can't remember what happened in the years between my third grade class where I met her until the tenth grade when we started hanging out again, but it seemed we picked up from where we left off. I'll never forget the moment I realized that Sara was truly... The greatest Friend I EVER had. In high school people trash you to your face and behind your back and it's hard to know who really cares, but Sara she cared about everyone and she made the moments in high school. She spread happiness where ever she went. She loved without a reason and she made me believe there are amazing people and I hope she has passed it on to the others who knew and loved her because I am who I am because I knew her. I hope someday she looks down from heaven and smiles because she sees the person she has encouraged me to be.  Melissa Fitzgerald

Hi, My name is Melissa Martinelli. I can totally relate to what Sara and your family went through. I am 18 years old, born April 13, 1987 (4 months after Sara) and six months ago I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma. I have been undergoing ABVD chemo therapy, and this week actually, February 16th, I will complete my chemo. Around the same time I was diagnosed, another girl who went to a school near my home was diagnosed with Osteogenicsarcoma, and she unfortunately lost her battle December 23rd, 2005. I agree that boyfriends can be the strongest medicine, I have been with my boyfriend since April 2001 and don't think I could have stayed as strong without the support of him and my family. I hope that together, we can educate people about the prevalence of teenage cancer. Stay strong and stay smiling, because its the only thing you can do to fight.

Well, I never had the honor of meeting this spectacular girl in person but as I heard the song Sarabeth I started to cry and I always wondered why this song was made and now I know. I think it is amazing how  Sara fought through her illness until she couldn't fight anymore and I admire that so much. I know I'm only 11 and am writing this but I hope to someday eventually meet her up there in heaven where I would love to meet her. I understand that she had great support from family, friends, and her boyfriend Chad which I also admire so much so to anyone going through this same thing   I hope you  will have as much support as Sara and know that you will have my support. To all Sara's family much love and to Sara a tremendous amount of love because of your amazing life changing challenges you had and how you fought through them and know I have a new perspective on life as it is. I also know Sara had a quote she liked and the one I like is " Live Life to the Fullest" and now thanks to Sara I will.    Peyton
 

I went to school with Sara form 1 st grade until I was in high school, at this time I moved.  I remember her as a kind, sweet girl always putting others before herself. I miss her very much and I thought about her over the years.  I have two children of my own now and wanted them to meet her, I wanted her to see that I had finally done some thing good with my life and started to look for her. I never even knew that she was sick until I found this web page but we all know that she is in a better place now than before ,she is home and we all will see her again when we get to go home.   Lots of love to her mom and dad,         Renea Smith

Every Day....For years...  she would say "Hello Tyler," I knew that it was Sara before I even turned around..... and I would then answer her "Yes Sara, I will tell my brother (Cory Thompson) that you said hello"  Needless to say she was a little obsessed and used me as a messenger, but I was content with it.  I was happy that she spoke to me at all...thats just how it was with Sara.
~Ty Devall Thompson~

