In August of 2010 our beautiful baby boy Ronan was diagnosed with Stage 4 Neuroblastoma cancer. He passed away on May 9th 2011 in his mothers arms after an 8 month battle where he never gave up until he was told it was time to let go. This is his adventure. This is his life. This is his story. It will never end.
Maya and woody~ I am so tremendously saddened for you. As a mom I can’t believe what you are having to go through with such a little one. Please know that our prayers are with you and that God is truly good! He will totally bring you through this if you allow him to.
We will continue to think of you and pray for your family!
Jamaica and Shawn Hadaller
Maya and Woody,
I continue to pray for you all during this most trying time. I wish I could say something wise or thoughtful, something that you can remember while going through this with Ronan. Nobody should ever have to go through this. Young or old. I continue to go to God whenever I think of Ronan. and that’s a lot of the time. I’m a stay at home mom and have a lot of time with my thoughts. What a beautiful boy you have. He will get through this. You will get through this. You have so many people on your side that cancer doesn’t even have a chance in Ronan. Stay strong and may God be with you all.
Jamie
I have been keeping track of your family and wish you all the best. Our son, Thomas, had neuroblastoma at the age of 2 1/2 years. He is now 42 years of age. His primary tumor was on the adrenal gland. He was treated surgically at Mayo Clinic (Rochester) and received radiation treatments at Bergan Mercy Hospital in Omaha, NE. This all happened in 1971 My husband and I had never heard of this childhood cancer and were overwhelmed to have our first-born so seriously ill with this horrible disease. Please know that your family our in our thoughts and prayers.
Pam,
I am the grandmother of a young 2 1/2 yr old boy who was diagnosed with a neuroblastoma this July 7th 2011. He too had a primary tumor on the adrenal gland that was removed within 24 hrs. Today was a particularly hard day. Watching my sweet grandson so weak and throwing up all day after round 3 of chemo, is just not fair. To read your words tonite, seemed like a gentle sign from above , telling me to have hope,don’t dispair. It was so comforting to know that your beautiful , first born son ,is now a mature man that can hold and love the “mommy and daddy ” that helped him through the hardest time in his tiny life. Thankyou for your “hopefilled” words .
I saw the story on your Son tonight with Lynn Sue Cooney and I left her
a voicemail and a Email message. I have a Jet in Phoenix at Deer Valley Airport
and I would be honored to have you and your son use it to go to New York it is
not a charter it is my companies Jet and its ready to go I have put my pilot on standby so if you need he is ready anytime..
Warmest Regards
Daren M. Lasky
480-273-8891 HM
925-325-1016 Cell
Dlasky@nfspro.com
Daren,
It is people like you that give me faith in other’s kindness….In this world today it seems that all that gets focused on is the negative things, so it is refreshing and enlightening to see people who still know kindness and generosity!! Kudos to you and your pilot who must surely be just as kind to agree to be on standby!!!
Maya and Woody,
While I don’t know you, my heart goes out to you. I am praying for you, Ronan, and your family! Cancer has touched my life and I know the fear of facing it, however I cannot fathom what you must be going through!!! God Bless and we will continue to pray!
Maya I am praying for you and your family and hope everything turns out.
Maya,
Hey this is Faith again and i just wanted to say that i hope that you and your family and friends are pulling through okay and that you guys are remembering but also forgetting.
I also hope that the new baby girl (I think it is) will be healthy and safe with you and your family. I hope that the new baby will be CANCER FREE! I think that that will be the best for you AND the rest of your family.
I am researching a LOT of things with cancer and i am also working with the American Cancer Society the best that i can. I am also helping other families with kids that have passed away from any type of cancer. There are about 12 kids that were on a site and 7 stood out to me and those 7 are the 1 that i chose. The other 1 is 1 that i know personally from where i am from. 1 that i babysat in the past.
I just wanted to let you know that i would be okay with adding Ronan to my list to look into.
R. I. P. Ronan and Teddy both!
Good luck Maya and say a good luck to your boys and your husband.
Give them a big hug and live every day as it is your last.
good luck family and friends
that DOES include the new and most likely precious baby
Maya I’m so terribly sorry I wouldn’t be able to imagine what you’re going through
Maya – just thinking of you and your family. My prayers are with you! Please let me know if there is anything I can do!
You are in my thoughts and prayers little man as are your family… I love you and am praying for you..
Hi Ronan, I went to high school with Rachel Cox! I don’t know you personally, but I sure am pulling for you big guy!!!! I will send positive thoughts into the Universe for your over coming this cancer and also for your family. I am excited to hear about your progress and please know we are all behind you and your family! God Speed little buddy . . . you will return to ‘happy Ronan’ very soon. Love, support and hugs, Pam Nett
Hi Maya,
A long time friend of mine, Lisa, told me about your website and I wanted to get in contact with you. Our son, Jack, was diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma on March 8, 2010. He has just completed round 6 of chemo and is doing wonderful. We are getting ready to check in to Phoenix Childrens in 2 weeks for his stem cell transplant. I would love to talk with you and share whatever information that I might know to help you along this journey. We will be saying prayers for Ronan and woulld love to meet you all soon.
Laurie
Ive heard about your awful story through Taylor’s song. I researched who this beautiful yet sad song was about, and I found your blog. Ive read a lot of your enteries and I am so touched by your pain. Im praying for your family because I have no children, I cant imagine even losing. Im so sorry.
Dear Thompson Family,
I am Sara Cooley’s sister, who is a friend of Matt Marriott. We do not know each other either, but I just wanted you to know as well that my husband Joshua and I, along with our two-and-a-half year old little girl Lydia, are praying for you. We are asking the Lord Jesus, Who loves your son and your family so very dearly, to give Ronan and you His Peace and Strength in this battle, and to heal Ronan’s precious little body that He created and knows so well.
May God surely Bless you,
( : Hattie
I went to highschool with Woody and while our contact has been limited to Facebook, the prayers being sent by our family are strong and love-filled. He will make it through this…I have faith in that statement.
I hate cancer. I am a rectal cancer survivor, and while I was going through treatment, a friend’s 2 y/o son was diagnosed with neuroblastoma (your story sounds similar to his). He is doing well today (originally diagnosed in 2006), so please have faith that this awful cancer is beatable. You’ll all remain in my prayers.
Maya,
I have to say that Ronan is one of the most beautiful boys I have ever seen! Look at those blue eyes! I just can’t stop thinking about you and your family. This is something a child and their parents should never have to go through. You have had the best attitude and that will help you to get through this. I continue to pray and send good thoughts your way!
Hi Maya,
I know about your family and that Ronan and Winston are best buddies from Lauren and I just want you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Ronan is such a beautiful child, he melts my heart. I gave Lauren, Laurie Morton’s telephone number, she is the mother of my little hero, Jack who is beating this awful disease right now. Stay positive, talk to Laurie and Zac, meet Jack, and keep staying positive and fight to blast this neuroblastoma out of here! You can do it!!!!! F U Cancer!!!
Thompson Family;
When my sister was 6 years old, she was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. Unfortunately, she still needed a shunt installed and had to undergo emergency brain surgery. When she came out of the surgery, the doctors told my family that she would never walk, talk, see, or hear again. They also told us that the likelihood that she would live beyond puberty was slim and if she did, most likely she would be a “vegetable.”
Fortunately, my mother was an optimist and my grandmother a devout believer in the power of prayer. My grandmother and her prayer group had a mass prayer for my sister while my mother sat in the room with my sister holding her hand so that she would know someone was there with her as she could not see or hear.
About an hour after the prayer took place my sister looked at my mother and asked her “Mommy, what’s wrong.” At that point it hadn’t even occurred to my mother that she was even talking and she replied “Nothing.” To which my sister replied “Yes there is, I can tell.”
Not only could she talk, she could obviously see and hear. The only thing left was to teach her to walk again. Within three days of surgery my mother had her dangling her feet over the side of the bed. Within a week she was taking her first steps.
Today, my sister is 29 years old and has graduated from a major university with a Masters degree in psychology. She is currently working on her doctoral degree.
Just a few years ago, we had a similar experience with my mother. 12 years ago she had her fourth heart attack and was given one year to live by a team of heart specialists. My mother is alive and well today. She often struggles with her energy level, but otherwise she lives a normal life.
The only advice I have to give is “DON’T GIVE UP ON HOPE!” Hope is, I believe, what saved my sister…hope, I believe, is what allowed me to have my mother at my wedding…hope, in spite of what others may say, I believe, is a tangible thing…don’t give up on your hope…don’t let go of your hope…have faith and push yourselves and your beautiful boy beyond your perceived limits…that is where hope lies.
You will be in my thoughts and prayers!
My heart is hurting for your entire family. I am so, so sorry you have to go through this. I heard your story through Mark & Lindsey Beller, dear friends, and you have been in my thoughts every day since. We will continue to watch for updates and wish happy, happy thoughts for you and especially Ronan.
Thompson Family,
We were notified through your family upon Ronan’s diagnosis. We have many friends at PCH as we 100% believe you are in the right place. Our Daughter Marley was diagnosed with a Massive Cancerous brain turmor when she was two years old. We spent almost 2.5 months at PCH after she had an 11 hour surgery. Marley is going to celebrate her 5th bday next month and is cancer free. She has MRI’s every 3 months with the next one this Thursday. The reason I share this with you is that we can relate just to about anything your going through right now and in the future. We have witnessed a miralce in Marley and know miracles do happen so we remain prayerful for not only Ronan but your entire family. All things are truly possible through God.
If there is anything you need, want to talk, want us to stop by on Thursday to say hello, anything we are here for you.
Pat, Holly, Marley, Jack and Austin Mclaughlin
Hi Woody and Maya,
My name is Kim Walters, and I am friends with your mom and Jim. Maya, today I felt an urge to see your mom, and caught her right before she left the restaurant. We went back inside and talked, cried, and I prayed for Ronan and for each one of you. I have been a director of New Hope Cancer Recovery here in Longview. I have been encouraging men and women with cancer and also their family members for the last 16 years. My heart immediately went out to all of you. I am saddened that your beautiful little angel has to endure this sort of affliction. My prayer is for HOPE to arise is the midst of each moment of each day!!! Your mom shared that his name means “WARRIOR” which means a “VICTORY” shout when this battle is over!!!!! I will make sure your mom and Jim are being encouraged along the way!!
Keeping you close in our prayers.
Blessings,
Kim and Jeff Walters
To the Thompson family,
All of the “other” Thompsons in AZ and TX (and Snells) are daily lifting up Ronan in prayer as you all face each day with courage, determination, and knowledge that he will be victorious! Fight on!
With love, Kathy Thompson
Maya, Woody and family~
I just heard the news this morning from my mom. I’ve been traveling and have not been online. Right away I got on your blog and my eyes filled with tears as I read your story Maya.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your beautiful little man Ronan….. and I’m thinking of you all! I’ve read your blog Maya and you are so strong and your baby boy it too! Be strong. Love you.
~Janel Hammer
So glad the twins had fun with their brother and cousins, they need to be held up in prayer too. What a large, extended family you have that will help you at the drop of a hat. The month with your Mother will be treasure always.
Don’t know why cancer is so prevalent, is it something we breathe or eat now??? It is horrible and happens to some of the dearest and most innocent people.
Maya and Woody stick together, grow closer, let the Lord hold you up.
Maya- You amaze me every single day. You and your family have been thrown into such a tough situation and your outlook on and perception of things has been nothing short of admirable. You are truly an amazing wife and mother! Thank you for opening your hearts to so many families. It saddens me that it is under such difficult circumstances that my family has learned so much about how wonderful the Thompson family is. You all have filled the hearts of the Berwind family so much over the past week. You have many people rooting for your family and if there is such thing as strength in numbers, this is a fight your family will win. Nathaniel and I will continue to pray for your entire family throughout this tough time.
Wishing your beautiful family the very best!
Maya & Woody
I just learned of Ronan’s battle and wanted to reach out to you to let you know that if you need anything – please don’t hesitate to ask. At this point I am guessing you aren’t really thinking about what anyone can do or how they can help. I would be happy to help with the boys as Charlie would love to have them over to play or spend the night so that you and Woody can be together with Ronan.
I will keep Ronan in my thoughts and I KNOW he will win this battle, I don’t know him well, but I do know he is a strong boy and he will fight this will everything he has.
All my love,
Lee, Charlie and the whole Ratterman family
I heard about your story through a facebook friend. I just wanted you to know a mother in Michigan is praying for you and your family. God is in the miracle working business and I don’t doubt Him now! He hears our prayers, and most importantly He has His angels by Ronan’s side through all of this.
I have had Ronan on my mind all day since I heard of his illness this morning. We are all praying and thinking of Ronan and your family during this trying time. Please let me know if there is anything me and my family can do. Be strong on the days you feel good, rest on the days you feel weak and the days in between look to your most precious boy and gain strength from him. Keep you faith stong, you are so fortunate to be surrounded by so many people that love your family.
All our love,
Alexia, Zachary, and the whole Haugen Family
I have been praying everyday for your baby boy and your family. I am also a mother and I can’t even imagine how hard this is for you. I ask the Lord every night to give you strength and comfort to get threw this nightmare. Just know that presence in Ronan’s room Is the Lord Jesus with him. Put your faith in Jesus even if you can’t understand why this is happening . Jesus says all it takes is a mustard seed of faith and you can move Mountains, I believe he hears our prayers. Your baby sounds strong, he will get threw this.
Kim Lacey (walker)
Hi Woody and Maya. Kirk informed me that your son Ronan is going through a difficult time. I’m sure you two have been great parents and he has a lot to live for! If he’s anything like Woody, he will grow up to be an intelligent and good guy. From the picture on the left, it looks like he already has good looks going for him. 🙂 My wife said she will put him on our church prayer list this weekend. There will be hundreds here in Portland, praying for his recovery! Cancer is a horrible thing, my Dad passed away from it in 2007. Ronan can beat this. He’s young and his immune system is fresh and strong. We wish him well!
Maya, Woody, Ronan, Liam and Quinn…We love you all so much and have you in our thoughts from the time we wake up to the time we go to bed. Gracie sure loves her little guy “Baby Ronan”. You are much stronger than most and your positive attitute has given us such hope for you and Ronan. We love you “to the moon and back”! Lots of hugs, kisses and happy prayers from the Kitts Family.
Maya, thank you so much for your wonderful words and letting us have a part in this fight. The first thing I do each morning now is look and search for a post from you and read it. It is always inspiring and reminds me that prayer can make miracles.
Following is a small saying that helped me when my Dad had cancer:
What Cancer Cannot Do:
Cancer is so limited–
It cannot cripple love
It cannot shatter hope
It cannot corrode faith
It cannot destroy peach
It cannot kill friendship
It cannot surpress memories
It cannot silence courage
It cannot invade the soul
It cannot steal eternal life
It cannot conquer the spirit
You and Ronan and all your special angels are proving that this saying is correct. Keep up the good fight and know that we love you and support you. Nancy
Hello this is Genevieve
Andrew’s wife and we have a 3yr old Daughter so this really strikes a cord with me I wanted to tell you we are putting your family on a prayer card at our church they pray every Tuesday… We are very heart broken for what you are going through, We pray and hope the chemo works only in the best of ways in Ronan…Here is a song I hope you can find strength as the lyrics are powerful! Your little man is beautiful and God I pray will work his miracles to save your baby.
Maya,
I just can’t stop thinking about you and your family. I was just amazed today speaking to you and love your attitude.
We will continue to think of you, pray and hope Ronan is well soon.
Sincerely, The DiFilippo Family
Thank you so much:) I can’t wait to get to know you better, I can already tell we’re going to be great friends:) Hug my big boys for me. Although I can’t be there with them during this time at school, hopefully I can be later on in the year:)
I promise! I will take lots of photos in class for you too and fill you in on everything that is going on in class .
To the beautiful Thompson Family, Wow life sure has away of challenging us and our strength. I know you as a family have the strength to face the challenges and deal with the issues at hand. We are faced with making choices and decisions that we have no control of. Ronan has the best support, love and care in your family. You are blessed with having a very supportive family and many friends who care for you. All of us are hurting with you, and sending you the most positive energy, faith and strength to handle what God has decided that you can give him the love and support to help him on this journey. Love You The Wood’s Robert, Donna & Ryan
Thank you for allowing me to be with you and your family today. Ronan is a beautiful boy with a special heart. My thoughts, tears and prayers will be with you each day. I can only wish that the photos bring you and your family a warm smile.
With kind love,
Sandey
Woody & Maya, I used to work for CPT at APS. So sorry to hear of your darling little guy’s health issue. He’s a doll! Charlie & Kay are two of the nicest people I’ve ever met. My family will certainly keep the Thompson family in our prayers.
Please let us know if we can help in any way. My husband built your home and if you need anything, please don’t hesitate to call us. I know all little stresses seem bigger when you are emotional spent. May God bless you with laughter and love with your little man each and every day. How blessed in your son to have such a wonderful mother.
Gods Peace
Kristen Furcini
Thank you, Kristen. Your husband is an amazing man and we loved working with him. Look forward to having him help us finish up our house in the future. xoxo
Dear Maya, I just got back to Mexico and got the news about Ronan. I have read every word on your blog and cannot stop thinking about you. I have decided that I will pray for Ronan’s fast recovery every time I see something beautiful. Like a pretty sky, like a smile or like an act of kindness.
I truly hope that if a test like this comes my way, I am able to deal with it with the same courage, humbleness and love that I can read from your words.
I’m sitting outside and good enough there is a hummingbird, so there goes another little prayer your way. Wishing that Ronan just kicks ass… He will.
Much love,
Fernanda
Maya and Woody,
I am so very sorry that Ronan is sick.
As a mother I can’t imagine what you must be going through. I don’t know if there is really anything that anyone can say to ease your troubles. But, as uncertain as I feel about what to say I am certain that you have the strength to survive this as a family. Take strength from your loved ones and friends, and know that even though you are fighting there are many people behind you.
I am sending you all my positive thoughts and praying for his fast recovery. I will think of him and you every day.
All my best wishes,
Celeste
Dear Maya and Woody,
We are so sorry to hear what you all are going through. You have a beautiful family and such sweet boys. Maya, your words are truly an inspiration to us all. Please know that your family is constantly in our thoughts and in our prayers. Wishing Ronan a full and speedy recovery and love and strength to you all.
Warmly,
Nancy Singer
Many thoughts and prayers for you!
We are praying for Ronan! We would love to come along side you and support you in this journey. HopeKids provides support for children just like Ronan! Go to our website http://www.HopeKids.org and click on become an HopeKid, Please feel free to email me at Bridget@HopeKids.org if you have any questions. We will continue to pray for him! HUGS!
Thank you for sharing your story and your beautiful boy. Praying for strength and healing and many good things for Ronan and your family!
I recently heard about your story on Layla Grace Marsh’s website. I’ve never met you, but I just want to know how much your story has touched me, much the way Layla Grace’s did. I am a mother of twins, as well, so I think all twin moms have a similar bond in that way. You are such a strong, phenominal woman and I am simply amazed at the strength you have found. Thank you so much for openly sharing your story. I have recently started the process of volunteering in the local children’s hospital here in the oncology center and I am deathly afraid of hospitals so I’ve been worried sick about it. But hearing Ronan’s story reminds me why I’m doing this, and hearing the strength you have reminds me that its the least I can do. Please know, that I will be sending up prayers for Rockstar Ronan each and everyday from here in Texas. I know with your strength, courage, hope, and prayers that he will make it through this battle and I can’t wait to read about his victory in the end.
Maya, Woody, Ronan, Liam and Quinn….
Hello from the Fable Family. Hudson says “hi” to his preschool buddies L & Q. Our hearts and prayers are with you. We are good friends of the Nelson’s and now host for the last 6 years a golf tournament for Neuroblastoma at our course in Mesa. We are also friend’s with the Holders. Brava Ava is a NB warrior like Ronan. So, we have watched two children and their families on the journey you are now on. We will faithfully read your blog and support you in any way we can. Happy to bring meals, fold laundry, run errands. Really, I mean it. Maya my cell is 602.363.5659. Email is mef@daedalusllc.com. Friends of Maya and Woody, please call on us if needed as well. In the meantime, you will all be in our prayers. With love and hope,
The Fable Family…Meghan, Court, Claire & Hudson
Dear Maya and Woody,
I have been reading your blog every day since I first heard of Ronan’s cancer weeks ago. It is one of the first things I do when I log onto my computer every morning at work. I have wanted to write to you a dozen times but I could never think of what to say. I still don’t have the perfect words for something like this. I really just want you to know that I am praying for Ronan, that Jason and I love you and I am so amazed and inspired by how beautiful and strong your family is. I hug my kids a little tighter every night now. I just know Ronan is going to beat this.
Love,
Dani Kalafat
Maya and Woody, I am Mark’s mother, Lynda, and I met you all in Arizona the summer Roman was born – he was the most beautiful baby with all that black hair, I think he was about 3 weeks old, I was visiting Mark and Pam and my little twins, Meggie and Mitchell, Kay invited us to swim that day at the Biltmore Hotel pool. Maya was swimming with Quinn and Liam and I was holding Ronan and walking with him and telling him that his Mom and bothers were swimming and splashing the water. When Mark called me to tell me about Ronan, I was in shock. I go on to rockstarronan.com everyday and read everything that you have written Maya. I cry and laugh and there is not a day that goes by when I do not think of what your family is going through. Charlie and Kay are the most wonderful people I think I have ever met – you are so lucky to have their help and love. I pray every night for you all and I even have my mother and my sisters praying for Ronan too. I know Ronan will pull out of this, he sounds like a great fighter….I send my love to you.
Woody, Maya and family,
We went to law school with Woody and were lucky enough to work with him as well. We are so saddened by this terrible time that your family is enduring and our thoughts are with you everyday. Ronan is so beautiful and strong, and so are those adorable twins. Letting us in to this experience via your writings is so touching, and honestly reminds us of how much hope there really is. You are doing an amazing job, and he is such a trooper, we just know that he will stomp the crap out of this cancer.
