God came today and picked his little sunflower Maria.
She became a Saint in Heaven at 1:30 in the morning.
No words can describe the impact she has left on so many lives.
Maria's brothers, Eddie, Aidan, and Blake and Mom and Dad were with her at home.
Please ask God to give us the strength we need.
We love you Maria. You will be with us everyday.
Love Mom and Dad
161 comments:
Our deepest sympathies. We are crying with you this morning.
God Bless.
Your gentle face and patient smile with sadness we recall, you had a kindly word for each and died beloved by all. The voice is mute and stilled the heart that loved us well and true, bitter is the trial to part from one so good as you. You are not forgotten loved one nor will you ever be, as long as light and memory last, we will remember thee. We miss you now our hearts are sore, as time goes by we miss you more. Your loving smile your gentle face, no one can fill your vacant place.
With Deep Sadness,
The DeBarr Family
God will continue to be with you as He has always been. May He grant you the strength to get through the upcomings days and years. You and Maria have been a part of our lives for the past 15 months and that will not change. We will continue to pray, hope, believe, and fight for a cure in Maria's name. In God We Trust.
Kayla thought about her "best friend Maria" often this summer. She truly enjoyed spending time with Maria at lunch and during the school year. God's arms are around Maria now and your family. We prayed for Maria everyday and we will continue to pray for your strength.
Love,
Chris, Sharon, Kayla, Flynn and Elizabeth Lenahan
Something made us check the blog today and to receive this news is unimaginable.
Our sympathies are with all of you today and always. The Clark Family
Please know that your family is in our thoughts and prayers this morning. We are all here for you~
~your friends from Commodore Ct.
Dear Ed and Megan,
May God grant you the strength to endure these difficult times. Thinking of you and praying for you, with all our sympathy,
Frank and Susie Miklaski
Dear Megan, Ed and boys,
My heart aches today for you and all of your family. I give thanks that Maria is free from pain and suffering and I pray He will help to ease the pain you are feeling now. I am so very sorry.
with much love,
Katie, Bart, Paul and Andy Vey
Ashburn, VA
Dear Ed, Megan, and family,
We heard the sad news this morning when we arrived at Maria's Walk at Bay Pres. We are all filled with great sadness. It was somewhat comforting being with such a huge group of people gathered together who love Maria and your family so much, all honoring her at her walk. I don't have the words to express how deeply sorry I am for all of you. Knowing Maria was a blessing. God Bless you all.
Love,
The Pallotta Family
Through the tears we pray for you and Maria.
I am so very sad for all of you.
I hope that you know that God will take care of her.
Her loss is a hole in our hearts -
I will pray for you and your family.
We just came back from the Prayers From Maria Walk... so many people there with so much love.
My deepest, heartfelt sympathies to your entire family. Maria is a beautiful angel who will always be with us. We could feel her there at the walk today.
I pray for strength and peace for you all.
God Bless,
Kim
god bless your family and your precious daughter. I'm praying and praying for you all. Sophie's aunt Lynne I'm so sorry.
Dear Dear Maria's Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are continuing to flow for you and her.
May Our GOD give you strength and peace until you meet up with her in heaven. GOD BLESS YOU!!
You have our deepest sympathy,
The Broadbents
Dear Mr. and Mrs. McNamara, Eddie, Aiden, and Blake,
This morning at the run I heard about Maria. I have been praying for your family ever since. I know that not only has God picked his sunflower, he also has picked you up into his hands. I know that nothing will ever fill the whole you now have in your hearts, but I hope and pray that God comforts you and gives you strength. Maria touched so many people whom she had never even met, she definitly touched mine.
I will continue to pray for you always. Take comfort in the fact that Maria is no longer in pain or suffering. So many people loved her.
With many, many prayers,
Mary Grace Umerley
Dear Ed, Megan and family,
We are so sorry to hear about Maria. She was a very special girl, always in the first row during story time in the library. Please know that you have our deepest sympathy. Maria has touched so many lives. Your family is in our prayers. God bless.
Love,
Nancy and Bill Clifford
REST IN PEACE LITTLE ANGEL.HAVE FUN PLAYING UP THERE WITH ALL THE PTHER ANGELS.
I have such a heavy heart but know that Maria is no longer in pain and is now smiling down on everyone. The group of individuals at the race showed up to walk for Maria and it turned out they were walking with her. Know that the strength and courage you all have shown during the past year has had an amazing impact on so many lives. You are in our thoughts and prayers today and everyday.
Love, peace and strength to you and your family.
Jeff and Mary Mitchell
Dear Ed, Megan, Eddie, Aidan, and Blake,
We are so very sorry....Maria and your family have been such an inspiration to us all. We thank God for sharing Maria with us. We will always remember her smile, gentle spirit, strength, and courage. We pray that God will give you the strength you need and that He will wrap His arms around you.
We love you and are here for you always....
love,
The Staff at Bay Presbyterian Nursery School
Praying for you!!!
Forever Cameron's Aunt Toni
www.cameronbrooks.org
Mr. and Mrs. McNamara, Eddie, Aidan and Blake-
You have been the best family Sweet Maria could have asked for. She will always be by your side.
You are in our prayers.
Dear Megan and Ed,
We heard the sad news today at the race. Our hearts go out to you and your family. Echoing the thoughts of others, Maria touched many people. She will continue touching many as we work to find a cure for this terrible disease.