I met Sara's father, Eddie, in the theater at Berea College. He was known as the best actor there, and when you got there you knew that to share a show with him, indeed a scene, you were being honored. I watched him out of respect, and worked with him proud of the fact that I had attained a place in one of "his" shows. After i left Berea, Eddie got married and after some time Sara was born. There were times when I would come back to Berea to visit and got to watch a man, in deed a couple, who were totally devoted to their daughter. She was loved, and she was beautiful. I remember thinking that some children under those circumstances would grow up with an unrealistic view of themselves. Sara was humble, she was smart, and became more beautiful. On one of my trips home to Berea I bought Sara a Scotty statue as a gift. Years later, seeing the statue in their home, I was honored again to feel that I had provided something she thought alot of.
As the years went by, Eddie, her father, would ask me to speak to his acting classes when I was in town. I was amazed that when her father was teaching the class she was in and directing award winning plays he had written which had been published by nationally known companies, Sara was still humble. She was the sweetist human being to young and old alike. Her positive attitude and loving kindness created an air about her that infected everyone she was in contact with. When Sara was in the room...the world was a kinder place.
Eddie, Norma and I had planned for Sara to come to Los Angeles so that I could show her around Hollywood. When Sara got sick, we talked about the trip for when she got better and that Chad would come too. Sara did not make the trip to Hollywood. Instead, I had to make the trip to Berea... to attend her funeral. Eddie and Norma asked me to read at the service, and once again I was honored beyond belief. There were so many people there...it was as if the service was for a head of state. Eddie and Norma stood for hours and hours to shake hands with the lines of people who were there just to be close to this wonderful child one more time. Having experienced so much loss of my own, I knew that after the funeral, everyone would leave at once...some from out of town would have to return home, and those who lived in Berea would have to go back to work. I decided to stay. I wanted to be there so that Eddie and Norma would not be alone. i also wanted to stay out of the way in case their grief needed privacy. I had checked into the Boone Tavern and so in the mornings i would go by the house to see if they were ok...and when they were needing company...I was parked close by. The next couple of days are burned into my memory forever. We talked, we sat, we napped and we never let ourselves think we "had" to do anything. We made one trip to the store and Eddie and Norma bought me the picture Mitchel Tolle did of Eddie as a clown. I already had the one of Eddie and Sara. It seemed fitting that this one was my friend by himself. These works of art are treasures of mine. After several days, Eddie and Norma said that they were ok and that they knew i must get back to my own little girl. I left... determined to love my little girl as they had loved Sara, and to teach her humility as they obviously had. Sara's picture still sits on my mantle in my home in Los Angeles. When people ask me who she is, I tell them, "that's an angel I got to call my friend".  Muse Watson

Hi, my name's Raelene and i just wanted to let you know how much i love the Saracare website....after reading it, it touched me. I'm only 15 years old(10th grade), but it still got to me. Sara was absolutly gorgeous....i couldn't help but stare at her pictures. She seemed like such an altruistic and care free girl. It is a shame to have to see this happen to such a beautiful young girl but it is also amazing to see how she could be so strong. I have so much respect for her, although i never even met her, and i just saw and read a few things today in about 10 minutes. In those ten minutes though, her story captured me and im sure, it will stay with me for a long time and ill definiatly tell my friends about this website, and Sara herself, just to show them how someone can have something so terribly wrong with them...but seem like the happiest person in the world, and fight through it every second of every day. Sara loves you even if she isnt here today...she's looking down on you and i'm sure she knows that you love her just as much as she loves you. Also, every December 13th that comes around...ill be sure to think of her..because that's my mom's birthday too.

Hi. My name is Rachel Wright. I am Mary Labus's niece. I always loved the song "Sara Beth" by Rascall Flatts and always wondered if it was true or not. This past Christmas my family and I were watching CMT and the video came on and my Aunt Mary starting crying. It's kinda funny because even though I didn't know the story was true, I would always (and still do) cry whenever the song comes on because it's just tear-jerking. I asked her why she was crying and she informed me of the story and how she knew the family. She told me about your website dedicated to Sara and I had to check it out for myself. I just want to say that Sara is one of the most beautiful girls I have ever seen and from the things I read about her she seemed like a wise young lady and I'm sure everyone loved her. I know I would of wanted to be friends with her. I'm 18 and I can understand what she might of been going through being the age that she was. She sounded like a very strong person and a very loving person. My prayers go out to her friends and family who were there with her till the very end, especially Chad too because he had to of been strong to love her so much like he did. Thanks and God Bless.

Hey my name is Charity Penticuff I am 12 years old and in 7th grade when I found this website the first thing I did was look at the pictures.  I noticed that Sara is a really pretty girl and I wished I looked like her although I dont know Sara I hope to meet her someday if I make it to heaven.  I wish I  would have known this beautiful girl, the song about her is beautiful.  Good luck in the future and god bless.  Charity Faith Penticuff of Livingston TN.