All our love and hope, Sheri and Jorge
Hi Maya,
I learned about your family through Dave Honga. I am a mother of 2 young children as well and check your blog daily. I pray for you and your family daily, and most of all Ronan. He is one of the most beautiful child I have seen. You are a very strong woman. You have so many people praying for you in this difficult time. Love to you and your beautiful strong family. Stacy
My heart truly does go out to you at this challenging time in little Ronan’s life. September is Childhood Cancer Awareness month and I too know the devastating effects this disease has on any family faced with it. Our grandaughter Mila passed away at 2 1/2 from a brainstem glioma.
Know there are others who truly understand what your heart and mind are going through. It amazes me to this day what tremendous strength parents have who are faced with this unfair challenge to their childs health. Prayer is a powerful tool and you and your sweet little Ronan are in mine today and everyday. If you are a member of Facebook, I invilte you to join our group In Memory of Mila Phillips…there are so many who are wanting to add there prayers to your little ones fight. I would like to add this site to my facebook page if you have no objections. If you don’t wish me to, I will understand.
My prayers are with you and know there are many who send their support and love to all of you.
Hugs
Sher
Hi Maya,
It’s Katie (your med student from PCH). Thank you for sharing this with me (and all of us who read). I look forward to reading about you and your family everyday – it’s nice to continue to get to know you. You, Woody, and your whole team (and Ronan) are some of the strongest people I have met. I look forward to hearing more about Ronan’s progress and I hope to one day see you all again! My thoughts are with all of you 🙂
Best wishes,
Katie
Maya,
We have never met, but I have gotten to know Woody through work over the past several years. I have always thought he was one of the nicest people and he always speaks so lovingly and proudly of his family. I am thinking of and praying for you and your family. I will be following your blog and can’t wait to see the post where you declare Ronan cancer free.
Hang in there Thompson Family!!
Brandi Beougher Okrasinski
Maya
I would love to get some of the shirts to sell at the pool and to the members of La Camarilla. Let me know if this is possible and how to arrange this.
Just found out about little Ronan from a poster in Longview, WA advertising the car show. We were unable to make it, but wanted to let you know about C.O.L.E.’s foundation, which is a support group for families with children with cancer.
http://www.colesfoundation.com/
To learn more about Cole, the amazing little boy who’s testimony started it all visit,
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/coleruotsala
Keeping you in our prayers.
[…] le 2e m’a fait pleurer (https://rockstarronan.com/about/) . Je regarde mes enfants et notre famille et quoique je ne m’empêcherai pas de me moquer de […]
just stay strong ! my little 5 year old cousin was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma over the summer,Stage 1.They were able to take out the tumor,and she managed without any chemo at all! She has now been cancer-free for 3 months! She went from being a frail,sickly little girl who always fell down and couldn’t see straight to being a running,Irish-dancing little girl who has the most beautiful eyes in the world,and she’s able to see straightly! Staying strong is the largest key with anyone who has a family member battling cancer.I hope that Ronan continues to be RockstarRonan for a very very long time.I will pray everyday for him.
Hello,
I’m not sure how I stumbled upon your blog. But here I am. I can see you have many comments but if you do get to read this I wanted to share something with you.
My name is Jessie.
When I was little I had neuroblastoma.
I am incredibly lucky and it was removed along with one of my adrenal glands. My heart goes out to you, Ronan and your family as I think of what my parents must have gone through when I was so young. That was in 1989 and on September 3 this year I had my 21st birthday. I am cancer free and have been for many years. I spent my childhood growing up with other children who were sick on camps run by Camp Quality. I know that there is nothing I can say to ease your troubles but in the words you have written I read hope and such strength. In brings a few tears to my eyes to write this as I have not ever met anyone who had the same cancer as I, and although I was young when diagnosed it has impacted my life and the way I see it greatly.
Please feel free to email me if you wish.
I just wanted to say that here in Australia you are in my thoughts.
Kindly
Jessie
I try to read all of my comments. Thank you, Jessie! I love hearing inspiring stories like your own!! Please pass along Ronan’s blog to everyone and everyone you can. Maybe someday we will get to Australia to meet you. I’ve always wanted to visit your beautiful home!
You are in our hearts and prayers. If there is anything we can do to help, please let us know.
We represent the Phoenix Children’s Hospital Kids Rock Stars program. We started a program to provide an acoustic guitar for kids and help them through music.
Sincerely,
The V-Knights
http://www.vknights.com
I have stumbled up on your blog through another blog entry that was on the front page of wordpress last night. I have to say that you have truly inspired me as a person. You are such a strong mother and I have so much respect for you. There is nothing I can possibly say to show how sorry I am for your tough situation but I have faith that, your little boy with all the angels, god and such a strong family on his side will beat this awful disease. I will keep you in my prayers every day.
amanda
What a beautiful boy you have…my heart breaks looking at those gorgeous eyes and thinking of what he and your family have to endure. I have a four year old son as well, he is my world…I can’t even imagine how you must be feeling. Ronan and your family are in my thoughts and prayers…stay strong little one!
Maya and family, I just wanted you to know i think of you each and everyday. I am praying for you and know that you WILL get through this nightmare. Stay positive, optimistic and strong. You are survivors and we will blast the hell out of this neuroblastoma. F U NEUROBLASTOMA!
In love and friendship, Marci and family
God Bless you and your family. Our prayers are for you! Sending much love to you!
I am across this on Twitter, it was tweeted by the winner of Alyson Hannigan’s Twitchange. There is a mother going through the same thing here in the Philippines, the mother of Mio. She is our batchmate in school. My thoughts and prayers are with you, even if I’m on the other side of the world. Be strong.
Hi Maya and Woody,
I have never met you but share something in common with Maya. I am from Longview, WA. I work at Moonlight Bay for Hilda Schierscher, we have been pulling so hard for you here! We wear Rockstar Ronan shirts on Wednesdays and Fridays in support of little man. Little Ronan is on the top of my prayer list. Think of him and your family daily and keep up with your blog. I have a little man of my own, 17 months, and could not IMAGINE what you are going through. He truly is a little Brad Pitt! Many many many prayers. I look forward to your thoughts in peeling the girls off of him throughout his teen years. What a strong little man you have and what strong parents you are. God Speed! love and prayers.
Mary and the Moonlight Bay Crew
Maya – your strength and spirit is an inspiration to us all. I have been following your blog closely and have smiled, cried, and prayed with you over the weeks and months. We’re all pulling for you and your beautiful family and precious son and have you in our hearts and prayers constantly. xoxo Amy
Hello Thompsons!
Just a quick note to let you know you are all in our thoughts and hearts constantly. Sending positive vibes your way all the time. Sounds like mom and dad are staying strong and positive, which I truly believe is THE KEY to Ronan’s success, as well as your own.
Thank you for keeping us updated. Maya, my daughter and I have enjoyed getting to know Ronan and the happenings of the Thompson Family through your continued efforts.
We are here for you and cheering you on!
XOXO
Jamon & Jayden Nester
Tucson, AZ
Maya..Just want you to know that I think of you and Ronan every single day…you are in my heart always and your strength will get you and your rockstar through this!! I love you mama!
I read about Ronan at the Water Connection store in phoenix. I heard that you are trying to get him to New York in December for surgery but that he cannot fly commercial. I got in contact with someone who I thought might be able to help. So far, he sent me the link to this website which offers jet transportation with the possibility of insurance paying for it. If this website can’t help you guys out, my friend said he will look into more options. I’m praying for you and your family!
hi maya,
i am originally from kelso and my parents, who still live there, told me a little about your story. i have since been following your blog and it has inspired me to want to do something. i have small kids, 3 yr old and 6 month old, and i cannot begin to fathom facing this all as you are. i won’t even try to say i understand. so i have recently signed up to run a marathon and am going to raise funds for american cancer society while doing so. and it is because i took the time to let you open my eyes to what some people face. your blog is so enlightening to what the reality is for people facing this fight. when my kid gets the flu (or whatever) now, you better believe i won’t be bitching about it. i will be thanking my lucky stars that thats all he’s got. all the best…….
if my fundraising goes well, and i can get my ass across the finish line of the marathon, i would love to perhaps do something for your foundation someday.
julia
I just saw your story on New channel 12. I have a 17 year old daughter who is a Neuroblastoma survivor. She was diagnosed at 2 months old. I was so touched by your story, and know of your struggles. I feel that there is this unspoken rule that we are all family going through this terrible cancer together. I live in Arizona as well, and I want you to know that if there is EVER anything I could do for you, please know I’m here for you! Ronan is ADORABLE! He will remain in my prayers! God bless! ~Angela
Maya and Woody,
Amie told me about Ronan’s fight and I’ve been following your story diligently. His every step and your whole journey is being guided and blessed right now. I posted his story and the news clip on my website, http://www.BeMoxie.com to spread the word and raise awareness. Good things are ahead in 2011 for your family, I can feel it.
I’m typing this while wearing my Rockstar Ronan bracelet, the best accessory ever!
Best,
Molly McCord
Thanks Molly! What you wrote about Ronan’s journey was beautiful!
Hi Lovely Thompson Family!
I was paying for my ice today at The Water Connection and my eyes went directly to those of your son’s, as they stared up from the little card on the counter…he is beautiful!
I offered some honest, no-strings-attached information and was told that perhaps you would be interested in hearing. Of course, I am a stranger and know that you have probably had lots of unwanted advice from people you don’t know. That being said, Ronan’s photo was put there for a reason; so, here goes…hopefully this can help:
This is a comprehensive cancer care center in Mesa that uses an array of modalities to help get and keep cancer patients healthy, even when they’ve been told there is little to be done. Some of the testimonials bring tears to my eyes.
Whether you take a look at this site and Learn about Dr. Lodi or not, I sincerely wish you all of the best in your journey.
Many hugs and thousands of well wishes from Stranger #3,762. 🙂
Mya,
Ronan, you and the entire family have been on my mind a lot lately. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Ronan is brave and the surgery will go flawlessly! Be calm and believe. Ronan is a fighter and you are much stronger then you will ever truly know.
Merry Christamas, Ronan is your Christmas Miracle.
Sincerely,
Kristen M. PCH
Maya,
Just read about your situation on facebook and came to this site to find out more information. Keep your head up and know that you have a huge group of friends and family members praying for you and keeping you in their thoughts. Your little rockstar is adorable!! Never underestimate the power of the LIFE, it will surprise you! I wish you and your family strength during these trying times.
Sincerely,
Matthew Byron Cassi
We will pray for Ronan and send as many positive vibes as we can his direction. We wish for your family much more good news.
The Bode Family
Please join me in supporting this amazing foundation on February 9th, 2011 at Narcisse in the Scottsdale Quarter… Space is limited so please go to the Las Palomas website and secure your spot!!
100% of all donations will go directly to the Ronan Thompson Foundation
Hope to see you all there!!
xo
February Las Palomas Luncheon!
http://www.laspalomas.org
Hello, my name is Christia. I was given this website address by a classmate of mine. We are in nursing school together and she use to go to high school with Ronan’s daddy (jessica). She sent this to me because I love children and also it doesn’t hurt to have one more person praying for you. It just so happens that I work at Phoenix Children’s Hospital I wonder if I have ever passed you in the halls. Your journey is inspiring. As a mother my heart aches to see any child in pain, but I love my job and where I work. Miracles happen everyday. So my thoughts and prayers are with you and if you need anything please don’t hesitate to ask. Thanks for sharing your familes journey.
God bless your lil Ronan and your beautiful family. Our prayers are sent your way this evening…God Bless.
Happy Valentines Day to a beautiful Mom & Dad and your family. I see and feel such compassion, warmth and love and thanks so much for sharing Ronan with all of us. I love you today and every day.
Woody and Maya,
I spoke with the office on Weds. and asked Suzanne how everything was going with Rockstar Ronan. She mentioned there was the website and I could get more information on it. WOW, this little young man is courageous, tough, and a fighter!!!!!
The ordeal I went through pales in comparison to the plight of this Star!!!!
Woody, at one time in our dealings you said you would “Treat my case like you were representing your brother”!!! I totally believed you and I think you did, and I appreciate that!
Now, I am hoping and praying with all my heart that my brother’s son will fight through this and make it out of harms way!!!!
I and alot of people I know and love are praying for little Ronan!!!
God Bless all of you always!!!!!
Joe Hathoot
Scottsdale Az
Maya.. be strong! and believe.. ı pray everynite for u and ur son… he will be all right.. god bless you all ❤
Friends,
Keep praying, never give up! Fight this cancer with all of the prayer and love that you have, and just when you think that you are going to give up, KEEP GOING!
Maya, after meeting you on the flight from Newark to Phoenix, I needed to come see Ronan’s site. There was something about you and Ronan, when you walked onto the plane, that I felt an immediate connection. While I am fighting a different kind of cancer (brain cancer), I am just drawn to families fighting the fight. I know we only had a few minutes to talk, and you all were so tired, I just had to reach out and let you know that you all will be in my thoughts and prayers. What a gorgeous boy – after seeing the pics, you weren’t kidding about those eyes – my word! What a handsome and brave little man! If you ever need anything, I am in town and would love to help – or to talk, anything. Hugs and prayers to you all.
I will keep you and your family in my prayers always.
Maya,
I just became aware of your family’s situation for the first time today. Our social circles appear to be related, so suspect we may have met at some point. Have thought about you, your family and Ronan many times today. Frankly haven’t been able to do so without a few tears, lots of hope and many prayers going out to you and your family. There are no words… only wishes… so mine are all yours.
Warm regards,
Stacey
– Mother of 2 and 3 year old boys.
I can only hope that I would be half the mother you are if one of my children is ever struck by this bastard of a disease. Please know that people everywhere are crying with you. I, like you and your husband, have ALWAYS despised the saying “everything happens for a reason” and I have always stated my hatred for this stupid saying to anyone who will listen. For some things, there are no reasons; even if there were reasons suggested, would there be ANY that would be satisfactory. I will think of you and Ronan and your twins and your husband in the coming weeks and hope with all of my heart that you all find strength, together, to see Ronan through. Much respect, warmth, and many tears for you,
Sue
What a beautiful child you have-you should be so proud of yourself. It must be so hard but remember God gives you no challenge that you can’t handle. Be strong through this Ro looks up to you. I’m so sorry that this tragedy has struck your family. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
I read your latest blog “the next person that tells me…” I just want to say Sorry for those of us that are inconsiderate with our words and try to say things to make us feel better before we think of how they may affect you. I share your blogs on my facebook and ask my friends to pray for you. I wear a bracelet daily so when I see it I remember to pray for you often. My heart aches for you. My sister recently lost her granddaughter and posted this comment about people speaking, I thought you would appreciate it. She added your comment to her previous post to reiterate the impact of commenting before we think about it.
Before you speak…
by Connie Phelan Iddings on Tuesday, May 3, 2011 at 12:00pm
“Everything happens for a reason.You were given this because you were strong enough to handle this. God has a greater plan for your child. Your child wants to go home, where he belongs in Heaven, so just let him go. At least you had as long as you did with her and you have other grandchildren, at least you can be grateful for that. You’ll be a better, stronger person because of all of this. ”
These are comments given to a Mother whose child is battling for his life and to other Mother’s and Grandmother’s who have lost their babies.
Think about it. Seriously. Stop and think about it. To a Mom and to a Grandma, there simply does not exist any justifiable “reason” for our babies to suffer and die.
I am sure that God is taking care of our babes, but when you say God had a better plan, what exactly are you implying? That we somehow didn’t deserve our children-our parenting plan didn’t suffice while millions of others did? That God handpicked our babies to pluck out of our arms because he had a better plan? God is not cruel. His plan is to bless and not to harm us. (Jeremiah 29:11) I’m pretty sure it had very little to do with “God’s perfect plan.” I like how William P. Young author of The Shack puts it,
“Just because I work incredible good out of unspeakable tragedies doesn’t mean I orchestrate the tragedies. Don’t
ever assume that my using something means I caused it or that I need it to accomplish my purposes. That will only lead you to false notions about me. Grace doesn’t depend on suffering to exist, but where there is suffering you will find grace in many facets and colors.”
Never tell a parent their child is better off or tell a mother that her child wanted to leave her even to go to heaven, it’s like sticking a knife in her already broken heart. We don’t want our children to suffer. No good mother does. But, to add guilt to her grief by suggesting she is being selfish for going to any and every length to help her child survive and for wanting to hold onto her child as long as absolutely possible is unforgivable.
Don’t think for one moment that we aren’t eternally grateful for every millisecond of time we were given. Whether it is a few moments, or decades it matter not, our baby is now gone. We are grateful for all the yesterdays but we still want the tomorrow’s. We want our children with us today, right now and would give absolutely anything to have them.
Don’t get us wrong, we love and are grateful for all our children and grandchildren that are still with us, as we’ll also be for those we’ll be blessed with in the future, but that does not diminish our love or desire for those lost.
Please never, ever tell a grieving Parent or Grandparent that they will be stronger, better people because of the death of their child. No one wants to benefit from the death of a child. We know you mean well, but it plants thoughts in our mind like, “What if I was a stronger and better person to begin with? Would my baby have been spared?” Is that your intention? I highly doubt it.
Before you speak, pause to hug us and think. Tell us you are sorry. Let us cry and talk as much and as often about our baby without being made to feel guilty that you feel uncomfortable. Please don’t tell us that you think it is time we move on, leave that to the well-trained therapists. Our grief may remind you that we live in a world where children die before they are suppose to; a fact you may want to forget, but we don’t want anyone to forget our babies. We also don’t want anyone else to suffer needlessly if there is anything we can do about it. Therefore, we will keep talking about our children and about their death if we think it will help someone. It is important for everyone that we do.
We know it is difficult. Believe me, we know! We understand most people have no idea what to say or that some things are far more hurtful to say than they ever realized. I tell you now so that you will know. I, myself most likely said these very statements in an attempt to comfort others in their grief and offer answers for questions we all have, that there are simply no answers to-at least for now.
I close with a statement from a grieving Mother, “I love you all as always, as long as you don’t say any of those idiotic things…to me. Even if you think them, please don’t say them. They don’t give me strength at all.”
Strength is what we need and what we need more than all is your unconditional love. Before you speak, pause and just give us your love.
God Bless, my prayers are with you continually
Maya,
Im only a 14 year old girl but your story breaks my heart. Ronan is the most beautiful child i have ever seen. He is truly a fighter. my aunts school knows your mom and that is how i heard about Ronan. Sometimes i wonder why God does the things he does? to the people he does it to? I dont think anybody could answer that. I do know that God is watching over your family right now and there has been prayers lifted up to him, that i believe he has been listening to. I know it may seem like the end, but the truth is there never is a ending. I wish the best for your family. Keep fighting little Ronan! I hope you have a great mothers day tomorrow with your family. 🙂
-Hannah
Never, ever stop fighting… I believe in you, your family, and Ronan.
Our hearts are so sadden by all that your family has gone through. Your entire family is in our thoughts and prayers. All our love always.
If God brings you to it, he’ll pull you through it.
Our love is with you! Now, forever, and always blue eyed angel boy!
To the Thompson family. One of my moms coworkers went to school with you in Kelso. I am so sorry for little Ronan. You are in my prayers. I am wondering how I can order a bracelet.
Maya, im so sorry to hear ur heartbreaking news. He was the most stunning little boy i have ever seen. I work in a childrens hospital in Glasgow Scotland and I see the kids going through this quiet often i try to shut off as i have 2 kids of my own and i think how i would feel if something happened them. Your story touched me so much I felt like I know you and your family. You are a true inspiration to me and Ronan is so lucky to have such an amazing family. Keep strong for R even though hes not here right now you will see him again and his spirit will live on forever. I wish I could take your pain away and give you ronan back. Im truly heartbroken for you and I hope one day soon that a cure is found for this horrible disease. My thoughts are with you and your family x x x
I just want to give my sincere condolences to you and your family. I am a friend of Olivia and have been following your story for a little while now. Your story has touched me personally, and opened my eyes to life in general. We cannot take life for granted and we need to appreciate the people in our lives or the things in life, as tomorrow is not promised. Even though you don’t know me personally, I grieve with your family and my friend Olivia. Please know that there are a lot of people like myself that are grieving with you as well and we will always be inspired by your story and the bravery of Ronan. You will always will be in my thoughts and prayers…
Mamma Maya, your strength and will as you’ve walked through pure hell with your child in your arms…you held your game face for the sake of all three sons, but damn it…acceptance? You said it – FUCK that.
Your BFF little man, soul mate and you said ‘hell no – not good enough’, and you both fought through the pain. It is so unfair. UNFAIR!
I’m cynical, older than you, childless, and rarely inspired by others. For me to be angry and heartbroken enough to pick up and wave this torch, there must be thousands like me. Where were we before your unfathomable loss? Yet untouched by Ronan…this battle continues, with a larger and vocal army because he was here. How many people do that in four short years? Ronan did. Now is your time for grief, but not alone. None of our lives will be the same again…that is Ronan’s legacy. Thank you from Longview, WA…
I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful baby boy. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers and I hope comfort and peace find you soon.
Maya, my heart is broken for you and your family. I read your blog and looked at your pictures, and I have never seen such a beautiful boy. I never met you, or him, but I will never forget his sweet little face. There are no words to say how sorry I am that this unthinkable thing has happened to your family. I will remember your sweet angel of a boy always.
Carolyn
As a former JLP member, I know Kay.
Ronan has the most beautiful blue eyes. I say “has” because hopefully, your memories of him will always include him looking back at you, and he will always be with you. My lovely niece also “has” big, beautiful blue eyes. She passed in 2009, four days before her fourth birthday, as your beautiful son did. No words provide comfort for the pain. Not even another person’s understanding of your situation provides comfort. There are no words. I am just so sorry. I wish you strength in your fight against the disease that invaded your son’s body.
