"The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.". (Job 1:21b)
Piper Jean Needham ran into the arms of Jesus April 3, 2012 3:35pm.
Our hearts and empty hands hurt more than we ever imagined possible...but Gods grace will continue to carry us. He will no more forget us in this time of grief and sorrow than we will forget how much we love our fabulously spunky Piper...
And we do love you, Piper Jean.
My heart aches for you. I prayed for a miracle, and now Piper has seen the face of Jesus. A miracle may have happened after all. I have faith that even though I don't know Piper, I will one day meet her in Heaven. Thank you, Sus, for opening your life up to those of us who do not know you. You have made me a better mommy because of your story!
ReplyDeleteThere are no words...as Easter approaches I hope you can find comfort in KNOWING that because of Jesus' sacrifice for us, you WILL see Piper again. She is healthy and whole, and Jesus is probably showing her around heaven. Sending hugs and prayers that you will feel God's comfort and peace right now and in the days, weeks, months, and years to come.
ReplyDelete::no words, just ache:: "I'm so, so sorry" just doesn't cut it. I'm another stranger who's been following your blog for the past week or so. Thank you for sharing your life and your Jesus with us. Prayers for your family still coming....
ReplyDeleteI found your blog yesterday through a Facebook post. Your Piper was a precious, beautiful and strong little one and although I don't know you at all, I pray the peace of Jesus will be with you during your time of grief. No mother should have to bear the loss you feel, yet you shared your story with us. Prayers for God's warmth and love to surround your family and that you may feel His presence in a mighty way.
ReplyDeleteMany tears and prayers for you,
ReplyDeletePraise to the Lord who snatched the sting out of death and won the victory.
Piper - run, dance, sing, laugh, play ad rejoice for ever more. SO GLAD I will meet you one day sweetheart.
Praising God for her healing, just so sad that she had to see our father in heaven for it to happen. Praying for you all, for peace, for understanding and for the strength to face the days ahead. You loved her enough to let her go. She is closer to you now that she has ever been because she is with God, and God is everywhere. God bless you all. Much love from my family here in Georgia.
ReplyDeleteDear Needham Family,
ReplyDeleteI am but another stranger who does not remember how she happened on to your dear Piper's blog so many months ago, but I thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing her beautiful story with me. I have learned an abundance of all things lovely, good and whole since reading the words you share with us, and I will carry these remembrances through the rest of my life. A little gal whom I never had the good fortune to meet has taught my family a great deal more about the beauty of God and our world than any adult could ever hope to. We will continue to pray for your family, and we will continue to praise God, and we will strive to put to good use the lessons we have learned from you. We are humbled by the grace you have shown, and inspired by your love for the Lord. To Susan, Chad and Linley, and especially that spunky little Piper, we wish you heaps of blessings, peace, love and joy for all your days to come.
~ The Brewer Family - Rachel, John and Kylie
God took a precious angel home. God is holding her in his arms as they both look down one you in this time. There are no words to describe the loss of a child. You now and forever will have a precious angel watching over you and tour family.
ReplyDeletemy heart is breaking for you. Your family will continue to be in my prayers. Your faith in God is truly inspiring and knowing that little Piper is being held in the arms of Jesus gives me hope.
ReplyDeleteOur tears are flowing... I am another stranger... I have lifted Piper up in prayers day after day ... prayed for Linley & you & Chad... Here we are trying to give you comfort and the only comfort we feel, are the words from you - the words from our Lord. Raising you up in prayer...
ReplyDeleteFather in heaven thank you for your glory. We all know piper has been healed thanks to you. Please put your hands on the backs of the family and hold them and give them courage and wisdom to make the family even stronger than before. We can't imagine what you have in store for Piper or her family but by your word we know its AWESOME!!! In your name we prey.. AMEN
ReplyDeleteI am heartbroken for your family, over your empty arms, Susanna. I am so sorry. We are grieving with you and Chad and Linley.
ReplyDeletePraying for peace tonight.
love,
elizabeth
ALL I CAN SAY IS IM SOOOOOO SORRY AND I KNOW THAT WILL NEVER BE ENOUGH BUT YOU KNOW HE WILL TAKE SUCH GREAT CARE OF HER SHE IS FREE AND NOT SUFFERING NOW IM SO GLAD YOU HAVE SHARED THIS WITH US OVER THE MONTHS IT HAS BEEN SO HEART WRENCHING READING ABOUT HER EVERYDAY ONCE AGAIN IM SOOOO SORRY....
ReplyDeleteThere are no words to adequately express how sorry we are. We will continue praying for you all. We love you, Heather (for all the Barr's)
ReplyDeletePraying for you today...another stranger in Georgia whose life you have touched beyond words. Your faith is inspiring, your words have drawn me into your world and made my own faith richer. Even when we cannot trace His hand, we can trust His heart. Piper Jean is indeed perfectly fabulous.
ReplyDeleteDear Needham family,
ReplyDeleteI am another one of the strangers that happened to be directed to your story through a friend. You have an amazing way with words and your Faith is truly inspiring. Piper is now pain free and we have all gained a beautiful angel. Thank you for sharing your story. Much love--
My heart is aching for your family... We so prayed for that miracle for all of you. I now pray for peace and comfort. God loves Piper so much and will take care of her. God bless you, angel.
ReplyDeleteMy heart aches for your family. No words can express the sorrow and grief you all are facing. But know God's love and warmth is with you always and he will forever be by Piper's side. As the precious angel she is will forever be by your side. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all and wish peace and comfort will find you all tonight and every night until you can hold that sweet angel in your arms again.
