Still choosing hope

I've stated many times before that the concept of false hope is an oxymoron.  I know that there are people who will read my words and think I'm fooling myself.   Just as I know there were people who expected Ty to die from the day they heard about his diagnosis.  But I don't believe in false hope.  Either you have hope or you don't.  And when you're in a desperate situation, why wouldn't you choose hope over despair?  So, through all of this, I've chosen hope and faith.  And I have no regrets.

The idea of accepting the inevitable will never make it easier, either.  I always knew Ty dying was a possibility, but I think if I started trying to accept it earlier, it would have affected our incredible relationship while he was still here with me.  He was alive and right there in front of me, how would I be able to be the mom he needs me to be if I was busy learning to accept the idea that he might die soon.  Instead, I cheered him on every step of the way.  I did my own research late into the night.  I tried new things to keep him stimulated.  I told him I loved him and I talked to him about getting better constantly.  It made him happy and proud.  Remember the video I posted of him kicking the back seat of my car!  Miraculous!  That Ty was amazing.  That happened just before the cancer returned again.  It seemed to always happen that way for poor Ty.  Every time he began to see progress... to take even one baby step forward... cancer knocked him back even farther.  What a putrid, disgusting disease to go after children like that. Look at him trying so hard to do art again.  He is amazing.  Makes me so angry that this disease caused him so much hurt.


Still, my hope was unwavering.  It IS unwavering to this day.  I read a blog post from a mom who lost here baby to AT/RT (like Ty) just the other day.  She was much younger, not even one year old.  But she wrote about how both she and her husband had a premonition on the morning she passed, and how they dared not speak of it lest it come true.  However, by 3 o'clock she knew, without a doubt, and busied herself to pretend she didn't know, an involuntary decision she hopes she doesn't live to regret (she won't). But she knew I was there.

Do you remember how I did the same thing?  I woke up and got a cup of coffee.  Looking out the window I said to my mother, "I think he's gonna die today."  I busied myself around the house so I could avoid having a breakdown in front of Ty.  I didn't want to scare him.  And, I still had hope!  I hoped that if he could make it to the prayer chain that was arranged for 7PM maybe he would experience a healing miracle.  Instead, a very different miracle occurred at 2PM, and it was beautiful and peaceful and my hope only transferred from one where I focused on healing, to one where I focused on freedom, heaven and happiness.  It went beyond the skin I am in.  Hope is a powerful and magical thing. 

Here is the magic truth according to me :)  There are times where I have felt Ty's presence stronger in his absence, and there were times when he was here with me, but he wasn't present.  He was off in thought, flying with his angels and figuring out how all of this works.  I have seen him absent from his body.  It was fleeting, but it used to happen.  I like to believe he knew something more than the rest of us.  Now that he's really gone, I can truly feel his embrace in every gentle breeze.  I feel the warmth of his cheek against mine when a shaft of light catches my face.  I see him waving in the twinkle of a star and I know his ladybugs are intentional to tell me that he's okay, just as a falling leaf whispers "I am here."   Never stop believing that. 

I have my bad days.  Always.  Today was pretty bad for both Lou and I.  I woke up grouchy and had a bitter drive into work.  I accomplished a lot keeping busy there, but when I went to pick up Gavin at Nana's house I nearly shattered into a million pieces.  I could hear his voice calling for "NaNa" like he used to.  I would see him asking Papa to play all of his silly musical toys up on the shelf.  The worst was when Gavin was looking for his "brag book'.  Like any great nana, she has a brag book out for each of her grandchildren filled with photos.  Gavin grabbed Ty's at first, but I corrected him and gave him his.  Hot lava - phew - I got that back on the table without opening a page.  Then Gavin thumbed through his pictures of how he's grown up over the past three years and I noticed all of the empty pages left behind - to be filled as he continues growing.  Nana told me how my niece Deanna's book is almost full, just enough pages left to make it to her sweet sixteen.  I wondered if she left empty pages in Ty's book or if she just filled it up, but I couldn't ask her through my tears.  Why make her all upset anyway, we were having such a nice night. 

Okay enough about that... I have some asks for you all.

I want to share Ty's story with the big leagues.  Can you help me?  Will you nominate me as an "unstoppable mom" in this Kelly and Michael contest??  PLEASE???? (link below)

The four finalists will appear on the show and I will get to talk about Ty while raising awareness for Childhood Cancer.  This would be a dream come true in helping me accomplish all that I want to do for Ty.  Any monetary reward would obviously go directly toward my unstoppable cause :)

Unfortunately, it asks for a lot of personal information.  I decided to use the business address and phone number, please use your own cell as an alternative.  If you must put my birthday, see if October 1975 will suffice.  Below is the rest of the information you need.  Then you'll have 2000 words to tell them about why I am an unstoppable mom!  Won't you plese do this for me and for Ty?  It's not it in for fame (argh - not at all) it's for bringing Ty's foundation to the next level. PLEASE SHARE ON FACEBOOK TOO!!

