Hi Bryce and Tammy,

I'm happy to see your post tonight and to see you two are hanging in there. I love your idea of paying it forward. My youngest daughter, who will be 27 in two days, was born with severe heart anomalies. She had 7 open heart surgeries by the time she was 8 years old. When she was 10 it was determined she needed a heart/double-lung transplant & she went on the waiting list for almost two years. Here we are 14 years later and she's doing fine, although she required a kidney transplant in 2001 from years of anti-rejection meds. Her dad gave her one of his. From all the time we spent in hospitals when she was little we saw how desperate they were for toys so every year we would have our kids (we have three) gather their toys together that they no longer played with and we would all take them to the hospital for the pediatric patients. It was really good for my other two kids to see how the sick kids were so happy to have "new" toys to play with. It was a great learning experience for my kids and and a win-win for everyone.

As a side note, we were told when our daughter was born in October of 1980 that she would not live until Christmas of that year. I'd like to point out that it is now 2007 and she will be getting married this December 29th. Never ever give up hope, and never under estimate the power of a person's will to live!! :)

Tammy and Bryce,
Mike and I would love to come up to the club house on Sat. Mike feels horrible that he couldn't play in the golf tournament so I'm sure he's like to come and visit. We are going into ARUP in the morning to donate blood so it would be awesome to come and see Bryce. If there is anything we can do to help or if there is anything we can bring please let us know. I love it when you post while I'm at work. I let all of my friends here know and we all read it together. One of my co-workers is going in today to get some moles checked. After reading Bryce's story he noticed that some of his moles have gotten white rings around them and wouldn't have thought to get them checked. One more person that you've motivated to go to the doctors. You're doing a wonderful job and I pray for you always. I love the picture of Bryce. Still happy and waving!!
Love you three tons!!!
Teri

Bryce and Tammy,

I couldn't get my day off and running today without letting you both know once again how much I love and appreciate you. I am ever amazed at what you are doing and the way you going about it. You are an inspiration to so many people. You are stronger than you think and loved by more than you can imagine. I will check in later. In the words of Bill and Ted, "Be excellent to each other."

Bishop B

We'll be thinking of you and praying for you as we travel and watch General Conference. Now that we know who they are, we'll be watching for Tammy's parents singing with the Mo-Tabs. I love Conference. What a blessing it has been to get to know the two of you, little Danika (sp?), and your extended families. You have enriched my life by your examples. I pray for you and all of your family members. It may be cold and stormy outside today, but I carry a warm thought of you in my heart. Love, Mimi B.

Dear Tammy & Bryce:

Just wanted to say that I continue to be amazed at the strength and love you both demonstrate. I am praying for you all and your beautiful little girl. I hope that today is a good day, pain free and joyfull. You two are obviously very special people. Hang in there Bryce - praying for a miracle.

Janice (MPIP - Stage 2(b))
New Hampshire

You're both an inspiration as well as all those who have stepped forward to support your family. If anyone deserves it, though, it's certainly you.

I second Roger's comments, "Be excellent to each other."

Jer

Tammy & Bryce,
Hi again from Nauvoo. Tammy, I want you to know that you are your parent's daughter! You come from a family that "invented" pay-it-foward in my opinion. Your grandfather was my first bishop when I joined the Church. How good your family has been to me through the years! I can see that Bryce, too, matches your strength and love. We are praying for that miracle for your special family.
Elder & Sister Clark

Bryce, You look great! You have touched so many lives. I think we are all paying it forward in little ways. Just by realizing how precious life really is. Thanks for your examples.
I think we need to do fundraiser 5Ks. With melasuckanoma shirts. It's probably getting too late in the year, but next year and every year. I ran one in WB this last month that raised $15,000. It was such an amazing feeling to be all together running for the same cause...Tammy you can understand, after doing the breast cancer walk/runs, right? Anyway just a quick idea. Also, wouldn't it be cool to get together once a year to make cool things for the kids in the hospitals, like the blanket they gave Dani or cute little puppets. Or even something for the MPIP families or kids? Just a few quick thoughts!
Hope you have an awesome day. People love you. I wish I was golfing today.
love
brenda

Greetings! Just checking in to let you know that we're all still thinking about you and Bryce and Dani countless times each day. We keep track of things through your Dad, of course, but I just wanted to say Hi. I have always said that you are an amazing woman (long before any of this happened) And Bryce's strength and courage are nothing short of inspiring. And I mean that sincerely. The way your little family is dealing with this crisis is giving a lot of people pause to think about their own lives and reltionships. It's making us think about our priorities and what really matters at the end of the day. Thanks again. Hope you have an uneventful day. (yea, right) Love, Karen

Bryce and Tammy,
You are both such an insiration to me. I am contantly amazed by how you both refuse to wallow in the struggles and challenges that have been presented to you. Your positive outlook is heartwarming. I check you site every day to see what is happening. It was so great to see a picture of Bryce smiling this morning when I checked it. Keep the hope! Suzie and I pray for you both every day.