ReplyDeleteLike so many of the others who have posted, I have never met you. Yet your faith has made mine and my family's stronger. I am truly so sorry you have momentarily been separated from your daughter and sister. You and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers. May God bless you and keep you. May His face continue to shine upon you and Piper.
ReplyDeleteI have followed along for a couple months, and I have been so heartbroken for you all especially the past few days, admiring your continued trust in God and appreciation for his blessings in the face of such painful days. I don't know what to say except to let you know that your little girl, and your whole family, have been a far reaching example and encouragement to me and my family. Therefore, Piper will be continuing to affect lives for a long time to come... she will not be forgotten.
ReplyDeleteI started following your blog several weeks ago through a friend and have been crying and praying for you as I read each post. I can't began to imagine the pain you are feeling right now. I know that there are no spoken words that can ease this loss, except for those lifted to our heavenly father. I rejoice in knowing that Piper is now pain free and resting in His loving arms, and I cry for you and your family seeing this hurt. I want you to know my church has had you on the prayer list for a few weeks now and we will continue to lift y'all up to the only true healer.
ReplyDeleteWith much love,
Elizabeth
I am heartbroken for you, from one mother to another. Thank you for sharing your story, I squeeze my children tighter because of you, I have prayed harder in the last months than I ever have, inspired by your faith. I too am a stranger, but can't help but to love your precious Piper as if you all were part of my family. I wish I could take away your pain, I have certainly shed MANY tears for you, as I am right now. Praise God that you will see her again for all of eternity!
ReplyDeleteJust another stranger who found your blog through a mutual friend on Facebook. We've been following and praying and crying. There are no words, only to say that all these miles away we will continue to pray, cry and hope and we will always remember and will continue to tell the story of the fabulous Piper.
ReplyDeleteIn the midst of the horror you guys must be experiencing, I am blessed by your devotion to the amazing God we serve and can only hope that I would be so faithful in the path of such adversity. I am so sad for your loss, and have wept for your little Piper. I can only pray that every day your hearts become a little less broken.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your fabulous daughter with us all. I have never met you but my life will forever be richer for having shared your grief, love, and above all unwavering faith in the Lord. Your Piper blessed us all beyond measure. Praying for our merciful God to carry you all in the palm of his hand.
ReplyDeleteMy life has been forever changed by your daughter. I'm still praying for you, Chad and Linley and hope that peace can wash over y'all in knowing who is cradling Piper tonight.
ReplyDeleteWords are not adequate to express my sadness for you. I will pray that God comforts you with the wonderful crazy peace that only He can provide. Piper is free and so safe in Jesus' arms. I thank God that you will indeed experience that "beautiful someday".
ReplyDeleteGod bless your family and may the peace that surpasses all surround you in this time of sorrow. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Many prayers for you and your family.
ReplyDeletebrokenhearted with you...continuing to pray for sustaining grace, the nearness of the Lord. thank you for sharing your lives, hearts, disappointments with others. you have no idea how many you have encouraged as you have looked to Jesus for strength in this intensely, heart-shredding experience. and we know that hope in Jesus does not ultimately disappoint, but we will see Him and Piper will be there!
ReplyDeletePrayers for your family at this time and grieving with you. I am so thankful you know the One who holds her.
ReplyDeleteSusanna, Chad, and Linley, I know that you do not know me, I am a friend of Anne's. Although we have never met I am continually praying for all of you and I am walking with you in your grief. Praying for peace through the Lord's grace.
ReplyDeletePraying for you all!
ReplyDelete-Bonnie
Praying for His comfort, peace and strength for all of you, and praising Him that what we see by faith, your precious Piper now sees by sight. We are here for you - your church body and so very many others. We will walk this road with you, your husband, and your firstborn, until He returns or call us home too. With much love, tears, praise & tears, Linda & family
ReplyDeleteI am so very sorry for your loss. May Piper be lifted up and may angels bring her into heaven. Your family is in my heary, thoughts, and prayers. Be in peace and fly high sweet Piper.
ReplyDeletePraying for your family. My heart breaks for you yet rejoices that sweet Piper is in the arms of our loving Jesus and in no more pain. He is also holding all of you that much tighter. He will never leave us, He carries us in our troubles.
ReplyDeleteWe are praying for you in your time of unimaginable grief and loss. My heart breaks for you and though I know your sweet child plays at the feet of her Lord and Savior renewed and restored I also know that your heart breaks at the loss of her sweet smile and touch. We will keep you in our prayers as this year proceeds and you must breath in and out and continue to walk this journey without out her. My deepest condolences.
ReplyDeleteWords seem so hollow at this time. May you feel the prayers of the saints carrying you like a hammock through the days ahead. Our hearts are broken, but we are here.
ReplyDeleteIn Christ,
Becky Callaway
The Trapp/Hembree family is sending LOVE and LIGHT your way! Praying for you, and lifting Piper Jeans name up to the Lord!
ReplyDeleteSusanna, Chad, Linley, Needham family,
ReplyDeleteI am so very sorry. I continue to lift you up for love, Comfort, Support. Through your sharing you have been such an inspiration, blessing to so many of us. All because you wanted to tell us, share with us Piper's story and your journey. Thank you, bless you in these dark days ahead.
Piper was truly amazing in her fight against cancer. I am praying for peace and strength for your family. Your faith in God is an example for us all.