Our prayers are with you and hope that prayer will help you in this trying time.
You have our deepest sympathy,
Toby, Ken, Jillian and Tamara Alfred
Ed & Megan
Our prayers and deepest sympathies are with you and the boys. Even though we only knew Maria a brief time, she will remain in our hearts forever. God Bless you and your family.
Stephanie, Mike, Catherine, Christina & Melissa
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time.
God Speed Maria....soar high and rejoice in Heaven!
~~MJ~~
Dear Ed and Megan -
Of all the millions of people in the world how awesome that God hand picked you to be Maria's parents and a spiritual teacher to us all. Your words in all the updates have been more uplifting than any parenting book I could ever read. The love and devotion for your family is contagious and millions of people feel lucky to know you and pray with you. You are both a leader for God and we are all grateful.My prayers are with you.
we were praying and all we can say is God couldn't see maria suffer anymore. Our deepest concern goes out to your family! may God bless.
And remember Maria is watching over us.
love,
shannon tegeder and the tegeder family<3
God bless Maria.
When i heard the news i couldn't believe it, but all we can say is that God couldn't watch Maria suffer any longer. Now Maria is singing in a choir of angels. She is watching over us and is smiling bigger than ever. May God bless. And my deepest sympathy goes out to you!
love shannon tegeder 8th grader at St. Raphael School, and Tegeder Family.
Dear Mrs. and Mr. McNamara and boys,
When I heard the news about Maria. I could not believe it. I will miss Maria. She was a gift from God. She is always still with us in our minds and prayers. We will always remember her. I will miss her cute smile. God Bless,
Mary Grace and the Becker Family
Such a bright inspirational child couldn't have picked better parents as you have also touched many. My prayers and wishes are with you and your family.
Dianne
Our heartfelt and heart broken sympathies are with your sunflower. We pray God gives you the strength to take each day one step at a time. Your pain is every parents worst nightmare come true. Know your Maria was so loved by all.
Many prayers, The Fenton Family
I know there is nothing I can say that will help at this difficult time, but please know that I am truly sorry for your loss. I am also truly grateful to you for sharing Maria's journey with everyone, what a wonderful new angel heaven received this morning. I'm sure she was welcomed by the many children who went ahead of her. I won't say she is in a better place, because she isn't, there is no better place than home with her family. Just please know that she is now tumor free.
God Bless, if there is anything I can do, please don't hesitate to ask.
Rich McGowan(Angel Matthew's Dad)
Our deepest sympathy to your family.
Paula Koziol and family
Our prayers are with you. May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
The Frantz family
My deepest sympathy from our family to yours.
My heart breaks and I know there are no words to bring you comfort. Maria certainly EARNED her wings. She is a beautiful brave ANGEL.
May God bring you comfort.
With Love, Nikki
Mom to Angel Jenna
Eddy and Megan,
Thanks you for sharing Maria with us all. You have taught us so much about love and faith. Maria was as touched by the grace of God, through you, as she touched so many of us through Him. Be not afraid. You are surrounded by love.
What a miracle Maria was and will continue to be and what a beautiful angel she is! Your grace and faith in dealing with her tumor have inspired many around the world. My deepest sympathies are with you and your family at this time.
May God hold you close in the coming days and years. We have never met, but our church family has prayed for Maria and for your family, through our prayer requests.
John 8:12 Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but wil have the light of life."
Maria could have not been more loved by her family, her friends, her classmates, her teachers, her pastor, her neighbors and the ones that never met Maria. It was evident today at the run & walk.
We have all been so moved by your strength, your faith, your uplifting posts. You helped your little angel get her wings by the incredible amount of love & faith that you have clearly shown Maria, not to mention the lesson you have taught all of us in this journey.
I happen to be a stranger, as I have never met your little angel.
May God hold her in the palm of His hand.
Love & prayers,
MO:)
Dear McNamara Family,
We extend our deepest sympathy to your family. We marvel at the strength, courage and faith exhibited by Maria and your family. Grace loved Maria as a classmate and as a dear friend. We send you our love and prayers. May God hold you in His care. Please let us know if there is anything we can do.
Love,
The DeGidio Family
McNamara Family,
Our heartfelt sympathies to your family. Maria was a special girl here on earth and now a special angel in heaven.
Love, Kevin, Kathleen and Owen Mulgrew
There are no words that will ease your pain. As I read your update my heart sank and the tears began to flow. I am so sorry. I know Alicia was there to welcome Maria. I believe they are running, laughing and playing. Finally no more pain. Just after Alicia passed away someone said .... A lifetime here on earth is like one day in heaven so at the end of the day Maria will see you again. I find some peace in that, I hope it does the same for you. If you would ever like to talk I'm here, anytime! ESTYS@cfl.rr.com or (321) 633-6002
With Hope & Love,
Christine
Angel Alicia's Mom
www.caringbridge.org/visit/angelaliciamartin
Dear Ed, Megan, Eddie, Aidan and Blake,
We are so sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing the Miracle of Maria with all of us. May we all live our lives to the fullest - cherishing the ones we love and walking God's path for us. Maria is dancing in heaven today with the angels. God bless you and give you peace. We will never give up HOPE that a cure is found for this awful monster!