Nathan

Tammy & Bryce-
You both are so strong and amazing! I haven't posted anything in a while but I haven't forgotten about you for a second! We are still fasting and praying for your family. Dani is so cute. The pictures of her are so fun. I'm trying to track down a picture that I know will make the two of you laugh. Tammy- do you remember when we came to Portland and we went shopping at the mall? We all tried on silly hats and I took a picture of it. I'll try to find it today and email it to you. Wish I lived closer to visit you guys...Take care and Bryce, eat your from your snack bin!!

Just when I think you have nothing more you could say or do to still be uplifting, you prove me wrong. Tammy you are an amazing women, Bryce is so lucky to have you as a support to keep fighting the fight. Its so easy to forget the little things of service we can do for others everyday, I will do more to day, and everyday just because you said so. Thats great so many people signed up to go golf, I hope the weather holds out, then again its for Bryce I have a feeling people don't care what the weather is like. You two are so incredible in this time of trail. I hope we can all become more like the two of you and never give up whatever our chalanges may be. We love you and will always pray for a miracle.

Nick, Ashlan, Kennadee, Ryker

Tammy and Bryce,
We think about you every day and lots of our friends are asking about you as well. I hope you enjoyed the pictures of family with our wristbands. We were just in the redwoods of California. There was a HUGE redwood that had been burned. It was up in the air about 100 ft. All burned, except there was a new tree growing up out of the top of it. HOPE! We can all have hope that we will have help in the times we need it. You have had an incredible outpouring of love. It's wonderful what small things can do to bring about big things. We love you!
Rolayne and Kent

Tammy and Bryce,

Let me tell you that Jeff hates, I repeat hates to go to the doctor. (But then again what guy doesn't.) But because of you Jeff is getting his annual physical done this month and will also be getting his moles checked. When Jeff and I lived in California, Jeff worked for a parking lot striping company. Everyday he would be out there working in the hot California sun on black asphalt with NO SUNSCREEN ON!!!! It makes me cringe just thinking about it. Jeff is the type that burns maybe once and then gets a nice tan. (Italian bloodlines) Now he makes sure that he cakes on that sunblock when he goes out to work or play in the sun. Thank you so much for that!!! It was a major wake up call for him. I will also be getting checked myself. (Fair-skinned, burns easily and always went to the tanning salon before prom! Yikes!) You both have made a great impact on our lives. We love you so much and admire your strength and love. I know our Heavenly Father is with you every step of the way comforting you and blessing you. Clearly it shows with all the love and support you have around you. We only wish we could be there too! Jeff is hoping he can make it out to Salt Lake soon and will definitely be making time to visit! Tammy, thanks for keeping us updated. I love reading your blogs! You really should write a book :) You are such an amazing pillar of strength! I can't imagine having that much strength and being faced with the things you are. Bryce, I have always loved you sense of humor and your great big smile. I can see how much you love Tammy and Dani and has to be one of the sweetest loves I have ever known. Keep fighting buddy. We are behind you all the way!!

Lots of love and blessings,
Jeff, Cassie, Ayanna, and Celeste

Tammy, Bryce and Dani
Just wanted to let you know that people in Canada are thinking of you and praying for Bryce. Through your words here and your postings on MPIP, I feel like I know you all. Bryce WILL be the 1%. Keep kicking Mel's butt!
Krista
Victoria BC, Canada
(kwakri on MPIP)

Dear Tammy, Bryce, and Dani,

I *so* very much enjoyed meeting you last night, and getting to spend a couple hours capturing your cute little family!

Thank you for the bracelet and the yummy truffles! (I see that you, Tammy, are just as sneaky as Julie!) :)

Take care,
Jessi Stringham

Hi Bryce:

I just wanted to let you know you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I always appreciated how you didn't mind the little brother was taggin' along again. Many of my childhood memories go hand in hand with you. Whether it is soccer or baseball, to driving me to pick up a friend when my own brother wouldn't. It meant a lot. You truly have a beautiful family.