ReplyDeleteA friend shared your blog with me several months ago, and I've been praying for you all ever since. I will continue to pray; as a fellow mother, my heart aches for you tonight. Oh, Jesus, how we long for the day when all things are made new.
ReplyDeleteDear Needham family
ReplyDeleteI will never forget meeting beautiful Piper in the hallway at CHOA with our Lily. She was so tiny and so beautiful. I am heartbroken and wish i could find words to write. There are none...
I am sorry and will continue to pray for your entire family.
oxoxoxox
Jennifer Anderson (Lily's Mom)
I learned of your story just days ago through a post on Amey Fair's Facebook page. Have been praying for you since. I am sorry she is absent from you...so glad you know where she is...happy, whole, and a thankful little girl for the love of her parents who fought so hard for her. Will be praying for you in the days ahead...thankful that He will be with you and comfort you....
ReplyDeletePraying Psalm 147:3 over all of you as you grieve.
ReplyDeletePraying Psalm 143:8 that tomorrow morning you would be reminded of God's steadfast and unfailing love in these moments.
Praying that you can take comfort in Psalm 56:8 (NLT) that God knows every tear you have shed over the last (almost) three years.
Continuing to pray without ceasing. And yet, rejoicing that Piper is whole and healed in the arms of Jesus.
Much love from Rome!
My heart is truly breaking over your devastating loss. I cannot imagine the pain you are going through. May the happy memories you have of your truly "spunky" girl get you throughs the pain you have now. All of my love from another stranger in New Jersey.
ReplyDeleteJoanne Dufresne (Watson's great aunt)
Our family weeps with you, sending you all hugs and prayers as you begin this next phase of your life. Last Friday night we placed a luminary with Piper's name at the Oconee Relay for Life. She has and will continue to have a special place in our hearts.
ReplyDeleteContinued prayers for you and your family.
ReplyDeleteMy heart is with your entire family. I can not imagine the weight of this loss on all of you but I rejoice in sweet Piper's homecoming today. It does not make the pain lessen but I pray it brings you peace. I feel like I knew this precious girl and I hope to be blessed by meeting her in Heaven one day.
ReplyDeleteWith love and continued prayers,
The Kurban Family (Lane, Glenn and Kate)
Dear Susanna,
ReplyDeleteI was in a Bible study with your mom many years ago at Redeemer. I no longer live in Athens but have followed your blog. I am so very sorry for your loss today. As a mother I cannot imagine the grief you are experiencing. You and your dear family will be in my prayers.
Paige Cunningham
Beams of heaven as I go,
ReplyDeletethrough the wilderness below,
guide my feet in peaceful ways,
turn my midnights into days.
When in the darkness I would grope,
faith always sees a star of hope,
and soon from all life's grief and danger
I shall be free someday.
2. Oftentimes my sky is clear,
joy abounds without a tear;
though a day so bright begun,
clouds may hide tomorrow's sun.
There'll be a day that's always bright,
a day that never yields to night,
and in its light the streets of glory
I shall behold someday.
3. Harder yet may be the fight;
right may often yield to might;
wickedness a while may reign;
Satan's cause may seem to gain.
There is a God that rules above,
with hand of power and heart of love;
if I am right, he'll fight my battle,
I shall have peace someday.
4. Burdens now may crush me down,
disappointments all around;
troubles speak in mournful sigh,
sorrow through a tear-stained eye.
There is a world where pleasure reigns,
no mourning soul shall roam its plains,
and to that land of peace and glory
I shall want to go someday
my simple words can in no way give you any relief. i'm writing just to let you know that i will continue to pray for you and your precious family. unending prayers for peace and comfort.
ReplyDeleteI to am a stranger but have followed your blog. I have prayed for you and your family. I am so appreciative for your faith and grace in such a trying time. May God be with you and your family. Piper was truly an amazing child. I will continue to pray for you.
ReplyDeleteFabulous, amazing, beautiful, spunky, sparkly Piper..Heaven welcomes you into the arms of Our Father,to rest with the ONLY One who loves you more than your Mom, dad, sister and family. I weep for you, for your broken hearts. My prayers continue for you as the journey continues in the hours, days, weeks, months and years to come. Lean upon the Lord during this time of sorrow. May He surround and fill you with His presence and give you peace. May the vision of that beautiful someday sustain you in moments of grief. I pray I weep.
ReplyDeletePraying, praying and praying some more for Sweet Piper's mommy, daddy and big sis, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends! Fly high, Sweet Piper, you were a Little Warrior for sure!!
ReplyDeleteJackie
My heart is so empty. I'm holding my 7 year old little girl while crying for your Piper! She is well and I hope you find peace. God bless you all.
ReplyDeleteI have never met you guys, I have only ever heard about you through my sister, Erin Greene and Catherine Mills, but I want you to know that I am grieving for you and your loss. Praying, too. How absolutely heart-breaking to lose such a darling, darling girl. She has impacted me more than I have words for. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
ReplyDeleteOh, how my heart hurts for you...my thoughts are with you and your family as you mourn the loss of your beautiful Piper.
ReplyDeleteKelly
Your faith is unshakealbe and it has truly helped me. I thank you for sharing your story and little Piper with the rest of us. I truly believe that you have touched others in the mist of your pain in order to bring them closer to
ReplyDeleteGod.
You are in my prays
Thanks you for sharing your story.