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Bill and Susan Turner
The heavens are filled with beautiful angels .Maria gets to be with them all. She will be missed here, and the hope of seeing all of them again someday is helping getting through today....
Mimi
www.carepages.com juliansworld
I just happened to check this website today. It's been a few weeks and I was saddened to see that your Maria is no longer with you physically. BUT her spirit will live on in everyone who has read Maria's blog and who has prayed for her and all of you. The angels are singing in heaven and I see Jesus dancing with Maria in His arms. She is truly loved.
My thoughts and prayers are with your family and this difficult time. Your beautiful daughter is an angel now. I will pray that God grants you comfort and strength.
Dearest McNamara Family,
Thank You for sharing your beautiful daughter with our family. Your faith and hope on this journey has changed our families spirituality forever.Most days and nights started and ended with one of us asking "did anyone check on Maria?" We will now make sure we keep you in our thoughts and prayers. We really will never look at a sunflower the same, as we did "before Maria."
With Thoughts and Prayers,
Maria & Robert Dorsky & Family
Please know that our hearts hurt and our tears flow with yours.
We are confident that JJ was waiting for your Maria's arrival.
May you feel God's loving peace.
Jim, Di, Nikki & Matthew Lipski
Dear McNamara Family,
I was so sad to hear the news this morning at the run/walk. I will continue to pray for your strength! Maria touched so many lives. She truly is an angel now.
Anne Polkinghorn
Dear McNamaras,
We will continue to pray, post and promote awarness about the Foundation and be here for all of you!
Maria has lit an eternal flame that will live in all of us!
Thank you Maria for allowing us the honor to grow stronger in our faith by knowing you and your family.
We love all of you so much.
The Gordon family
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Ashley Christian's family
I am so sorry for the loss of your sweet little Maria.
I know that words can't begin to describe the feelings you are feeling right now.
you are in my thoughts
Serena (Cameo's mommy)
Hi, I'm Taylor. You don't personally know me but i came to Maria's walk last year with my grand parents (Mike and Norene Setta)...and ever since I heard about Maria's condition, I prayed for her every night. I can't explain how sorry I am. My dad died when I was 10 I'm now 15, so I understand the feeling inside you. Just stay strong and I promise you God will lead you in the right direction....just keep this in mind, EVERYTHING happens for a reason, even though its tough.
I just wish for the best for all of you.
All my love
Taylor :]
I am so sorry for your family. God bless you.
Please know Maria is with you and always. Our prayer go to you and your family in the days and years to come. Just know that when you look back, look for all the blessings that have occurred, it really helps the deep pain. And before long the blessing that surround you help so much with the loss and the pain. The blessings are left to heal you.
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. I have prayed and checked the wesite daily ever since 95.5 the fish had it as teh website of the day. I never met Maria but feel as though I knew her. My tears flow and words can't explain my sympathy. God Bless you now and in the days to come.
Love
The Leffel Family
Nate, Sam and Isabella
I am so sorry for the loss of your sweet Maria. At times like this words seem so trite. Know that many people are praying for your family at this time. You are truly loved and may His love give you the strength you need for the time to come.
Cheryl Gallagher
JJ's Aunt
I feel like I knew Maria from all your postings. I first heard about her on facebook and joined the prayer group and been praying ever since. I am truly sorry for your loss but she is now no longer suffering and with our Lord smilind down on us, with that adorable smile of hers. I will continue to pray for your family and again truly sorry.
We are so sorry for your loss. We know nothing can take away the pain. I know my nephew Justin greeted Maria...all the kids up there are now playing together and running just like they all used to. I hope you find peace somehow, someway and strength for the days ahead...
Joelene Turner
( Angel Justin Bissett's Auntie )
Our thoughts are with you and your family at this difficult time. I have kept up with how Maria was doing on this sight. Just know that your beautiful Maria is in heaven dancing with the angels and looking down on you all and smiling. Our prayers will be with you all that God give you the strength to get through this difficult time.
She will be missed, but forever in our hearts.
May god give you strength, I am so sorry. Our prayers are with you. Maria is free of pain and will never suffer again thanks to our lord and savior,Jesus Christ. God Bless you all in this dificult time.
With Love,
Faith Femi and Family
Martinsburg,WV
Maria is now "flying with angels" the good "pilot" I know she was! I will always think of her in the pilots seat and the picture of her there everytime I get on the plane! My deepest and sincere sympathy,
Denise Ganley
There are not enough words to fill the void of Maria leaving us here on earth. Tears fall all around us while Heaven is rejoicing. I know she is the most beautiful angel... a beaming sunflower in God's garden.
I will share a song I frequently listen to whenever I was questioning "Why Maria??" It helps to remind me that God is with us all the time, and that even though we expect Him to calm a storm, He may just choose to ride it out with us.
Praise You In This Storm
by Casting Crowns
I was sure by now
That You would have reached down
And wiped our tears away
Stepped in and saved the day
But once again, I say "Amen", and it's still raining
As the thunder rolls
I barely hear Your whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away
I'll praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
Every tear I've cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm
I remember when
I stumbled in the wind
You heard my cry
You raised me up again
My strength is almost gone
How can I carry on
If I can't find You
As the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away
I'll praise You in this storm
And I will life my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
Every tear I've cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm
I lift my eyes unto the hills
Where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord
The Maker of Heaven and Earth
I lift my eyes unto the hills
Where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord
The Maker of Heaven and Earth
I'll praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
Every tear I've cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm
Much Love and Prayers,
Betsy
Although i did not personally know Maria, the tears are coming down and i will continue to pray for your family as i did before. She truely did leave an impact on everyone's life. I feel closely connected with your family through prayer, please continue to be strong.