I wake several times in the night praying for you and my niece who has lost her baby as well and today when I awoke I had these thoughts tossing about so I wrote them down and this is what it ended up as…
Just Yesterday
How could yesterday go from waking bright eyed, busy tailed and a smile…
to heaviness, heartache and exile?
How could yesterday go from a day in the sun, playing, laughing and carefree…
to worrying, praying and just waiting to see?
How could yesterday go from endless laundry, errands, and baseball…
to test results, hospitals, and trying not to fall?
How could yesterday go from sitting down to dinner, baths and bedtime stories…
to medicines, doctors and endless worries?
How could yesterday go from hugging and kissing…
to goodbye and missing?
How could it….because it was just yesterday!
Prayers, Colleen LaBiche (longview)
That was very beautiful.
Thats very beautiful
We are so very sorry. I wish I had words…they are inadequate. No parent should have to do this. Our hearts, thoughts, and prayers are with you all. Ronan was a beautiful little boy and he was a true warrior. I’m so very sorry!
Deliece Hofen
I don’t know you but i am weeping in disbelief, Ronan is a beautiful angel now. I have experience with this motherfucker disease as my young sister(mother of 4) is battling stage 4 BC. I hope and pray God gives u all the strength and patience in the universe to heal with losing Ronan. RIP ANGEL
I do not know you, I saw a post on facebook of someone wishing your beautiful baby boy to rest easy. I’m not sure whether they knew you or not. I’ve read the blog posts and looked at pictures you have posted and couldn’t ever imagine how hard it would be to lose such an important person in your life. I’m only 17 and have no children, but, although it may not be as strong as yours, i feel pain in my heart while reading about your, your family’s, and Ronan’s hard times. This little angel has impacted not only my life, but many others too. This disease needs to be figured out so beautiful people like your son can live a long and healthy life. I pray for you and your family, and, of course, Rockstar Ronan. Rest easy ❤
Dear Maya,
I am praying for you and Woody and the boys. I wish there was something I could say or do to help but I know there isn’t. You are loved honey. Sincerely, Pam
Maya, hang on honey, just hang on. I promise it won’t always hurt this bad. And I know, I have lost a child so I can say that much is true. Will it ever not hurt? So far no, it will not. Please know there are a lot of people thinking of you and praying and hoping you hold on. I wish I could just do something, ANYTHING! I remember the crazy awful pain. Just keep putting one foot in front of the other for now k? sincerely, Pam
Your little boy is so beautiful. I have two young children of my own and cannot imagine going through what you are experiencing. I came across your blog after clicking on a link from my cousin’s blog, whose 6-year-old son is also battling cancer. I am praying for your entire family, especially Ronan and his brothers.
Maya and Family. You probably don’t remember me but I used to babysit you and Shawn. Mike Bradica is my stepdad, Wendy my mom. I am so sorry for your loss. Our grandson is 3 and this really hit home for me on what you must be feeling. My mom is in heaven with Ronan and she will take such good care of him. She was sick to and now they are both beautiful healthy angels. All my love to you and your family.
Julie Lee, Kelso, WA
I don´t know you Maya but I am truly sorry for your loss. You are a brave mom, Ronan must be very proud of you. My prayers are with you and your family. God will give you strength to keep on for your little twins and husband.
So sorry for your loss! What a beautiful little blue eyed angel we now have up above !
Maya, I only recently came across your blog. Since then I have found myself logging on each afternoon to ‘check on you’ and learn more about your beautiful boy and his journey. I am so very deeply sorry for your loss and all that your family has endured. My husband doesn’t understand why I would want to make myself sad each night, but I want you to know how Ronan and his life have changed mine! Sure, I cry at every single post I read, but I then sneak into my own sons’ bedrooms to smother them with kisses while they sleep. Our days are filled with giggles, and fun and laughter and cuddles. The mess around the house is now so insignificant. The endless calls of “Mama” are no longer irritating but a reminder of how much my three boys depend on me. Ronan is my hero, and so are you and your whole family. It’s a bittersweet ‘thank you’, but THANK YOU for sharing your journey with us all.
Hi Maya, do you like this? I saw the hummingbird & thought of you……..I don’t know you but a little gift never hurt 🙂 if you like it, I’d like to get it for you……..http://www.hautelook.com/product/1820876
Hello. My daughter, Addison Jo Blair, passed away on May 27th of Stage IV Neuroblastoma. Our children are defintely in heaven playing together right now. I just wanted to let you know that I am here and in the same boat that you are in if you ever feel like venting. Cancer is a horrible disease and my husband and I plan to devote the rest of our lives to help find a cure. You can see her journey at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/AddisonJoBlair.
Kelly
Those eyes are magnetic!
I am so sorry. In your son’s honor, I will kiss and hold my babies even tighter tonight. Wishing you rest and strength…. Xo
Hi, My name is Mike and I am a 44 year old father of three girls. I stumbled on your site and started to read… I found myself at a lost for words but felt compelled to reach out to you and your family. I am very sorry and I will pray for you. I hope you find the strength everyday that you need to make it through. With respect.
Mike
Hi Maya,
I wanted to let you know how deeply your posts affected me. I am the mother of a 3 year old daughter who was diagnosed with Leukemia when she was 2 1/2 years old. Although I am sure it doesnt help to say but I am so terribly sorry for your loss!!!!!!!!!!! I cannot imagine the pain but I do fear it so much. It is so terribly frightening & difficult to watch your child deal with such an unfair hand in life… one that he/she didnt want or deserve. You truly were his angel in life. I am on meds right now to help me with my sleeping, anxiety, and so on. It is so hard as a mother to endure the mental & emotional anguish of hoping and praying constantly to keep your sick child healthy (even if they aren’t acting sick).
You are an inspirational writer and do it so beautifully. What you express is so raw and true to the core. Thank you for sharing and know that it touches even a perfect stranger.
Best wishes to you and your family.
Stephanie
“You’re the first person that has taught me to miss someone. You’ve taught me to miss a person from the heart, not the mind.”
This makes me think of my mom who died 4 years ago. I can’t imagine what you are going through, but losing someone you love so much is the hardest thing anyone could ever go through. I haven’t lost a child, but my mom was 39 when she died and had so much life to live still. So I know that this is the worst feeling ever. I love reading your blog so please don’t ever stop being real.
I hope this quote was okay to share with you. You’re a trooper.
What a beautiful little guy!! I’m so sorry for your loss.
Obviously nothing I say will help you. I wish it could. I found your blog from someone on FB and have read alot of it. I just want you to know that because of Ronan and you and your story, it has pushed me to try and understand how important every second is with my babies. When I am running around the house like a chicken with my head cut off, chasing after them and cleaning up messes over and over, stressing out, I now stop and think how lucky I am to be doing so. And that they are making messes. I feel like such an idiot for not realizing this on my own. I mean really realizing it. They currently go to daycare and I miss out on them the whole day while I work. I will be figuring out a way to change this. Because of Ronan. Thank you.
Dear Maya,
Ronan lives on in the hearts of the many children whose mothers have been touched by you sharing his story. Thank you for helping me realize, through your journey and the loss of your precious son, what is important in life. I will never forget your beautiful son and will honor his memory by becoming a “rockstar”.
Maya, I have been following your blog for some time now and just want to let you know that not a day goes by that I don’t think of you, Ronan and your family. Your loss and the sadness that lives with you breaks my heart. I just wish that I could click my fingers and have him back in your arms – happy and well. No family should ever have to endure such endless pain. There are no words of comfort anyone can offer but I hope you can, in some small way, feel the hands of friendship and love reach out to you. I hope in time to come they will give you some comfort. But you shout, scream, cry as much as you need. Grief evolves and you just learn a new life but the loss and missing never ends – how can it when you lose someone so precious and vital to your life.
I just hope that you know that the light from Ronan’s eyes and the love you share will continue to burn brightly in so many people’s hearts. He could never and will never be forgotten. May your days be filled with more sunshine than showers and more light than darkness. I send you hugs from across the miles and special wink to your blue-eyed baby. xx
PS And F U Cancer – you destroy lives and we will destroy you. You cannot win with Maya’s mama mafia after you.
Magnetic…Mezmorizing…Amazing…these are the words that come to my head when I think of Ronan and you for what you do for him and the community. I came across you blog because of the Layla Grace Foundation, and am hooked. I literally sob and weep for you everyday at work as I read your letters to Ronan. I am obsessed with how real and raw you are. How you don’t give a fuck what anyone thinks. How you are blunt with your words and feelings. I read your blog, the same postings, several times a day sometimes, because it is a constant reminder of how precious my twins are and to not take them for granted one second. I can’t and I won’t pretend to know what you are going through, but I am certain the sadness that overwhelms me for you doesn’t even begin to measure against your giref, and I am sorry for that. Please know that your message, your story is spreading like wildfire. I am waging war against cancer, against people’s perception of cancer/cancer funding/cancer research, agaisnt “corporate” foundations in memory of the precious babies who have lost their lives and the families that have been ripped to shreds because of it. I am spreading Ronan’s story and your site as much as possible. Please don’t stop being you, being real, and kicking ass with the foundation. You rock for Ronan and we support you.
Much love for Ronan, you and your family,
MP
Maya. I have read your blog off and on over the past year I think. I never posted, but I think of you all the time. Your son was so beautiful and your writing brings me to tears every time. I have three daughters- my younger girls are twins (almost 4). I am so deeply sorry for your loss and I just wanted you to know that I was thinking of you and your family…..
What a beautiful baby you were blessed with and now have an angle watching over you ..xxxx
wow i just saw story and blogs i cant even imagane if this happen to my son he is four years old i thank god he is healthy thank you so much for educating me on childrens cancer i had know idea so many children have cancer god bless you and your famliy i will continue to follow you what a strong woman you are and a beautiful you had he is honored to have you as his mom you are making a differance in this world i am so happy to get to know your son through your eyes my famliy will continue to support you love the tejedor famliy
I want to send a little hope your way, here is a link to a little girl named Lana Turners FBK page, She was diagnosed at 3yrs old with stage 4 Neuroblastoma cancer. The doctors didnt give the family much hope, but 2yrs later little Lana is still here with us and very Healthy and Cancer free. I wish you all the best and will be praying for you all. http://www.facebook.com/groups/209476017198/
What a good looking child those blue eyes, I send my thoughts and prayers for the whole family !!!! best wishes !!!!!
You are so beautiful Ronan!!!!! I bet you are gonna fight with all you have precious baby!!!!! Praying for you and your family!!!! Lots of love from Cleveland, Tn! Hang in there Mom and Dad, God gave you this precious angel, and now God’s going to take great care of him too!!! 🙂 God Bless!
prayers & thoughts go out to this family…
remember “I Can Do All Things Through
Christ Who Strengthens Me “-Philippians 4:13 may god bless your little boy Ronan & your family
What a sad story. After reading the facts about childhood cancer, I’m definitely going to try to raise awareness!!
Just want you to know you and Ronan are my inspiration for every “hard” day of my life. NOTHING compares to anything that Ronan did. Or still does through you. Xo
I want to just say that I am so so sorry for the loss of your gorgeous baby boy. I have been reading your entries or letters to Ronan and cried each time because your words express the pain you feel… Its very crushing.. There are
really not words to express what i feel for you and your family. I wwill pray for you and your family, for God to continue to give you strength. This is why I want to go into med school.
I send you all my love. God bless you.
From NY
Gianelle
Oh, Maya-
So much strength and gentleness to you today and each day.
What a beautiful little boy. God has a plan for everything. He is free now, somewhere endless and magical in the arms of his maker. Life is a beautiful thing, and even in death, it’s beauty remains.
We wish strength, peace and love to you and your family. Ronan and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers today and always. You have turned something so tragic into something so helpful for others. You are raising awareness to this horrendous disease. Bless you on your journey.
Warmest Regards,
Jenn & Vince Rossi
So so sorry to hear, such a Beautiful baby boy,Those eyes! Those eyes are amazing! Thr same colour as the sky. Rest in paradise little Ronan you are truely an Angel that heaven sent only God realised you were too special for Earth.
Imogen – Ireland
Hi,
I just heard about the SU2C show tonight with Taylor Swift singing Ronan. I know that I’m late (year) and words can and will never fully express. I had a son that was born with neuroblastoma, we actually went in the hospital for something totally unrelated to this. It was “happened” upon when they did the sonogram. So I can definitely relate and sympathize with you. I understand all the emotions because I had them as well, especially in the beginning. He has been cancer free for 4 years now, they say that 10 years is when you are considered out of the woods. I’ve read your blogs and I have to say that YOU are my hero! I don’t know how, what or where I would be if things did not turn out the way they did with my son. I will be watching tonight and I will say a prayer for you, I know your son is smiling down on you guys. God has him in His arms right now as we speak. You don’t know me, we are connected because although my son hasn’t passed, we’ve experienced the same thing with our sons. I would love to keep in contact with you! I just want to be apart of promoting awareness for Neuroblastoma. My son is your son!!
Take care and May God Bless You and Your Family,
Nakela Prude
Dallas, TX
Thank you Thompson family for sharing your story. I am a mom of a little boy named Ronan as well. He is my 3rd child and like your precious little one, has the eyes of an angel. Your story led us tonight to watch Stand Up for Cancer and make a donation. My 3 children sat with us as we watched and I believe watching the show, and hearing your son’s story earlier today has made them a little more aware, a little more thankful. We will pray tonight for your family and thank you again for sharing your personal journey….
Watched Stand Up 2 Cancer tonight. Lost my best friend at the age of 21 (Next month will be 10 years). Taylor Swift sang a beautiful song about your beautiful little angel! My son is 3 and I thank God everyday for him!
May God Bless you and your family, and may Ronan bless you everyday to give you the strength to continue to fight for him and all the other angel’s that are still on this earth fighting hard!
I just saw Ronan for the first time tonight on Stand Up 2 Cancer and heard that beautiful song that Taylor Swift sang in his honor. My mother has been fighting Stage 4 Ovarian Cancer for the past 2 years. She was diagnosed only a month after I had my first child and her first grandchild who is now 2 years old. Since then, I have learned to appreciate her more and to appreciate life more. After seeing your beautiful son, I am going to cherish every second with my daughter.
I had no idea this type of Cancer existed until tonight. Most people don’t know Ovarian Cancer exists either, so I love that you’re raising awareness. I hope all these tragedies can result in trimphs for Cancer. We need to find a cure!!
I can not even begin to imagine the pain you’ve gone through and are still going through today. Stay strong and never stop fighting for a cure. God bless you.
Your little boy changed me. He made me realize together we CAN find a cure for this horrible thing. I am very sorry for your lose. I am now trying to get people to donate to find a cure. Now I have some tears in my eyes, I will always pray for you. My thoughts are with you.
Hello I just wanted to stop by and say that Ronan will be loved by many people. We will never forget his history and how hard he battled to survive. He may have lefted soon but he will never be forgotten because a beautiful soul wrote a song about him and shared with all her fans and all the rest of the world, making him a very loved boy. And for me I want to say that his memory will be dearly saved in my heart I will not forget those blue eyes and the fierceness that he had to fight but still live his life like a normal kid. and I bet he is smilling right now happy that his favorite singer just sang a song about him. How special is that? I wish you all the best.
– Isabel Serra
I learned about you and Ronan tonight while watching stand up to cancer and hearing Taylor Swift’s song “Ronan”. The song made me sob uncontrollably and hug my one year old son tight. After it was over I immediately googled Ronan till I found the right one. I cannot imagine your loss and pain. What a beautiful thing you are doing for your son writing this blog for him and spreading awareness of neuroblastoma and how desperately a cure is needed. I have been going through chemotherapy treatments with my grandmother for 2 1/2 years for her ovarian cancer. May God bless you and your angel Ronan.
i hope you are okay you and your son inspired me. for all the people with cancer he was so brave through all of it. even though he is not alive anymore i know he is still and always be in your heart.
this website is absolutely wonderful. some type of a venting system. after reading many of the post, and after crying for many hours. i realized how unfair life could be. no on asked for cancer.no one wants it. so why is it here.this wonderful story has made me want to live my life better, love my family better and feel so much better for being healthy as some are not lucky to be. Ronan has inspired me. to live a better life,and appreciate what i have. so i thank you for that. i really do.
Inspiring story and lovely song by Taylor Swift. We lost a beautiful girl to neuroblastoma as well. She was diagnosed with stage IV at age 7 and by the grace of God and unwavering faith she lived 4 1/2 years. You might like reading her story in the book “Gloria’s Miracle” written by Seattle times reporter Jerry Brewer. Prayers for you and your family.
I just heard the song by Taylor Swift and it brought tears to my eyes. I have a 4 year old brother and I can imagine your pain. I hope that you’re doing well, he’ll always be in my prayers.
I can’t imagine being you right now. I heard about Ronan last night when Taylor Swift released her song. I have been listening to her song all day and tears continue to stream down my face. I love Ronan, even though I have never met him. He is a beautiful boy. I know that it is hard to not have him with you physically, but remember he is with God now. He is in a better, happier, care-free world now where there are no struggles for him. Long live Ronan, and let him rest in peace.
All my love,
Julia 14
I’m so sorry for your loss. I now have a baby and I cant imagine what you are going through. I’m glad that u are doing something positive. You are trying to help other people and give them what u didn’t get. Just remember that hes always there when you need someone to talk to.belive it or not they answer you back.I talk to my grandma all the time and I ask for a sign I get it. I get through everything by listening to in the arms of a angle. Well I hope that hour family is doing ok. You will be in my prayers.
I will 100% supposrt you. He’s the cutest little boy. Wish you best of luck
Wow! I cried through the whole benefit…..Taylor sang a beautiful song for Ronan. He is a beautiful child..I don’t use the word was because he lives on in heaven with our Father and we will all be there someday soon…I saw how brave everyone was…..I have family in the Army fighting in Afghanistan…..So many different kind of battles in life..Please know you are my heroes!!
I was so touched by Taylor Swifts song about your beautiful boy Ronan. As a mother of small children my heart aches for you. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
maya and woody. My name is Emily. I had a son Bentley who was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis September 28, 2011. We always knew we would loose him but unexpectantly on November 18, 2011 at 5 am my sweet boy died in my arms without any warning. I just heard the song “ronan” by Taylor swift. My hubby and I were just brought to tears listening to and identifying with those feelings. my sweet boys birthday was just last month and it has been a tough 9 months to deal with. I can only hope Bentley and Ronan are in heaven together playing until we can join them again.
all our love,
emily and austin
Hi,
I had not read your blog until recently when I watched Taylor perform “Ronan”
but now I have, and I just wanted to say I am really touched by the story, and
I know how it is to lose someone close to you… though Ronan will still live in
your heart and mine because this story has really inspired me. STAY STRONG ❤
Hello, I know that it has been a year since Ronan has passed away, but I would just like to tell you that I am so sorry, I can not imagine what it is like to lose such a precious, small child. I just heard of him when I came across Taylor Swifts song dedicated to him. It is a beautiful, yet sad song. Just dont forget all the great times you had with Ronan. I am keeping you in my prayers. Ronan is such an adorable child, and It kills me to see such young children with cancer.
It is 2 in the morning and I am sitting here listening to Taylor Swift sing this song over and over again. A mother’s love for a child is so powerful, so beautiful. I have a 2 year old upstairs sleeping right now and I have to think could I make it through what you have had to endure. Ronan was a beautiful baby boy and he is in heaven right now playing with those toy cars and dinosaurs. My God ease the pain in our hearts due to the loss of Ronan.
I have cried my eyes out…not only from hearing the song…but because I would have loved to know him. He is an angel looking down on us with those beautiful blue eyes. God Bless You and Your Family.
I know how you feel. I lost my 19 year old daughter to bone cancer on 6-17-11. Her name is Diana Garigin. My wife keeps he facebook account active for all to view her videos and her funeral: ” DIANA’S CELEBRATION OF HER LIFE” There is now a day that goes by that I don’t think about her, and how much I love and miss her.
I wish you strengh and peace..it’s a really sad but a hope full thing i just can’t keep my tears when i listen to that song…you will always be in my prayers…
navid jabbari
from tabriz,iran
We I’m Sorry
Iam deeply saddened by your lost. Noone should ever have to go through this painful Disease .Stay strong ,never ever give up. Someday in heaven you will see your son again. Trust in God.
Hi Maya and family, A Facebook friend just shared Taylor’s song Ronan from the Stand Up to Cancer from yesterday.. It caught my attention as I also have a Ronan. I can’t stop crying as I listen to the lyrics and reflect on my own Ronan Joshua who is now 8 and a half and his two sisters. While we have other friends and family who are battling cancer, I thank God my 3 have remained healthy to date. I am so sorry for your loss of your beautiful miracle. May all your memories bring you comfort in time. Ronan has now touched the hearts of people worldwide! Allyson (Alberta, Canada)
God bless you. You are the MOST inspirational woman to me that I have ever encountered. Your strength is amazing and I commend you for so many reasons. I watched Taylor Swifts performance of “Ronan” on Stand Up To Cancer and it led me here. I can’t stop listening to this song, and I can’t stop crying. As a mother I two boys I can’t imagine what you are going through and the amount of the strength it takes for each day. You are wonderful, your little boy was wonderful and he is changing the world and so many other peoples lives! I pray that God blesses you and your family and everyone who is going through this.
Maya & Woody,
Here I am at work, reading your blog for the first time, holding back tears. Your stroy has really touched my heart. I couldn’t imagine what you have gone through, or the pain you’re still feeling today. You are both so strong and deserve a gold medal for how well you are handling everything. Your whole family deserves nothing but the world, you are all so special. Ronan was such a beautiful little boy and lives on in you all and everything you do. Remember, all the love, support, and caring you receive is because of the amazing job you did with Ronan and being his parents. You are all so inspiring and I wish you nothing but the best. Thank you to you, your family and Taylor Swift for telling Ronan’s story and proving what an impact you can make in life no matter what age. Ronan was so strong and will live on forever. Never give up, you’re making a difference in peoples lives. ❤ ❤
Ronan’s memory with live forever. God bless both of you.