Ms. Patterson
I am another stranger that found your blog through Facebook. For the past week, I've prayed, cried, and prayed some more for your precious Piper and family. I rejoice in knowning Piper is dancing on the streets that are golden and being held by our Jesus. Thank you for sharing your heart and your unwavering faithfulness. You have encouraged me in my own walk with the Lord. May God surround you with His peace. Many hugs, The Speir family- Adam, Kellie, Noah and Asa.
ReplyDeleteI've never been so moved by someone I've never met. My heart is breaking for your family, but I am rejoicing for Piper who is finally cancer free and in the arms of Jesus. Susanna, your courage to trust Jesus in the midst of so much pain and exhaustion has changed many peoples lives including mine. I am praying for your precious family.
ReplyDeleteI am so so sorry/ My heart is broken for your family. I have cried my eyes out reading your posts. My own mom passed away when I was only 10 and she was 33, my grandparents have this poem hanging on their wall since...You will be in prayers always.
ReplyDelete"I'll lend to you for a little time,
A child of mine," God said,
"For you to love while she lives
And mourn for when she's dead."
"It may be six or seven years
Or twenty-two or three,
But will you till I call her back,
Take care of her for me?"
"She'll bring her charms to gladden you
And should her stay be brief,
You'll have these precious memories
To comfort you through grief."
"I cannot promise she will stay
Since all from earth return.
But there are lessons taught down there
I want this child to learn."
"I've looked this world over,
In my search for teachers true.
In the crowds of this great land,
I have selected you."
"Now will you give her all your love
Not think the labor vain,
Nor hate me when I come to call
To take her back again?"
It seems to me I heard them say,
"Dear Lord, thy will be done.
For all the joys a child shall bring,
The risk of grief we'll run."
"We'll shelter her with tenderness,
We'll love her while we may,
And for the happiness we've known
Forever grateful stay."
"And should the angels call for her
Much sooner than we've planned,
We'll brave the bitter grief that comes
And try to understand."
© Edgar A. Guest
I am yet another person you have never met but stumbled upon your blog recently. I have been so overwhelmingly humbled as I think of the minuscule problems in my life that I blow out of proportion. I have also found myself,on my knees, at the throne praying for just an ounce of the grace and faith that you have handled this with. As I pray, I realize that this is what we are made for, to bring praise and glory to our God, whether in the valley or on the mountain. May your words, in your suffering, touch the hearts of those who don't know Him that they may one day know the love of our Father. I wish God' greatest blessings on your life as you forward. Thank you for blessing me with your fath.
ReplyDeletealso a stranger . . . brokenhearted for you all . . . only the arms of Jesus could have been better than the arms of her family who loved her so, so, so well. i am changed because of you and sweet Piper and will continue to pray for your healing. your words and expressions have been gut wrenchingly beautiful and heartbreaking and honoring to the Lord.
ReplyDeleteMy heart is once again broken for you and my tears continue to fall for you. Thank you so much for sharing your fabulous Piper with us. I look forward to meeting her someday. Your faith is inspiring. May God comfort you and give you peace.
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Rest in Peace, Piper.
ReplyDeleteI have been following your blog since reading about your sweet Piper and your family in the Flagpole. Piper was such a true example of strength, love, and pure sweetness. A friend posted this poem on facebook, and it touched me. I wish you all peace and rest in this time of trial and grief.
ReplyDelete-Katie
Death is Nothing at All
Death is nothing at all.
I have only slipped away to the next room.
I am I and you are you.
Whatever we were to each other,
That, we still are.
Call me by my old familiar name.
Speak to me in the easy way
which you always used.
Put no difference into your tone.
Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow.
Laugh as we always laughed
at the little jokes we enjoyed together.
Play, smile, think of me. Pray for me.
Let my name be ever the household word
that it always was.
Let it be spoken without effect.
Without the trace of a shadow on it.
Life means all that it ever meant.
It is the same that it ever was.
There is absolute unbroken continuity.
Why should I be out of mind
because I am out of sight?
I am but waiting for you.
For an interval.
Somewhere. Very near.
Just around the corner.
All is well.
by: Henry Scott Holland
Susanna -- I have never met you, but there are tears pouring down my face right now as I read about Piper's precious life - unknown to me until this week - drawing to a close here on earth. There are no words and please know I am praying, right this minute, from Atlanta for your comfort. Peace to you all ...
ReplyDeleteI have had this song on my mind, called Resurrection Ground, written by a fellow preacher friend of my husbands, by the name of Mark Dibler after the loss of his 3 year old daughter...his brother Matt Dibler who sang with the Inspirations sang it aslo...a very beautiful song, that can still be bought on the Inspirations official website
ReplyDeleteWe gathered together
To say our goodbyes
To our sweet little girl
Oh how our hearts ached inside
So we went to the place
Where they lowered her body down
Some call it a grave
I call it resurrection ground
Resurrection ground
No more graves allowed
We'll meet her in the air
No more parting there
With Jesus we'll be
For all of eternity
This is not the end
Its resurrection ground
We come here often
To see where our child lay
It doesnt seem so long ago
She ran around and played
How sweet it will be
If we are standing round
When this whole place
Turns to resurrection ground
Resurrection ground
No more graves allowed
We'll meet her in the air
No parting there
With Jesus we'll be
For all of eternity
This is not the end
Its resurrection ground
My heart is broken for you and your family but my spirit presses on to continue to lift you up in prayer. I praise God, the grave is not the end and we have a hope that is not seen and that we will one day be reunited with those that have gone on before us...little Piper, thank you for a beautiful mother who shared a genuine love and adoration for you and her blessed Saviour...you, little one, because of her, will live on in the hearts of so many, like myself, who never knew you.