God Bless Your family during this tragic time.
Although i did not personally know Maria, the tears are coming down and i will continue to pray for your family as i did before. She truely did leave an impact on everyone's life. I feel closely connected with your family through prayer, please continue to be strong.
God Bless Your family during this tragic time.
We are so sorry for your loss. Maria was such a special little girl. She touched the hearts of so many. We feel so honoured to have known her during your stay at St. Judes. Please know we have always prayed for Maria and we will still continue to pray for each of you.
Bill, Matoka, Cariann, & boys
Words can't express the sorrow we feel for you all. Maria was a sweet girl and will be dearly missed. Please know that we are thinking of you all and sending love and support. I'm sure that Hannah would have been there to meet Maria and they will surely become good friends.
Lots of Love,
Tore, Kathie, Allie and Beautiful Angel Hannah
www.hannahsheroes.ca
Dear McNamara Family, I will continue to lift all of you in prayer each day. I have been awed by your devotion to each other and to God. I have delighted in spending time with each of your "nature nuts". I am so sorry that Maria was called to God so soon.
Diane
Your family remains in our prayers during this difficult time.
Our prayers are with you for strength and confirming the knowledge we all have that although Maria will be greatly missed she is now with the Lord and all the angels in heaven will be caring for her. She will always be watching down on her family and anxiously awaiting your arrival into heaven as well. God Bless All of Maria'a family.
Maria we will miss you so very much.You were a joy to all who knew you. LOVE YOUR Aunt Janet and your cousins who love you, Gwen and Colin.
Edward and Megan we will pray for you.
The angels are rejoicing. A child has come home.
So sorry for your loss, may the peace of Christ be with you all.
The Kilroy Family
Bruswick Ohio
You don't know me personally but I have been following your story though another family that is going through the same thing in Avon Lake. Sending you my deepest and heartfelt sympathies to the whole family..
Stacey
I am deeply sorry for the loss of your beautiful daughter. I prayed for you at Mass this morning and will continue to ask God for your strength at this unbearable time. As a parent I cannot imagine your grief, but please know that so many people are praying for you.
You don'tknow me at all, but I feel as though I know you and your family from your beautiful web-site. I hope that your family finds comfort knowing that God has taken Maria home. You all now have a gaurdian angel watching from above. May God bless you and hold you in the palm of his hand while you find the strength to continue on.
When i heard the news my heart sank with sadness. One thing I will always remember about Maria is that when I would see her in the hallway, I would think to my self that she not only had a smile on her face but a smile on her heart and she would never let that smile stop shining.
God Bless,
Annie, 7th grader Saint Raphael School
Sadness fills my heart once more. I am praying for you all during this most difficult time.
Yvonne Koubek
I am so sorry to read about Maria's passing. I will pray for your family and all that you will need to get through this time.
Sincerely,
Lisa and Hannah Deal
www.helphannah.org
We were so sorry to hear of Maria's passing. She is such as sweet and beautiful little girl. We will greatly miss her at Girl Scouts and at St. Raphael's. We know that Jesus is looking after her now, and she is dancing in a field of sunflowers. Are prayers are now with you in you time of loss. God Bless.
Kathy, Katelyn, Nicole, Kristen, Brittany, and Dave Hegeman
Godbless you and your family. No amount of platitudes will make you feel better. TIme and faith. Thank you for allowing all of us into your family.
Godbless, MAtier family, cleveland. ohio
We are so sorry to read what happened. You are in our prayers. We have been following Maria's story for some time and were lucky enough to find her site to donate to and add our own son to. Please know we are always here to talk.
with love
meg
megthepeg@sbclgobal.net
I am so sorry for you loss. Peace and prayers are with all of you.
This song made me think of your Maria.
"Never Gone"
The things we did, the things we said
Keep coming back to me and make me smile again
You showed me how to face the truth
Everything that's good in me I owe to you
Though the distance that's between us
Now may seem to be too far
It will never seperate us
Deep inside I know you are
Never gone, never far
In my heart is where you are
Always close, everyday
Every step along the way
Even though for now we've gotta say goodbye
I know you will be forever in my life (yeah)
Never gone
No no no
I walk alone these empty streets
There is not a second you're not here with me
The love you gave, the grace you've shown
Will always give me strength and be my cornerstone
(Somehow)
Somehow you found a way
To see the best I have in me
As long as time goes on
I swear to you that you will be
Never gone, never far
In my heart is where you are
Always close (always close)
Everyday (everyday)
Every step along the way
Even though for now we've gotta say goodbye
I know you will be forever in my life (in my life yeah)
Never gone from me
If there's one thing I believe (I believe)
I will see you somewhere down the road again
Never gone, never far
In my heart is where you are
Always close (always close)
Everyday (everyday)
Every step along the way
Even though for now we've gotta say goodbye (yeah yeah)
I know you will be forever in my life (in my life)
Never gone, never far
In my heart (in my heart is where) is where you are (you are)
Always close, everyday
Every step along the way
Never gone, never far
In my heart is where you are
Megan, Ed, Eddie, Aidan & Blake,
I was soo saddened to hear about Maria. She has touched so many people, and has taught us all lessons. Please know that Maria will guide you on this journey. The love of family & friends and especially Maria will give you the strength. Our pryers are with you and your family.