Aaron

I think you've found you're new calling in life Tammy, Inspirational Speaker! I feel so inspired and uplifted reading your posts. Bryce you're looking good, although you might not feel that way! The pics you post are always fun and Dani is soooo cute! Take care you guys and I hope you can just snuggle up and enjoy Conference together this weekend!
Love, Daisha

Bryce

I just wanted to let you know that your family is in our prayers. I called Jen to see how you were doing and she referred me to your web site. Please let us know if we can do any thing. I consider your family my second family. Hope all is well, take care.

Anna

Dear Bryce and Tammy,
What a wonderful thing--to think of what can be done for others when you're in the midst of your own challenge. Thanks for the reminder. A woman I know buys stuffed toys and keeps them in her car to donate when she sees a police officer or member of the fire department because they often meet traumatized little ones who desperately need something to hug. The Saints in Medford Oregon, Birmingham Alabama, and Ogden Utah are praying for you, and Mom and I are too. I hope you're both able to snack and nap often.
Love,
Marian and Sally

That picture is a visual expression of how you both have handled this situation. Waving and smiling through incredible pain and discomfort. You both have stayed so positive through this horrible trial.

I know one way of great service is to donate new or gently used stuffed animals to police stations. They often are getting little children out of abusive or dangerous homes, and it is hard for the children to be pulled away from their home and family. The police try to soften this by giving them a stuffed animal. That is one way to pay it forward. It is great that you have put a positive spin on this and you both are determined to help stop this monster known as mela-sucka-noma. Keep up the spirits! We are praying hard for you!!

-Stephen and Brittani Martin

Tammy,

It is so great to read the new posts every day. And I love reading other people's comments too. They are so uplifting. I am sorry Bryce is in so much pain. I wish I could take it away.

I was thinking about your question and I have to say that part of the service that I get each month through visiting teaching, or simply through associations at church does so much to warm my heart. I know that the visting teacher who visits me and talks with me truly cares about me and it makes a difference in my life. I must say the same thing for my home teacher. He has created a real friendship with our family and we appreciate his service to us each month.

I know that on a larger scale some people who have touched my life have been complete strangers. A stranger gave my daughter Rebecca a beany baby when she was 2 months old in ICU at Primary Children's hospital. Other strangers donated quilts which covered my baby each day. They were washed and she got someone else's love blanket each day for 2 months. Sometimes they changed it twice a day. The infant blankets only last about 3 months I was told because all of the washing they need to go through to sanitize them. So, they are always in need of them. Having all of my family in Seattle during that time made it very difficult and lonely. Those blankets were a reminder of the love the Savior had for her. I am sure the hospitals could use a regular supply of those blankets. And it meant so much to me as her mother.

I think that one of the joys of coming together on a larger scale for service is that it makes all of our own problems seem to disappear for the moment. We receive joy in helping someone else relieve their pain, even if it is only for seconds.

Neighbors have given service countless times to our family in a spontaneous way. Those are acts of service that will never be forgotten and have influenced our family for the better.

We all have family and friends afflicted with many different diseases or difficulties. It would be great to have periodic 5 k walks or runs for those. Wouldn't it be great to walk or run for someone we know? (Tee shirts are still an option for anyone out there who wants to do that! :) )

It would also be great to really listen closely during Conference weekend and write down the thoughts that come to us in answer to the service question. If we read the scriptures and apply them to our lives, we can follow the Savior's example and reach out to those who have heavy burdens.

When we go to church on Sunday, we recommit ourselves when we take the sacrament to always remember the Savior. When we relieve burdens during the week, we are living the gospel as it was intended.

Tammy, YOU ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE! Thank you for your positive and funny outlook during this challenging time....(and look into the motivational speaking idea someone else had!)

Love,
Barbara

Tami, Bryce and Dani,

This it the old "Shae Marsden" and the new "Shae Featherstone." Tami, I really haven't seen you since you and Holly would give Steff and I makeovers to make the awkward Jr. High stages a little better (or worse...we didn't know the difference. We trusted everything you guys said or did). I also remember watching "IT" with Steff and hearing your recorded voice from behind the couch whispering Steff's name.
Anyway, I am over at my mom's house today and she showed me your webpage. I found out about Bryce's cancer a couple of months ago. I am amazed that you are still fighting so strong. I could really feel both of your strength through your words. I could feel your love for each other too. Love is so strong. Even though I don't know you both that well, I wanted to tell you that your story gives me faith in my uncertain future. Jon (I married the third Featherstone boy in December) and I are expecting a baby in a couple of days, weeks....anytime really. The suspense is killing us! I can't wait to have this baby. At the same time I know that Jon and I will go through many trials with our kid(s) and we have no idea what they will be. I know you two were never expecting the dish you've been dealt. I can't imagine all the medical things you are learning. Tami, you could probably pass the test to be a certified nurse by now.
I just know that the Lord will sustain Jon and I and our new little girl if we stay strong like you three have. Thank you for your testimonies that come through in what you have written.
I hope our baby is as cute as Dani!!!