Thanks to all of you who have already sent in a nomination.  This is one of the most important asks I have of you http://unstoppablemoms.livekellyandmichael.com/home  You will have to register yourself, then find the contest on the Kelly and Michael page, fill out another form to nominate me, and include up to 2,000 words about why.  Yesterday was three months since Ty's been gone.  It feels like 3 years.  In just three months, I am so proud of how much we have accomplished.  Unstoppable is an understatement thanks to all of you!!

Use this information on the form (office address and phone)
Cindy Campbell
91 Gleneida Avenue
Carmel, NY 10512
cell 845-204-5447
Birthday October 1975

Here's a couple of photos for uploading, too.  Hope they work :)





Comments

  1. Absolutely! I actually nominated you yesterday, but put zeros in for info I didn't have. I will do it again and put in the correct info!
    On another note, thanks for sharing again about Ty. In a strange way, he's become a part of all our famlies too, I think, and hearing about him makes our day. OK, admittedly lots of tears too! Off to nominate you... Take care, Cindy.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Cindy- it also asks for an email address. I just put your website address ;)

      Delete
  2. I wish I could Nominate Lou too. But since its for Moms, I have nominated you as you have been and are clearly UNSTOPPABLE! I will always spread the word about your amazing family and precious Ty. I pray God eases your pain daily and that you accomplish all you have set out to do in Ty's name. God Bless you Campbells <3

    ReplyDelete
  3. It would be an absolute honor to vote for you Cindy. I would love to create a short video to upload, including photos and maybe some comments from your blog. Would that be ok? I can forward you the video to make sure you approve before I submit.
    If there's anyone in the world that deserves this it is you.
    Sarah Perry - North Carolina

    ReplyDelete
  4. Done! I know you are going to win!!!!

    ReplyDelete
  5. Done! It's the least I can do for an amazing mom like you. I didn't know the email address so I just put superty.org.

    Mary in Manhattan Beach

    ReplyDelete
  6. I voted for you :) Here's what I wrote:

    The Unstoppable Mom I'm nominating doesn't know me, and I've never met her. But she has inspired me more than she'll ever know. Her son, Ty, had pediatric cancer. For months I read daily about their journey with pediatric cancer and finished each blog entry crying my eyes out. The morning I read Ty had lost his fight to cancer, it felt like I lost him too. Through his mom's blogging, she gave everyone the opportunity to feel like they were with Ty, supporting him and his family, every step of the way even from their households hundreds to thousands of miles away. I've never seen or read such raw love of a mother. She lost her son to cancer three months ago and instead of being angry at God and shutting down, she's using her son's memory to make a difference in the world. She's trying to change the world and because of Ty and her dedication, she is. A foundation was created by her in Ty's memory and I know winning Unstoppable Mom would help her goal in raising awareness for pediatric cancer. Mrs. Campbell deserves to be recognized for her love, commitment, and strength because it truly is contagious and admirable. She makes me want to be a better person and future mom. I'm only 23 years old, and their story has forever changed how I'm living the rest of my life. I don't know her, but I would be lucky to call her a friend and proud to call her a mom. Please choose her. It would mean a lot to her but it would mean a lot to those children too that are fighting daily for their lives. As she said in her blog, "There are 15 children diagnosed with cancer for every one child diagnosed with pediatric AIDS. Yet, the U.S. invests approximately $595,000 for research per victim of pediatric AIDS and only $20,000 for each victim of childhood cancer." By choosing her and bringing awareness to this cause, together we could make a difference. Thank you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. great letter - no here's hoping the peeps at Kelly & Michael do the right thing and pick Cindy!

      Delete
    2. FANTASTIC!! I wish I was as eloquent I writer as you!! KUDOS!! But I did nominate Cindy too! Hopefully together we can raise even more awareness!

      Gabrielle

      Delete
  7. Cindy, I just nominated you and I will spread the word to EVERYONE I know...heck even people I don't know. You deserve this..."TY DESERVES THIS"! I have never had the courage to sit down and comment on your blog after reading your posts. I am ALWAYS sobbing and completely heart broken for you and your entire family. As I sit here sobbing again, I am trying desperately to find the strength to finally comment so that I could just tell you that you are truly an inspiration. Your strength and courage is UNSTOPPABLE! I have no idea where you get it from. I know that your belief in God is grand, mine is too, but you still amaze me each and every day. I am honored to nominate you for the "Unstoppable Mom" contest. There is no one I would rather nominate, nor anyone else that I could possibly think of that can come close to you. Keep smiling, keep praying, keep writing about Ty. We are all with you!
    Love, Monica Pena xoxo

    ReplyDelete
  8. Hi Cindy,

    I just finished sending in my nomination!! I truly believe you and Ty deserve this!! I will share this link!! Sending you lots of love and prayers!!

    Jennifer H

    ReplyDelete
  9. I already did it earlier!! :) YOU deserve it more than anyone...it'll help you spread the awareness and keep moving forward for Ty for other children suffering from the same disease. You have so many people behind you Cindy....some you know, some that are complete strangers, but we all are here supporting you!! Never give up on Hope!! Hope is what gives us strength!!