My name is Tammy Adams and my son is Austin Adams.  He has the same cancer as Sara..Rhabdo.  He is six years old.  We were at the hospital when they brought the TVs in the rooms and they are just what they needed.  That's when I found out that they had the same cancer.  She was a very pretty young lady.  Love and prayers, Tammy

Who can forget the "Chubby Face". A lot of people know of the chubby face where you push your cheeks together and tell funny stories. Well, Sara was the best at it, no doubt. She always had us laughing at and the way she told the story was hilarious. She would tell the one about the little girl on the motorbike with her dad and she would say "faster daddy, faster"...and then she she would say backwards, "then he put the 'metal' to the 'pedal' and I was like....eeeeeeekkkkk!!!" GOOD TIMES!!! Love ya Sara!!!   Chad

I had never heard of the Rascal Flatts before until my breath was taken away after hearing their song about Sara Beth. I immediately came home to find out who sang, and who the song was actually about. After visiting Sara's website, the song meant even more to me and I will continue to be touched by her story each time I hear it. What a beautiful person and what a beautiful song to be written in her memory.   -danielle

Although I've never had the honor of meeting this brave and beautiful girl, it is apparant that she has touched many lives. Sara must have had such tremendous courage to keep smiling during such difficult and painful times.  Her family must be very proud of her. I imagine that her friends must miss her but I know that their kindness and compassion would have been a beautiful blessing to her! God Bless all of you and know that your child has made a lasting and inspirational mark in this world. Much Love to you all!  Amanda

When I first heard the song "sara beth" I really didn't understand what it was about until i started listening to it over and over.But i just want ya'll to know that I am praying for ya'll and God Bless I know what ya'll are going through it has happened to me before but God helped me through it.keep your faith in the Lord he will help you Katie Jennings 15

I can't determine a single most favorite memory of my Sara Doodle.  In her short but meaningful life she has always represented all that is sweet and good.  Her heart was big enough to love everyone she ever met.  Her smile was bright enough to brighten even the cloudiest day.  She was smart...she was funny.  She was brave.  She was inspiring to me in such a spiritual way.  The most emotional memory I have of Sara is when she was two years old when I was getting ready to board a plane to Germany in 1988.  I was home on leave on my way to my new Air Force assignment to Zweibrucken Air Force Base, Germany.  I was feeling pretty sad, scared, and lonely about getting on the plane and leaving my family.  Our family is quite "clannish" so there were about 10 people escorting me to the airport.  I had hugged everyone and choked back tears the whole time and was actually in line to board the plane.  I had made it without having a full blown snot slinging cry before leaving.  Being brave as I was.ha.ha.  Well, I made the mistake of looking back as my "clan" was making their way away from the gate area.  I looked right into that sweet brown eyed baby's eyes...and there she is with her face so full of compassion with her little hand extended out to me and she was saying "come on, you can ride with me and my Mommie and Daddy"....well that did it...I felt the tears just flow right down my face...and then I couldn't see anything clearly anymore.  My throat hurt so much from trying to choke back sobs.  I wanted nothing more than to join Sara and to ride back home in her car with her mommie and daddy.  Her sweet innocence and complete trust that all would be okay if we could just ride back home with her mommie and daddy.  But I am still in awe of the degree of compassion that she had at the very young age of two years old.  My greatest lesson in compassion.   Lisa Quinn

Sara is the epitome of a strong person.  When someone says the word, "hero" I am reminded of her strength and courage.  I moved away from Berea in seventh grade, but I remember the little details of her.  The way she would chuckle and cover her mouth to keep from bursting out with laughter during class, and the delicate way she held herself for all to see.  When we cheered together, she was never afraid; "Just as long as you catch me," is all she ever said.  She put complete trust in all of us, and went into the air fearlessly.  I admire her in so many ways that the words escape me.  I only wish that I could make an impact like she has made.  Her life is like a candle that provided light to so many people.  I respect her courage, and strength when times were hard.  I also respect her parents.  Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy, you gave the world a beautiful girl who will never be forgotten.  She has left more than footprints in the lives of those she came in contact with.  She is truly missed and will be missed more and more everyday.  ~Amiee Edge