I know how you feel I have a classmate and she has cancer too. Best wishes and lots of love😭👶👍battle
Tears in my eyes. Rock on Ronan. xxoo
I am so sorry that someone who you love tremendously and dearly left you. I’ve listened to Taylor Swifts song and read your latest blogs and I’ve noticed that you still keep Ronan in your heart and you treasure your memories of him and I think that that is so very special.
Sorry I posted that twice I didnt think the first one sent already
I’m am so very sorry that you have lost a loved one. I have listened to Taylor Swifts song and read a few of your most resent blogs and I find it so special how you keep him in your heart and you hold onto all your memories with Ronan. I bet you that he is looking down on you from heaven and smiling because he know that you love him and will love him forever and always.
It’s so sad what Cancer does to people… but much sadder for one so young! Prayers go out to you… keep the faith and here’s to finding a cure!!!
i’m so sorry about losing your little angel.Taylor brought me here and i don’t regeret it. i read your blog and it brought tears into my eyes. i admire your strenght, i do. i just want you to know that you are an amazing, inspirational women. and all my prayers go out to you. he will always live in your and our hearts. forever.
When i heard about this it was all over my tumblr… then i found this page.. I’m so sorry about your son… He deserved more… You’re such an amazing and inspirational women. Your son Ronan Will always be in your heart and in my heart and in everybodys heart I cried so much for him even if i don’t know him.. He would’ve lived a great life with someone as great as you. I’m sorry for your loss i really wish i could hug you.. I wish i could make all the cancer in the world go away. I bet he looks down to you and smiles knowing his mother won’t forget about him and will always love him.
Prayers. Unending prayers.
Prayers
Ronan sounds like an amazing beatifull little boy. I’m so very sorry that he passed away and I will be donating for him and his family as I know he will be watching down on us from the heavans above. Ronan we all love you and wish you were here with us today. 🙂
today, i fell in love with your little baby angel. i am so sorry that hes not here with you. on this night i cant fall asleep because all i can think about is him and his stunning blue eyes. i cant stop crying and listening to his song. i wish i could have one moment with him. i miss him even though ive never met him. strangely i feel so connected to him because i spent a lot of time in the hospital due to my crohns disease. you make me think of my mom who spent every day with me in the hospital never leaving my side. thank god for moms right? you are wonderful and so extremely strong. i love you & want to help with everything and anything. sweet dreams baby ronan watch over us sweet pea.
Paulina Bosek
Maya Super Warrior lady…have you seen this? http://letterstoronan.tumblr.com/
So obsessed with the world of Ronan. my heart hurts for you and that specai little boy
Maya,
I have a 3 year old named Harry. My Sister is the President of the AMerican Cancer Society here in Alaska. Your little man is such an inspiration and when I read your blog I hopped into bed with my Harry (LG for “little Guy”) and sniffed his head while he slept. Keep fighting-cancer is a bitch, and some day we’ll send it off with middle fingers raised. We fight with you and Ro.
Courtney and Harry
switched time. Movie on Friday (tomorrow) 750. Hope you can come.
Through Taylor Swift’s song the other night I have become aware of yours and Ronan’s love story. It has touched me so incredibly much, I can’t even begin to tell you. I’m so very sorry for what you have had to go through, and even though I don’t know you, I am so incredibly proud of you. All my love always, Meels (London, England).
Ronan is a beautiful song and makes me cry every time. Your blog is amazing and i can’t even imagine how hard things must have been for you. Stay strong, always and RIP Ronan ❤
I just came to know about it from Taylor Swift’s song so I decided to find more info about it … I really hope you all will be ,,alright” as soon as possible… It’s really terrible how the world can be unfair.. Wish you all luck in life… It’s really awful story with this young lovely fighter…
R.I.P. Ronan …<3 I love your pictures with your wonderful blue eyes 😦
How can so young life end? ://
Maya,
I am a senior graduating high-school this year and have always had an ultimate goal to go to medical school to become a Pediatrician.This morning after hearing Taylor Swifts song dedicated to Ronan and reading your blogs I now want to be a Pediatric Oncologist. One day together we will find the cure to end cancer. Beautiful baby Ronan deserved to live along with other kids being diagnosed with Neuroblastoma cancer. You are an amazing and inspirational mother keep shining. Keep inspiring others to realize what is really out here in the world and that together we could stop this. Your family and Ronan in my eyes are Gold Medal Olympians always being there for eachother and staying strong for Ronan. I can’t stop shivering and crying listening to the song dedicated to Ronan and reading the blogs. My deepest prayers go out for you, your family and Ronan. Recently I applied for a scholarship and there was a question stating “Who is your role model? Why is that person your role model?” and my answer was Ronan. A role model doesn’t necessarily have to be older than you, just the mere fact that Ronan was a beautiful blue eyed baby boy who battled for months made me realize that role models can even be 3 year olds. Thankyou for bringing awareness out to the public and to young adults like myself Mrs. Parke. The mere fact that you still blog about your son shows how strong you are and that you will continue to fight until there is a cure. You are an amazing mohter who deserves the best for years to come and Ronan you gave me hope and I am so sorry you had to go but you will never be forgotten. I know you are a beautiful angel watching over your family. Ronan you have impacted so many lives even mine I couldn’t decide what specialization I wanted now after reading your mothers blog I will do anything and everything to become a Pediatric Oncologist. You will never be forgotten and will remain forever in our hearts, Taylor Swift made sure to put that out there for the world. I may have never met you, but your mother made sure to show the world what an amazing baby boy you were. I keep telling myself now, one day I will be dressed in a white lab coat researching cancer and have my MD as a Pediatric Oncologist..thank you Mrs. Parke for sharing Ronans story with us and for reminding myself that kids deserve the world. You have impacted my life from this day on. Just like Taylor Swift said “I Love you to the moon and back” Ronan. You will forever be in my heart. Rest in peace Ronan, one day the cure will come and it will because of you and your amazing story that your mother shared with us.
I am so sorry tried looking up your last name on google and I got Parke I looked at the left side of the screen and realized it was Thompson. Sorry it totally ruined my comment!
I will hug my baby girl a little harder tonight. I only wish you could feel our hugs for you.
Blair and daughter Logan
I came to this wonderful site when I heard Taylor Swift’s song and that song brings tears to my eyes. I lost a friend while I was in year 10, I was 15 and he died of Leukemia. There is not a day that goes by since his funeral in December of 2009 that I don’t miss him and think about all the things that I am doing that he should be doing too. Cancer is a horrible and I wish so much that there was a cure. I am told constantly that I need to keep my friend in my heart by remembering all the times that he made me laugh, but its not the same and that’s what I miss the most, him making me laugh. I am from London and so even though I never knew Ronan, thanks to Taylor’s song, it has made me realise how much of a wonderful boy he was and I hope that he is in a better place like my friend is because that is all we can hope for.
I wish you and your family all the best and I hope that we can one day find a cure to this evil disease that took my friend, your son and countless others who don’t deserve to be this sick.
Good Luck to any who have Cancer and I pray that you make it through and that your families are right beside you.
Well done to anyone who is remission and I pray that you stay that well.
All the best
xx
thank you very much for sharing your story! God bless you for your love and compassion for kids who are suffering! p.s. the smiley face at the bottom of the page is cute! I will pray for you and your family! Ronan will definitely be remembered.
My precious sister has the same cancer which is rare because she is 42. After surgeries and treatments, she continues to move forward. It is so difficult as you know… she is a mother to 3 children and a wife, a sister, and daughter… Not a moment goes by without the concern and worry… Your song is something else… Hard to hear but something else… Much love and peace always to your hearts!
I just heard Taylor’s song ‘Ronan’ for the first time and it touched me so much I had to find out who this amazing little guy was. I wasn’t prepared for the out of control tears I am currently still fighting back after the song, but I was even less prepared for the beauty of his little face. Those eyes! I’m sure your angel is with you everyday and I just want to tell you I think you are amazing for setting up this blog and charity. I recently watched a J.K Rowling speech in which she said so beautifully ‘ As is a tale, so is life: not how long it is, but how good it is, is what matters.’. With a mother like you I have no doubt this was true in his case.
Thank you for inspiring me,
God bless,
Lauren x
You inspire me. Ronan inspires me. I live in the Phoenix area and I remember hearing about this last year, but Taylor’s song made me remember it and want to look into it. Nobody deserves this and it makes me feel so lucky. I can’t help but read the story and just cry. You and your family are in my prayers. Im sure you already know, but this isn’t fair. I’m so glad that you had the power to use Ronan’s courage and turn it into motivation for everybody else. You truly inspire me. You and Ronan are my idols. So thank you.
I stumbled on your blog through AZ Central to read your story. I clicked on the link to Ronan’s foundation to read Ronan’s story. I don’t know who the first opthamologist you were referred to was (omitting her name for obvious reasons), but my daughter too was referred to a female opthamologist at first for her eye condition. She was absolutely terrible, I was incredibly uncomfortable with her decisions, and I’m glad that I had that intuition because she did in fact misdiagnose my daughter’s eye condition. The next opthamologist in line was Dr. Cassidy. Night and day difference. He performed my daughter’s surgery 3 months later at PCH and she is making great progress. I know our stories are completely different from each others…but it’s amazing how we can be connected in some small tiny way. I have never taken Dr. Cassidy for granted but after reading your experience with opthamologists I am even more grateful for doctors like Dr. Cassidy. Thank you for sharing your journey.
I found this site because of Taylor’s song. My son John was also diagnosed with Neuroblastoma state IV. I am so sorry for your loss. I was moved to tears when I read he died on May 9. That is my son’s birthday.
I learned all about Ronan from Instagram…I’ve posted pictures of him and i am sooo sorry for your loss!;( yesterday I bought the song Ronan on iTunes;(. I wish cancer did not exist.
Your story has inspired me sooo much!! I love Ronan, your beautiful blue eyed angel. My prayers are with your family and your little angel tonight. I’ve cried so much since hearing Taylor’s song! It is a beautiful thing of her to dedicate the song! Today (Sept. 11) nearly half the girls in my school were dressed in blue for your son. Our arms were covered in pen drawings saying ‘Ronan’, ‘Stand Up For Cancer’, ‘Beautiful Blue Eyed Boy’ and little hearts. Just know that your son is known worldwide and you have nothing to worry about, he is safe in God’s strong hands. Thank you for being strong!!
~ Ashi, 11, Connecticut
This story is absolutely heartbreaking. As a mother of a 3 year old, I cannot imagine what it is like to lose a child. I am so very sorry for your loss. Taylor Swifts song “Ronan”, along with your blog, move me to tears every time I read it. I will donate to the foundation every single year.
Maya and family,
I am truly sorry for your loss of your beautiful, little boy. I have also recently lost my best friend due to cancer. I would like to share some words with you that were shared with me during my hard times and they somewhat helped. I know it seems all you can do is weep but he is no longer suffering he is out of pain and watching down on you. Heaven is perfect and he is perfect. You will see him again imagine walking into the gates of heaven and seeing your beautiful boy standing there awaiting you. The time is earth is a mere second compared to the eternity you will have with him in Heaven. He is your little army guy watching over you, he will always be there just not in the same way he was before. I will continue to send prayers your way.
My brother shared Taylor’s video on facebook and from there I found your site and your precious angel. What a special bond between mother’s and son’s and thank you for reminding me today of all days just how precious life is and that we never know how long we have with our little blue eyed boys.
This story has touched my life forever. I will always remember Ronan’s story and sweet face. I learned to not take life for granted and to stop and take more precious moments in. I love how you described his spirit is still here with you and will always be. Families are forever.
I just listened to Taylor Swifts song “Ronan” it was heart touching and made tears stream down my face. You are an amazing person and have a amazing angel in heaven who is a true team player. Thank you for teaching me how precious life is and how everything happens for a reason and this reason so it will rain when ever ronans bright blue eyes get sad! GOD BLESS YOU!
I hadn’t known about your blog until I heard Taylor perform ‘Ronan” a few nights ago, I was really touched by the song and when I learned your story and read your blog, I was even more… I just want to let you know that even though I never knew your son he will live in my heart because his story inspires me and he was a beautiful little boy, and he will live in yours because he knows you did love him…Stay Strong ❤
I honestly cannot stop crying every time I hear Ronan and see he adorable cute little face… I am so sorry for your loss I know that little man is in heaven with the angels smiling at his amazing strong mother
Like the last posts, I found your webpage through the Taylor Swift song. I have been fighting tears all day from the words of the song, now I find myself fighting tears over the words in your posts.
The mother in me cannot imagine you could even breathe after losing that blue eyed angel. Not. Fair. At. All.
The cheerleader in me thinks -What a legacy for a four year old!
I will NEVER forget the day I was introduced to Ronan, and I will NEVER forget that it was on Sept 11. What a day of remembrance it will be for me.
Prayers to you and your family
Beckee
Your story has touched the hearts of people you will never know…..I am so sorry for your loss. RIP your little man Ronan.
Maya, the sad story of your son’s life is truly inspiring. I am only 14, but I know that what you are doing and the pain you are going through will help so many children with this disease in years to come. Thank you so much for sharing your story, and good luck with your new baby xxx
I’m sitting in my bedroom with a tear stained face and big red puffy eyes after reading through this blog. You and your family are so strong and I admire you all so much! Cancer is the worst this ever and at the age of 14 I have lost 4 people to it. Ronan was a gorgeous little boy and I hope you and your family will always be okay, safe and keep the memory of beautiful Ronan alive. ♥
God bless your family. I will pray for you and your family!- From Brazil
I know Im late but I looked up Taylor swift and her song Ronan came up and I listened to it and this is so sad I didn’t even know Ronan but I’m crying . I’m so sorry for you loss. He was a beautiful boy . I dont feel like he deserved to pass but it’s all in gods plans . I wish you good luck.
I have to tell you Maya, your raw honest truth is what will bring the awareness you/me/everybody needs. It’s the straight forward, tell it like you feel it that has my eyes swollen from 2 days of crying. Your candid gamut of emotion, that I can feel as if it were my own has me looked into change. For so many years I have waned to get involved in this fight but am too big of a pussy ( slightly emotional when it comes to children). I am ready to suck it up and move. Thank you thank you thank you a thousand times for your love for your son. It’s exactly how every mother should love, just emagine if they did??? Jen
Breaks my heart everyday. He is such a beautiful boy he didnt deserve this, no child does. What Taylor Swift did is special and your family deserves it the most. This blog has made me sob, it angers me why did he deserve it, he was such a special boy. Maya, your amazingly strong, ronan is proud of you.
– Quinn
Just a random day of searching songs on YouTube I came across “Ronan” last night. The song instantly brought tears to my eyes. The way Ronan is described reminds so much of my 4 year old nephew, Steven. He loves dinosaurs, race cars, and he has very bright blue eyes. I can not imagine the pain you feel, because reading your blog has brought me pain. My prayers and love go to you and your family. Your story is truly amazing. It takes an incredibly strong person to go through what you are going through. I ordered a shirt today. All cancer is terrible, but taking the life of a child is beyond anything. What an astonishing mother you are. Love to you all.
I cry and I cry and I cannot stop crying since yesterday.I still feel pain in my soul…I didnt know about your story until yesterday, I read about Taylor Swift’s tribute to your beautiful, innocent angel, in a newspaper.I have a son, he’s 3 years old and today I left work, I didnt care about anything except him, I was running home to stay with him, to spend every second of this day with him, thinking how blessed I am..You made me realise that I should love more and I should give more.Thank you.Gabriela from Romania
OMG!!!! im crying my eyes out this is the sadest thing ever im so sorry you had to go through such a ruff thing i have been crying for 3 days straight this is so sad i pray evreynight things will get better for you im so sorry my prayers are with you:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(
I am so sorry for your lost i started crying when i heard about Ronan when Taylor Swift started to sing it my mom was diagnosed with cancer so i know what it feels like a little bit because i am only 13 so i have a lot to learn but my prayers are with you.
Amanda, that was beautiful!! What a great big heart you have for a girl who is just starting to become a woman. Isn’t Maya an incredible and strong woman!! I hear that in your words too. You are going to be incredible I just can tell. I hope you and your mama are well.
I heard your beautiful boys story on the radio in a grocery story all the way over in New Zealand. I went home and hugged my little girl just that little bit tighter realising I am inconceivably lucky to be dealing with a pile of dishes and a mountain of washing and bills to be paid because, tonight, I kissed my daughter and put her to bed. Thank you Ronan for reminding me of that. Thank you Mum, for giving such an amazing little man a chance to touch hearts and souls literally half way across the world. ❤
Stay strong, no child deserves cancer, in fact no one deserves it. My prayers are with you ❤ Maya and Woody. Ronan seemed like an amazing kid, I am sorry for your loss.
Hi Maya! I don’t know you as a person that I have met, but I know your heart very well. I remember the day my husband and I got Aaron’s death notice like it was today. As parents like you, we are given a new life task, “Without our child, how were we to make a life that still held meaning and purpose?”. We weren’t ready to quit being a father, a mother to Aaron. On July 16, 2008, we didn’t have a choice, Aaron heard angels through the window panen calling his name, Aaron died of brain cancer (he was 16). In the years since Aaron’s death, grieving without a blueprint, feeling our way through changes and toward outcomes we cannot predict, one thing is for sure, our life as we knew it has changed forever.
God said Aaron’s time time was through, God wanted Aaron home with him.
Grief for me has been a roller coaster, ups and downs, good days and bad, times when the pain is intense and times when the pain eases. I hang onto those better days, they seem to offer a promise, that I can survive the loss of Aaron. It is a challenge to move through grief when I know I must reinvest myself in my life today. Four years later, I won’t ever stop loving Aaron, I will always carry all the memories of our love – no longer just the story of my my loss!!
I hope the memories of “Ronan” bring you confort. Time itself holds no magic power to heal, but in the time ahead may you once again feel the essence of life as you remember the love, the laughter and the life you share together.
“When you look at a wall with a door, most of the area is occupied by the wall, only a tiny little sliver is the door….. If you concentrate on the wall – you are going to hit the wall….May you instead, go thru the door.
Donna
I have been reading your blog for some time now. I am so very sorry for your loss. My daughter Addison was diagnosed with stage four leukemia 6 months ago. She is fighting with all she has. I just pray its enough and God heals her. She is my life, my everything. Thank u for ur blog. Following it has helped me a lot lately
There aren’t any words except that your few words here…have me fighting for and with you and your daughter. I am sorry your baby is going through such bullshit and you have to too. I would be honored, if there is anything a stranger can do to help a little girl and her mommy…, I would be honored.
Thank you. My baby girl went to be with Jesus last night. Thank you for your prayers. They are greatly needed and appreciated
Praying for you I lost my dad in 1991 from a brain tumor
You are right, I now know Ronan’s name because of the song. Thank you for sharing your story. My heart aches for you.
Ronan is beautiful. Maya, you are beautiful. Thank you for sharing your story with us.
I came across your blog after hearing the song and wanting to know the story. I have a 4 year old son and this hits close to home because of that. I’ve cried for you and Ronan several times today since first reading it this morning. It is absolutely heartbreaking and unfair that you both and your family/friends had to experience this. I know no words can heal your pain and you’ll never be fully better until you meet that beautiful child once again. I fully believe that he is now your guardian angel though. After reading your blogs I see that we share a similar love and attachment for our boys. A love that strong could NEVER end and that is why I believe he is your guardian angel now. I wish I knew you so that I could hug you. Good luck in the rest of your life journeys with that precious little boy watching over you ❤
I saw your story today on AOL news as I was sitting at my desk with tears running down my cheeks so I read your blog. I have 2 boys and I can not imagine going through what your family went through. You are doing a good thing in raising awarness. It was so kind of Taylor Swift to do what she did I like her even more now. I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
Dear Maya, first of all I just want to say that I am so so so sorry for the loss of Ronan. He was a very beautiful little man!! I was reading some of your earlier blogs and I wanted to say that you are my hero 🙂 You are so strong and Ronan and all of your other children are lucky to have you as their mother. I know you think that Ronan’s cancer was your fault and you can’t forgive yourself, but I want you to know that there was nothing that you could do to save him and everything is going to be okay 🙂 your life needs you too stay strong and happy 🙂 you are the mother of some beautiful kids that need you in their life’s and they know that things are hard. I know for a fact that Ronan is having a great time in heaven looking down on you and your family 🙂 and he will be waiting for you when you earn your spot there too 🙂 I know this is long and probably doesn’t mean much coming from a 13 year old girl who you think just found your son on Facebook and is going to forget all about him in a few days but that’s not me, I will always remember little Ronan and his beautiful blue eyes!! You are a strong, amazing, wonderful mother and wife and I want you to know that a lot of people are keeping you in their prayers.. Stay strong!!!
With love,
Kylie Brock
I cant stop listening to Ronan just by the song I can tell he was a wonderful kid! I hope all is well with you!
Your story is inspiring and horrible all at the same time (and I mean that in the best way possible.) The song is right when it says ‘people don’t know what to say’ because I don’t and won’t pretend to–but all I know is I have been crying for almost 2 hours and just went in to wake up my little guy (who is almost 4 years old and looks A LOT like your Ronan) to kiss him and tell him I love him and that I was sorry I yelled at him for getting out of his bed 14 times tonight. It really hit home and you are doing an insanely good job at putting one foot in front of the other, taking each breath at a time and fighting the good fight to find a cure for this horrible disease. I would never begin to tell you that I know how you feel, because I don’t and I know you will understand this when I say that I pray to God that I never will–but I do know how it feels to be a mother and love my two kids (boy/girl twins) more than could be explains in words and I know how sad and heart-broken I feel that you have lost him–it’s not natural or fair or right and it’s the worst thing a mother can imagine. I am just sorry you have to be the one fighting this fight, feeling that pain. I don’t know you but please know that you and Ronan and your family are in our hearts and prayers and THANK YOU for sharing your story and for being a soldier in this war against this F*@#king disease.