    ReplyDelete
  10. that video just made me cry, he was such a happy boy dispite ANYTHING cancer threw at him!!! just incredable. i nominated u as well!!!

    ReplyDelete
  11. Done, Shared, I'll keep sharing. Anything for Ty. Anything for you - you are most definitely an UNSTOPPABLE MOM.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. ps just got a chance to watch the video now - Ty's smile really is the most beautiful thing - I can't help but cry every time I see a picture of him because I am so sad he is gone. I am honored to help do anything to keep his memory alive. Keeping fingers crossed your picked Cindy. It's time even more people got to know about this most beautiful boy.

      Delete
  12. I am so happy to do this Cindy. I follow several blogs but no one has inspired me like you. I used the picture of you holding Ty the night before he died because I still think that is one of the most beautiful pictures I have ever seen and I can't look at it without crying. God bless you.

    ReplyDelete
  13. I entered you! We love you!!

    ReplyDelete
  14. God bless you, Cindy. (not in a weird, old lady kind of "God bless you." lol) I mean it-- God must be so close to you at all times. You, Lou, Gavin and Ty. There's no other explanation for your strength. This post had me crying so hard that my own boys were nervous for me... poor things got stuck with a Mama who walks on the edge of tears all the time. lol. Aaaaaanyhoo, I entered you! Fingers crossed that you win!!!! love to you and yours :)

    ReplyDelete
  15. I just nominated you cindy!! I am so proud of your family and Ty, I tell everyone about you guys! I sat there for so long praying for God to give me the right words in hopes they will choose the most deserving mom!!! This is my submission:
    Cindy campbell... wow where do I even begin?!! I first learned of her through a facebook page about 2years ago, "Ty Louis Campbell." Ty is cindy's 5yr old son who had brain cancer. He is nicknamed Super Ty. Cindy started to blog about their journey fighting the disease that eventually took ty's life in October 2012. He was diagnosed in 2007 and along the way she shared her most heartfelt, raw and absolutely heart breaking emotions and feelings. There are thousands of us that follow her blog, we check it religiously. She opens her heart to us all. So many of us have never even met her and never got to meet Ty, yet we love them as if they are family. Through her words and actions she has made the world LOVE Ty as if he is our own child. Although Ty did not make it, he still beat cancer because of his amazing spirit and legacy he has left behind it has made thousands of us want to be better parents. Now there is the Ty Louis Campbell Foundation that cindy has started, she continues to share Ty's story by spreading awareness for childhood cancer and doing everything she can to let the world know we need to open our eyes to this devastating disease that is taking our children's lives. She is dedicating her life to raising awareness and sharing Ty's story to save even one child, one family so that they do not have to live the hell they have lived. She is the definition of inspiration to everyone who knows her. She has made me a better mom, taught me to stop and not take the little things for granted, let your child make a mess, let them jump in muddy puddles! I cannot imagine anyone but her more worthy and deserving of this, she will never get her son back, but she will live the rest of her life being the voice for Ty and the children of this world to receive the funding and awareness that is needed to fight childhood cancer!

    ReplyDelete
  16. Hi Cindy- Love the pic of Gavin in the high chair! Nick eats in his high chair in front of the tv every morning and he's 3! It's the only way I can get ready for work w/out chasing him around the house to eat :)

    ReplyDelete
  17. the smile one the video:) What a fighter Ty was and still is by driving you on your way to awareness! His ladybug's are telling you do not give up on this fight Mama and bring on the awareness/better treatment.You are a SuperMom and where there is hope, there is a way. I will be checking out the Kelly and Michal form and nominate you.

    ReplyDelete
  18. I nominated for you! You are amazing!

    Here is my entry:
    Cindy is the epitome of an unstoppable mother. Throughout her baby's lengthy battle with cancer, she exhibited strength and honesty via her blog. She shared thoughts that most of us would have felt guilty sharing or would have been too scared to even admit to ourselves. Parenting during an illness, death of a child, loving the sibling after a child's death, appreciating simple moments, and grieving the death of a child WHILE continuing to raise the younger sibling, managing a healthy marriage throughout it all, the list goes on. Cindy has inspired thousands and thousands of parents to change their perspective and outlook on life. She has inspired parents to stop in their tracks and rethink decisions. Since I've come to know Cindy and her thoughts, when my five year old asks to wear a crazy outfit where I would have not normally allowed, I pause, and then I welcome them with a warm smile in my heart. When my five year old asks for ONE MORE bedtime story, I pause, and then read. When my five year old asks for me to go in the ocean again with her, I pause, and then dive in. When my five year old wants to stop and jump in a puddle, I pause, and then jump in with her. Cindy Campbell has reminded mothers, who have the most important job in the world, how to do the most important job well.