It’s those rare experiences in life; you know the ones, they profoundly embrace the very essence of your soul quite often leaving you breathless, slightly spellbound, and seemingly in an altered state of being and believing. It’s the experience of becoming mesmerized by a solitary influence that moves you so deeply, you forget who you are, where you are, why you are and you just simply become a part of the sensation and by so doing, you experience a depth of passion that takes you deeper into yourself and beyond everything you have ever known up to that point. And you begin to see things differently.  Such defines my relationship with Sara. This young woman penetrates my soul with staggering ease and uncanny familiarity. As if looking into the placid waters of time, in Sara I am often reminded of the ‘glory days’ of youth. What a serendipitous delight to be blessed with this infinite kinship.  With great enthusiasm and inexhaustible optimism, Sara reminds me of the importance to ‘ Dance Like No One is Watching’.  I smile at her wisdom…and have adhered to her advice……On the 23rd of each month Sara and I engage in our own little dance of sorts. It’s a salsa of the souls and it goes something like this.  On the 23rd, as the day draws to a close and dusk blankets the community, I leave my home, gathering sunflowers from my sidewalk garden along the way and begin a sacred journey through my neighborhood towards the ocean, (which is a couple of blocks away). Quite often accompanied by a warm feeling of being transformed with the setting sun into another time and place where you become one with all of creation…imagine that!  Well bundled to challenge the crisp coolness of the Southern California nights, I arrive at the edge of existence, where the waters kiss the shore, and I’m greeted by the crashing waves of the ocean with commanding vigor and stifling presence. I close my eyes and open my heart to sit in a moment of silence. Undaunted by circumstance, I stand amazed by the complexity of the sea and life in general. I ponder the magnificence and prepare to accommodate the magic. The Flower Dance with Sara:  This takes quite some time, I must say. Once I reach the waters edge, I begin with a salutation of appreciation to nature and then I quickly check out the scene to find if anyone is watching this rather perhaps bizarre woman… but am quickly reminded that it really doesn’t matter…The Flower Dance begins as I contemplate the velocity of the incoming waves and focus on the timing of my toss. My hope is always to propel the flowers in synchronicity with the ocean’s current, thus casting them gracefully upon the threshold of another world. In the rising moonlight with my arms spread wide, my feet twirling about in the wet sand, and with great gusto, I tilt my head back inhaling exuberance, exhaling energy and I offer the flower to the sea, to Sara. I fling, in a sideways motion, (like tossing a Frisbee or backhanding a tennis ball), the sunflowers into the pacifying Pacific and the dance is on!!!  This is going to appear to be rather questionable to some, but I must confide, there is no question in my mind that it is not only I who graces the dance floor of this sandbar. How do I know this? Because…… I watch as the flowers catch the under current and are guided out to sea. The twilight plays tricks on the eyes a wee bit, yes, but a large, bulbous, bright yellow California sunflower is not easily disguised in the glistening waters of a low tide. I watch the flowers go, and then begin to stroll around a bit, a little to the North or a little to the South…just sort of aimlessly wandering about the shoreline, entranced by the reflective colors of the lingering light beneath the horizon and the remnants of a lipstick sunset.  I close my eyes and embracing deeply the emotions of the moment and then I go into prayer.  After some time, I open my eyes, glance out to the horizon, marvel at the higher powers of the universe, the Grace of God, and bow my head in gratitude…and as I do so, low and behold, there they are, the sunflowers have returned and are laying at my feet.  Laughter through tears… I smile at the horizon, “well, hello, hello” I say, believing that Sara has arrived and is omnipresent. I reach down, gather the wet, tired sunflowers and begin my strategy for the next toss. The flowers go and the flowers return, time and time again with mesmerizing mystique. This repetition continues for at least a half a dozen rounds.  Each time, I dance around with my arms outstretched to feel the love, to feel the divine presence, the connection of all that is and all that has always been and will forever be.  And it’s beautiful.  I never know how many times the flowers will return with each month, or for how long we will dance along the edges of existence, where heaven and earth meet, but I do know that in those moments, we are one.  I blow a kiss to the moon and to the star bearing the name, Sara of Berea…. And I turn to go home. It is what it is. It may be my imagination, but what was it that Einstein said about imagination; “Imagination is more important that knowledge”…Sara taught me to ‘Dance as if no one is watching’, well perhaps, but I say, “Dance as if You Know that She is Watching……”.  Until We Meet Again, ~sherri marie robinson  2005