I am also someone that you have never met. I am so sorry to hear about Piper. Your family is in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteI am another stranger who found out about Piper through Facebook. Her strength and courage and your unwavering faith have taught me lessons that will remain with me for the rest of my life. We will keep you in our prayers in the upcoming months even as we rejoice that Piper is healed and sitting in the arms of Jesus.
ReplyDeleteGod bless you and your family. Our prayers are with you.
ReplyDeleteDear Chad, Susanna, and Linley,
ReplyDeleteThere are just no words. Just wanted to send our love and let you all know that we continue to pray for the comfort and peace that only our Mighty Savior can provide.
Sammy and Marshia Hunter (Brooks' grandparents)
Prayers of peace and strength, as you begin to navigate this life without your precious Piper. May God amazing grace carry you through these days and beyond.
ReplyDeleteI just can't express how much your writing about Piper has touched me. I am so sorry for your loss. I found out about St. Bladricks through your post and a friend of mine shaved his head and I donated. He plans to do this every year and I plan to donate. I hope that one day that this horrible disease can be eradicated. I just wanted you to know that you have brought awareness to childhood cancer. I speak to people all the time and tell them the statistics so that they can be aware of how many people this monster effects.
ReplyDeleteAnother stanger from Charlotte, NC following your story, crying as I read the news of Piper. I am a Mother and cannot imagine your loss. I am hugging my kids a little bit tighter these days. God Bless you and your family.
ReplyDeleteYou do not know me. I heard about your story through Billie Joe Willis. My heart is aching but this song came to mind. PLEASE read it...
ReplyDeleteYOU WOULDN’T CRY (ANDREW’S SONG) Lyrics
Mandisa
All you saw was pain
All you saw was rain
But you should see me now
Moments filled with tears
Lasted all those years
Disappeared some how
You never said goodbye
On your knees you cry
You’re still asking why
But blue has never been bluer
True has never been truer
Honey never tasted so sweet
There’s a song in the breeze
A million voices in praise
A rose has never smelled redder
The sun has never been brighter
If I could find the right words to say
If you could look at my face
If you could just see this place
You wouldn’t cry for me today
What you think you see
Isn’t really me
I’m already home
You’ve got to lay it down
‘Cause Jesus holds me now
And I am not alone
Your faith is wearing thin
But I am watching Him
And He is holding you too
And blue has never been bluer
True has never been truer
Honey never tasted so sweet
There’s a song in the breeze
A million voices in praise
A rose has never smelled redder
The sun has never been brighter
If I could find the right words to say
If you could look at my face
If you could just see this place
You wouldn’t cry for me today
You wouldn’t cry for me today
Oh what may seem like years
Will just be a moment
Oh the day will come
When I’ll show you where you’re going
I can’t wait to show you
And blue has never been bluer
True has never been truer
Honey never tasted so sweet
There’s a song in the breeze
A million voices in praise
A rose has never smelled redder
The sun has never been brighter
If I could find the right words to say
If you could look at my face
If you could just see this place
You wouldn’t cry for me today
You wouldn’t cry for me today
You wouldn’t cry for me today
You wouldn’t cry for me today
You wouldn’t cry for me today
I know the pain. I cried when I read it though I know Piper is completely healed and full of joy. Maybe she has already been introduced to my Regan. But we are left here with empty arms. And it just hurts. My deepest sympathies.
ReplyDeleteKristin Boatner
Another stranger who has been following your blog since a friend sent me this way a while back. You've been in my prayers and will continue to be during this trying time. Please know that your words have been an inspiration, both in terms of the love of your family and your faith. May both of those support you right now. God Bless.
ReplyDeleteI am so deeply sorry for your family. I lost my baby son last year and I ache for you as you walk thru these dark days. May God sustain you in the moments when you don't think you can take another breath without falling to pieces. May the knowledge that Piper is whole and healed give you comfort. Praying for the peace that only comes from above.
ReplyDeleteI wept as I read your posts. May you find strength in this difficult time.
ReplyDeleteYou are being covered in prayer.
ReplyDeleteWeeping and mourning with you but not as those without hope.
ReplyDeleteMay God watch over your family. May you be blanketed with love and prayers.
ReplyDeleteChad and Susanna, I am humbled by the astonishing, beautiful, grace you have shown during this time. There are no words I can say that would even begin to ease your pain. But please know that I'm crying with you and praying for you. Piper is in the arms of the angels and in the presence of God. A place where pain and suffering do not exist. A place that you will be with her one day. You are such sweet, wonderful, faithful people...and I pray that God will give you the peace you need and comfort you in every possible way.
ReplyDeleteShe knows you love her with all of your hearts and she will continue to live on in your hearts. You will carry her love every day. Know that I am praying for you and your family. If you need a listening ear, I am here. --Jenny
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeletePrayed for you and your family tonight.
ReplyDeleteMay God bless you with peace and comfort.
http://youtu.be/mxqfDs-64I0 (Mercy Me- The Hurt & The Healer)
ReplyDeleteThis song has been coming to me....for you...for all of us who have a loss that is indescribable. My heart cannot express anything during this grief period that you do not know intimately & full well, beyond most of us.-but my life & my son have stood with you in prayer & much love & are now standing over you in prayer covering. You all are mightily loved here in TX & from what I have read, all over! Your courage, pursuance of a cure, the fight you all fought, the lives your "story", your reality, has changed me & my son for the better...forever! Your strength most definitely came from the Lord....and you all SHINE SO brightly of Who He Is! Thank you, sweet friend. Saddened beyond words for you & your family...but rejoicing in the completed healing that has taken place in Piper :) I LOVE YOU! I love you.