Anne Kurz
I am so sorry for your loss! My prayers are with your family. Maria was such a beautiful girl.
May Maria's strength and courage pass to you and your family to help you through this time.
"...Let the little children come to me. Don't keep them away. God's kingdom belongs to people like them. What I'm about to tell you is true. Anyone who will not receive God's kingdom like a child will never enter it."
Mark 10:14-15
What comforting words...
God Bless,
John and Amy Stipancich & Family, Davidson, NC
(friends of Betsy and Eric Kaiser)
Ed and Megan, I have an incredible story to share with you. Joining the thousands of others, our family has been praying for Maria. Our 21 year old daughter, Elizabeth is in Italy. Yesterday she was in Assisi. When she heard that Maria had left this earth, she began crying and said she would be joining, in spirit, those who would be praying the rosary in front of your house last night.
Elizabeth and her friend Danielle, walked around Assisi, praying a rosary for your family. When they were done praying, they heard music. Following the sound of the music, they discovered and entered a church that was different from all the other churches they had seen in Italy. It was old, but not Gothic looking...it was light and airy. They stayed in the church for a while and prayed, listening to the music.
On the way out of the church, they picked up a brochure and discovered that the name of the church was...."Santa Maria dei Angeli" Saint Maria of the Angels...
Just another affirmation that your precious Maria is singing with the angels today, and is resting in the loving embrace of God. Melissa Pillari
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your daughter Maria. What a beautiful and courageous girl. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God Bless!
www.caringbridge.org/visit/isaiahryangarza
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I never knew maria until my friend told me about her and even then I felt like she was a part of all of us. Maria is and will always be an ispiration to everyone that knew her story.
Justine
I am so sorry for your loss. You didn't know me, but I'm a friend of one of your neighbors, Liz Lancione, and I came across this website a couple of months ago and I always visit this website when I was on the internet. It was actually like I knew Maria, with all of the blogs you posted. She is so cute and she was really loved, but she's in a better place right now. We're all praying for you and your family.
McNamara Family,
We were very saddened to hear the news. However, we must rejoice that we were all touched by God's little ambassador from Heaven. Maria did more in her short time on earth than most people do in long lifetimes. Look at all the people that she got to pray and all the people that she taught to enjoy all the beautiful gifts from our Father no matter how simple. We truly believe this child was sainted. Please know that we will be praying for you all as you learn to relate to Maria in a new way. Thank you for sharing her with us. Maureen and Rick Bihn
jUST WANT TO SAY OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY NOW AND FOREVER..
So, so sorry about your beautiful little girl. I know Maria's grandmother Nancy from Fairview Hospital. My prayers are with you always. Take care of yourselves Ed and Megan and your boys. God is with you always.
hello,
my name is Alexis Setta. My dad is Scott Setta he said he went to school with the dad i believe. i didn't know about your daughter untill my cousin taylor told me. she is beautiful...I love you guys and i have you all in my prayers:)
Ohh. Terribly* sorry to hear the news. Atleast Maria was able to be on Earth this long. The way you talked about her made eveyone know what a blessing she was! I believe after someone passes that they are still with you. I never reffer to them in past tense for this reason. She will be your family's gardian angel watching from Heaven. My prayers are with you.
I am so very sorry to hear about Maria. I am the grandmother of Mila Phillips at the age of 2 1/2 lost her battle with a brain tumor. I want you to know that we truly feel your pain and our thoughts and prayers are with you as you go through this grieving process. I learned about Maria through myspace. She was as Mila was an angel here on earth.
Hugs to you and your family,
Sher Trafzer, Mesa Az
Dear McNamara Family,
We are so sorry for the loss of your sweet little Maria. We were so sad to hear of Maria's passing.
Our hearts go out to you at this most difficult time
Serena & Rob (Cameo's Mommy & Daddy)
We were very saddened to hear the news about Maria. Maria and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. May God bless all of you.
The Becker Family
Paul, Rhonda, Kylin and Nikolas
Dear McNamara family,
A loss this great is so unfathomable, as I lit the luminaria tonight on our street to honor the life that Maria led and to celebrate all she accomplished in such a short life, I prayed that you would truly feel God's presence with each breath you take. As you go through the motions of living over the next few days, weeks and months, I will be praying for God to make Himself more real. Her life was a miracle and although she is gone too soon, she lived it well and taught many what life is all about. You all are brave for sharing your hopes, fears and faith. God comforts those who mourn. All God's love be upon you in this time and forevermore....
Our thoughts and prayers are with Maria and your family during this difficult time. Know that Maria's story is an inspiration to us all, she was a very brave little girl.
May God bless your new guardian angel.
Kara Smith's Family
Ed and Megan,
There are no word that can comfort you at this difficult time. Please know that there are others who have journeyed with you, prayed for you, and cried with you having personally experienced the loss of a child. My Brian always said when learning of someone who had passed away from cancer-"they are now in heaven - happy, healthy and cancer free". I know he is cancer-free and now so is Maria, I hope his words help to ease your pain. She is up there with the other little children and will be waiting for you to join her. May God bless all of you.