    ReplyDelete
  19. So I am just now reading comments that we can nominate Cindy for this!!! I promise to make my comment short. I have heard about this amazing "Cindy" all though highschool and college from a dear friend of Cindys. Caryn has told me about how special Cindy is going on now.. 18 years! :) Lucikly after ten years of wondering who this Wonder woman was I met her. I was not disapointed. :) Caryn always spoke to me about Cindy because she just couldnt believe that a neighbor four years older in Elementary school would give her the time of day. Well, I feel proud for the honor of meeting beautiful Ty in the run to raise money for brain cancer this summer. Like I told Cindy, I made eye contact with him but didn't want to stare into those beautiful eyes and make him feel uncomfoetable with his disability. I honeatly just felt so special.

    ReplyDelete
  20. Cindy- The last post was from Emily, (me) Thinking about your family.

    ReplyDelete
  21. Absolutely!!!!! You don't even have to ask!

    ReplyDelete
  22. I love you to pieces. You are absolutely unstoppable. I am beyond glad that Shawna saw this opportunity and ran with it. I nominated you first chance I had! And I'm going to keep on my Alma Mater to make my other contribution into a reality as well. Hopefully I can keep my questions of you to a minimum but I'm hoping what you posted above can be enough for my school to work with as I'm pursuing this in The Campbell Family honor.

    ReplyDelete
  23. Nominated you and shared......I so so so hope you win!
    You are unstoppable, amazing, and an inspiration to me.
    Heard that Mumford and Sons( my favorite band) song today and thought of you and Ty..brings tears to my eyes every time.
    He is such a beautiful little boy....sending you lots of ladybugs.
    Love, Jody

    ReplyDelete
  24. done! So hope you win! No one deserves this more than you!! You are a super woman. We all know this is not at all about fame (and any recognition you get is well beyond deserved anyway)! But anyone who thinks otherwise is an idiot and never had kids. Of course, even if you became a billionaire, we all know you would trade it if you could have Ty back. We are all here supporting you, routing for Ty, and praying for you, Lou, and Gavin every day. xoxoxo

    ReplyDelete
  25. Cindy and Lou, thinking about your family always I love you guys

    ReplyDelete
  26. Done!!! We know you would trade anything in the world to have Ty back in your arms. You deserve this, Ty deserves this! You are an unstoppable mom and cancer better watch out!! Much love to you guys!

    ReplyDelete
  27. Anything ,anything at all for Ty!! You Cindy are my inspiration to be a better mom, and to really stand up and make a differance in the world. #fucancer...your goin DOWN!!!!!! Support from Mahopac.

    ReplyDelete
  28. You ARE unstoppable. From you, I've learned that motherhood is about cherishing your child, not sweating the small stuff, building memories, acting silly, joining them in their imaginary worlds, and letting them jump in muddy puddles when it rains. I am far from perfect, but I am a better mother because of you. And I just told Kelly & Michael that too. :) You've always had my vote.
    I hope you win.

    ~Marcela Dzeda
    Reston, VA.

    ReplyDelete
  29. I nominated you.

    This mom is the very definition of unstoppable. The very worst thing that can happen to a mother altered Cindy Campbell's world forever. Ty Louis Campbell, lost his battle with pediatric cancer on October 17th - thirteen days after his 5th birthday. SuperTy's battle with cancer was a two year plus journey that Cindy willingly shared with the world. She did so openly, honestly and so rawly, that when I turned to her blog on that fateful morning, I lost my breath. I sobbed as I know did thousands of others, and ached wholeheartedly for the loss of SuperTy. How this mother was able to connect with strangers, draw them into her world, and have them aching for her pain and rapturous at her joy, and continues to do so, is simply amazing. She is able to draw us in and articulate the raw truth, so much so that we all feel like SuperTy belonged to us. We championed his triumphs, and cried at his setbacks. And, we all prayed like crazy for that miracle for 'our' little fighter! And, when it was not to be, rather than lay like a puddle on the floor for the rest of her life, like I am certain so many of us might do, Cindy got up, dusted off her boxing gloves and continued to fight the fight in memory of the superhero she unselfishly shared with the world. Cindy has made thousands of strangers laugh at life, and blubber through her blogs. She has let us be witness to every ugliness and victory of a child in the grasp of cancer. Though she has every right to be bitter, you will not find anger and hostility when you enter Cindy's world. But, you will find amazing grace, faith, hope and an inspiring journey as she seeks funding and a cure for Pediatric Cancer in the name of our little superhero, SuperTy! Cindy Campbell = UNSTOPPABLE!!!

    ReplyDelete
  30. Ty's smile in that video!! That's all I need to see to believe in magic...he truly is amazing. No ask is too big, Cindy! I've nominated you and will be asking my family and friends to do the same. Good luck! -Kasey Diotte

    ReplyDelete
  31. I'm trying to nominate you but need your email address

    ReplyDelete
  32. ALWAYS CHOOSE HOPE AND FAITH!!! Thinking of you and hoping EVERYONE nominates you!!!