I never knew Sara but what i have heard about her.....it has all been wonderful things. My best friend also has cancer so I have a slight feeling of what you all are going through. I really want to let you know that I will be praying for your family, and God will watch over you. Take care and God Bless.  Mike Peters

I would like to say that I helped take care of Sara when she was in the hospital, but the truth is, I would stop by to see Sara whenever I could so that she could cheer me up and give me a reason to smile.  Her ability to light up a room with her presence was something that never dimmed.  I feel proud to have known her.  This website and organization will allow her memory to live forever, and will touch countless children’s lives at Kentucky Children’s Hospital.  Joe Iocono

I did not know sara at all i live in southern california. I heard about her in a song the song touched my heart so deep and when i found out that it was a true story it made me cry so much more, what a lovely young woman . Just by that song and the people that never knew about her, told us all a great yet sad love story.  She will and every one that loved her will all be in my prayers, thank you and to you all god bless.  William

When I first heard the Sara Beth song, I cried. The words were both moving and inspirational, and even now as I write this, I have goosebumps. My thoughts and prayers are with Sara's family and her friends.  God Bless,  Melissa
 
Hello my name is Anthony Lunsford, I moved to Berea when I was in the first grade and I knew and was in class with Sara since then. Sara was always the class clown, she used to make people laugh and that’s what made people fall in love with her. I also remember that when I used to play football and basketball she was always there cheering her team on. And I had her father Eddie as a teacher. Talking about fun between him and Sara and her mother they were the nicest people I’ve meet since I have lived in Berea. I was really sad when I found out about Sara being sick, but I always prayed for her cause she was tough and she would fight until she couldn't fight no more. I know her as a friend and also being in class with her since first grade all the way to our senior year was fun. If you were very feeling bad or your day was going wrong Sara new how to make you smile and cheer up. And if she couldn't Mr. Kennedy would. And I loved to watch her in her dad’s plays in school, they were the best. Sara, every time that name comes up I get sad but I also smile cause I just remember all the good times we had in and out of school. She was the best and I’ll never forget her.  Anthony Lunsford

I graduated in 1996, Mr. Kennedy was my drama teacher, it was the last class of the day. I am not sure what grade Sara was in, just that she was in elementary school and would come to the theatre to be with her dad until the end of school. I remember thinking what a cute little girl she was, she always had a big ol' smile on her face and was bouncing around and giggling.  My brother goes to BCHS and I've seen Sara continue to grow through his years at BCS, plays, games, yearbooks, etc. She was beautiful. All of us who knew Sara know that She was an Angel here on earth and continues that in heaven.  Kristy (Lamb) Coffey
 
When we came over with the youth group and several other adults from West Side Baptist to sing Christmas carols and it was raining. She was not allowed visitors so her Dad opened the door so she could hear. We heard her yelling she loved us and thank you even though she was so sick. She never let it show.  Kathy
 
Sara's my cousin.  When she was young my Mother provided her childcare, I was a teenager at that time.  While I was gone to school, she would lay in my waterbed and watch TV.  She was always yelling "Rita, I am hungry" and Mom would always run to her and get whatever she wanted.  When I would wake up the next morning I would have cheese all in my hair!  When I would ask her why she left cheese in my bed, she would say, "I was just leaving you a snack!"  Back then I would get extremely upset and tell her she couldn't watch TV in my room anymore, but of course Mom would let her as soon as she got there.  My Mother passed away when Sara was around four years old.  I know that Sara is now in Heaven with my Mom watching out for all of us.  She will always be missed.  I love you Sara!   Vickie Lakes
 