I am so sorry to hear of your loss! Maria was a special little girl. Heaven certainly has gained another beautiful angel. I will continue to pray for your family for extra strength and comfort to get through these very difficult days ahead!
Sherry Allen-Princeton IL
Our family never met Maria, but my children attend Immaculate Heart of Mary, and were so touched by her. We felt we knew her and have been praying for her daily. We will continue to pray for your family and for strength to during this difficult time.
God Bless, The Koehler Family
We never met Maria but have been praying for her everyday. My children attend Immaculate Heart of Mary and we were touched by Maria in many ways. We are so srry for your loss and will continue to keep you in our prayers, and that God may help you to find strength during this difficult time. God Bless! The Koehler Family
God bless and keep you. I will be praying for your family every day, and I am sorry that I only was able to find out about little Maria after her passing... Her struggle is over now, and I truly believe she is at peace. May she watch over you all from her place on the side of Jesus.
What a blessing for Maria to have such a beautiful family that loves her so much. You have taught us all the meaning of faith and love through your writings. God bless Maria and your family today and always. You are in my prayers.
A Parable of Immortality
I am standing by the seashore.
A ship at my side spreads her white sails to the morning breeze
and starts for the blue ocean.
She is an object of beauty and strength,
and I stand and watch
until at last she hangs like a peck of white cloud
just where the sun and sky come down to mingle with each other.
Then someone at my side says, 'There she goes!
Gone where? Gone from my sight - that is all.
She is just as large in mast and hull and spar
as she was when she left my side
and just as able to bear her load of living freight
to the places of destination.
Her diminished size is in me, not in her.
And just at the moment when someone at my side says,
'There she goes! ' ,
there are other eyes watching her coming,
and other voices ready to take up the glad shout :
'Here she comes!'
May God bless Maria and your family.
-The Nead Family
The blessing of Maria has touched our family. Emma so enjoyed drawing and playing with Maria at school. Upon hearing that God had taken Maria, she said, "Maria is my friend... I know that she is having fun with God." The strength and faith that you have shown us all during this journey has been an inspiration. God Bless.
The Legeay Family
I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful little girl. It is sad that she has been taken so young. God placed her on this earth to touch and bless the lives of those around her and to show how to truly love and teach strength. May god bless your family through this painful trying time.
I was so sad to read this update this morning. What a wonderful daughter you have, you must be so proud. Justin and all the children were waiting for her arrival and they now can all play happily together, healthy and happy.
My prayers and support are with you all.
Jeff Bissett
father of angel Justin
Dear Megan and Ed and family, Our deepest and most prayerful sympathies to you. Your precious Maria is now in Heaven, seeing God for the first time, being held close by Jesus, dancing and being greeted by all the angels, and picking sunflowers from the Heavenly Gardens for Mother Mary! What a beautiful sight for little Maria. She is now "free"---from tumors, cancer, pain, and tears. She is now "Heavenly Free" to live as a child should be able to by soaring into the white puffy clouds while playing hide and go seek, catching butterflies near God's crystal and sapphire blue babbling brooks & streams, all the while being so loved by her Heavenly Father and her earthly parents, brothers, family,friends and the thousands of prayer warriors who will pray for all of you. Strength, love, peace and prayers to you now and forever. Rest in Peace Maria, so precious and so loved. With love from Deb, Geoff, Scott and Lizzy Goodfellow in Avon Lake.
Ed,Megan and boys,
I do not know you and have no idea how you must feel, nor words that can possibly do justice to what you're going through. I have three young children, so I know as a parent that you must have done all you could and be proud of that. I am praying for you to find strength now and meaning in years to come for wondering why God took Maria to heaven. What a beautiful girl and what special memories you have to keep. Lots of people are praying for you, and I'm sure she is watching you from above. Now live on like she'd want you to be. God bless. Ann WJ
Maria was such a beautiful girl. She had insppired so many people to not let anything hold you back. I look at her pictures from time to time and was amazed of how the beauty of God would shown through this girl. I could understand how much everyone close to her would miss her. Your family will be in my prayers and thoughts.
When I lost a close relative to bone cancer and then a month later, a dear friend died at 23 in a horrible car crash. I couldn't think through the hurt and pain so I remembered this scripture and HIS promise and I rest my faith on his truth to keep me going. (it's below)...
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. -Matthew 11:28
I have never met your angel Maria, yet I have learned so much from her and her family! Maria has touched my life. May God bless your family and carry you at this time. My deepest sympathy.
Jean, Avon Lake
We are so sorry for your pain, take comfort in knowing Maria, is now your special Angel. Please know we are praying for you and your beautiful family.
The Androsik Family
Dear McNamara Family:
My heart has been crushed by the news of Maria's passing to Heaven. I keep going back to the sites because it just can't be real. I have been so convinced that Maria was going to get her miracle. I have been following your family through the prayersfrommaria.org and prayersformaria.com. I have been so touched by the love, strength, and compassion your family has shown to everyone. No words can express how my heart aches for you. Please find strength to move forward. You are incredible people. Thank you for inspiring me to be a better person and parent. You have brought a whole community together in more ways than you could know. Thank you for sharing your life with us.