    Love Gabrielle

    ReplyDelete
  33. I nominated you and will share the post and link. I used your website for your email, and just put the 1st for your birthday.
    I can think of no better person to nominate as an Unstoppable Mom Cindy.
    With Love,
    Jennifer

    ReplyDelete
  34. Ty, of course I nominated your mom. she is the most deserving mom on the planet. but at what expense? i want to scream it out loud that it should be an obvious choice because no mom should ever see her baby suffer so much and feel helpless to help save her child. how sad that mom's love is not enough. but it isn't. i miss you Ty so much. it's so hard. i never met you but i can't stop crying that you are not here. i am so sorry baby boy.

    ReplyDelete
  35. Nomination complete!!!

    By having hope,you lived in the moment for Ty and with Ty. Ty gave you every reason to be hopeful. He got knocked down only to get up and kick some cancer a$$!

    Best wishes. I can't wait to see you on Kelly & Michael.

    Love,
    Laurie

    ReplyDelete
  36. Yeah! !! I am so excitied for this. !!!!

    ReplyDelete

  37. I feel like we've all recently started reading each others comments on my beautiful

    ReplyDelete
  38. I really want to nominate you but I live in Italy and they don't take foreign addresses. . . :-(
    Sending you lots of love from Italy
    Carla

    ReplyDelete
  39. sorry but how do we do this again we nominate how do we do that

    ReplyDelete
  40. I had to pull myself together after this beautiful post,:) It's a honor to nominate you Cindy. Here is my submission:

    If someone had told me two years ago that a woman I never met, would inspire me beyond measure and reason, making an indelible impression on my life and the lives of countless others, I would not have believed it. Cindy Campbell, is that person. She has endured the most unimaginable loss of her son Ty, only months ago to pediatric cancer after a two year battle. Her chronicle of their journey has been the most profound and eloquent motivation I have ever encountered to do great things. Throughout their battle, Cindy continued to be an UNSTOPPABLE Mom- warrior, inspiring us to action, reminding us to cherish our children, and preserving our hope. Instead of letting darkness cave in her life, she finds the light, and shares it, somehow, so that it multiplies endlessly in the name of hope. I champion her and will continue to do so as she launches the Ty Louis Campbell Foundation, raising funding and awareness for cancer in Ty's honor. She is full of grace, and honestly, and her actions and words are powerful and positive. She is the kind of person we all want to be. Through her magnificent determination, we are all reminded, to be better Mothers, to be better people, to cherish every moment. Her love for her son and her ability to inspire has no limits even in the face of the darkest reality. Today, I run, walk and talk for cancer and spread awareness in every way possible. But I learned to be an Unstoppable Mom from Cindy. I jump in puddles, dance in the rain and look for rainbows and ladybugs. I play harder and love longer. Rather than embrace sadness in the loss of Ty, and so many other children, I learned from Cindy that there are no boundaries for perseverance for your children. Even if she doesn't get this honor, I hope she knows how much unwavering support she has and how much good she has unleashed in a world that truly needs it.
    Chris, Niskayuna, NY

    ReplyDelete
  41. You are unstoppable and amazing. Your grace continues to inspire me every day.

    ReplyDelete
  42. I Campbell family I hope your day is okay. thinking about you guys as usual

    ReplyDelete
  43. This request came in early this morning. Kindly keep Brooke and her family in your prayers.

    Looking for all the prayers I can get to go out to a 4 year old little girl named Brooke and her family. She is the beautiful daughter of 2 wonderful people I grew up with. Three days ago she was diagnosed with an in-operable brain tumor. She was given anywhere from a few weeks to 1 year to live. They have appointments with quite a few more doctors to explore any possible options.

    Please pray for this little girl and her family. Miracles do happen!!
    Thank you!

    ReplyDelete
  44. Tried to nominate you, but it wouldnt let me complete it without your email address. Please post the foundation email on FB if possible

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I put in SUPERTY.ORG for an email address and it took it, if you haven't tried that---it worked for me...:)

      Delete
  45. I nominated you last night. If anybody deserves this, you do!! My respect and admiration for you is never ending, as is my love for Ty and the rest of your family. You really need to think about writing a book. You could raise awareness as well as he others going thru the same fight.

    All my love ALWAYS,

    Elaine Hinkle

    ReplyDelete
  46. I just nominated you as well!!! No one deserves this more!

    ReplyDelete
  47. Nominated. No question. I used www.superty.org for your required email and it took it. I shared that you've made me a better mom by sharing your unstoppable love for Ty as I face my own fears of losing my daughter, who has been waiting for a heart transplant for nearly 2 years now. Thank you, Cindy, for sharing Ty and you with us. Much love to you.

    ReplyDelete
  48. Nomination Completed!! GO CINDY!!

    ReplyDelete
  49. I'm proudly nominating you, Momma! Hope is what we have too. We all need to support each other, hand-in-hand, because hope for the beautiful kiddos diagnosed today depends on us, those still fighting and the families of those lost. We are standing strong with you, for hope, for all kids. Inspired by Ty, with him at your side, you are moving mountains. Let's do this! Sending love, always! Audra

    ReplyDelete
  50. I nominated you.....can't think of anyone in this world who deserves it more than you!!
    -Jennifer

    ReplyDelete
  51. Nominated. You deserve it and I hope you are able to get this platform. Good luck.