I was in the same class as Sara. I never got to be a close, BEST, friend of hers, but like everyone on the site has said, it's hard not to love her. Never truer words have been spoken. I remember a time in my sophomore year, I was outside waiting on my ride to pick me up from school, and Sara had came out and was waiting on her mom. We weren't really the only two people outside, and I had never felt like I fit in much with my class, so I was surprised that Sara came up and actually just sat down next to me and struck up a conversation. We talked about everything for about 45 mins. I remember her showing off the ring Chad had got her too. Since that day we had gotten a little closer. Talked on the phone once in awhile. And of course her locker was on top of mine and she always said hi no matter what else was going on. But everytime I think of Sara, that long conversation sticks out in my mind. I miss you girl, more than you can imagine. -Amanda Lamb

I graduated in 2001. I never got the chance to meet Sara. boy, did I ever miss out on what is said to be the kindest, sweetest, most beautiful girl in the world!!!!! I knew her as Mr. Kennedy's daughter and I knew that she was very popular.  Gosh, what a beautiful person!!!!  She seemed to have touched many lives and been an inspiration to all.  I look at all the pictures of her and it brings tears to my eyes. She was so brave and so lucky to have a guy like Chad love her and stay with her through her roughest times. And to have such wonderful parents who I know miss her more than words could ever say.   I'm sure you sit and wonder "Why Sara"?  Why did God have to take her away from us.  But God always has a reason.  Maybe he wanted to get the chance to meet a wonderful girl and he just couldn't wait.  I can never say it enough, she was absolutely beautiful!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I did not know sara that well. She was a kind hearted person and I wish she would be here with us.
Gabrielle Bailey
 
I didn't know Sara that well...but I did get the chance to at least be around her a bit and get to talk to her. In 7th grade I had drama, I LOVED that class! I love Mr. Kennedy so much, he made that my favorite class of the day. And almost every day Sara and Jessica Gowler were in there with us. They talked to us, and being 7th graders, that really meant a lot to us. I just thought Sara was soooo nice and kind to us, it made me realize...I want to be like that when I get older. I want to be nice to younger girls, because I know it really means something. One day, before our middle school sweatheart dance, Sara brought in a bunch of her old dresses from when she was in middle school. She offered to let us borrow them for the dance. We had SO much fun backstage trying the dresses on, she would help us, and say "oh that one's so cute on you!", and we had a really fun time. And the girls looked excellent at the Sweatheart Dance. I just wish I could have been able to know her better...she inspires me in most everything I do, and always will.    -bethany hall

i never really knew sara but gosh i felt like  i did. her father was my drama teacher the best man i had ever met in my life and to see him in pain hurt me greatly i just wished i could have done something to help him but i couldnt. the day i heard sara died it brought tears to my eyes i  had  heard storys how perfect she was how beautiful, smart, caring so many more. i wondered how a person like that could be taken from this world. i saw how ever one cared they cried in the hallways and how i wished i had met her but in a way i feel i did. she is the one who has opened my eyes to see what life is truly about. and i thank her greatly for that.she is my role model.     rachel lanham

All of my memories of Sara are uplifting. She always had a smile on her face and she always had something good to say. We were on the same cheerleading squad and she stayed with me many times and we always had fun. I miss Sara more and more each day and I don't understand why something like this had to happen to her. I will never forget when she came over to a hair rolling party at my house. We all had soooooooooooo much fun and I wouldn't take any of it back for anything!! I seen her at the Homecoming football game when she was crowned homecoming queen and she was beautiful! All she was worried about was her hair looking fake! It was absolutely beautiful!! I am glad that she got the chance to meet both of my kids I just wish that they were old enough to remember her! I love Norma and Eddie to death and I want them to know that if there is anything they need, I am here. GOD BLESS!      AMANDA HAWLEY