Sending so much love to your family. And a zillion prayers.
ReplyDeleteYou don't know me, but I have been keeping up with your blog and Piper's story. I am heartbroken and crying with you right now. How fortunate Piper was to have such a loving and faithful family. May God's peace surround you like a big hug and hold you tightly as you heal. May you rejoice knowing that Piper already has healed and is in those loving arms now. Remember your own words from just a few days ago... that Piper feels no pain and will simply blink before she sees you walking towards her.
ReplyDeleteIn Christ's Love, Laura Provost
I have been keeping up with your blog which I found through RUF/Redeemer. Your posts had me moved to tears before class this morning, and you have the prayers of many of my friends and housemates. Heaven is real, and Piper is there now. There is no sweeter comfort to me than to think of her smiles and joy she is surely giving surrounded by angels and our Savior. I will never understand why or how, but it all falls according to His plan. God bless you and your family for being the best support and caregivers she could possibly have while on this side of heaven. Our prayers will continue for you all.
ReplyDeleteI only learned of Piper's story a day ago, but she's touched my heart & changed my life. Thank you so very much for sharing...
ReplyDeleteMy heart weeps with sorrow at the loss of life of little Piper. Her body may remain, but her spirit is reborn and lives with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ forevermore...
Job 1:21
The Lord giveth and the lord taketh away. Blessed be the name of the Lord.
John 3:3
Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
I know how difficult it is to suffer the sorrow of death. But just as we celebrate the birth of life, we must also celebrate death for this is also the birth of life, a life reborn in heaven above with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ...
May your hearts be lifted in praise knowing Piper is healed and her spirit rests in peace within the love only Jesus can now provide. Piper sings in jubilee waiting for the day to be reunited with her family...
Blessings & Prayers
SueAnn
Chad, Susanna, and dear Linley:
ReplyDeleteIt's safe to say that your sweet Piper has impacted more lives in her 2 years than most people do in a natural lifetime. The way you gave her a voice, by sharing your story and faithfully glorifying God throughout, has given Piper a lasting legacy. I can think of no greater gift to have given her. You are all lifted up in prayer. I know that the Lord has a special place for your family in heaven. Maybe Piper is picking it out now, which means of course, it will be fabulous. My deepest condolences. Love and many tears...kate
I found your blog from the Jungle Jumpers Facebook page. I have only been following since Monday but your little girl had wormed her way in my heart. I am so sorry for the loss of your little girl. I am so glad that we have a God that loves children and is waiting with open arms. With this being Easter it is nice to do we serve a risen Savior and soon before we know it you will be holding her in your arms again. Praying for the peace that passes all understanding.
ReplyDeletePrayers!
Lisa
My heart aches for your and your family. God has another blessed angle walking with him. Blessed be the Lord. I continue to pray for you and your family. Your Faith in God is so inspiriting and praying he continues to be a strength for your and your family. Many prayers
ReplyDeleteI pray that God comforts you in this difficult time. I am so sorry for your loss. I don't know you, and you don't know me but I am so broken for you. I prayed for your family this morning on the way to work. God Bless!
ReplyDeleteI have been following your blog for about a month. My heart is soooo very heavy for your family during this difficult time. As many have stated, Piper's struggles and your words have touched so many people - her life IS a testament to us all! I have prayed for her many, many times and now know that she is perfectly and marvelously healed and in the loving arms of our Father.
ReplyDeleteI saw your blog posted on Julie Todd's FB page. I read it until I fell asleep on Monday night. You and Piper were on my heart all day yesterday. The minute I could check FB, I saw that she had started her next journey...Her sweet journey with Jesus. I pray for you and your family and for Piper as she encounters God's love at a magnitude that is unimaginable. Your faith is an amazing witness to those of us reading your blog. The heart and soul of your family is changed, but it is clear that God is wholly in the mix. Our family will do something here at the beach to honor Piper and your family to send you our prayers of healing and comfort. I know that friend's far and near are doing the same. God's love and peace to you.
ReplyDeleteI continue to pray for your family. No words can express how grieved I am for you and yet how thankful I am that Piper is with the Lord. Your words of distress mingled with hope, disbelief mingled with genuine faith, and terrible sorrow mingled with joyful surrender have been and will be etched in my memory for life. Thank you for demonstrating what real faith looks like in this really fallen world. But there is heaven! And this heaven is now sight for Piper. Praise be to God!
ReplyDeleteso sorry to hear...
ReplyDeletePraying for you guys and weeping with you. I am so incredibly sorry for your great loss. Dawn Schueneman (Jena Cabaniss' sister)
ReplyDeleteJesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matthew 19:14
ReplyDeleteMay God provide you with an unexplainable peace and comfort in knowing that fabulous spunky Piper is sitting in the lap of Jesus. Praying constantly for your family during this time. God bless you and keep you. ~lm
I have followed your blog for the past week and my heart aches for what your family has gone through. Words can never express what the loss of a child will cause a family to endure. God has a plan and sweet Piper had a purpose in Heaven. It’s a higher plan that we can never comprehend but the bible tells us to trust and don’t try to understand and we must lean on His grace to carry us through these hard times because it’s the only thing that will. Grieve for her often - it is the healthiest way to heal, but smile knowing she is at peace and suffering no more. Continue to talk about her, tell her story with every opportunity that you can. Make a scrapbook of her life and share it often - it will keep her beautiful memory alive and will also help you to heal. As a family, lean on each other - if there is ever a time that your companionship is needed the most, it is now. Continue to keep your Faith and rejoice in knowing you will someday see your her again. May God Bless your famiy!