    ReplyDelete
  52. An honor in every way to nominate you. Done! :-)

    ReplyDelete
  53. EareOf course a person who is not in your shoes as Ty's mom could say yes Ty would probably die. But you had to have hope you are his MOM. When my mom got cancerwhen I was 21 I blocked out any chance of her dying. She went for chemo and it never occurred to me. When her tests did not come back cl

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Clear I still had hope. I do remember crying and asking GOD to take her to stop the pain but i always had hope. Without hope its difficult to get out of bed everyday.

      Delete
  54. This is a women that I have never met but feel like I know on a very personal level. She blogged her whole entire raw, painful journey of her amazing little angel Ty Louis Campbell go through his brave battle with cancer. You can read about their story at www.superty.org. Although Ty passed away he continues to inspire people to get involved with promoting awareness about pediatric cancer through the amazing foundation his parents have setup and donate 100% of the profits to go towards research so one day we can say Ty did best up cancer just like he said he would through the love and dedication of his wonderful, mother. Please read her story and you will see that even though she went through something no parent should ever have to go through she IS unstoppable! Cindy Campbell IS your unstoppable mom.

    ReplyDelete
  55. I will Nominate you Cindy because you are a strong loving Mother.
    You and Lou are amazing parents full of so much love and I hope one day you will be able to give Gavin a little brother or sister. Nothing or No one can ever replace Ty. Ty will always be your "first love" but your heart does have room for more love to give. Gavin would love to be a big brother and teach his baby brother or sister everything about Ty.
    You're doing an amazing job with the foundation but dont let it take over you, you and Lou as parents have so much love to give.
    I hope you do win, you truly deserve it. We all know Ty is proud you're his mommy. You are all so special to have Ty as your angel.

    ReplyDelete
  56. I am defiantly going to nominate you Cindy. You deserve it more than anyone !!! What should be put as your email address?

    ReplyDelete
  57. I was so glad to help by nominating you! It asks for a email address --so I just put SUPERTY.ORG since I didn't know another one.

    I hope and pray something as simple as nominating you will help in the foundation and help get more people involved in finding a cure.

    Psss..I BEGGED Kelly & Michael to come to this site and read your words, I explained that my words couldn't do you justice. You are THAT amazing. I told them if they pick you then they are picking TY and no one deserves it more..:)

    Always in my good thoughts and prayers,
    Katie from Nashville.

    ReplyDelete
  58. Another family who tragically lost their little girl at age 2 to a rare and terrible disease. I thought it might be inspirational to you. Her love of life, even at 2, reminded me of Ty.

    http://ayeletgalena.tumblr.com/post/40967704289/ayelets-1st-yahrzeit-congregation-oz

    ReplyDelete
  59. Cindy,

    I just nominated you! I'm not a very good writer, I hope I did your beautiful love story between you and Ty justice.

    Here is what I wrote:
    My nominee is Cindy Campbell. Three months ago today she lost her 5 year old son to pediatric cancer(AT/RT). For two years she shared her journey in her and her son Tyler's fight against cancer on her blog www.superty.org/.

    Tyler endured, chemo, radiation, 20 surgeries and spent over 200 days in the hospital. But unfortunately, he suffered from post-radiation necrosis that eventually ended his long and brutal fight against the disease.

    She paints a real picture of how devastating and painful it is on a child to suffer from cancer and the treatments that are woefully inadequate to treat the disease. How the images of smiling bald headed cancer children isn't the whole story or an accurate picture of the suffering endured by little ones with the disease. It is painful and brutal. Not only on the child but for all those that love him/her.

    She has shared her triumphs, her defeats, her laughter and tears and most of all, she has opened her heart in hopes of raising awareness of a disease that is to often ignored because it is to painful of a reality.

    Cindy Campbell is an Unstoppable Mom because even after losing herson who was her whole life just 3 months ago she dedicates every day to building his foundation to educate and spread awareness of pediatric cancer.

    What I find so remarkable is how she has handed something so insidious with such grace and dignity. She has not turned bitter, hateful and full of resentment. She is a woman of deep faith and continues to have faith to this day. This is what makes her so inspirational to so many people.

    Please chose Cindy Campbell as your Unstoppable Mom. Not only will it make her dream come true, but it will also be a huge step in raising awareness of pediatric cancer and could help save a child's life. If a mom or dad out there notices a lump but doesn't think much of it, hearing Ty's story could prompt the parent to seek medical attention.

    Please chose Cindy Campbell, her son deserves it.
    _________________________________

    The form also asks for your email address. Thankfully I had it from a thank you email from you. But it may be a good idea to include your email address.

    I hope and pray you are picked because you are an Unstoppable Mom!