I was first introduced to your story when i watched Taylor Swift perform “Ronan” in her Stand Up to Cancer performance. I was so touched by her words, your words of your beautiful little boy with those piercing blue eyes. I find he pops into my head out of no where. I feel so much for you and your family. Thank you for sharing your story with the world, for sharing him with the world. I bet he has touched millions of lives, i know he has touched mine. Stay strong and continue fighting for him.
Hey. So Taylor read this blog? i feel really sad. And Ronan is soooo cute! (He’s my desktop background!) SO was Taylor swift really close with Ronan? or not. You dont have to answer if dont want to. Im really sorry to what happened! 😦 Goodluck!
I am so sorry for the loss of your precious angel… He is so beautiful, I as well lost a child and I feel your pain, my son passed away at the age of twelve. He as well touched many lives as your son Ronan did… My son was different circumstances although that song though hit right to home with me as well. I felt it and what you went through in that hospital, I also lived alot of my life in hospitals with my son Blake . My son also had blue eyes and loved dinasaurs, stuffed animals and halloween, and the first thing I would here was good morning mom I LOVE YOU!!!! Oh how I miss those words… I also like you, wonder where he is at, I pray I might be able to just see him and hold him for a second. I also pray he is safe… I admire the fact you started this wonderful tribute in the name of your son to fight cancer.. I always wanted to do something in my son’s name as well. He had down syndrome and is such a beautiful spirit like your son.. I just want him back, I feel your pain and I love you!!! Thank you for that touching song as well, I bet it hit home with alot of mothers who have lost there children.. There is no word to describe the pain..
i’ve got a sad story of my own i want to share. there was a boy i used to know and he was diagnosed with cancer right before his 3rd birthday. Cancer took over his whole life, but he kept fighting. No matter how bad it got, he tried to get through it with a smile. It seemed like the moment he was cancer-free, it came back. Through those ups and downs, he tried participate in every hockey game for his team and attend school as often as he could. That brave boy fought for 8 years, but he unfortunately got cancer for a 4th time. At this point doctors couldnt give him chemotherapy anymore. That boy took his last breath in January 2012 at the age of 11. He never got to go to high school, or become and adult. He barely got to be a kid. That family was crushed, still is. But we need to keep the kids that never get to really live in our hearts and make sure we do everything we can to make sure no kid EVER has to go through that.
Hey Maya
I am so sorry. Thank you so much Taylor Swift for that beautiful song which made unheard voices heard. Listening to Ronan all day. When I heard the news went to the bathroom and cried so much for a long time. Ronan will be remembered. There should be no such thing as cancer. Ronan is beautiful child.
Ronan will be remembered.
Be strong Maya
I can never understand how one is so strong. You’re incredible and you inspire me. I listen to ronan on repeat every night before I go to sleep. he’s always part of my prayers. stay perfect. because you are so so perfect. ronan and his perfect blue eyes are up there making everything happen and I know that god is with him. I love you and Ronan so much and I don’t even know you. that’s how special it all is to me. xoxo. Riley.
He’s so cute and I’m sorry for u loss 😥
i read this and was so touched! i have been cryin for days not being able to get ronan out of my head! he was a beautiful little boy! My name is Brittany Stamerro and i am 12 years old. I have researched many little kids that dont dersrve this like Taylor Love and Ronan! i have done so much reading of their stories and every night i find a way to get time to read more and i have relatives with cancer and a close relative who died resintly! i love your little boy to pieces and just cant see his beautiful face without cryin im prayin for you and your family!:)
Hey Maya
I am so sorry. Thank you so much Taylor Swift for that beautiful song which made unheard voices heard. Listening to Ronan all day. When I heard the news went to the bathroom and cried so much for a long time. Ronan will be remembered. There should be no such thing as cancer. Ronan is beautiful child.
Ronan will be remembered. Remember I love you so much and Ronan!!He was perfect I’m bawling writing this
Be strong Maya
Im so sorry about your loss. When I listened to Taylor Swift’s song. I cried thinking about my best friend who died… (she’s 11 I’m 12). But I wish the best to you and your family. Thank you.
~Brianna Stein, New York
Great big hugs to you AND to all parents who have had had children die too soon, to you AND to all parents whose hearts have been broken as no parents hearts should be, to you AND to all parents who want their children’s lives to be remembered. There is nothing else that crushes your heart and changes your life as the death of a child does. Our lives will never be the same since our precious Jason died.
I heard about this because of the song Ronan. I immediately started sobbing. We pray for you during these terrible times. RIP Ronan.
BRITTANY!!!! Your compassion and awareness is beautiful. Please Child, use it when you are a woman. Look at the mountains Maya Thompson is moving all because she loves her son and is not afraid to feels the pain to its fullest. You have that same passion and you to can move mountains. You ARE our future you know. How do you want it to be?
I heard the song ronan by taylor swift i just started crying and crying.I am so sorry about what happened he seemed so cute i am soo sorry i am crying right know while i am typing.
He fouhgt like a little army man R.I.P ronan 😥
“To the moon and back” every time i see the moon i think about ronan, i live so fare away where you are, but the moon is always the same, the same moon ronan watched every nigth during 4 beautiful years.
I have a little brother, he has blue eyes too, and when i heard taylor song, i just couldn’t stop cry because i can’t even imagine your pain, but i just want you to know, that here, in a little city near Barcelona, someone is thinking about ronan right now, and like Harry potter said about dumbledore, “Permanecera vivo, mientras este en nuestros corazones” and ronan is in my heart every single moment.
Love you little man, i’ll make sure everyone here knows you, like a big star, because now you are one of those shining stars that make our nigth safe.
You have the most beautiful baby boy! He did not deserve to die that young. But what you are doing is truly AMAZING! Ronan RIP. 😥
You’re baby’s story has completely touched my heart. I heard the taylor swift song Ronan on stand up to cancer and decided to research a little bit about Ronan. I came across your blog and started reading it from the beginning. Ronan, you, your family and your friends have all gone through such a hard horrible battle and you guys fought it with an enormous amount of strength and hope. I am in awe of you, your husband and especially your twin boys, They were amazing. I can’t imagine losing a little brother and seeing him get sicker and sicker. They are unbelievable. I’m 23 and I honestly don’t think I could handle it as well as they could and they’re only kids! Little Ronan was such a strong, amazing, brave, beautiful boy. Even through the chemo and medicine he still wanted to play with his brothers and be a kid. He is definitely looking out for you and your family. Ronan was a shining star that burned out too soon. Everyone who’s met Ronan or heard about him through your blog or his song knows he was an amazing little angel who was put on this earth as a blessing but was taken away way to soon!. You are an inspiration. Your husband is an inspiration. Your twins are an inspiration. All of your family and friends are inspirations. And your little baby boy Ronan is an absolute inspiration to us all. Thank you for your bravery and strength to share your story. You are amazing Maya.
Maya I am a complete stranger and cannot stop thinking about you, your family and your beautiful baby Ronan. Thank you for sharing your story, I know that Ro is smiling because you have honored him in such a beautiful way. He loves you beyond the moon and back. ❤
I became aware of Ronan’s story when I saw Taylor Swift perform on the telethon. My heart broke when I read what Ronan, you and your family have endured. Words cannot express how sorry I feel. I’m a mom to a beautiful boy who will be 3 this month and cannot imagine being in your shoes. My heart aches for you and your family even-though I do not know you personally. I am coming from the best place when I ask if mandatory early screening would help in reducing the fatality rate for this horrible cancer? We vaccinate our children as soon as they’re gone and from what I read kids are born with the disease but usually not diagnosed until it’s too late. If we fought to make it a mandatory screening as part of a child’s check ups, maybe that could help. Not only in reducing the fatality rate but possibly a cure? I don’t know it’s probably a dumb suggestion and I know you’re just one person but maybe my idea will spark someone else brain into thinking of a better solution. I just had to say something. Again, my most sincere condolences.
I will always keep you in my prayers. Just remember that everytime you look up at the sky there’s a star shining brighter than ever. That’s Ronan looking at you and keeping you safe. Good luck.. BMP…
Maya how r u…Its Ida from smart and final…. I haven’t seen u in about a year… I really hope u and your family are doing okay…. I want to thank u for your donation in our store and for writing about me in your blog… I really appreciate that it met a lot to me… Your baby boy is precious and is a true rock star…. You r a great mother and a great friend…. Thank u for all u done….please call me or contact me on face book by my name Ida Nicky Fiorella
Someone told me I’m letting your story get the best of me. It’s not good for me to get so wrapped up. REALLY? Where I will admit, I am a little unstable right now, I should be. We all should be. My eyes have been opened because of you and yes, it’s tearing me up. My grief though, has changed me. Your grief has changed me. It should change everyone, in a very profound way, who lays eyes on any child fighting a monster inside them. We just get used to seeing it but Maya, your Vivid and continueo
Someone told me I’m letting your story get the best of me. It’s not good for me to get so wrapped up. REALLY? Where I will admit, I am a little unstable right now, I should be. We all should be. My eyes have been opened because of you and yes, it’s tearing me up. My grief though, has changed me. Your grief has changed me. It should change everyone, in a very profound way, who lays eyes on any child fighting a monster inside them. We just get used to seeing it but Maya, your Vivid and continuous blogs to your perfect baby makes it real. Your rightful anger is honest and I respect the shit out of you damn it. WORD-to everything you have put out there to fight for and protect our babies. I will never be able to NOT get involved ever again. I have so much to offer, we all do.
Olá Maya e Woody,
Meu nome é Celina Aniceto e sou brasileira, do estado de São Paulo. Eu não sei falar e escrever em inglês, mas mesmo assim quero deixar uma mensagem para vocês.
Taylor Swift esteve aqui no Brasil, no estado do Rio de Janeiro, e na noite de quinta-feira, dia 13, fez seu primeiro show aqui. E hoje comecei a escutar o novo CD dela, e pela primeira vez escutei a música Ronan. Senti uma grande vontade de saber a tradução e a história da música. E assim conheci o lindo rostinho de Ronan e sua história de coragem e esperança. Estou muito triste e emocionada. E mesmo tão longe, vocês estão em meu coração e nas minhas orações.
Hoje Ronan é uma estrela no céu, brilhando para sempre!
Linda e nobre a atitude de vocês com a Fundação Ronan Thompson. Estão transformando a tristeza em ajuda, esperança e alegria para outros crinaças e seus famíliares. Estão permitindo que histórias sejam modificadas e felizes.
Deus esta presente em todos os momentos da vida de vocês.
Abraço,
Celina Aniceto.
Pore baby! Hes so cute and yes he is a rock star! So sorry for this loss!
This article truly touched me. I bawled my eyes out thinking how could this happen to such a beautiful boy, he truly is the prettiest boy I have ever seen. The song ronan has touched me to I listen to it at least twice a day and cry each time I do. My best friends brother died about two years ago from the same type of cancer at age eight. Even without relation it was an emotional roller coaster. And I’d like for you to know Ronan is in my prayers from here on out. Something so terrible should happen to no one.
Maya,
I am depply touched by your story, your courage, your strength to have gone though such a painful, sad and heartbraken period of Ronnan your and your family’s lives. I am also enlighted by your wisdom to pick up all of the pieces of your devastating experience to try to make it better for the other people who are going through the same thing you have gone, and probably still is because times like those are hard to be forgotten. I feel for you and your family. I am also a mother and lost two members of my family (a cousin and another cousin’s 5 years old son – the boy passed away last year as well).
I want to help you raise this money for the foundation. I’ll contact you via email and will give you the details of my plan.
This prayer is for you:
“God grant me SERENITY to accept the things I cannot change, COURAGE to
change the things I can and WISDOM to know the difference.”
God be with you and your family.
Lisandra Martins
I heard Taylor Swift’s song on the radio in Ireland this morning and found your blog as a result. My deepest deepest sympathies to you all.
Maya and Woody, I would just like to say I am very sorry for your loss. No words will explain this kind of sadness. I hope things are getting better, and this blog is such an inspiration to me.
Im from Ecuador, South America i can not help to cry a river when i hear Ronan and now i finally got the chance to really know he story, words can not explain how beautiful he was and how blessed you were and are, youre a wondeful family keep doing the amazing job only u know how to – xoxo
this makes me sad every time i hear about this little boy i wish i could donate some money to help but unfortantly i cant afford that right now but i do feel the need to help in any other way that you need. you will be in my prayers and you little man will be in good hands till yall meet again
I remember hearing of your story when Ronan first left you… And now hearing his song brought back those emotions.
I want to thank you for opening my eyes. I have a daughter going on 4, and your story made me hug and snuggle her more than ever tonight… It made me vow too not get irritated so easily over interrupted nights of sleep, or those extra favors she asks for…
My heart aches and breaks for you and your family. I hope your pain will ease, and wish you nothing but positivity with your new baby. Keep on keeping on, you have that blue eyed angel watching over you.
I know there is nothing I can say or do to make this easier. I am so broken hearted for you guys. You have lived through the unbarable, I am so damn sorry. I just hope with all my heart and soul you have good people around you. I can’t help but worry about you because I would be so very lost. Please, if you need to scream, fight, cry and lose total control, do it. Do it here. Tell the world how fucked up this is. We all know but people are very polite about cancer. It’s ok to say its crap!!! If you want to email me for any reason, sometimes strangers are safe, you can say anything you want to me. Primpnwithjen@gmail.com
I want to say that your story breaks my heart and I’m so sorry for your loss my great uncle just lost his 25 year battle with cancer two days ago we were close and even though I will never know the loss of a child like you have I want you to know I sympathize with you it’s so hard to lose someone you love to cancer I want you to know I stand by you now and forever I hope you know Ronan watches down on you and he’s always in your heart ❤ stay strong we all love you so much stay strong, stay strong ❤ I love you and Ronan to the moon and back ❤ he will not be forgotten, he lives in all our hearts
my friend told me about the song of taylor swift, i watched it & started crying.. looking at his pictures with his family made mecry even more. i canteven imagine how his brothers most feel how you & your husband also. im so sorry that this happendto your family. beforegoing tobed i tought to myself why couldnt that of been me instead of him? ihonestly whished it would of been me. knowing your story you made me realise that i shouldnt take nothing for granet. im so sorry for you lost. you had a wonderfull boy! know that he is watching over you with his beautiful blue eyes. hes the most beautiful boy i have ever seen. i hope one day i can see him. he was a real fighter. i saw your bloged & read it all.. i honestly dont think ive ever cried this much. i showed the song to everyone at my school and they were also verry touched. im so sorry. i wish that could of been me! i pray for your family, & good luck with the new baby on the way! your a great mother & you have a wonderful family! i really hate cancer. when im older i want to find a cure for it cause i dont find it fare losing lovely ones over it. i was wondering were could i buy the bracelets?
I keep you guys in my prayers. He was a bundel of joy and something I will never forgrt. He was truly amazing, He fought it hard and never let go. Ronan your in my heart I love you even though we never met 🙂
![Gabrielle Annelise Loehr [Gabby] Avatar](https://2.gravatar.com/avatar/879684cd5cc8addc8406ea64a4022260d60f50c835060739a974a3b122f0d1c7?s=32&d=https%3A%2F%2Fs0.wp.com%2Fi%2Fmu.gif&r=G){kind=avatar}
Dear Thompson Family,
I have indeed the strongest regrets of anyone person. My grandma died of cancer and I didn’t even get to meet her. The story you tell is sad and unfair and every time I listen to Ronan I want to bawl cause it is just not fair. It should not get to kill a boy at 4. 4-years -old. I know what pain you are going through. M y grandpa died and I still can’t get through it, and it happened 3 years ago. it is not fair to loose someone that you need and want to keep. When my grandpa died he forgot my name and called me my name. I didn’t even get to see him again before he died. I wish I was. My parents weren’t even there. They came home to take a break from the hospital, and as soon as they got home, my mom got a call from the hospital saying…he was gone. He should of had someone there with him. He must have been in such pain, and no one was there to help him take his last breath. He was alone, sad, sick and it is not fair. I want him back. I think I am going to cry myself to sleep tonight because I don’t think I can hold it back any more. People die every day, and there is no way to stop it. Little baby’s, toddlers, parents, siblings, relatives, friends. There needs to be an end to it. I vote to kill cancer. Burn it, stab it, shoot it, drown it even. I don’t care at all. You need to, I need to everyone needs to STAND UP TO CANCER! I give you my best wishes for the future and to fight through this terrible fate of a little boy. I think you and I both know that Ronan is probably a perfect little angel in heaven. No matter what happens you will never loose Ronan. Not for real, anyways. He will always be with you, just like my grandpa and grandma and they watch and cry at how big I am getting and the good grades I get in 6th grade so far. They see what I want to do with my life and wish me the best and wish me a happy long life. They ghope they don’t have to see me for years and years and years, and that is what I am ready for. Years and years and years. I am ready, and if I have to I will STAND UP TO CANCER, just like Ronan.
My condolences,
Gabby Loehr
P.S. I am eleven years old, my birthday is 1/30, I am in 6th grade, I love animals, and I want to be a pediatrician one day to care for boys and girls just like Ronan. I will not give up on you, I know you and your husband can STAND UP TO CANCER!
I’ve been reading articles about Ronan since I heard Taylor’s song for him. It made me cry. I really admire you for being such a brave woman and mother. After school I always read as much as I can in this site. I’m loving baby Ronan’s story. He’s such a brave army guy. I wish I found this site before he passed away. I would’ve prayed for him to survive. It’s kinda frustrating knowing that I just found this blog recently. I wish I had a sweet, charming and cute brother like him. He was an angel given to you and you’re really lucky to have him. Don’t lose hope and don’t forget to smile. I know he’d love to see your smile every single moment. I salute you and I hope I could be a good mother in the future just like you. May God Bless you and your family always 🙂
I am so sorry for your loss. I can’t imagine the pain and trauma you must go through everyday without Ronan. Taylor Swift’s song ‘Ronan’ makes me cry everytime, and I am so glad that Ronan’s story is being told and spread around the world. Ronan was an angel sent from heaven, and I know that he is watching down on you every single day. I love both of you to the moon and back!
Even when i don’t know you, even when i don’t have kids, even when i haven’t experienced the love for a son, i think of you and i realize that i can’t imagine the pain you going through. I knew your beautiful boy today, i saw his gorgeous eyes and i could not help thinking why this things happens, but it happens for a reason, a reason that maybe is beyond our understanding. I will keep you in my prayers every night, i will send my light to you.
I am so sorry for the loss of your precious son and I wish you the best during your pregnancy and the joy that child will bring into your lives.
I am truly moved by this. Ronan’s name will never be forgotten all over the world. He was beautiful. My heart Goes out to you Maya. ❤ You have a precious angel.
Maya, you’re one amazing person. I know that it gets so tiring hearing that, over and over again. But you’re an inspiration to mothers every where.Even in your lowest of lows you’re so so strong.. I am 21 now and was diagnosed with stage 4 nephroblastoma (wilms tumor.) I somehow beat the odds and I am hear today minus a kidney. I found your story after hearing Taylors song. You have moved me in such a way that I want to do more. I am currently enrolled in nursing school to become a pediatric cancer nurse, ever since I was old enough to figure out what I wanted to do, this has been my only option. You have put into perspective just how big of a deal it was, I was 3 when I was diagnosed so i remember bits and pieces but my parents remember it all. No one will ever know what it feels like, unless they have been their with you and have experienced how fucked up this disease truly is. No child should have to be so sick, no child should have to be constricted to a bed, and not be able to go out and be a kid. Your love for Ronan is indescribable I hear it in your words as I am reading your blog, I feel it in my heart and I thank you for sharing the most horrific time in your life. People need to be aware of childhood cancer, I don’t think that people understand how threatening this is to children. I had 3 friends at the hospital that I met going through treatment and every single one of them passed away. I promise you and I promise Ronan, that I will do EVERYTHING in my power to make a change, even the slightest difference. I plan on running a toy drive at my work and school so I can bring toys to the children on the Oncology floor at the childrens hospital here. I know that, it made a difference to me and if I can just put one smile on a childs face than all my hard work will be worth it. They deserve so much more. Please keep your head up and know that Ronan is looking down on you and is so very proud of all the work you’re doing. I know every one who read his story is.
I can’t stop crying, he is sooo cute 😥 xx RIP RONAN:'( x
Hello, I want you to know you have EVERY right to say Fuck You Cancer! My mother has been on chemotherapy and radiation for 5 years now and she finally said no more. No one knows what u are going through unless you actually have experienced it. I have been mad at the World seeing my mom battle cancer.You were and still are his Rock, strong and beautiful. He is in a place were no ugly disease can hurt him, he is walking hand in hand with the Lord.God Bless you and your family.XOXO
I havnt lost anyone to cancer, so I can never feel your pain. When I read your posts I instantly start crying and when I look at his pictures i cant understand why such a beautiful baby boy would be taken from this earth. Ill never understand,but I am truly sorry for your loss.
I can tell just from this picture he was such a precious boy. My prayers are with your family and all the other battling this horrid cancer. I love you guys, & I hope you know millions look up to you for your strength <333
Hi 🙂 I’m writing from India. Didn’t think you’d reach across continents? you did 🙂
I’m only 17, and the things you write seem like far-away concepts. but they’re really beautiful. they make me want to get off my ass and go do something to make this all worthwhile in the end.
I’m so sorry for your loss. your writing is poignant and beautiful.
PS: the song ronan is on repeat. 🙂
Hello, May God give you blessings for all you have been through and have done for others. My close friends just lost their son Dominick, 11 years old, to cancer recently. His story is http://www.supportdominick.com We are trying to help mom and dad through this ordeal as it has been extremely hard and trying. I hope God can give them the stength to do great things like you. God Bless.
Maya & Woody,
I am so sorry this had to happen to you. I promise it will get better. Ronan is in my heart and I can’t wait to see him on my future life in heaven. He is your personal angel, and he is waiting for you. I know how it feels to lose someone, and realizing that…. that you’ll never see them right next to you. I love you all, I hope you and your family be blessed throughout your lives. You are in my prayers & thoughts.