Love, Shae

Hi Bryce, Tammy and Dani,
Thank you for the warm and positive post about love, friendship, and service. Your words are just energizing and make me wonder and hope to help do some wonderful things! I just admire and adore how friendly and positive you all are. Thank you for being willing to share such informative posts - it is truly appreciated. And I can't wait to see your new pictures (P.S. - did you ever get to download the pic of Bryce on the 'jazzy'?).
Love and Hugs all around! - Natalie

Tammy, I just decided what you can do to make even more of a difference. Everyone tells you that you should be a writer or write a book or be an inspirational speaker. Well...what if you combined all of those and wrote a children's book about wearing sunscreen so that you can catch the kids attention and instill in them the importance of doing so. Sounds like your the perfect one to do this. You and Bryce can write one together. It will give you something more to do while lying there in bed snuggling. Bryce, it's been fun getting to know you through all of your friends messages. What a guy! Also ,HI, to all of the family out there. It's great to see you posted. Tons of love, and hugs, and kisses, and prayers from Aunt Wendy

Hey there to the most favorite family-
Just wanted you to know that I religiously check the blog and enjoy the beautiful expressions from Tammy. You have a gift of sharing and helping people feel like they are part of your lives and an important part at that! I am amazed at how generous you are at such a trying time in your lives. I think of you each and every day. Your faces fill my mind, heart, and prayers. Thanks to all those who are going to golf tomorrow morning. I will be thinking warm thoughts of you as I am at Brady's football game. I'll be there in spirit. And hopefully none of us become ice sculptures! The army stands behind you all the way and we will never give up the fight. Keep smiling and forging ahead. You are loved.
kristin smith

Hi Bryce and Tammy. This is Sister Jyl Marsden from Mueller Park 10th ward and I just found out about your website and got on it today and showed my daugher Shae also. I think she already commented on this site. I want you to know that you have been in our prayers continually since we heard about Bryce's recurrence of cancer. I keep both your names on the prayer roll at the temple as I'm sure many others do too! I know you are in this together and what an inspiration you both are as I read your updates. We love you and know that the Lord is mindful of both of you and your darling little girl! May he help you through this most difficult refiner's fire. Keep the faith and continue to love each other and the Lord! The Marsden Family

Brown Ryce and Tammy,

It was great to see you guys today. That golf tourney was a ton of fun. I really enjoyed seeing you and hearing Bryce crack a joke or two. I look forward to dropping by sometime next week. Would you be able to shoot me your email address so I can set a time to do so? Again, thanks for letting me take part in a great thing today. It was honor to be there amongst so many great people. I think the most fun I have had in awhile was using Hadley, Jerd and Cody (easiest to hit) as a target from about 180 below the 13th tee box.

You two are an inspiration and a reminder of what we are put on this earth to do - love one another.

Talk to you soon!

-Alex

Hey Guys,
Bryce I waved back but you probably couldn't see it very well. So I have to share a quick Mommy story with you. Today I took my oldest guy, Zachery (he looks just like me, red hair fair skin, cute as a button) to a field hockey game that his Kindergarten teacher was coaching. Well from where I parked we had to walk close to half a mile to get to the field. Now with all the surgeries I have had and 16 clips holding my chest together and the "cough" I have had since April my breathing has not been all that good lately. Ao Zachery and I are walking and he starts saying "Mommy, isn't it just wonderful how God gives us these pretty leaves to look at and the sunshine and the air?" I said "Yes Zach it sure is" and then he said "Mommie, isn't it nice that GOD is taking care of you and grandma and Tammy Bryce and Bryce Bryce (That's what he calls you guys and wait it get's better ) and baby Dani Bryce?" And just at that moment I had to stop and take a rest against the fence because I just couldn't breathe anymore, I whispered "Yes Zachery it's very nice". He held my hand while I stood there with my knees bent pretty much gasping to air while others walked by and he said "It's okay mommie I got your hand and GOD is right here with us he will make sure you are okay.." So Zachery leaned up against me so I could rest and he grabbed me out a water from the bag I had and when I was ready we finished our walk to the field. We had a fun time at the game but the best part..... Is that I am STILL HERE TO HAVE THIS DAY WITH HIM!!! Even if it took me an hour to walk to the field!!!
Tomorrow we have a big Melanoma walk here in town in honor of a girl that lost her battle her name Kelli Gollat.
Have fun at the Golf outing and Tammy know that I am thinking of you!!!
Peace and Love,
Your Friend,
Christine