ReplyDeleteYou don't know me. I know a friend of your's -- Rebekah Armstrong was her maiden name. She posted your site on FB. And here I am. I am a strong believer. I always be. But at moments like this, I get so stinkin' mad. I am so incredibly unbelievably horribly sorry for your loss. It sucks so badly. It hurts so badly. I don't think it's fair. And I'm mad. But I know God is faithful. And I know you will one day hug each other again.
ReplyDeleteI just cannot even imagine what losing a daughter feels like. I am praying for all of you. God is good, and I am thankful you know Him, and that you can rest in His arms here on earth and know that He withholds nothing from you or your precious baby girl. Everything that is His is yours because He loves you.
ReplyDeleteMy face, heart, and head ache for you. Come quickly Lord Jesus and bring us home to play with our babies, the ones we've known and the ones we never had a chance to know. My prayers, tears, and thoughts are with you.
ReplyDeletePlease Mrs. Needham knock sense into me because I so obviously need it. It is people who have behaved such as I have that should suffer these things and not a beautiful soul such as yourself who would give anything for one more moment. I have taken my children for granite for too many years now.
ReplyDeleteI stayed up all night last night. After reading about your daughter through several of my facebook friends, I decided to read your blog since sleep was far from in my near future. I found myself sobbing tears of hurt for what you must be feeling. You have touched my heart so much and I know one day it will not be just me but my children who are most thankful. My mother took her own life while I was a Junior in high school. I didn't know how much she cared for me or even if she ever really thought of me at all. She spent her last decade on earth in a deep depression spiraling downward into alcohol and drugs. So many loved her as she also loved so many. I however was not privy to that love and attention.
Now, I am afraid I am making the same mistake with my children. Mostly my son. He and I have had quite a rough time bonding since his birth in 2002 which, needless to say wasn't planed, or ready for. So now 9 years later we clash daily. What I am about to say will probably enrage you as it should. I have spent so much time not loving my son the way I should and to make things worse if anything were to happen to me or him right now I don't think he would know that I do love him because I have such a hard time showing it. I do love my son and why I can't be the woman and mother I should be and hold my son and show him the affection I know he craves is beyond my understanding and it is something I pray about often. It is my fault if he is damaged as I was and I just can't stop the cycle. You have helped me more than I know. As I read your final entries at the wee hours of the morning, I placed myself in your weary shoes. You mentioned asking your little girl if she knows that you and her daddy love her and she nodded. Then I imagined what my son would do and the thought put me into such a depression that I cried for hours. I know what I have to do now and why. We don't know how long we have nor are we even guaranteed another minute to show people how we feel. Your baby girl died knowing how much you loved and respected her. Now it is up to the rest of us to learn from you. Your strength, determination, love, and faith will aide in my guidance from here on out. I know this isn't going to happen overnight but I have to start somewhere. Thank You from the bottom of my heart.
Cling to Jesus, friend. He will uphold you. He will show you love and grace and mercy and faithfulness like nothing we can produce in ourselves. Praying for you.
DeleteJesus has always answered my prayers. I know this one will be no exception. Thank you for the prayers
DeleteYou're heart is filled with anger because of the pain you went through when you lost your own Mother...understandably so...but now is the time to let all that anger go and face your fears of not being a good mother because you can be...you NEED to be...you HAVE to be...and the truth is you WANT TO BE! Your son needs his Mom...and you need your son. You have to remove all surrounding factors and take yourself and your son to the place that's most important --you gave birth to that child and he is apart of you...you must tell him how you feel - your raw emotions and tell him that your so sorry and that you LOVE him with every ounce of your being. That you from this day forward promise to be the Mother he deserves and the Mother that you have found in yourself buried under pain and suffering - which you are turning into strength and love and take him in your arms and let go of all that burden left on you those many years ago. I'm proud of you for admitting your pain and releasing yourself from the chains which bind you. You should start a blog --your own telling your story because it's a beautiful one as well. God Bless you and think positive! POWER OF POSITIVITY is an amazing thing.
DeleteWe continue to lift you up in prayer as we grieve the loss of this little girl we never even met...yet she (& you) have touched our hearts deeply. We have a baby with Jesus and it is our only solace that Piper and our little one are there together this day. Thank you for sharing so publicly this journey so that we might learn to trust and have faith more fully in the One who holds us in our grief.
ReplyDelete"This is what it means to be held
How it feels, when the sacred is torn from your life
And you survive
This is what it is to be loved and to know
That the promise was that when everything fell
We'd be held"
-Natalie Grant
We are praying that you would feel every second that you are held and deeply deeply loved.
The Register Family
Pipers fight and your family's courage and strength...the whole of what you've all been through....there just are no words to describe how much I hope and pray God's love and light surround you all as you make your way through this pain. I wish you the peace that I know Piper is now blanketed in amongst the angels. May they hold her tightly until the day you are able to wrap her in your arms again.
ReplyDeleteGod bless you all.