~ Olivia 10 yrs.
Look, I dont know if your reading this Maya, but I want you to know something. There is always HOPE!! I’m only 12, and I have had no experience with cancer (and I thank God every day), but when I heard your story I cried for hours. Ronan was a hero, and thanks to you, he is helping everyone battle cancer, and many kids out there will survive because of him. I don’t know if you can see it, but Ronan is everywhere! He is with you and in you and your family and will never leave. I wholeheartedly believe in God, and He will help you, and you are making such a difference and are doing great things!
Your perfect little baby is a hero and he never really left you You are an amazing women and are in my thoughts and prayers!
I am so sad about what happened I wish he was still alive and I love the song Ronan and he is so cute
maya
My friend and I are doing this big event for Ronan! We are going to raise money by doing bake sales! We are also making ronan shirts, shorts, sweat pants, and sweatshirts. We are getting my whole entire school to by a Ronan item! I know ronan day is May 12th but there is no school that day so were going to do it may 14th because the 13th is a monday and everyone will forget. Ronan day at our school is everyone wheres everything they bought from us about ronan! or they can wear purple! We are going to get everyone to support him! We are going to sing his song for our chorus project. And I will ask my Chorus teacher if we can do it for our winter concert! We are going to do the best we can for your foundation! I hope I make you feel better!
Kate
Dear Maya
My name is Maya I am 14 years old from Israel
When I first heard the song Ronan the words were sad but I did not realize that the song is a stirring story about a boy struggling so hard disease.
I so appreciate what you do, May all people will be like you.
I can not stop thinking about the story behind Taylor’s song.
I hope you continue your fight and never stop, because of you I believe that thousands of children will live and grow up!
I really love reading your blog. I love listening to Ronan. Hell, I love Ronan. I’m incredibly sorry for your loss.
I know what it’s like to lose someone you love. Last March, I lost my baby, Sammy. He was a beautiful Shih-Tzu. He was also 3 when he passed away. We lost him to some sort of brain tumor. About a week or so before he paased, he started acting really strange & he would be trembling for hours at a time. I became concerned. But I never imagined I would loose him. I thought it would pass.
Then, he began having seizures so my family and I took him to the vet on a Monday night. The kids were sent home. Mom came home and told us that the doctors said we had to put Sammy to sleep. We would get to say our goodbyes the next morning. Unfortunately, he died during the middle of the night. I woke up and almost imadiately heard the news. At first, it didn’t hit me as hard. After about an hour, the sadness sunk in. I realized I never got a goodbye, I realized I would not see your beautiful face again. I would never be able to stroke your soft fur.
Out of my whole family, I was deffinately the most upset and I still am. We had you cremated and your remains sit on a shelf along with a beautiful picture of you, and your collar.
My favorite lyrics from Ronan are the ones I can relate to the most.
” I remember the drive home, when the blind hope turned to crying and screaming why”
“You were my best four years”
“I remember the last day when I kissed your face and whispered in your ear”
“What if I kept the hand-me downs you won’t grow in to.”
“What if I’m standing in your closet trying to talk to you”
“What if I really thought some miracle would see us through. What if the miracle was even getting one moment with you”
You were perfect, Sam. I love and miss you more than words can explain. No one will ever replace you. I can’t wait to see you again.
I Love u Ronan I wish you there get peaceful place….and you lovely Family have good happily life a head:)God Bless u…..
im saddened by ur loss. don’t give up! hope goes on 🙂
my deepest prayers to your family i heard your story and i cryed your son is soooooooooo beutiful and your such an amazing person god bless u and give u some closure your son is in heaven looking down on u hes an angel
I am soo sorry ronan you were probably the cutest and sweetest thing in the world. Now your in a better place. God will love you forever and ever your the best thing that ever happened to the world. R.I.P ronan we love you!!!!!
Your boy is so precious this brought tears to my eyes I’m so sorry!!!
Ronan R.I.P i bet the world that u were just the nicest child ever ill pray Luv u to the moon and back ;'(
Everytime I hear the song Ronan I cry. Everytime I read your blogs I cry. It’s like I feel your hurt coming out through my computer screen. Im only 13 years old but I still understand how broken you must be. Ronan was a beautiful little boy and I know he’s out there somewhere watching over you. And I bet hes sooo happy. He doesnt have to deal with being sick anymore. You’ll see him again. And I bet he wants you to be happy too. All I know is your SO amazing to be dealing with all of this. I pray for you guys every night. I know that sounds weird cause im young and don’t know you guys. But I really do. RIP ROCKSTAR RONAN. ❤ your awesome.
Sometimes I just don’t understand why this had to happen. But then again, I am 12.
First and foremost, I am so dearly sorry for your loss. No parent should ever have to bury their child and no child should ever have to experience this painful journey. I had not heard of Ronan until Taylor wrote her beautiful song about him and I was truly touched. Taylor is such an amazing young woman and a role model of mine for reasons such as this. What a wonderful thing she did to help get the word out and write a song about your son. I look forward to following your blog and spreading the word and doing everything I can to help and raise money for childhood cancer. Best of luck and you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers always.
This story is amazing and so very sad! He was a beautiful little boy! I bought the song Taylor swift wrote… I cried. He was very lucky to have such strong parents and family to help him through.. I hope nothing but blessing for you and your family!
Hello,
I have heard the song Ronan many times now, and it gets me every time. I sit here in my bed balling for you and your family, but most importantly Ronan. Reading your blog moved me, about how you would not just forget, you want to make a difference, and you really are. It is just so hard to think about how much Ronan had to go through. I am seventeen years old, and it is unbelievable a four year old had to go through that. I know though, that Ronan is in a better place, looking down on you and your family in Heaven. What you are doing is not only heroic but amazing. The courage and strength your family must have is truly remarkable. I want to help spread the word on this because it has touched me and hit a cord with me. I am sure you get millions of people who post on your blog, but I don’t know how to tell you that your story meant so much to me. I have never experienced what you are going through, and I am sorry but I hope I never do, but I feel as if I can feel a fraction of your pain and it makes me sick to my stomach. So, thank you for sharing your story and helping millions of people. Your family and Ronan are in my prayers. Keep doing what you are doing because you are making a difference. Keep your faith, and perseverance. Ronan will always be remembered.
Stay strong. You raised a beautiful young boy and I’m so sorry for your loss. I’ve been listening to Taylor Swift’s song “Ronan” all day crying for your little boy. God bless xx
I’m sure I won’t be saying anything to you that hasn’t already been said. But ever since hearing Ronan’s story, there hasn’t been a day that I haven’t thought about Ronan and your family. What a special little boy to make the whole world fall in love with him and truly grieve for him. I never knew Ronan, but his death hurts my heart all the same. His loss is the type of loss that can never be put into words. Recently, I heard Taylor’s song for the first time and the impact on me was shattering. I can’t even listen to it and function for the rest of the day. I have cried more tears for your precious little boy than I have cried for people I knew. And I know that I am not alone in saying that. There is just something about him. To say that I am sorry for your loss does not capture it. I’m devastated for your loss. I have a special needs toddler. There are days when my patience is gone, I feel grateful for nothing and I want to give up. But I think about Ronan and about your heartbreak and I am able to find the patience I need to not only keep going for my little guy, but truly enjoy what is beautiful about him. In that respect, I believe your Ronan has made me a better mother. Your pain is a pain I cannot fathom. It is my hope for you, that knowing what an impact your beautiful little boy has had on the world, may be a small comfort on days when you feel so down, that like me, you feel grateful for nothing. Thoughts and prayers for you Maya and your family. ❤
Hi. My name is Julia and I am 13 years old. My friend had recently told me about Taylor Swift’s new song about the little boy who had died from cancer. After watching the video on you tube and balling my eyes out I went to the Ronan Thompson Foundation website and found what I was looking for. After reading some of the blogs and crying again and again I realized that I was confused. Sometimes all it takes is a sad story of a little fighter to grab people’s attention. I am very ashamed to realize that I was one of them, but not anymore. People don’t really think about all the bad stuff that happens around us everyday… but when they hear about something that happened they immediately jump on board with the support and donations. It shouldn’t have taken Ronan to die before people realized that this is a serious problem. He didn’t have to die and he shouldn’t have had to before people gave the support to child’s cancer that was needed. I’m not going to pretend like I know anything about what this feels like because I don’t, but I would like to think that I have become a better person because of it. Just think, if people put down the expensive electronics and Prada and only focused on what themselves and others needed maybe we could have saved lives. Ronan didn’t deserve to die, but maybe it could have been prevented! Hopefully Ronan will help save the lives of many other innocent children. This story moved me…as I sit here crying over my laptop….and it has moved many others. I think this whole situation is a plea for help. Saying this could have been prevented and should have been if only people took the time to notice the important things in life. There is a girl on my old softball team who I am still really good friends with that has a little sister named Payten. http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xj1zuc_video-pulling-for-payten-6pm-6-1-11_news
This is pretty old and Payten is much better now, thanks to support and prayers from family and friends. Payten was not only an inspiration to me but to our whole team and she was soon named our mascot. From the first time I had met her to the most recent time I’ve seen her she has gained most of her weight back and a lot of her hair which she likes to wear in a Mohawk. She runs around and plays just like all other & year olds but she is a huge inspiration and up lifter to everyone around her. She is always positive no matter what she has been through. Let Ronan’s story inspire and motivate everyone, make a change. Kids need to be heard and sometimes grown ups just cants hear them, speak up for what you believe in like I did. I am in a confirmation class for my church and you have to do at least 2 service projects every year. This year I am organizing a fundraiser and all of the proceeds will go to children’s cancer research. Ronan inspired me so go out and make a difference, because he deserves it.
Your story makes me want to curl up in a ball and cry for a week. I am so sorry for your sweet baby boy. My son is two and if anything ever happened to him like this I don’t know if I could be as strong as you’ve been. My heart goes out to you. I love Taylor Swift and I’m so glad I found her song about your son. It is absolutely lovely. You are amazing and your baby boy was too. stay strong. You created a miracle that will live on forever.
Maya and Woody,
I can’t even pretend to know what it’s like to loose a child to cancer at such a young age. I have just recently lost my dog to cancer, and it was devistating. She was part of the family and I still cry myself to sleep every night even though she’s been gone since August 2012. Ronan was incredibly strong and his story breaks my heart. Ronan will live forever in all of our hearts ❤
Keep doing what you are doing, you rock!! I am a ped oncology nurse and I love Ronan’s song saw it the other night on tv when Taylor sang it and downloaded it before she could finish the song.
i heard the song by taylor who i am a big fan of and i cry every time i hear it i read more about his story and its so sad to think that sutch abeatiful little boy could go threw such pain im sorry! i feel so sorry for you!
I am 13 and I am losing my grandma to a tumor in her brain. I am not saying this is the same situation, but I am so sorry. We would have been lucky to know Ronan here where I live, we are sending our love from our home. I am praying for you all. Ronan was the special little boy we all will keep in our hearts. Screw cancer, we love you.
With love and care
Meg
What can I say … There are just no words that covers what I want to say. I’m just so sorry! I keep rewriting this message, but i don’t know what else to say! I’m just so very very sorry for you loss! I keep reading the blogg and listening to the Ronan song by Taylor Swift! And it is so sad but also so sweet! I promisse not to forget him or you! <333
Loads of love from Martine
his a beautiful little boy and he has beautiful blue eyes im so sorry to hear about ur lost of ur little boy. ❤ he looks like he had a really big personality. ❤ xoxo 🙂 oh btw i alays cry whenever i hear the son ronana.
his a beautiful little boy and he has beautiful blue eyes im so sorry to hear about ur lost of ur little boy. ❤ he looks like he had a really big personality. ❤ xoxo oh btw i aalways cry whenever i hear the song ronana.
sorry had to send it again coz i cant delete it so yeh. 🙂 xx
Im only 12 but i saw taylor swifts song Ronan and so i serched him. He was adorable little boy!!!!!!!!!!!If I could do anything in the world it would be get rid of cancer.I hope that ronan has a good time in heven and knows that when I go I will look for him. Love you ronan see ya soon!!!!!!
I have a little brother, he just turned three in June. I honestly don’t know what I would do without him. The song, the story, Ronan just in general brings me to tears in less than a heartbeat. He was such a beautiful little boy. I am so sorry for your loss. While I write this I cry and think, “what would I do if my brother died?” I would die myself. I don’t understand how your so strong. I would have fallen apart, but I bet Ronan is proud to know he is still remembered, not just by family an friends but by everyone else in the world. I am so sorry for your loss, you were a great mother too him, and your such an inspirational person. R.I.P. Ronan</3 You will be forever missed.
Maya and Woody. Iam so sad foyou but now hes in a better place with god hell allways be in my heart everytime i see a picture of him i wish i couldve give my life for him although were not family but Ronan is allways gonna be in my heart i pray for this little baby although hes not with us but hes still in ou. r hearts
Hey I’m back I left comment yesterday but I feel like that isn’t enough my three year brother came into my room last night as I was reading his letter to Taylor swift , and asked me “sister what are you doing. I told him reading and he walk over as I was changing what I was reading to go read Ronan baby and he saw the picture of Ronan and asked me who he was and why there was a picture of him. I told him in the simplest way I could so he would understand and after ward he said ” that little boy is so cute he is a good boy” I finally told him Ronan got sick and passed away and he looked at me and says “Ronan is dead” tears came into my eyes and I said ” yes Fineas”. I then looked my little brother and saw he had little tears rolling down his cheeks and he said ” why” . All I could mange to say while watching my little brother cry was ” because he wanted to be an angel and look over his wonderful family. I can’t stop thinking about Ronan and my brother says ” hi Ronan”.
Hi Maya. I’m Melania, from Spain. My english is very bad… But I wanna say you that you are amazing. I can feel your pain, my little brother, Adrián dies for the same two years ago…You should know that you are a inspiration to me.
I love your blog. I love Ronan. And. I really love this history.
I hope answer me soon.
Xoxoxo.
Hi Maya, I’m Mel from Spain. Probably my english is very bad. But I wanna say you that you are amazing. Thanks for leave me meet Ronan. I understand your pain,I feel like you. My little brother dies for the same twvo years ago… You should know that you are a inspiration to me.
I hope you read this. I love your strong, and I love Ronan.
Xoxoxo.
Maya and Woody:
Hi! my name is tatiana im 11, ive been inspired by Ronan to never give up. Because so many children suffer this horrible condicion, the children that suffer this condicion and still have a smile on their faces are the true super heroes because sometimes even us that don’t have cancer we fight for stupid things and the children that have cancer are just happy to be alive and i think young people should be informed about this chilren so they know that even the ones with the worst situations have a smile on their faces. I also am inspired by their families that they never give up and they don’t regret giving brith to their child even if they have a stupid condicion and even if they pass away never stop fighting for other kids that have cancer and maybe find a cure.
This is for you Ronan, i never got to know you but you inspire me. where ever you are Ronan i love you
Maya and Woody thank you for never giving up and still fighting you guys are true super heroes
sincerely
Tatiana
Maya and Woody:
Hi! my name is tatiana i’m 11, i’ve been inspired by Ronan to never give up. Because so many children suffer this horrible condition, the children that suffer this condition and still have a smile on their faces are the true super heroes because sometimes even us that don’t have cancer we fight for stupid things and the children that have cancer are just happy to be alive and i think young people should be informed about this children so they know that even the ones with the worst situations have a smile on their faces. I also am inspired by their families that they never give up and they don’t regret giving birth to their child even if they have a stupid condition and even if they pass away never stop fighting for other kids that have cancer and maybe find a cure.
This is for you Ronan, i never got to know you but you inspire me. where ever you are Ronan i love you you are a little angel fofr all of us!
Maya and Woody thank you for never giving up and still fighting you guys are true super heroes.
sincerely,
Tatian
I am so so sorry for your loss. I’m sure Ronan is telling you not to cry. He is your little angel. He will watch you forever and always love you.
hi my name is breanna. i am 16 years old..today i heard your sons story it brought me to tears..i just want you to know that i am praying for ronan..and i hope your little rockstar is soaring with the angels in heaven
hi. im emily. im 13. i found a link to this on twitter a while ago and started reading it. it brought me to tears and i saw that he died young. my bff’s brother died at 5 suddenly after finding out he had a disease only found with exploration surgery. these kind of things are so sad. my best wishes go to you and your family. i bet ronan is playing with everyone in heaven and rocking out. 🙂 xxx.
You are amazing. Never stop doing what you do x
Hi Maya, I’m overwhelmed by the grief and emotions expressed in this blog. Still, I’m happy that somehow, despite all the pain you’re going through from losing Ronan that this tragedy hasn’t defeated you and your family. I’m happy to read about moments of happiness with your family and friends. You deserve every bit of happiness; you’ve just been through so much. Ronan’s death hasn’t defeated you, it’s amazing to see you channeling all your grief into a positive force instead. You’ve done so much raising awareness for childhood cancer, and I hope your foundation and childhood cancer research gets more positive support from all your and others’ efforts.
I found out about Ronan because of Taylor. But I have been regularly reading your blog ever since, and have been spreading awareness about the song, about your beautiful baby boy Ronan, and about the devastating statistics on childhood cancer.
I’m only 19, and God forbid if my own kids should through the same thing. I’d like to think of a future where the odds aren’t so hopeless, where children aren’t robbed of life.
Thank you for all your efforts. I hope that I and everyone else can too increase our contributions to help spread cancer awareness. I hope that soon that promise of a cure–or the cure–will result from all our efforts.
-Aiko from Asia
hi maya my name is tamy ur son is a beautiful boy and may he rest in peace even though i dont know u but i feel i do u r amazing luv u
maya i didn’t know ronan but i love and miss him you are an angle for every thing you do i am 11 and i can’t wait to meet ronan he is my hero i will love and support him until i meet him.bless ronan.
My favorite saying about Ronan<3 DONT CRY CAUSE HES GONE SMILE CAUSE HE HAPPENDED!!!!!!!!!!!!! LOVE YOU ALL,
❤ Carlie smith
Ronan=my inspiration my love my everything what keeps my going.
My name is Carlie I am 11. I am and will be forever inspired by Ronan.Ronan is my hero my saving grace. It means the world to me that he is in a better place that he is at peace. Part of my heart rests inside him. I will be supporting him till the very day I meet him.
All of me wishes he could still be here but he has done some much good even while he was gone so he is still here. Bless your whole family and Bless Ronan.
<3,
Carlie Smith
i am so sorry when i heard taylor swifts song ronan i bursted out tears it must be so hard for you your sweet little boy i am so so so so so sorry for your loss he was a beatiful boy
keep on doing this website do it for ronan
I am so sorry to hear about your lost. I love the song that Taylor Swift wrote for you little boy. I lost my cousin and it was really hard. He is watching over you and the new baby is a gift send from your little boy. keep strong 🙂
Taylor swifts song has led me here and I want to give you my regrets on losing your beautiful son. But in fact you didn’t lose him. His lovely spirit is still touching everyone that knew him and people that are just finding out about him. He was the most adorable boy I could imagine. You do have the power to change the world of childhood cancer. I’m only 15 and hope to graduate from medical school and work with children. Lets put an end to this god awful disease so everyone can keep their little rock star. And as irrelevant as this may be I love his name. You are such a good mother and I am so proud of you for staying strong. A reply would be appreciated 🙂 rock on little Ronan you are an inspiration to us all
I am super sorry to gear about this…..Just know that he is in a safe place,watching you…I lost my Kitten,I cried in school and at home for 1 month…..
My Grandfather was also diagnosed with cancer. He passed 10 days after Ronan, I loved him to the moon and back, I still do and I cant wait untill I see him again. I wanted To fly away with him but unfortunatly that wasn’t possible. xoxo,
Ani Marie
GOD HAS SENT ME TO TELL YOU THIS
………
I read A few of your post and heard “taylor swift ronan” it conpletely broke my heart just thinking of ronan, i dont know your feeling and i dont know what the pain is like but i could not imagine it, im a christian i gave my life to god, i dont know you i dont even know ur name but what i do know is that GOD! Has put it on my heart to tell you this
The baby that is on its way is gods way of restoreing ur life renewing ur heart
Please dont think im trying to be rude and say get over ro cause thats the last thing im trying to say being that im conpletely a “rockstar ronan” fan
God takes away something for a reason, BUT puts something better in ur life for an even bigger and much better reason,
Your baby isnt going to die its going to live a long and helty life
,
God had a purpis for ronan and that purpis was for you and your family to give ur life to jesus
Ipray in the mighty name of jesus that ur faith in god builds and you see how god has blessed you with another baby, godbless!,
This is proof on how stories like this can travel far and wide, and touch the hearts of complete strangers. I am from Nova Scotia, Canada. I work at a country radio station and heard Taylor Swifts song, and I will forever be touched by what you have done for your little boy. This story breaks my heart. What you are doing to raise awareness and help others is truly amazing. Sending thoughts, prayers, love and hugs your way.
A very meaningful family friend was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer her surgery was on Tuesday she came home Thursday . She is currently living with us. I am so worried and scared. I am so sorry for your loss with Ronan I keep you in my prayers ♥
I am sooo sorry for ur loss I listen to the song and it makes me cry when it goes ” I can still feel u hold my hand…… Little man”
Please send me a email back
LOVE Olivia
P.S. I am 11
I am so sorry for your loss. Ronan is a beautiful boy, when i listen to taylor swifts song i always end up bawling crying it is very unfair that he isnt here with you now. you are very brave writing that song with taylor swift because it really brings awareness to this terrible issue;cancer. because cancer is so terrible people tend to try not to think about it and that is totally wrong because if you dont think about it its never going to be cured. thank you for reminding people that this needs to be solved and cannot be forgotten until it is.
love
A.L 🙂
continue to be strong for your little boy
p.s im 13
Hi everyone, i want to sadi ia m total sorry! I had that kind of cancer and on 4th stage too. I could said i am sorry that he didn’t make it. Don’t worry people i will be strong for this little boy! I wish someone cold found me and contact me and i can help by anything. btw i know it hard when you guys lose this baby boy. I was almost die from it but i make it. I am total sorry.