    Love,
    Taylor

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I too nominated Cindy and her courageous and beautiful son Ty but blinded by my own sorrow, didn't have the eloquence to put it in the beautiful words you just wrote, so I second that Taylor. Cindy, we all love your beautiful son we never met, yet through the grace and humility of the mother and wife you are, we got to meet someone that we miss so much, it hurts incredibly. I know it's hard to believe an intangible grief but believe me when I tell you that the holidays were not the same for all of us whose heart Ty touched. This was also a "year of firsts" for my husband and I and we thank you for your strength and incredible faith. We see ladybugs (ladybirds here in Ireland) see rainbows, see stars and are forever reminded of the beautiful presence of your magical son...his soul has touched more than the eye can see in your world and I hope that a note a long way from your land will comfort you knowing that he has touched hearts on a global level. We miss you so much beautiful boy, please continue to send ladybugs to the only mama who could have ever loved you the way she did. YOUR beloved mama Cindy! xxx

      Delete
  60. Thank you for talking about hope. It means a lot to me coming from you. I thought so much about this post.
    After I read it, it kept coming back to me as I have been facing some challenging days and reading your post made feel that what I am going through is fixable. Ty's life and your love for him reminds always reminds me that we are so much more than the skin we are in.
    Ty is never far from my mind and today in particular, your post on hope is inspiring, Cindy.
    Thank you for reminding me to choose hope too.

    ReplyDelete
  61. If you ever gave up, you wouldn't survive yourself. It doesn't matter what age or how sick one is - if they're surrounded with positive energy, I truly believe it brings comfort. How could you give up on him? How could anyone give up on him? The first and last thing I've done each day is visited here, never giving up hope, always keeping the faith. Now I have faith that Ty never lets you lose sight of the bigger picture, never lets you feel alone and watches out for Gavin.

    Of course I nominated you, I hope my essay does you and your family justice - I needed more room! I know some amazing moms, mine included, but none more remarkable and deserving than you, yet I've never even met you. You give parents hope, experience, love, faith and the desire to be a better parent. That is a gift.
    God bless

    ReplyDelete
  62. Here it is but hopefully, when you win, you'll be able to them all...eventually! :)

    After her toddler son was diagnosed with brain cancer, she never gave up on hope or him. Ty Campbell died 2 weeks after his 5th birthday, this past October. The raw, real story Cindy has shared publicly has brought tremendous awareness to childhood cancer. In honor of Ty, Cindy has vowed to make her life's work to give childhood cancer a face and an ending. The pain she worked through day in and out to keep Ty comfortable, happy, and alive is extraordinary, and goes far behind the call of duty of most parents. Cindy has still not given up and she never will. She has pushed herself each day since Ty passed to start a foundation, in Ty's name. Cindy realizes there is a world outside her own and is doing everything in her power to raise money and awareness to stop this horrible disease from taking anymore innocent children. On top of this, she and her amazing husband, Lou, are adjusting to life as a family of 3 with their 3 year old son and the struggles Ty's passing had brought them all. Where many would quit and give up, Cindy fights even harder. A loss no mother can imagine, she has lived. She is there to support moms and dads that are now walking in her worn out shoes . She is the most selfless person, the epitome of Mom. Ty and his story became national and world wide news, thousands following each day his triumphs, his struggles, and his ultimate loss. Since Ty passed in October, thousands more have joined his crusade. A child without a mother is heartbreaking, but what is a mother without a child?
    I could not think of a more fitting person to win this award. Cindy will use any monetary award for the Ty Louis Campbell Foundation and hopefully bring new awareness to take this to the next level. Many of us moms think we're unstoppable, but if ever faced with such a tragedy, I for one know I'd freeze. Cindy is unstoppable and is doing amazing things for her child and other children, hoping to stop the unstoppable, the unthinkable. To sum it up, why not Cindy?

    ReplyDelete
  63. Just entered my nomination Cindy. Am hoping & praying you win as I don't know of another mom more deserving. I read your blog regularly and am amazed by your honesty and courage. You have helped me be a better mom to my 3 kids and for that I am eternally grateful :)

    ReplyDelete
  64. Morning,

    Cindy, It is my honor to nominate you - done !!

    You & all of your family have been a real
    " Profiles in Courage " - for sharing Ty's - and all of your family's - courageous & heartbreaking journey.

    My continued thoughts & prayers are with " SuperTy " and all of the members of your family.

    God Bless.

    - Rob Swan

    ReplyDelete
  65. wE NEED TO TEACH THE WORLD THat Football , baseball , movies stars and etc ... they are not Heores ... We should teach the world People like you and your Family TY are the Greastest heroes that walke ... this Earth . Sending you many Blessing , You are such a Good Person !

    ReplyDelete
  66. You ARE an unstoppable mom! You have my vote and support! I hope you are enjoying this beautiful Sunday morning with your family. Hugs from fishkill.

    ReplyDelete
  67. So...all of my friends that follow your blog, along with myself, think you should have another baby. That might sound inconsiderate and far fetched, but just thought I'd share.
    You're a great (beyond great), loving mother that has a lot to offer a child. Gavin would get a sibling and you and Lou could get some healing on a different level (maybe).
    This is probably so rude. I'm totally trying to sell this idea to you like its some small task. Forgive my forwardness. Xo

    ReplyDelete
  68. Cindy,

    I so want to nominate you ....but I believe the competion is only open to Us/Canadian citizens :(
    I live in Australia and think you deserve the recognition for being an exceptional Mum to Ty & Gaga + a loving wife to Lou.
    You ARE an amazing woman.