Dear Bryce and Tammy,
Your ideas are awesome and inspiring! I think that out of "small things proceedeth that which is great" and doing small good things each day will truly change the world for the better! I have always admired my co-workers who have gone on Operation Smile missions, but I think there are plenty of things to do locally to make a difference also. You are making a difference to a lot of people, including me (and yes, because of you I am going to get my questionable moles checked).
I just happened to turn to a page in our family photo album which shows Bryce at our son's birthday party (Jason) doing "heavy, heavy hang over.." with his gift - fun times on Leslie Ave! Jason is a foot doctor in Evanston now and says to say Hi and he is praying for you. Aren't there just a lot of great people out there! Love, Ann LeVitre

Did you hear about the guy born with two left feet?

He went out one day to buy some Flip Flips...

The room was full of pregnant women and their partners. The Lamaze class was in full swing. The instructor was teaching the women how to breathe properly, and informing the men how to give the necessary assurances at this stage of the plan.
"Ladies, exercise is good for you," announced the teacher. "Walking is especially beneficial. And, gentlemen, it wouldn't hurt you to take the time to go walking with your partner!"
The room was very quiet. Finally, a man in the middle of the group raised his hand.
"Yes?" asked the instructor.
"Is it all right if she carries a golf bag while we walk?"

I have only recently learned of your story. I only know Tammy from phone calls regarding work. I find your story very touching and just reading your blogs and seeing pictures you guys demonstrate the true meaning of love and faith in God. You have a beautiful daughter. She has bright blue eyes that could move mountains. And with the love that she sees from her parents I am sure one day she will. I continue to pray for your continued strength and courage. Wishing you the best. I will continue to check in on your progress. And Tammy I give you so much credit for how hard you care for your family as well as the enthusiasm you show just when I speak to you on the phone. I can always hear determintation in your voice. And now I understand why. Keep your heads up! Miracles do happen. And love your daughter with all your heart and soul! Best wishes, Jen

Bryce and Tammy,
You are both inspirational. I have remembered your situation on many occasions and been able to change my attitude as I think of your positive and hopeful out look. Tammy, Bryce is so lucky to have you, it is so obvious you are a rock of strength. Our family will continue to pray for you and will make bigger efforts to share the love and pay it forward! Bryce, hang in there friend.

I'll admit it, I used to check your blog every morning to see if there was any bad news. Now, because Bryce is INCREDIBLE, I look forward to reading about the miracle of life-there is a reason we are here!?! So, at night when my daughter is tearing apart the house and screaming that she hates me...I am more likely to to remember how lucky I am that she is here with me and how I wouldn't trade her for anything. I think of you often-only good voodoo thoughts!! My voodoo doll has actually been in my car lately...Helps me deal with the crazy Utah male drivers!!! Let's all pray for Ohio...since one crazy Utah male driver (Briggs) has ended up there.

Bryce & Tammy and Dani,

I'm so grateful that the weather held out for your wonderful golf tournament. I'm thankful also for the weather because it kept a couple of avid hunters on the golf course on friday.
One of them hit his first hole of a lifetimem, even though they came in last!! They had a great time and also has a special experince being there with your family and friends. Both of you are such a amazing example of courage and strength. Tammy, I also see many books in your future your writing talents amaze me. The one I look forward to "buying" and reading to my grandkids is "The Daddy Dance" book. I see it on the shelves already!! Your family is always in our prayers and thank you for making us better people by getting to know you through your trials. Your influence encourages us all to "pay it forward" and to Love one Another. Thank you again because this is something we all really need in our lives.We have a lot of common friends and soon family. Our thoughts and prayers are constantly with you.

T & B,

You know my thoughts. I'll see you all in Africa.
Love to you all
R

Dear Bryce and Tami,

Thank you for the effort to keep up up to date with your journey. We realize time is precious and we would have you know that we love you and pray daily that your time as a family can be filled with peace, comfort and times of happiness.

Bryce, I've been saving two of my favorite memories of you for a day when things on the blog seemed a little slower. Thankfully I haven't found that day lately.

Do you remember me waking you up when you where about ten years old and dragging you though out the house looking for smoke? I just couldn't figure out how come you couldn't see it. It was down at the end of that very dark hall. I think that you thought I was crazy. It still makes me laugh to think how it was just my sunburned eyes. What a funny lesson about perception.