I am only 13, and this touches my heart. Every time I hear the song I ball and ball. I can only imagine what it is like to have a precious child be taken from you by something, so horrible. I will pray for you guys. Every day. i promise to never forget Ronan and everyone else who has died from cancer.
R.I.P Ronan.
Maya, your strength is inspiring after such a horrible thing you fight through the days to raise awareness to the people who are tragically blind to a much real problem, if there is one thing that angel is thinking its that his mum was a strong inspiring individual just like her son, rest in peace ronan and may you find happiness in heaven ❤
Hey Maya,
My name is Kristen. I go to Arizona state! go devils! so the other day this girl told me tat Taylor Swift lacked passion and emotion while singing Ronan. SHE IS OBVIOUSLY IGNORANT! You’re baby boy is so beautiful!!! I hope I meet you one day to say this in person! I also live in pv.
You are so strong, although im not a mother just a 13 year old girl, i know i would not be able to live without my 2 year old sister and Ronan is in a better place and i bet many people are praying for him and i love the song Ronan and i just cant help but pour my eyes out everytime I hear it, because it breaks my heart knowing that a little boy, so young has sadly lost his life, but he will be forever in everyones heart, especially yours ❤ REST IN PEACE LITTLE MAN ❤
You’re a true inspiration!
I don’t know what it’s like to lose someone so close to you. Your son was so beautiful, and a very strong fighter. I’m so glad Taylor reached out to you. At first, I didn’t know who Rnan was. But then I researched and researched, and now I’m going to do everything in my power to save the future lives that are in risk of this horrible disease. I’m so sorry for your loss. Love to you, and your family. Stay strong ❤
Maya,
I saw Ronan’s song on I-tunes about a week ago ,and was touched by the message Taylor left in that song. At first i wasn’t sure how to respond to the song, but knowing the story of Ronan changed my life. Ronan is the last thing i hear at night, and the first thing i hear in the morning’s. 🙂 ❤ I love you Ronan<3 Stay strong Maya!
I want to say I am so sorry.I love Taylor’s song.It is so beautiful.I will pray for your family and I hope y’all get better with things
Alayna
Everytime I think of ronan it makes me cry he is my inspiration to never give up! ❤
Awww! I am so sorry. I am praying for your family.
I love this. I feel like I need to comment, but I just don’t know how to put what I’m feeling into words. I’m praying for everyone and especially Ronan. He has something special. He’s not gone. I wish the best for you. I could probably never understand how hard this is for you. But please don’t ever give up your determination to stop cancer. I am so sorry. He’s happy, I know it. (‘:
For you and your family i send my love, for you i send my thank you, my son left us on the 9th of July 2011 and since reading your blog i feel OK to know that what i have felt and what i feel i am definitely not alone in. I admire how honest you are and how strong. Hugs from Aus and a big Fuck you to cancer!
what a beautiful little baby boy! i know what u feel like my dad has cancer! im so sry everytime i think of him i can’t hold it and i just start crying! he was so precious i wish u the best of luck in the future and im praying for little ronan
honestly everytime i think of Ronan i cry and cry. just thinking how it must feel like to loose your beautiful child. i keep you, your family & ROnan in my prayers xoxo
The song Ronan by Taylor swift is so heart warming it leaves me in tears, Ronan was such a little cutie, and I’m sorry to hear he passed away. Your thought and prayers are with me and my friend cierra.
Dear Thompson family I understand what its like to lose a loved one to cancer it is very hard to deal with I heard the song Ronan and I cried for a while and now I think about him everyday I can’t stop listening to that song it is sad especially the part where it says ” you fought it hard like an army guy remember I” I am always here and want to let you know I’m passing it on about Ronan and I want to look into and learn as much as possibility about this cancer your family and friends are all in my prayers this is very inspirational to me.
Ive recently lost my aunt to cancer and about two days before she passed I heard Ronans song by Taylor Swift on radio in Ireland as I was driving to work. I do not cry, ever, certainly not at 7am, but I couldnt stop the tears rolling down my face (Ruining my make up!) The song is just beautiful and summarises life in a small few words. Ronan looks like the most adorable child ever. My heart breaks for you and your family, but I am glad to see Ronan is living on with this blog xx
Gosh! I have never seen such beautiful eyes on anyone before. I am speechless!
I recently saw your story on Katie and I cannot tell you how sorry I am. I could not stop crying and i want to wish the best of luck to you and your family; your story is very inspirational. 🙂
I just recently heard of your story on Katie. And I could not stop sobbing through the entire story. I am so sorry for your loss, and I could only imagine the pain you and your family have gone through and loss in your heart that will never go away. Your little boy is so beautiful with such amazing “Angel” eyes! He is watching over you and is with you everyday. He is in the comfort of God’s arms and the brightest star you see in the sky! Your saying you said you always said to Ronan…is the same I would say to my childern everynight when I would tuck them into bed…and still today.( I love you to the Moon and Back) Mine our adults now and have left the nest. God Bless you and your family and Congratulations on your new bundle of joy you will soon have.
Dear Parents of Ronan,
May little Ronan rest in peace.
He’ll always be in my prayers.
Stay Strong and fight as you will.
God Bless You.
God Bless You and your family–Ronan was one of the most beautiful children I have ever seen, his eyes so striking, showing such wisdom beyond his years. He was put here for a purpose…and has touched the hearts of so many. I wish you the best with your new baby, and that you and your family are able to find strength in the memories and knowing how many hearts your little man has touched.
I just watched your story on Katie Couric and bought the song Taylor Swift wrote in honor of Ronan. I haven’t stopped crying. I have a beautiful 9 month old son and can’t imagine what you went through. My heart breaks for you but hope that a cure is found for cancer thanks to your emotional story. Ronan was absolutely beautiful.
what a beautiful by he was…
i mean boy..
No Words can express what I am feeling after hearing your story on Katie. Years ago I saw a documentary on children dealing with cancer and it has never left my mind, and I can promise you that your son will never leave my mind either. Thank You so much for sharing your story and bringing awareness to such an important cause.
If I have a boy as my first born child Im going to name him ronan
I didnt know who Ronan was untill about 10 minutes ago, I heard the song and wacthed a video. I sat there and just cried. My grandmother died from cancer in her lympnodes about three years ago. I would just like to say that what you are doing is amazing. Being a voice and having enough bravery and heart to do this for your sweet, beautiful baby boy. He will forever be missed. I love you for all that you’ve done and what you will continue to do. Thank you so much.
XOXO-Megan, 14 years old.
I am currently a third year medical student out on rotations and I’m doing pediatrics this month. I had a patient who has a tough road ahead of them and does not have much longer to live. I took it upon myself to spend the night after I saw the patient, researching more in depth whatever treatment options that haven’t been tried and the results were disappointing. However, my time doing the research was not a complete waste. Not only did I learn much more about that disease but I also stumbled upon this name, Ronan. Immediately it got my attention and I learned about your son and his fight.
In school, we learned about neuroblastoma right along with a bunch of other diseases that meant nothing more to me than a name and hallmark findings. After reading about Ronan, I decided to read much more about neuroblastoma. Your story has moved me so much that now on every physical exam I do on a child I will always keep in my mind that I’m checking for neuroblastoma so I can catch it early if it’s there in the hopes of giving that child the best chance possible. It might seem meaningless but if the signs and symptoms of this cancer ever come even close to what my patient is complaining of, you can bet neuroblastoma will be on my differential.
Thank you for making this disease something more than just a name and I am so sorry about your son.
That’s awesome!!! And I bet other Drs. And Students will hear about Ronan from you and be moved for change as well. :))
I heard about your story on the Katie show this week and it has touched me to the core. My heart is broken for you. I am holding my 1 year old baby boy with bright blue eyes SO much tighter because you just never know. I will pray for you and your family and that God will help you heal, as a Mom I can’t imagine how you must feel Maya… but thank you for sharing your story. He is a rockstar and he is bringing light to childhood cancers, which obviously needs to be done.
Kudos to Taylor Swift for writing the song Ronan. I’ve been singing it for a month not having any idea what it was about… now I can’t stop singing it, and it brings tears to my eyes. I’m spreading the word about your story because it has touched me so much.
I first heard of your and Ronan’s story through Taylor’s song, I cried when the song was over and thought how hard it would be to loose someone like that. I hope that you and your family can stay strong. I saw some of Taylor on the Katie show this week, it was touching. I don’t think I could handle having that happen. Things like this show us how dear life is and how important people cna be to us. Stay Strong! Thank you for being able to share you huge story. People of all ages will be amazed.
Maya, you are such a strong person! i love your story it touched me so much. it was bittersweet along with taylors song.
Ronan is my heart, along with his family.!
❤
Maya,
I just wanted you to know that I have followed your story since 2010. I speak of you and Ronan often, and he is known among my husband and family. You all are such special souls. Valuable more than you can know. Your strength, your insight, your compassion, and your fuck you attitude make you a rare gem to humanity. You. Don’t ever forget how special you are.
I am so sorry for everything that has happened to Ronan, and to you. There really isn’t much more I can say that doesn’t sound disingenuous or superficial. I couldn’t in words describe the depth to which your story has touched me, or the tears that line my cheeks when I look at my own sons and think of you all, my oldest quickly approaching the age when Ronan was diagnosed.
I hope your little poppy brings you some joy you so rightly deserve, and know you and Ronan are in my thoughts always.
You are fucking amazing. Fuck cancer!
Tiffany M.
I was very moved by Ronans story, I think of how hard it is for you as a mother to go through this. Ronan died a hero and a fighter. I wish you and your family the best of luck. God bless you and Ronan. ❤
I have started to write this so many times and i just don’t know what to say to you Maya. Your story and the beautiful little angelic face of your son Ronan have forever changed me. My heart goes out to you and your family, i just cannot imagine the heartache. You are such an inspiration Maya, the way you are fighting for this cause and the memory of your son. I have a son, he is 8 months old, i will ensure that he lives every day he has happy and to the fullest in honor of your little rockstar, Ronan. Much love Anouska
Hi my name is Paige Thompson I’m 15 and every time I listen to ronan I cry I have a nephew who is about to be 2 and he has these huge blue eyes and I just can’t image anything happening to him…Ronan was so strong through those 8 months and I know he’s looking down at us and he is as happy and healthy as can be. My prayers are with you and your family,you guys are so strong even though you have those days you don’t want to wake up.Maybe with time things will get easier.
Go on Instagram and look at what I posted 1dmblove I posted pics of Ronan and said naive things he was a beautiful baby and may he rest in peace
My daughter, Megan, who is 15 and the oldest of 6 kids, shared Taylor Swift’s song with me tonight. We sat and cried and hugged her younger two brothers, Luke and Dillon. After hearing the song, I had to find out the story behind it, and I found you.
I am sick to my stomach. I cannot begin to fathom how you survive every day. Thank God for the others…they are your strength I am sure. I have been lucky and have 6 healthy kids. There is NOTHING I wouldn’t do for them. If anything like this happened to any one of them, I imagine the only thing that would keep me moving at all would be my other kids. They would be my survival kit.
As for cancer? We’ve lost several loved ones this year. F U CANCER for sure. But the loss of a child? It is almost criminal. I will never understand it. There is no greater pain I am sure. I pray to God that I never have to experience that.
God Bless you, your kids, your family. I am going to be reading “Guess How Much I Love You” to my kids tonight. In a strange way, I thank you for the reminder to hold them close each and every day.
Hey Maya you were a wonderful mom for Ronan. I hope you know that he is safe in the hands of God and always will be. I will make sure you get a miracle even if it is only getting one moment with your little boy. Just like Taylor swift said what if the miracle is even getting one moment with you. Rip Ronan I love you to the moon and back
your son was so adroable what do u think he would be for halloween
im so sorry for your lost i know that wont help bring him back but hope it will help u know that people care your son was very butifule i know what it feels like i have not seen my brothers in 2 years i love that u stuck up for your son ps. im 12 and u seem like a very good mother
i love your story i feel sooo bad for you hugs and kiss 4 u:)
you and your little boy will always be in my prayers. I am so sorry for you lost and just remember he will always be with you no matter what. he is watching down on you smiling at what you have done and how you are now helping bring cancer awareness.
ive just learned about your story, i first downloaded Taylors new song just thinking it was a pretty song, (i hadnt really listened to the words yet) then i did listen to the words and realized it was about a child, and it made me cry, then i learned today that it was about your son. I am a mother of 3 grown children, and a daycare provider for many others. I cant even begin to imagine what this has been like for you, i just know that i cant stop crying today!!!! My heart and thoughts are with you and your family. Ronan will forever be with you here now, and in heaven later. He knows your work is so important to stop this terrible disease!!!!! it must be stopped. No family should ever feel this pain.
Maya,
I wish I could say something that would take your pain away, but I do not think the pain will ever go. I never met Ronan but something about the way you describe him makes his death seem like the biggest loss the world could face. I think that Ronan could’ve grown up to change the world. Your strength and courage is inspiring however Ronan’s strength and courage and willingness to see you happy especially is something that is awe striking. If I could bring him back for you I would,
thank you for telling your story and letting people know the true facts of childhood cancer
I am extremly saddened for your loss. Your little boys story inspired me to pick my self up after 2 years of sulking. I lost my twin brother at the age of ten. Your family and Ronan have my prayers.
alexis oconnor
I learned about ronan from the taylor swift song and it makes me cry whenever i hear it i have a little brother that just turned 3 and i know its not the same thing but if he passed away i dont know what i would do and i wish there was something i could do becouse your family is hurting i wish the pain could flow away but i know that cant happen thats only in fairy tales everybody wishes it was in real life to but when things are so tragic you have to take it day by day and it will get better i hope that it will this is for ronans family and i hope you read it thankyou you guys are so strong
sincerly me alexis oconnor
I am so sorry for you. When i read this i was starting to cry.
am not a mom so may be i would not understand a mothers pain to lose a child . but i cry when i read this ………………. my heart goes out to ronan family keep strong …….
im sorry im 11 and i cried for hours i cant donate but i wish toy get one of the wrist bands i will were it forever i lost a famliy member to its hard i know my best gose out to yo and your famliy
Your family is so inspiring. I am so sorry for you guys and I cannot believe how strong you all are. I was not blessed with the opportunity to meet Ronan, but I know that he was an amazing boy. Also, everyone in your blog has inspired me in different ways. I am in college majoring in nursing and seeing how close you and Ronan became to your nurses was so inspiring. I plan on helping children like Ronan and raising awareness to childhood cancer. I’m praying for you all in the future and keep your heads up, you’re all so strong. ❤
Oh my gosh I am so sorry for you guys. Your rockstar’s story broke my heart. And I will always remember him. Now it will be hard fro me to celebrate my birthday because my birthday is on May 9. I was just turning 12 that day…
I think of Ronan so often, even though I have never met your family. I think it is impossible to read this blog and to forget about this beautiful boy or his amazing family. I wish this had never happened to your son, or to anyone. It is so awful. I really think you can make a difference for children everywhere though, and for that we all thank you.
I cried whenever I watched one of the things about Ronan!!!!
Maya,
I am very sorry about what has happened to you and your family. I did not know who Ronan was until I was on the computer looking up Taylor Swift and when I clicked the space after her last name Ronan came up as a choice. I decided to click on it and I saw pictures of your son. I looked Taylor Swift Ronan on youtube and I heard the song you and Taylor wrote. And in the first 10 seconds I heard it, I cried, and I am crying right now. I read the comments and I found this website and I want to again say that I am sorry. I watched the video of the news that talked about Ronan and they talked about the website. He is very beautiful and cute. And he will always be in your heart. Again I am so sorry.
I wish that there was any type of cure or anything before we lost the most amazing little kid on earth and I hope they find a cure before it’s too late love u Ronan I wish u can come back and never go again
I love the song Ronan and it makes me cry everytime I listen to it. I clicked on the link to this website and have spent most of my free time on it reading! I’m telling all my friends to donate, cause I know I’m going to ask my mom to donate a lot!
hi my name is Cami Katz i heard Ronan the song i am 12 years old and whenever i listen to that song i cry to death i saw pictures of him and he is the cutest little baby in the world i also live in Arizona and i am dyeing to get involve into this kind of cancer my grandpa dyed around that time too from cancer and ever since i wanted to get involve please make this come true thxs 🙂
Lindo , chorei todas as vezes que assisti esse vídeo, uma criança linda que mobilizou muita gente, meu pesames, RONAN BEAUTIFUL BOY , BRASIL .
I will never be able to listen to Ronan without thinking of a beautiful life. He is changing lives and giving someone else a chance, a little angel from above. I could only imagine how many lives you and your son have changed and how many eyes you have opened to this ugly disease. much love .
I am a 19 years old Spanish girl. It was yesterday when i first knew about Ronan from Taylor Swift’s song… I just can’t stop crying when I listen to the lyrics and see the pictures of such a beautiful angel… his Story has touched me so much, he is in my heart although I never met him… all my love for him and his Family.
I LOVE U TO THE MOON AND BACK RONAN.
I’m 13 and I am in love with the song RONAN and your RONAN’S BLUE EYES!!!!!!!! When i read your blog or hear the song ronan i start crying i have showed all my friends that song and he is just and inspiration to me BIG INSPIRATION!!!!! every night before i go to bed i sing the RONAN song cause i know it by heart and i think that he just like listening to me sing i am believe in spirits!!!!!! also do u ever think about seeing a medium like the The Long Island Medium lady to see if your son is talking to you which i know he is but just saying!!!!!
P.S. Ronan i love you to the moon and back ❤ ❤ ❤
Maya and woody; My little brother went through the same thing, he was 5 when they diganosed him with it, and he passed away 9 months later. we legit did everything together. and to just think that hes gone now is hard. i have pictures of me and him around my room all over. Theirs a picture of me and him in all of my classes at school . and in my locker. i never wanna forget him. my life isnt the same. i cry every night and every day . he was born 3 days after mine. December 23rd , this is the 1st christmas without him . But you guys are in my prayers<3
I’m so sorry for your loss, I long for the days where cancer was only a zodiac sign and nothing more, Ronan was strong, brave beautiful and special and it just wasn’t fair that he lost his life to something so horrible. I cant listen to taylor swifts song without crying
I have started reading your blog, and I can honestly say, with every enty I have read my heart extends to you and your family more and more.
I am only 17, and I know that I could never even begin to imagine how any of this journey has impacted you, but I want you to know that I am sending my hopes and prayers to you and your family. Your story has really inspired me to change how I look at so many aspects of my life.
I am truly sorry for your amazing loss, I wish so much for you that you could look into his beautiful blue eyes one more time!
Best of luck. Keep fighting for this cause! ❤
I have only recently heard about your story. My wife and I have two boys ages, 4 and 1. When I hear Ronan’s song, it makes me think of my wife and boys. My wife say’s the same thing to the boys, “I love you to the moon and back.” Ronan seemed like an amazing and beautiful child. Stay strong!
I have dedicated a drawing, a peice of art on a Site by the name of Chickensmoothie, drawn to Taylor’s song Ronan. I am truly sorry for your loss- I’m only 13 and I cannot even imagine your loss. It brings tears to my eyes when I read Ronan’s story. May god bless you greatly- and may Ronan be watching you from heaven. 😥
Oh my god. I am so sorry! I hate cancer! I wish with all my heart that it could have never existed! Oh My! Your son is my new inspiration! and you are his hero I grantee it!
My daughter just sent me the link to this site, to read about it & see one of the most beautiful children in the world. I was brought to tears just looking at that precious child and imagining what he & the family went through. I’m so sorry for your pain, I have 3 grandkids that mean the world to me and I couldn’t picture surviving anything that could happen to them. There’s no reason, no answer for why anyone suffers, especially innocent children, it’s the worst possible thing that can happen. I wish you better days and may your son RIP.
I listened to the song Taylor Swift wrote about this. I started crying. I am only twelve an I can not imagine what it would be like to be in your shoes. I am so sorry for your loss. I have read every blog of yours and it makes me so sad. Stay strong. Your story has really made me change the way I look at things in life. Best of luck and Stay strong:)
If there is anything I can do please email me I also live in Arizona I cry every time I listen to that song it’s on my phone I listen to it on the way to my bus stop and I just scream it out loud and my brother looks at me like a freak but then I showed him it and he is 13 1/2 I’m 12 and he was even crying
I am only 11 years old and i could imagine how hard it would be to go through this i have a had a friend of mine named Luke Shamblin that this has happened to he is a survivor of caner!!When i was listening to the song that taylor swift made i heard it at first i didn’t know what it was about then i looked it up,after i did that i listened to the song agin it made me cry…. I am really looking forward to donating money.My family and i will continue to keep y’all in our prayers
Love:Haylee Deford
I’m so sorry for your loss. Ronan was a beautiful child. I know you can get through this. Just stay strong. I pray for your family every night hopping you can get through this. R.i.p ronan ❤
hey maya and woody im only 17 but my elder sis amanda had luekmia when i was only 7 its been 10 yrs but i feel as if shes talking to me.Anyway Im a Taylor Swift fan and i love her now after hearing ronan.Hes such a beautiful baby!!!!!!!!!!!!!AND YOUR AN AMAZING MUM.I and my younger sister whos 5 along with my mother Roberta keep you in prayers.
Lovingly:Roberta,Cindy and Shannon.
dear Cindy darling , i agree that Maya is an amazing mom and i hope that your family could get past Amanda death. im certain that your daddy and mummy are very happy with Shannon. and Maya sweety im 60 and my grand-baby whose 19 listens to Taylor’s songs and i heard and found about Ronan through who knew somebody so perfect existed.