    ReplyDelete
  69. Hi Cindy, I just nominated you as well and I will spread the word on FB/ You deserve this and I hope you will be the winner. TY has been heard but he needs to be herad more..... you are the best and you will alwasy be my hero :) take care and good luck

    ReplyDelete
  70. You continue to inspire. My nomination is in :)

    ReplyDelete
  71. Sadly it appears you cannot nominate Cindy if your overseas. Not fair!

    I so hope you win this Cindy. You are definitely an Unstoppable Mom!

    ReplyDelete
  72. I nominated you yesterday. You, my sweet girl are the definition of UNSTOPPABLE. ♡♡♡♡

    ReplyDelete
  73. Having never met Ty or you, I am CONVINCED that, as you say, Ty was off learning about what was to come at times. He was born with a very mature soul and you and Lou gave him the strength and love to grow and share as he was meant to.

    You have taught me so much. Your insights prove you are a very special lady. I have always felt extemely blessed by my children, yet you have managed to create in me a feeling of blessing that I never imagined. You have also inspired me to teach my children how healthy kids can help kids who battle cancer.

    Unstoppable you are!

    ReplyDelete
  74. Just nominated.

    You deserve this so much and I am praying you will be chosen so that more of the world can hear about your beautiful Ty, your beautiful family and your love for each other.

    Your love for Ty amazes each of us every day and I cannot think of a more unstoppable mom. I pray for your family daily that Ty will continue to show you signs from heaven and that you will find peace knowing your sweet boy is free, healthy, healed and waiting for you. May God bless your family and hold all of you close!

    ReplyDelete
  75. Just finished nominating...You are an amazing mommy and I know Ty is so very proud of you. Sending love and prayers from Myrtle Beach <3

    ReplyDelete
  76. Done! Ask and you shall receive.... you deserve this Cindy. Good luck!

    ReplyDelete
  77. I just read a quote this morning...".a souls whole purpose here on earth is to find a divine love"
    I think you and Ty did:)
    Sue
    Westchester, ny

    ReplyDelete
  78. I nominated you for Unstoppable Mom. God Bless you Cindy.

    ~Angie in TN

    ReplyDelete
  79. DONE!! Here's what I wrote...

    Cindy Campbell Is the ULTIMATE UNSTOPPABLE MOM!! She is the strongest most amazing woman I have ever "known". I don't physically know her, but I have been following her blog about her son Ty Louis Campbell for some time now. Every time I am left breathless and in tears. This family has changed my life in more ways than I could explain. Cindy has never stopped fighting for her precious son, not when he first got diagnosed with cancer, not when the cancer came back for the second time, not when he became paralyzed, not when he passed. Most people would break down during times like those, but not Cindy. She stayed strong, kept fighting, and still believed. It has been 3 months since Ty has passed and Cindy still does everything in her power to spread the word for pediatric cancer so that one day no mother will have to go through what she has gone through. When a child hurts the mother hurts just as much, Cindy never showed it. She never let Ty see her hurt, see her sad, see her doubt that he would be anything but amazing. For someone to endure the things that this mother did, to watch her child suffer, cry, have surgery after surgery... and still put a smile on her face and live life as normal as possible, how could they not be an unstoppable mom?? This woman (along with Ty's everlasting spirit) is going to change the world, and make a much bigger difference in the world of pediatric cancer than you or I could imagine. She is going to do great things, in honor of her baby boy; she is going to save another child's life one day. Her never failing faith, hope and determination to make a difference in this world in Ty's Name are the reason's Cindy Campbell is THE "unstoppable mom". Cindy & Ty Campbell are my hero's, and she deserves this more that anyone. If anything, if you don’t believe me, read her blog (www.Superty.org) and see for yourself. Rest in Peace Ty... Your mommy is doing amazing things in honor of you.

    ReplyDelete
  80. Hi Cindy,
    I really love reading about Ty and your family. I can't imagine how hard life is right now. I've been reading this blog since before Ty passed away and I was immediately drawn into your story b/c he has got to be the cutest little boy ever! I think about him often and pray there will be a cure for pediatric cancer soon. I just found out that I am pregnant (my first) and I've been a nervous wreck with worry. Will I have a miscarriage? Will my baby be healthy? We were going to the grocery store the other night and I got out of the car and something was buzzing by my head and I got kind of irritated trying to swat it away. Then to my amazement, I looked down and there was a ladybug right there on my tummy. I IMMEDIATELY thought of Ty and said to myself "Ty is letting me know that my baby is ok". It gave me such relief and happiness. I think I will always think of Ty when I see ladybugs, after all they are goodluck. What a sweet boy he seemed to be and I know he is capable of doing great things and offering hope to many many people. Thank you for sharing your story.

    ReplyDelete

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

So Gray Today

Anything but cancer

Our baby is finally free. Rest in peace Ty Louis Campbell.