Dang man...Chad already got the whole background covered but yeah that trip was awesome.  I remember how Bethany got sick of us always hanging around them and how we never were not together.  I also remember how it was so natural that Chad and I were what seems like instantly friends with Norma and Eddie.  I remember thinking Eddie was the funniest guy in the world (which is still the case), but anyway the four of us were always together.  A couple of little highlights I remember  from that week; were when Sara's forehead started peeling and she made a mask out of a paper towel to cover it up. What else? Man I could do this alll day, I remember she drew this crazy smiley face on my chest using my nipples as eyes and then she drew the rest of the face and yeah it was really funny.  But yeah like I said I could go on forever about little stories from the beach but I'll stop.  I just remember thinking to myself the whole time how truly amazing Sara was.  It was quite apparent that she was beautiful and that was an understatement for what she was on the inside.  I could sit here and list every single positive attribute a human being can have and that would still fall very short of really describing of how incredible Sara was and still is.  I know she hears us when we say stuff like this, and I bet she gets a little embarassed but it is the truth.  I just consider myself really blessed to have ever known her at all.  I dont think any of us knew initially how much of an impact that she would really have on us.  I know she is lookin over all of us too...SHE HAS TO BE AN ANGEL!!! I mean come on she has to be.  Sara is by far my biggest inspiration and I will never forget her.  Much love goes out to Eddie, Norma, Chad, Beth, everybody really.  We have all been in this together for a while now but we gotta keep our heads up...thats definately what Sara would want!   Trent 
 
Of all my memories of Sara one that stands out in my mind is when we went to Louisville for a convention our Junior year.  We stopped to eat at a restaurant before going on to the hotel.  Sara didn't know how to get to the bathroom and had the have a server show her the way.  The server (who Sara noted looked good) asked where we were from.  Without stopping to think Sara quickly said "Kentucky."  The server just gave her a funny look and after a second Sara figured out we were still in Kentucky.  We never let her forget it.  Although she had her ditzy moments Sara was a beautiful girl who touched the lives of everyone she knew.  She was my best friend all through school and I know she will always hold a special place in my heart.  I never go a day without being reminded of something funny, sweet or just Sara-like that she did.  I consider myself a lucky person to have gotten the chance to know her.  Bethany

The first winter my family was in berea I was sad because i wanted some kids in the neighborhood but i hadn't seen any yet. I was outside one day sledding when a heard shrieks from across the street. Most people would be alarmed at this, but me i was thrilled because it was a child's yelp. I asked mom if we could go over there to see who it was but as soon as i asked a girl and her mom came out in the driveway. It was Norma and Sara. We introduced ourselves and then i asked her how old she was. It had to be fate because we were the same age and both girls. i was estatic. Needless to say we became best buds and went sledding down my hill all day and hung out about everyday for twelve years.  Jessica

Sara was someone you knew you could always count on. I remember our eighth grade year, Kara was having a New Year's party. Me and Sara were soo excited we couldn't wait to go. I woke up that morning with an eye the size of a grape. IT WAS HUGE! I had planned on picking Sara up, but with an eye like this I wasn't sure that I wanted to go anymore. I called Sara and told her, but Sara wasn't about to go without me. I gave in and went to her house to pick her up, she wasn't finished getting ready so I sat on her bed to wait, she never really looked at my eye she just said "Oh Tab its not too bad." I knew she hadn't seen it. She finished getting ready, grabbed her sleeping bag and looked up at me. "HOLY MOLY WHATS WRONG WITH YOUR EYE!" Realizing what she'd said she dropped everything and gave me a huge hug. "I didn't mean it like that!" We just laughed and headed for the door.  Tabetha Jones
 
Blueberry muffins and pumpkin bread. Sara's brilliant smile and sparkling eyes. These things go together. During Sara's illness there were many times when food was not very appealing to her but I found that when she could eat, my muffins and pumpkin bread were a big hit. Whether she was sitting in the recliner at home or in bed at the hospital, Sara's face would light up with that great smile of hers when she saw me bringing in blueberry muffins or pumpkin bread. No matter the pain or discomfort she was experiencing, Sara always managed a smile and a big THANK YOU. It has taken me a while to want to bake these items(also favorites with my family) but now when I smell the muffins or bread baking sweet memories of Sara fill my heart. I miss you Sara. With all my love, Teresa