My other story involving Bryce happened while we worked together at the Bubble. Bryce was not the most diplomatic of employees at times, so seeing a man charging down the pool deck yelling at Bryce struck me more as funny than alarming. The next thing I know Bryce is swimming to the middle of the deep end reasoning I think, that if the man was going to fight him he like his odds better in the deep end of the pool.

Lest, I leave my memories incomplete, I will add my thoughts about Bryce of the mature years. Bryce, you have always been the favorite when my children where just little. I think that they, like I just sensed your kind and loving heart. It has always been so easy to hug you, so share laughter and fun. Know that my heart breaks at your struggle, but I take courage at you determination and pray that this fight works out as well as you tactic in the deep end. Please live to fight another day!
All of our love,
Lynne & Paul, Madison, Abby, Bry and Lizzy

Hey Bryce, Tammy, and Dani,
It's Kimberlee from Dr Isotopes office! I want to thank you for the opportunity I have gotten to know each of you from the short time in the office and also by getting to read your wonderful blog. You are all truly an inspiration to me! Your smiles brighten my day! You are all just so sweet and special! And your cute little Dani... She is just darling! I hope the golf tournement turned out well! You have influenced so many people. I'm so glad Bryce that you are setting goals and achieving them everyday! Keep smiling and achieving those goals... and enjoy the basket of treats Bryce that Tammy has put together for you! It all sounds yummy and "healthy!!" Loves to the entire family... Kimberlee

Bryce and Tammy,
Marion gave me one of your "We're Killing Cancer" bracelets at the Tabernacle today and I have been so impressed reading your blog. Hopefully many of the Conference messages gave you comfort and peace. You are obviously well loved by so many and admired by all the rest of us that don't even know you! We will add you to our prayers, of course for a miracle, but definitely for your continued grace and faith in the face of this huge challenge. Sincerely, Fay Croxford, Tab Choir Friend

Tammy and Bryce-
I dont really even know you, but I am a friend of Steffs, I met you once at her house. I just wanted to tell you guys that you sound like such a strong couple and family and as weird as this sound i think about you guys a lot and what you are having to go through. But you are in my prayers and I will continue to pray for you ...
Jenny

Hey Bryce,
It's one of your Old BOB's coming to you.
I've been watching and reading your Web page for the past month now. You don't know how much your story has strengthened the love I have for my own family. I hope you read this and know I forgive you for stealing my hat that one night back in '97.HANG IN THERE!
-Braden, Michelle(wife) Jonah(son)

Bryce and Tammy,

We pray for you daily and you are constantly in our thoughts. We love you. I am getting over this cold and hope to be able to come by in the next day or two. Please know that we are so impressed with your strength, courage and faith. See you soon.

John Barlow

Bryce,
I wished that I could have been at the golf course on Friday. Dad said that a ton of people were there. It would have been great to be there and play - I am getting better since the last time we played last spring. Anyway, I think that I will fill in a few details that Lynne forgot about the large man with the beard, tattoos, steel toed boots, and armless t-shirt. I was sitting on the lifeguard chair and I remember seeing him come out of the dressing room as he headed down the deck and thought to myself I think I will let this go. The policy at the time was that you could not wear street clothes on deck. Anyway, in your defense the mans son had thought that you were pushing his head under as he swam by when the reality of it was you put your hand in front of his head so that he wouldn't swim into your 5 year olds - as you were teaching them how to do triple front flips off the diving board. Bryce, I have had many memories with you from swimming lessons when we were young to tennis ball wars at Town and Country to visiting you in NYC. We miss you and I wish this cough would leave me. I check the page daily to see how things are going hope to see you soon.

Bryce & Tammy---

Keep fighting the good fight! You are both so strong, and miracles do happen! I keep praying for a big one for you both.

Bryce, we'll be at the Nafem Show this week, and I know many people will ask about you. We'll expand the prayer circle and refer them to your blog. I know you will offer more inspiration to more people.

God bless you both!

Tedde

Hi guys!

Its been awhile since I posted!. It is so awesome to see you guys chugging along. Tammy, I am so happy you put the post with doing a service towards our fellow neighbors. I couldnt agree more. Being unemployed for a month has led me to do more service for my family and friends than ever. To me service for others gains points for spiritual karma(thats what I thrive on currently). When did you want me to bring that cake. I can cook really well, too. I want to make Bryce a Mango Lassi(fortified with something that has an added booster!)You guys are within me, Scotts, Rexi's, and suzie's hearts! We are going to put up our tibetan prayer flags up for your family today! I love you guys and hope to come over and visit very soon.