Dear McNamara Family-
Our hearts broke when we read your note but realize Jesus just needed her sweet face with him. She will do great things as she has done down here! We wish peace and hope to all of you as you continue on this journey. We never knew your daughter but the courage she had seemed tremendous! She made a difference in our lives and we will always remember her as the little girl who loved sunflowers and Jesus!
Dear Ed, Megan and family,
I am so very sorry to hear that your precious Maria has passed. Having traveled a similar path with our sweet little Allie who also died of a brain tumor at the age of 5, I know how intense the pain can be. Look for signs from Maria, they are truly amazing, and will help you to know that she is still with you. God bless your family and help you through this most difficult journey.
Sandy Cibulas
scibulas@aol.com
I am so sad for you. So sad that you all had to go through this, but glad that Maria is no longer suffering. I will pray that you can find the strength to live life the way that Maria would have wanted you to.
Dear Megan and Ed,
Words can not describe how sorry I am for your loss. I will continue to pray for your family everyday. Thank you for sharing Maria with us.
Jennifer(Craft)Denning
and Family
We are so very sorry to hear. Maria is a beautiful little girl and she will be with you forever in heart and soul. We will continue to pray for your family.
Love, The Scalise Family
Dearest friends,
I just read the sad news. No words - only tears. Maria was such a wonderful girl - a true God's flower. Our Katya and Maria never met here on earth, but they had so much in common and I am sure they are now playing and laughing together. And we will keep Maria forever in our hearts and prayers.
May God give you comfort.
Arkady Vaintrob,
uncle of angel Katya Polishchuk
avaintrob@yahoo.com
I cant even begin to tell you how sorry I am for your loss. Maria will live with happiness in Heaven. SHe will always be in my heart. I give you my best wishes. I would have never known about you unless my aunt, Christine Essig let me knw about your website. I would check it everyday and pray for you every night.
Good Luck.
Love,
Nina Koester
Dear McNamaras,
I am so sorry about the loss of your beautiful little angel. I cried last night in bed thinking about her, even though i never met any of you. Maria touched the lives of many. You guys should be thankful for the whole experience. I know I would, even though it would have been extremely hard. I'm so sorry. I wish I could be at her wake and funeral. My prayers are dedicated to Maria and you all. Just think, EVERYTHING happens for a reason. Now, Maria is in heaven with God, having a wonderful time.
God Bless,
A friend from North Olmsted
The angels danced with Maria as she entered into heaven. For all of us who have been blessed to have met Maria, she will remain in our hearts always. Megan and Ed, you are an inspiration to all of us, and Maria is the true miracle.
Love and God's blessings to give you the strength to meet each day,
Mary Jo
Whenever I saw Maria in the halls of St.Raphael or helping her in the art room she was always smiling and having fun with her friends.My thoughts and prayers will be with you always...
God Bless,
recent graduate of St.Raphael
Megan, Ed & Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you always.
Love,
Nina Varga & Family
I am so very sorry for your loss. We have never met, but I have followed your story since I heard about Maria from my sister-in-law. Thank you for sharing your faith in such a beautiful way. You are truly serving the Lord and giving a powerful witness to the world. God bless you all. May the Holy Spirit be present with you to bring you comfort and strength in the days ahead.
Joan Medina, Ohio
I offer my heartfelt sympathy for the loss of Maria, and yet I also know that you also can take joy in knowing she is no longer ill. Thank you for keeping us updated. My own little one is now 21 and I thank God each and every day that she is still with me.
Blessings to you and your family and friends. My prayers are sent to lift you up until the pain of your loss has time to heal.
I am so sorry for the pain you are feeling with your precious, adorable little Maria going to heaven. I know there are no words good enough, but I pray God's love and peace will surround you. We have never met, but I have read your entries, cried and prayed for Maria. She is just beautiful and lucky to be so loved by so many.
Linda S.
To the McNamara family, I don't know you but want to send my deepest condolences to all of you. I drove down Dover Center today and saw 100's of people standing outside St. Raphael and then realized why. Maria must have been an AMAZING little girl.
I have a sunflower seed packet sitting in the garage and am headed outside now to plant them in her honor.
Tracy Krepop-Quaiser (Rocky River)
St. Raphael graduate 1991
I was so sorry to hear the news. I didn't realize she was having problems. I don't know what to say. My heart is with you. You all have been such an inspiration to us.
Love, Gina (Brooke's mom)
Ed and Megan,
What a beautiful sight to see all the St. Raphael students paying tribute to Maria along the road, holding Sunflowers. Just goes to show how important your daughter was to the community and her school. May you find comfort in the days, weeks, months and years ahead. We will be praying for you.
We are thinking of and praying for your family.
With Sympathy,
Geoff and Emily Stover
I learned about Maria through Sophie's site and have followed Maria's journey. I am so very sorry for the loss of your precious little girl. Ah, but Maria is now dancing with the angels with no pain, no cancer, completely healthy. God bless you all.
I am sorry to hear about your loss. Know that she is in a better place with God now, where she isn't suffering. We are all praying for you, McNamara's.
God bless you.
You are in our thoughts and Prayers...
Deepest sympathy,
The Biggs family
W.P
Her beautiful angelic soul is now resting in peace... she will look over her siblings and parents always, waiting to finally one day reunite in Heaven. I feel like I knew you, little Maria, God bless you and all of your family forever. May God give your family strength to keep going forever... until you all meet again.
