KRISTEN GOTTHELF

February 1, 2005

Lee,

It seems like yesterday that you called us for a booking and I had to tell you that Kristen had Leukemia. I was touched by the genuine concern for her that you expressed. The fundraising that you have done on the Website for us has been a real Godsend. We have been so touched by everyone's concern for Kristen, and our family. I would love to be able to thank everyone individually for their generosity, but I will ask you to post this letter on the website for me.

I think we all go along thinking that Childhood cancer could never affect us, and when it hits someone that we know, personally, or indirectly, it shakes us all to the core. Each and every person that prays for Kristen's health and recovery, everyone that has so generously supported us financially has been touched by Kristen, and us by them. The last 22 weeks have been extremely difficult, but the cards, and letters that we have received from Minor Details families have given us encouragement. Each note and heartfelt expression for Kristen, came at a time when we needed it.

Kristen's total treatment period is approximately 2.5 years. She has come through the first 5.5 months with amazing strength and courage. She is our little hero! She lost her hair after the first month of Chemotherapy, but she didn't even notice. The Dr.'s are pleased with her progress, and she continues to move along through the Cancer protocol. We have been very blessed that she has not been very sick from the Chemo she has received to date. Also, we have not had any unscheduled admissions to Sick Kids, from my own observations this is very rare. The Cancer Protocol changes frequently to keep the cancer cells from reproducing. We have just finished an intense phase, which saw us at the Hospital 4 days a week for 2 weeks. We are now on a rest period, which is geared to give Kristen a chance to recover and gain strength for the next phase of Chemo. The next phase sees us back at Sick Kids for 4 days at a time to receive Treatment for 42 hours at a time. This will be a very stressful time, and ask for continued prayers. Mark and I feel that we are very fortunate to have such a happy, joyful child. Kristen has made this dark valley seem easier for us.

Thanks again everyone!

God Bless,

Cheryl and Mark
Kristen, Alex, Jamie,
Spencer and Liz.