Susanna, Chad, Linley, I am so sorry for your loss!! I cannot fathom how it must hurt to lose one so special! I pray Jesus is your peace, and comfort in these days. You probably will not remember me, but we have met, once or twice in Orlando... Once upon a time, I used to house sit for your parents quite a bit. Anyhow, my heart is just so broken for you guys, because I know how precious my babies are to me. Although, I rejoice in Piper's release onto Jesus' arms today! She is enjoying life as she has probably never been able to! I will be praying with you guys and (looks like) many many others as well. Mandy Lopez
ReplyDelete"Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest" Matthew 11:28
ReplyDeleteLord, you said that would comfort those who mourn. I pray that you hold the Needham family in the palm of your hand. And in the weeks, months and years ahead, bless them, comfort them and direct them down this difficult, nearly impossible path of grief.
I have been following your blog since nearly the beginning of sweet Miss Piper's journey. I found your blog through a friend of mine through high school, Kelli Miller Magee, who linked to you blog. My son Masa was born three weeks after Piper and also was a patient of Dr Baker's at the time. It made such a huge town seem so tiny. I have rejoced with you and weeped with you and yet can never begin to fathom the unbearable pain that has been forced upon your family that you have all take with such grace and dignity. I cannot say that I would have been such a pillar of strength...but you give me much to look up to and work for. I have prayed and pleaded from the bottom of my heart that Piper would be the one to overcome this beast that is ALL. My heart breaks for your family and pray that there is somehow somewhere peace that is granted knowing that Piper is in His arms and no longer having to fight the fight of this earth.
ReplyDeleteWith all the love and prayers of my heart.
I don't want to keep bugging you with these comments, but seriously Susanna, we are covering you with prayer.
ReplyDeletelove,
elizabeth
Your strength and faith reminds me of our daughter when our grandson Cesar passed at three months. I had a dream two nights later where I could see him laughing and sooo happy. In the background I heard many voices of children singing and laughing. I tried to carry him, and when I extended my arms he would back off and laugh, as if to say he was happy and didn't want me to take him away from where he was now. I am certain your beautiful Piper is with Cesar, enjoying those angelical sounds that were so clear in my dream. May the Lord bless you and your family with the strength to move forward. it will not be easy, but with Him all things are possible.
ReplyDeletePiper and her spirit touched us deeply and your family's courage, strength and faith inspired us so much. We are so saddened for you and our hearts just broke to read your post. Thank you for sharing your beautiful girl with us. She will be missed but never forgotten. May God bless you all and give you the strength you need. You are a beautiful family and were nothing but a shining example of love and faith through this all.
ReplyDeleteI am another stranger who knows you only through some friends. My husband and I have been following ya'lls journey and weeping and praying for you. I have always adored the name piper for a little girl, and your piper has touched my heart in a very deep way. I wish I could've met her! I know that the Lord is already using your tiny daughter in a very big way, and changing the lives of many and that is cause for her to rejoice in heaven. While we mourn her passing here she is cuddled up in the arms of our heavenly father perfectly content and feeling no pain! I will continue to pray daily for you and your husband and your marriage and also for your little girl Linley, that the Lord will wrap you in his arms too!
ReplyDeleteWeeping and rejoicing,
-Bonnie Eaton
I am so sorry for your loss. Heaven has gained another BEAUTIFUL little soul! Fly free, sweet Piper, fly free!
ReplyDeleteGwen Haag
Fairport, New York
I am another stranger who came across your blog a few days ago through Billie Jo. I have been praying and crying for Piper and you since. Your story has touched my heart in a way I could have never imagined. I am heartbroken and continue to pray for all of you. My uncle has almost crossed over twice after a motorcycle accident years ago. I remember conversations with him from when I was younger about his experience. He said it was warm and bright and beautiful and he has no fear to die anymore. I am sorry your time on earth together was so short. Piper is all around you just like you all are all around her forever ... until someday you will be reunited again! She is at last cancer free, dancing and laughing, in God's arms and surrounded by his love until you will be able to wrap her in your arms again. Thank you for sharing your story. It will forever be with us. Because of you I hug my son just a bit tighter now! Sending you love, Herdis
ReplyDeleteI'm so deeply sorry to hear of the loss of your beautiful, sweet, amazing, precious daughter. As I followed your story for the past few months, I have been so amazed at your family, your strength, your faith, your love for each other. You write beautifully, and your family has touched others, and made us live differently each day through your story. I know that helps nothing, but I wanted you to know, you are being thought of and prayed for. And presh Piper, too. Beloved, sweetest girl.
ReplyDeleteI found your blog through a friend and have been praying for Piper and your whole family. I will continue to pray for your family and I hope that you feel the love pouring out from everyone who grew to love and care for Piper through your blog.
ReplyDeleteI found your blog through Phoebe's Mom, who I've "met" as our 3 year old daughter battles leukemia here in Canada. You write with such grace and truth and strength. Thank you for sharing Piper's journey, and I weep knowing she is now in His arms feeling peace and comfort. Blessings to you as you continue on this journey. In our prayers in Saskatchewan! ~Jenn Lyster
ReplyDeleteI am so very sorry for your loss, may you be comforted knowing that Piper is with our Heavenly Father who I'm sure is encircling her in his arms with love. Know to that your great sorrow is known to him and that comfort is only a prayer away.
ReplyDeleteSusanna, i write this with ache in my heart....I Love you so very much and the pain must be immense....Your an amazing friend,momma and if you ever need me, Im Here...
ReplyDeletePraying for your family, and i mean that!
Love U,
Kelly