Sammy

Doorway and Tammy,
Just wanted to drop you a note to let you know how thankful I am for your site. It lifts me up each time I read it. It makes me stronger.

I am the new Relief Society President in our ward and there are days that I feel like I don't have what it takes to move forward. All I have to do is read your journal and I am instantly spiritualized. I realize I'm in this position for a reason and I need to give it everything I've got. Suddenly things are not such a "Big Deal" any more and I have the power to do the best I can for whoever I need to do it for. Tammy, you are so correct when you say "Service is Love". I witness that every day in this position. Service makes you feel good and does nothing but uplift you. Your feeling of "love" is so much stronger when you do for others. Your journal is as uplifting to me as General Conference. Even more because I have had the opportunity to know you.
We have a woman in our ward that just found out she has liver cancer. This community came together and had a benefit in her behalf. They had a carnival in beautiful downtown Lyman. (All of about 2000 people.) They had a cake walk, dunking tank, bake sale, dinner, auction, entertainment etc. It is rumored that they raised around $11,000 in one night. This community really comes together when someone is in need. When I first moved here they were having a benefit for someone and I watched this community do it's thing. It was amazing to me. I must admit that I thought to myself, if anything ever happens to me, I kinda want to be here where they all come together and give so much support. But I didn't know anyone then. I didn't know anyone in this ward when they put me in as the RS Pres. I was scared. How do I choose my counselors? I have made it a goal to meet every sister on the roll. I am about 18 short of that right now and still working on it. I was put in 4 months ago. I kinda was hiding out when I moved here but no longer and that is ok. I'm very happy to get to know all of these nice people.

I went to a family party this weekend in SL and I felt myself smiling more, listening more, hugging more and saying "I love you" more and I owe it to you. Thank you.

Doorway, I'm sure you know how blessed you are to be surrounded by so much love. I only hope I can be half the person Tammy is if faced with similar circumstances. Keep up the fight and stay strong. I'm praying for you every day. I love you.
Step Stool

Hi Bryce and Tammy,

This website you've got is awesome and the history just shows how strong you are, your beautiful personalities and how much everyone loves and cares for you. We do too.
Momma LeVitre has been keeping me posted for a while and my heart goes out to you with the pain you have to endure. I see many people suffering nerve pain in their legs, so I hope you get some relief some how.

I've been reminiscing on our childhood days from both neighborhoods we lived in together. I recall swimming in your back yard in Salt Lake (you must have been 5). I cherish the time we went snowmobiling aroung yellowstone with you and your family (you were the more experienced snowmobiler).
I remember running around our neighborhood creating havoc and trying to be the craziest bike rider down the hill- I still have scars to show for it. How frustrated I would get when Bryce was the best baseball player in the circle and yet he was the shortest one of the bunch...boy how things changed! I only stand 6' (and 1/2 inch, woo hoo!) compared with Bryce's towering stature- who would've ever anticipated that. You always did have the best play-set in the neighborhood (like a park) and that was fun- thanks for sharing. I felt like a for a few years we kind of drifted apart; that was childish foolishness on my part (sorry). I still attempt to play sports like golf and basketball, enjoy them, but I still don't play very well. So, if we're ever on the golf course together...watch your HEAD! (btw, you'll be seeing an old picture soon of you giving me a heavy-heavy hangover on my head at a B-day party- boy time flys doesn't it)
Remember when we played football in Jim Ward's back yard and I got clotheslined and nearly (or really) broke my nose; blood flying everywhere. That was hillarious. My nose has been crooked ever since.
btw, thanks for coming to our wedding reception- that was one of the highlights of my reception. Also, just want you to know, I go on binges too: currently it's getting into snowmobiling this winter, YEAH!

Anyway, It would be nice to see you and your beautiful family soon. I'm up here in Evanston, WY running a busy podiatry practice and it's going swell and our 3 kids love it here (school is great, friends etc).
Hang in there. I've been preaching frequent skin screenings for years, ever since working closely with a military dermatologist.
You have our prayers and our love. The Lord loves you and your family very much.