Maria is such an adorable young girl, and now her beautiful soul is in heaven with God, where she has no pain. Just remember Maria is so happy now. May God give your family strength to keep going, until you meet Maria in Heaven.
God Bless Maria, God Bless your family.
You guys (Mom and Dad) are amazing parents.
I am so sorry for your loss, Maria is such a special little girl - now she is a very special little angel. She will be watching over you and will be with you always. May your hearts be comforted by the many memories that you have of Maria. You will always remain in my thoughts and prayers. Your amazing strength throughout your ordeal has been such a testament to others. Thank you for all that you have done for so many people. May the knowledge that all of those people are thinking of you and your family and asking God to give you strenth provide you with comfort.
Continuing to pray to God to give you strength every day.
Dear McNamara Family,
I have been following your blog for several months and was terribly sorry to hear about Maria's death. I can only imagine the pain you are now going through, but I have been praying that God gives you all the strength you need. Maria was a beautiful little girl, and I hope you find it a comfort to know that she touched many lives throughout her short life and that her story will continue to touch the hearts of others. God Bless.
Ed, Megan, Eddie, Aidan and Blake,
We are continuing to pray to God to grant you the strength you need now and in the months ahead.
I am so sorry for your loss. Maria was obviously a dear child who will be missed by all who knew her. I hope you can take comfort in knowing that you will one day be reunited with her.
I notice sunflowers frequently now and say a prayer for the McNamara family.
You've been such a strong family. You're an inspiration to all of us. God chose your family, and your faith has shown through. May little Maria be at peace, with the rest of the angels. We will continue to pray for your family. I can't imagine your grief.
There are no words to tell you how sorry we are. My children go to school with Maria and we have prayed so hard for her every day. I prayed for her several times a day. I just wanted you to know that we are now praying very hard for you to have the strength you need to get through every day. Just know that you have so many people all over praying for you. God bless all of your family.
My heart is heavy with thoughts of your loss. I am so truly sorry. The only solice is that she is with God & he gazes on that beautiful face each day. The pain is gone & now only the joy of being with Jesus remains.
Many months ago, my 4 year old did a fund raiser for St. Jude's & we did it in Maria's honor. We will carry that on, that is our promise to you & Maria. I do not know you, yet feel like Maria will always in be in mind. I will be a better mother & cherish my 2 children, gifts from God. My prayers & tears are with you.
A friend
There is a beautiful song sung by Cece Winans called Don't Cry for Me, The words are so powerful and comforting. Remember when times are tough there are only one set of foot print's as GOD is carring you.
McNamara family,
Maria made our day every time we saw her great big smile in the hall passing by her. She took the time to say hello and it is so special of her to take that time to do that now more than ever.
We pray for you every day. Our greatest sympathy is with you guys. Just stay strong and remeber she is with you in every thing you do!!
Natalie Woisnet and KelseyO'Donnell
Still thining and praying for all of you. We are always here.
Rosaleen
Thinking of you today and praying that you are feeling the Lord's presence and peace in the midst of your devastating loss. You have come to mind so often since I heard of Maria's illness and it is so hard for me to understand how something so traumatic could possibly fit into His plan. Yet, we are called to have faith that His ways are higher than our ways, and so...My husband and I have prayed that your (and our!) faith in His goodness, sovreignty and love for you (and us!)is ever increasing. How fortunate we are to have the promise of eternal life in Christ Jesus. May you continue to find comfort, peace and hope in that promise during the years ahead. I cannot imagine the depths of your sorrow.
Lanee
My prayers are with you. I have not read the site in some time even though I knew of Maria's passing from the mentioning of it in Church and around the community. I decided to check the site today and thought I would post a comment. I have been going through a very difficult situation and have always had a strong faith. It has diminished a bit until I read the web site. Maria is still a constant reminder of God's love and will for us. I felt so re-energized with faith after reading all the blogs and thought..How neat is that..even a month or so after Maria's passing she is still affecting other people in a faith affirming positive way. I see Ed in church and amazed at the glow on your face after such a loss in your life. You are an amazing family truely blessed by the Lord Jesus. Your an inspiration to so many and I wish you all the peace the good Lord sends from heaven. Maria is smiling at all the good you do.
You are in my prayers.
A fellow Bay Villager
Still to this day Maria is an inspiration of God's Love for us and the power he carries his form of love out in. My faith has been re-energized from your faith. May God peace and love be with you each and every day!
Ed, Megan, and children ...
You are not forgotten. We pray and will continue to pray daily for your family.
The Ashtons
Your Westwinds neighbors
Maria and your family remain in my thoughts and prayers daily. You have all really touched my life.
Mr and Mrs McNamara-
I wrote this poem and I thought I would share it with you. It is called See You Again. I wrote it while thinking of little Maria.
To see you again.....
I would shoot through the sky and past the blue jays
Into space, just to see your face.
I would run a million piles
And through a trillion piles
of dirt and mud
Just to see you bud.
Forever and together
Floating like a feather
Together or apart
You'll always be in my heart.
I'll do all of these things just to see you again.
I loved Maria and I know she was loved by many other people too. That poem stands for all of us. We would love to see her again.
Love always!
Maggie Lehr
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