I remember when Kyle Rupp, Sara, and I were all sitting Mrs. Lovitts Algebra 1 class our freshmen year, and somehow we were talking about Sara was going to cheer at a football game that night and she said "Dont fall if i laugh"  she was trying to say don't laugh if i fall.  Kyle and I never let her let that down, evertime I said it to her she would get that little smerk on her face that everyone knew.  I feel lucky that I was able know Sara, her sweetness and courage enspires me to do my best in all I do, if everyone in the world was half as kind and sweet as Sara it would be a world of peace.  Sara will always live with-in my heart, her beauitful smile will never leave my mind, I think and will  always think about her everyday.  She was one of my greatest friends ive had and she will always will be.  I miss you doodle i love you always!  David Yeary 

Sara was the most beautiful girl I have ever met. Her smile was absolutely amazing and she lived life without many regrets and she never held back. My best memory was when I was in 6th grade and she was a freshman, a bunch of us stupid sixth graders in our English class used to always read under the table. Well one day myself, Sean Secor, Dee West, Chelsea Saylor and Morgan Stone were all "reading" and every time the boys saw a hot girl walk by they would whistle. We spent 2 days doing that and on the last day Sara walked by and oh my gosh she got the biggest whistle ever. Sara heard it looks back and walked over and looked under the table. It was great. That's my best memory and even though I didn't know her as well as others she still in my inspiration and she keeps me going through everything that I went through this summer. She was beautiful and loved my many and no one will ever forget her. We Love you Sara! Elizabeth Horn

I never really knew sara well but from what i heard about her she was a great person and kind to all. the pictures i saw of her are beautiful. we miss you sara.  only one word describes her wonderful.
 

I can remember cheering with Sara when I was in the sixth grade.  The night before districts Sara and all the other cheerleaders came to my house for a sponge rolling party.  I still have pictures of her and me doing stunts on my mom's living room furniture.  Katie Asbill

I remember when my friend Trent and I first met Sara and Bethany.  It all started when we had to make the decision to walk (left) down the beach or (right) down the beach.  We decided to walk right.  That was then when two girls caught our eyes, Sara and Beth.  Trent and I then decided that we would go talk to them.  As we were walking towards the girls they started walking away into their hotel.  We followed right behind them.  We saw that they were getting on the elevator and of course we got on too.  I was nervous, but like any cool guy would say I said, "Sup?, Where are yall from." - k maybe I'm a dork.  But anyways, I saw that Sara had punched the 17th floor and I didn't want them to know that Trent and I had followed them so I punched floor 15.  Therefore they thought that we were in the same hotel as them.  We found out each other's names and me and Trent got off on the 15th floor.  Later we happened to see them on the beach.  We asked Sara and Beth if they wanted to take a walk.  Of course we had to confess that we weren't really staying in the same hotel as them.  I'm glad that Trent and I decided to walk (right) that evening because if we had walked (left), I never would have met Sara....or maybe I still would have....never know.Chad Mackey

"i will never forget the first time i ever let sara cut my hair.  My eyes were closed so tight afraid of what i would find when i opened them.  I'll never forget how hard Sara laughed.  We were in Louisville on a school trip and it was some where aroud one or two in the morning.  I guess we were all acting crazy, but when Sara was finished my hair looked better than i ever imagined it could.  Sara was the greatest friend I ever had because sara saw me for me.  She saw people with her soul rather than her eyes and she saw me for me.  i always knew she really cared and it made every memory i ever had so special. "   Rebekah Deichman  BCHS Class 05

my name is samuel barnes known also as samuel wells i have known sara most of my childhood. i have nothing but the fondest memories of her everytime i saw her she had the brightest smile on her face i can still see her smile to this day and it brings a smile to my face knowing she will always be a friend i miss her alot and wish she was still with us but remembering the good times with her helps us to carry on and live our lives like she would want us to with all the love in my heart i miss you sara.   sam