Your Friend,
Jason

Tammy,

Back in August I had a strong feeling that I needed to organize a fund to "give back" to Make-a-Wish for another child. The day before Thanksgiving will be the 2 year anniversary of Luc's Make-a-Wish. I am organizing the "Grateful Giving" fund. I have called it that because I have so much to be grateful for; over a year of reprieve from treatment, a beautiful family, the necessities of life, a knowledge of the gospel and a strong testimony of it, a strong and valiant son, etc. We all have so much to be grateful for, no matter our circumstances, and because we are grateful we want to give to others. I want to help make someone else's life brighter. I know when Luc received his wish it was such a light in a very dark time. I will be collecting donations up until his surgery on Nov. 15th and hope to be able to present the donations to Make-a-Wish the day before Thanksgiving. This also is giving us a positive, proactive feeling at a time when it would be easy to feel helpless. Thanks for your encouragement. We can all make a positive difference in the lives of others. After all, isn't that why we are here?!

Marley

Dear Bryce and Tammy,

Hi, you don't know me, I'm someone's sister from your ward family. I laughed hysterically at your description of the shower seat at the foot of your bed. When our Mom was recovering from chemo and surgery because of metastatic breast cancer, we found great peace and solace in laughter, even under the most serious of situations. I'm so glad that you are able to find moments to laugh, moments to cry, moments to pray and moments to share. The clarity in Bryce's eyes is amazing. The light that I see in all of your eyes is a glimpse into who you are, and I am strengthened by it.
Sincerely,
Hayde Harris

How much we loved reading the updates from the past few days. You are so great to keep this site up-to-date. Dani is so adorable and Bryce, you look so good! We are so sad that you have been suffering with pain in your leg, among other places.
We have a good? golf story--but perhaps you have already heard about the man that was ALWAYS coming home late because of his golf games. His wife had had it and told Bill if he came home late one more time because of golf, she was "outta-there". Well--as you might expect, it did happen again, and all too soon. Bill drove up to see his wife, with bags packed, leaving the house. "Wait,wait" cried Bill, "if you'll just listen to what happened! It was a terrible, terrible thing! Fred and I were on the 10th hole and Fred had a heart attack and died!--so you can see why I was so late--from that point on it was, 'hit the ball and drag Fred, hit the ball and drag Fred...'" Well--that probably wasn't worth reading, but you asked for jokes; you didn't say they had to be good.
Please know that we are so uplifted by both of you and your commitment to each other, the fighters that you both are--which has truly spured us all on, making us feel that miracles DO happen and the Lord truly is extending your life. We continue to ask Him for more miracles in your lives. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your lives and part of this process. We think you are both fantastic people and are so blessed to have the tremendous devotion of each other, as you so readily know and recognize.
With our love and prayers, Mel & Linda Reeves

Never Never Never give up you guys can pull through just look at how far you have come and how many hearts and people that you have touched!!!!! you guys are wonderful parents to that so cute baby Dani. I still keep you in my heart and prayers we all love you soooooo much. please call if I can do anything for you I would love to take that baby Dani anytime day or night just call!!!!!! lots of love and luck
Laurie

Just wanted to let you know I was thinking of you all.Bryce you look great !! You are a trooper... Miss you! Iam sorry to hear your pain is so bad I hope you feel better soon.I have so many Mrs Fields customers ask how you are doing and ask me to let you know they are thinking of you!You have so many friends around the world praying for you.

Susan w

My name is McCall and I am a family friend of the Brown's. I am in Jerusalem right now on a study abroad and there is a girl in the program with me whose story I would like to share with you. She was born with a problem with her legs and feet for which she has had to have 10 surgeries in an attempt to repair the difficulties she experiences. This May she went in for another surgery but complications arose and she fell very ill. The doctors told her parents to start planning her funeral because she would not make it. Now here she is, just a few months later, and she is on a study abroad in the Holy Land, fulfilling her dream, alive and no longer even in need of a wheelchair. The reason I tell you this story is to let you know that there is ALWAYS hope! No matter what anyone tells you, you CAN beat the odds and you can fulfill your dreams. Don't despair and know that we all love you and pray for you. Even though I am thousands of miles away I read this site constantly to get updates on Bryce's condition. I went to Egypt for a week and did not have access to the internet and was so grateful to get back so I could see the posts you had made while I was gone. Bryce and Tammy you are an inspiration to us all!

Bryce, Tammy, and Dani,

I just wanted to let you know I was thinking of you. I hope everything is going well today, and that pain is minimal. We're still praying, and believing!
Katie (and josh) Higbee

Dear Bryce and Tammy,
We were glad to hear the weather held for the golf tournament and that you had a great time with the old gang. (We were praying for the weather, as well as for you!) I have been going through my old family photo albums and marking the ones with Bryce, which I will get copies to you one way or another. I am so glad to hear that things have "plateaued out" this last 2 weeks and that there are some improvements! You are constantly in our prayers and thoughts. Love, Ann LeVitre