Maya and Woody,
I’m only 14, and I don’t have any expirence with cancer in any of my family members.. But you’re story has touched me and my whole family. I have a different out look in life, and I’m going to live it to my fullest. God had a purpose for everything and everyone.. You may be thinking about what was going through God’s mind to take a beautiful boy’s life away. I honesly don’t know either, but just believe. Your family’s story have touched so many lives out in the world, and I know it’s touched my heart. I live in Omaha, Nebraska and I go to Elkhorn Ridge Middle School. This year all the 8th graders have suggested that one girl sings the song Ronan by Taylor Swift in front of the whole school and anyone that is welcomed. We’re proud to sing this song, and we all keep you in our prayers. ❤ ❤ ❤
-Mackenzie Hays
Hi Maya,
I know you get alot of comments, but I hope you read this one. I am a college student at Penn State, 19 years old. I am involved in THON through Penn State, which is the biggest student philanthropy in America. Thon is a two day dance marathon celebrating the lives of millions of childern taken by or fighting cancer. Thousands of families impacted by cancer go, including some f the children who are sick, and share their stories. All year round we raise money for THON at school. I think it would be awesome for you to go to thon. I believe everyone needs to know Ronan, and I believe you are the best one to share that with others. I believe it could help you with your broken heart. I hope you will consider. Praying for you every single day, Maya. You may be a stranger to me, but your story has forever left an impact on my life. I am so sorry for your loss. Please please let your husband and sons know that they are being prayed for as well. Ronan was a beautiful little boy, and did not deserve to be taken away from any of you so suddenly. But I can assure you he is living with God now, smiling down on you.
-Nikki
Where can I get a Ronan bracelet?
Hi Maya and Woody,
i am really sad to hear about the loss of your beautiful son, Ronan.
Thank God that you’ve overcome this loss, became stronger and learnt how to retaliate this battle with joy!
Ronan reminded me to be more thankful to God that we are still alive, working & healthy! Don’t complaint so much about small matters, which causes some form of unhappiness.
Be happy & learn to treasure our lives in a more meaningful way.
Thank you for that inspiring story, and I bring you blessings from Singapore.
May God bless you all in a tremendous way!
Best regards,
Corinne Su
Hi Maya,
My name is Luís and I am from Brazil.
I learned about your little Ronan today while someone sent the beautiful Taylor Swift music about your son’s fight.
Six months ago Patricia and I lost our beautiful Stella to the very same disease. She was 9 months old when she was diagnosed with Neuro IV – amplified MYC-N. We did everything we could to save her, but it was impossible. She died peacefully at my hands during a long Saturday and I sworn to her I will work hard to when I die no more children will die from Neuroblastoma.
We organized an Institute in Brazil – Stella Demarco Institute and we are working hard to help to combat children cancer here. There is a doctor in São Paulo, Dr. Vicente Odone, who is a 30 years expert in Neuroblastoma running a set of innovative research and saving many children lifes.
You can know a bit about Stella here:
http://www.askican.org/namedprograms/sdemarco.html
I am sure our angels are together in heaven, helping us to help other children to live.
All the best for you and your family!
oh my god! since the first moment i’ve ever seen ronan and found out his story i just couldn’t stop thinking about him. I can’t possibly imagine what you must have been going through. He was the most beatiful boy I have ever seen with a heart I’m sure just as beautiful. I’ve found out about you and Ronan when Taylor Swift’s song came out and I have to tell you that I’ve listened to it a thousand times (and I can’t stop pressing the reply button) and everytime I hear it I just burst into tears. God bless you you are such an amazing mother
Maya,
You’re right, Ronan is too beautiful for this world. He is so beautiful it hurts. I have a beautiful little boy as well, Kaleb. I’ve never looked at another child and thought; Wow! He’s so perfect. Not until I seen Ronan. Nothing scares me more now, than how beautiful my little boy is. I just pray he isn’t too beautiful to be here. I think about it so much! I’m slowly learning to stop, and just love him. Every moment. Thank you for teaching me to do that.
Veronica
Hi Mama Maya. My name is Steph, and I’ve been reading your story for a while now. I’m in tears every time I read a new post, so I can’t Even imagine what you’re going through. I know nothing I say will make it better, or make that beautiful baby boy come back, but we are all here to help you get through these awful cards you were dealt. I just want you to know that you would never be given anything you can’t handle. My friend Alex Blom also died of cancer when we were in eighth grade. Now, I am a senior and we all miss him dearly during this awful time. The ache will never go away, but you have to think about the time you had with Ro, not the time you’re missing. He’s perfect in Heaven. It’s a better place for him than this awful ugly world. He’s the lucky one. Love you Mama Maya. -Steph Halvorson
Ronan seemed like an incredible little boy. My younger brother passed away in January from stage 4 Neuroblastoma. Joshua was such a fighter. I’m sure Ronan and Joshua are flying high in heaven. No one will understand what childhood cancer will do to a family. We fought a long and hard battle but we won, he isn’t in pain anymore, neither is Ronan!! Praise The Lord!
I HATE YOU CANCER!!!!!!!!!WHY DID YOU DO THIS TO RONAN!!!!!
AGE 9
I am so proud of you for keeping yourself together. I can’t believe the world can be so cruel and crush all his hopes and dreams. Thank you for setting up the blog. I am all in tears after reading just one entry. I am also very proud of Taylor who wrote the song for you and Ronan. I cry every single time I sing it, or even think about it.
This is one of my reasons I don’t want to have children. I don’t want them to have cancer, to die at a young age….
I am so proud of you. God bless you and Ronan, high above. I think he’s looking down now, a little angel, and being so proud of his mama.
God bless you and Ronan
Mya & Woody,
I have followed your story since Taylor Swift released “Ronan”. I was overwhelmed with emotion when I first heard that song. So I decided I wanted to read your blog and learn more about your story, Ronan’s story… I can honestly sit here and type about how beautiful of a child he was and still is. You both are so strong and amazing. I cannot even begin to imagine all the tears you have cried but I also know that you are making the best out of your situation. Ronan sure sounded like an amazing child, and you both sound like amazing parents. Keep up all the great work you are doing. Stay strong. ❤ one day we will find a cure for all types of cancers…. Amanda
Hello maya and woody. my name is kylie and i am 11 years old and i feel for you. ronan is a beatiful educated boy and he will be with you forever dont think of him as gone think of him as happy and free all my love
-kylie
I love your story and I cry everytime I read something about Ronan because he is so precious. :’)
Your son has touched my heart and I have never even met him. I see his pictures and videos and I wish more than anything I could just wrap my arms around him. 😦 I could never imagine why something so unfair and cruel could happen to such a beautiful child and an innocent life. I have been glued to Ronan’s song for 2 days now and cant pull myself away from it no matter how much it breaks my heart. My son is 11 months old and also has these big blue round eyes and Ronan’s story has already brought me closer to my boy. We as parents arent promised tomorrow to spend with our babies….this has opened my eyes to cherish every tiny moment I have with my baby. Bless your hearts and we will all see you up there some day Rockstar ❤ We love you to the moon and back. I hope that you guys (Maya and Woody) have grew stronger and can continue to live a happy life together.
Hi I’am Siege from Manila, Philippines. I was moved by Ronan’s story and how brave he was. I made a poem for Maya Thompson.
Little Brave
I have never been a mother
I may not understand your pain
There’s nothing that make you feel better
Than seeing your boy live again
Looking at Ronan’s blue eyes
Really breaks my heart
An angel in disguise
Life’s lend by God
I can’t imagine how strong he was
Battling with the terrible agony
How he managed to smile and let it pass
A little soldier that shows bravery
We may never understand God’s plan
Be sure to keep your faith
Everything will not be the same
Just remember what God said…
Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.” And instantly the woman was made well.
– Matthew 9:22
Maya and Family,
I am in seventh grade, and I am in my school talent show this year. I will be singing “Ronan”, with all of you in mind, especially your rockstar. 🙂 Thiis isn’t easy for me to do, but I feel as though it’s important for Ronan’s story to be heard.
Maybe I could email you my preformance! My email is: gutiercar09@yahoo.com
Thinking and praying for you this Christmas,
Caroline Gutierrez ♥♥
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.”
Read a lot of your blog and I talk about Ronan all the time,and the song Ronan is one of my abouslte favorites,(I admit,when I first heard it I was like huh? Then I heard “beautiful boy who died,” googled the lyrics and the meaning and I started crying.) FUCK YOU CANCER. Ronan is so cute and I hate the fact that cancer took his presious life that day,that it takes ANYONES life. I could only imagine how hard it was for you. I’m so sorry. Rest in peace Ronan.
It sucks. It just fucking sucks. I am so very sorry.
Not a day goes by that i dont think about this family. Ever since i heard Ronan’s story i havent stopped thinking of ways to raise awareness. No family deserves to watch their little one go through this, and no child deserves to go through this. I will forever and always try to help.
Hi Maya and Woody,
i am crying this morning hear taylor song about the loss of your son, Ronan. i’m pray for him now.
Merry X`mas to your family. I see and feel such compassion, warmth and love and thanks so much for sharing Ronan with all of us.
Jakarta
Never heard Taylor’s tune for Ronan till this morning. Didn’t know you guys were right here down the street from me either. You have touched me deeply and I have hugged my family closely this morning after spending 3 hours plus reading through your blog. Cancer sucks big time. Lost my dad because of it. I wish your beautiful family much love and peace in 2013.
Since i heard Ronan song by Taylor Swift i’ve been cry all day andt hinking about your son, Ronan. I am so sorry for your lose 😥 Ronan was a beautiful boy. Everyday i pray for him and i hope you and family can continue life and have happy togetherc
I am so sorry for your lose no one deserves to lose their son when I listen to Ronan the song I cry so much I send out prayers to you and family and I hope you feel better
Since i heard ronan song i cry all day and i knew that the song was about ronan thompson i feel so sorry for you :’) Ronan was a beautiful boy everyday i pray for him
I am the mother of angel brittany (1997-2001 Ependymoma Brain) and the creator of Brittanys Books. You are not alone in your grief, I don’t know if this will help you, but know that others have held their angels as they went to heaven too!
THe Day Her Spirit Lived:The night grew dark as the snow muffled the world around me as I lay next to my beautiful 4 year old daughter. The smell of death permeated the air in the bedroom. Her breath was rough and forced, her skin was hot to the touch, her eyes where half closed, and her coloring was patchy with purple and pale pink. I knew this was her last night on this earth, so I stayed awake so not to miss the slightest movement or murmur. Her throat roared with mucus and saliva because she could not swallow. I slowly suctioned her mouth and throat to make her more comfortable. There is a precision to suctioning and a comfort knowing it may not make her live but it could ease her dying. The continuous morphine dripping into her veins alleviated her pain.
Lying beside her my thoughts drifted back upon the brief time I had with her, my mind recreated her image as a healthy child laughing and playing, running and singing, talking and crying, watching with each passing day her subtle deterioration over the period of a year, first starting with uncontrolled seizures ending in inability to walk or talk, and with slight paralysis on her right side. Her brilliant smile endured even to the end, it may not have been symmetrical, but it was hers nonetheless. Her eyes where a deep brown reflecting any light that caught them. Once life swelled in her eyes, now death has focused its’ sights on her brow. She lay beside me a shell waiting to be released from the body that has become her prison; part of her was cool and lifeless. Her toes to her stomach have been dying and shut down for days, this accounted for the bowel and medicine smell around her. Her hands where still pliable but without feeling or movement. The hours passed, and slowly from the top of her head, her skin began to turn color. Her palms were dark purple where her blood pooled beneath the skin as she rested them on the bed. Slowly, her right underarm and side began the transition of no circulation stopping the blood where it lay in her veins. Her head swelled at the site of her surgery incisions protruding past her ear on the left side. My thoughts and prayers where with her that she had no pain and no realization of what was happening to her body. I prayed to God for mercy and I believe he gave her mercy the last days of her life, especially this last night.
As she rested comfortably and without movement, her forced breath echoed throughout the trailer (it sounded like a faint dog bark). I positioned myself on her left side taking in the smell of her breath. It wasn’t the sweet breath she used to have when she was healthy; it was a morbid smell that came from her lungs and mouth. It made me nauseous, but I held my position. I thought to myself that nothing on this earth could give me pause about taking in the aroma of my sweet child on the last night of her life. Throughout the night, I slipped into a light sleep, awakening abruptly making sure I had not missed her passing I noticed her coloring had returned to normal. I was so confused. I stood up and asked aloud if she was supposed to live. Part of me wanted to shout out for a miraculous healing, the other part prayed to God for his will to be done. I began to second-guess the peace I was given by God during her path to death. I was so strong and certain she was going to die. I gave control over to God and knew no matter what that I would accept his will. But at this moment, I questioned my God and myself. Selfishly I thought to myself, she has to die; I would resent her if she didn’t. This thought paralyzed me with fear that I had wished her death, I had been waiting for it, waiting for the release I hoped to feel when my life was my own again. Did I wish for her dying so long (it seemed), that I would resent her living if God blessed me with a miracle? How could I be so selfish! Why didn’t I call to God for a miracle, WHY?
My heart knew the answer, but my conscious mind, in order to accept this nightmare, this dream, this hell on earth of losing my child grasped to every self-demoralizing figment I could conceive of protecting myself against the rage within me, rationalizing this moment in my life as my decision if my beautiful child lived or died. To hold for a moment control of the uncontrollable and to ease the grief that is yet to come. Just then, the unbearable grief, the unmistakable knowledge that this is truly happening crashed through all the peace I held and made me crumble. MY BABY! Why take my baby? Why God? What did I do? My baby is dying! My cry was of moaning, my heart throbbed with pain like I have never felt, and I couldn’t take anymore! I looked at my mom asking her why isn’t she gone? When is she going to die? Why doesn’t God take her? At that moment, I remembered one of the nurses saying to me “This is her journey, she will complete it when she is ready; when you feel you can take no more, God will step in and bring her home!”
During my breakdown, which lasted about twenty minutes, I ended up in the living room away from her; I calmed myself and walked down the hall to our bedroom where she lay flat on her back on the lower left side of the bed. I laid on her right side cupping her head in my hands. Within seconds, she began to do the fish out of the water movement that happens to people when they die. Her chin forced itself up in the air and down again about ten to fifteen times. Her head went limp and fell to her right side. I was waiting for a final breath, but she didn’t have one. My father was standing at the foot of the bed and said “It’s over”, I looked to my sister on the other side of Brittany and said, ”I didn’t hear her last breath, I didn’t feel a release of her spirit!” My sister was crying and said that she felt it, she felt the angels take her home. I positioned myself over her body and placed my head on her torso and yelled the only thing I could, ”Thank God, my baby is out of pain, my baby is out pain!”
Brittany died on November 28, 2001 at 9:45 a.m. (two years to the day my grandmother passed away) her passing was very peaceful. I am comforted knowing that my Brittany has a full head of hair, can walk and run with the other children, can talk and smile the perfect smile, and as I write this, is playing in God’s Garden. Her precious body may have died, but for the first time I know her spirit is truly living
I’m so sorry…:( Mrs.& Mr.Thompson.I love the song “Ronan” by.Taylor Swift.It is a butiful song…And you have a butiful baby bot. Love & Prayers from the Snow Family.
My name is Pauline, I’m 16 and I’m french. I’ve heard about your story thanks to Taylor’s song and trust me, I’m crying, because of his adventure, your adventure. Now I’m here on your blog and I have to leave a comment just to say that you are a very brave family, I’m so sorry, God bless your family. I will pray for you and your family. I wish I could say something that would take your pain away. This boy is just wonderful and you too.
I hope you have understand me because I’m not very good in English.
Good Luck & Love
Pauline ❤
Thank you so much for sharing Ronan’s story and bringing so much awarness to this horrible killer. I want to let you know how brave your whole family is and I admire you and your strength to go on daily.
I also wanted to share with you how my daughter loves your sons song and sings it all the time because we downloaded it from iTunes for her on her iPod. Her name is Taliya. She just turned 5 Dec 21st. She now asks me if I “love her to the moon and back” and if shes ” my best 4yrs” I fight back tears while watching her smile after she asks.
Me and her father lost her half sister when she was 2 and so I know how your hurting. For us it wasnt a illness unfortunately she was murdered so we didn’t get to say goodbye. It’s been 9 yrs and Jan 7th is her bday. She died the day after our first bday. Please take comfort in knowing things get easier, I can’t say better because life is never better when a child leaves before a parent. He will always be in your heart and that is where he belongs forever!
God bless you, your family &Ronan too! He’s your guardian angel forever .
I love you Maya for everything you are
Hey Mama Maya. Greeting from Indonesia. I just wanna make sure you know, you and ronan change my perception of living and it means the world to me. Because of you, I have finally learned that life is tough, life is rough, but no matter how hard our lives is, a smile from the one we love the most… can heal everything. I still feel sorry for you, Mama Maya. And I hope Ronan is safe. I hope he realizes that his mother is the truest hero in the whole world. And I really hope all children around who have diagnosed as cancer fighter could make it, and fight like a rockstar, like Ronan, like you. I hope you’re fine, and may all God’s graces be with you. I adore you so much, Mama Maya & Ronan
Love,
Gendis (From Jakarta, Indonesia)
All good things are wild and free! This has become a philosophy to my life. Ronans story and your strenght and heart help me to remember what´s important in life : to fight for what´s important to you and not to miss one single moment of happiness.
Everytime i think of Ronan i have to cry and just through reading your blog it´s like I ´ve known him forever.
You will always be in my heart, Thompson family. Keep fighting for your aim.
Love, Elena
From one Ronan (which translated means Babyseal in English) to another Ronan, Heart warming at all times……As you say, he will never be forgotten…..
Hi maya. My name is smara. Ronan’s story has touched my heart. Everyday I tear up about how he had to go through all of the pain no child should ever go through. I know how your family feels, about one year ago my 13 year old cousin was diagnosed with leukemia. It was during Christmas time and our entire family were heartbroken. It was hard to see her lose her hair, lose weight, changing from the happiest person alive to a tired person. She fought for 9 months until her weak body couldn’t take it anymore. She passed away in her fathers arms. It was hard for me to not ever be able to see her again. I cannot imagine how hard it is for you to not see Ronan again, for his brothers to not play with their brother anymore. I admire Ronan’s strength and your courage. I will never forget about Ronan and his horrible disease. Keep strong Maya, you are not alone.
Heaven only takes the best and that’s where little Ronan is!
Hello, my name is Cierra. I’m a 12-year-old girl, and I just recently heard about your beautiful baby boy. One of my friends showed me this video on Youtube, and it was the song “Ronan” by Taylor Swift. When it got to the first chorus, I was already balling my eyes out. I still am as I type this. I am, so, so, so sorry. I can’t even imagine it. It just makes me cry harder. I have a sea of tissues all around me, and I keep listening to the song over and over again. It’s so beautiful. So was your beautiful son. I want to sing along, but everytime I try I get choked up. Cancer is an evil thing. It’s one thing for a grown up to die, but when It’s a child It’s just too much to handle. I’m so sorry. I really am. Rest in Peace, little Ronan. ❤
I am a mother of a 4 year old boy with t-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. We have been battling this since May 17 2012. I have been struggling with my emotions since then. I keep telling myself I will not cry, I will be strong for him. My little man is going through so much already. I read this blog and I searched on the website about you both. I listened to the song that was for him and I finally cried! I realized that I was thinking when he dies as if he isn’t going to make it, when I need to be thinking when he is healthy again. He has such a wonderful spirit and he has been strong through these first phases of chemo. He has made it to maintenance. This might seem trivial to some but to me you have helped me see my son as he should really be seen. I believe that Ronan is watching over my son and will lead him and help him with this. Thank you for sharing your story!
I found this page by listing to Taylor Swift’s song about him. It is very sad,but yes God heals. He is always there for you and forever will be. Your Ronan will be too. I know what this is like. It was my friend though. You are in my thoughts.
I am 12 years old x I heard about the this little army guy of yours and fell in love with him! he truly did fight like an army guy x he is flying with the Angels now and in gods arms.He is your guardian angel now. RIP RO GBNF!<3
I just wanted to say bless your family. I am truly moved by your story & wish nothing but the best for you. When I listen to Ronan’s song by Taylor swift , I burst out in tears … & I’m a 14 year old girl. God & Ronan are with you in your heart watching over! Please remember that! I’m keeping you & your family in my prayers every night. I knew someone That lost a battle to cancer also, remember things will become more hopeful! Bless you ❤
Love to you, your family, but mostly Ronan. He was such a beautiful baby boy. I listen to Taylor Swift’s Ronan almost every single day. I know how tough it is to lose a dear one to cancer. I lost my grandma to cancer when I was only in first grade. It’s very tough; but I know you can endure. Because Ronan did not leave this world and he never will. He is so dearly loved and in millions hearts.<3
Maya and Woody,
Im so sorry for the life you are having to live… We all love Ronan. He was Gorgeous and its so sad 😦 I will donate!
Hello Maya and Woody. In reiteration of all the sentiment you have heard time and again, I am so sorry for the shitty hand you have been dealt. I am constantly overwhelmed by your love story. I really wanted to extend my deepest thanks, along with the condolences, to you for teaching me to cherish my son again. I am so ashamed to say I had forgotten to for the last couple of years. I had forgotten that he was my sun, my little steller being around which I orbit. Thank you, in the most sincere way, for reminding me. Your boy was magic, just a little ball of love and fire, as are you Maya. You let me into your love story, and it changed my life, and that of my son’s (Matthew, 4). I got caught up in the making dinner, packing the bags for the next day, the bath and beds, the commute…and I just forgot. Thank you for bringing me back. I wish I could hug you because you changed my world, it is a different place now. Oh Ronan, sweet boy, I wish I could just put my arms around you and squeeze. My love to you, you little Jedi warrior. And to you Jedi Mama. Thank you a thousand times, from the bottom of my heart.
Hey I’m back again! I left 2 comments in October 2012. I have not been able to stop thinking about Ronan and you family. I see my little brother differently now. He isn’t so annoying to me . He is my bestfriend! When I tell my friends my three year old brother is my bestfriend I must sound stupid but I mean it he broke his leg recently and it was tough to see him in such pain then I thought of you and how hard it was for you! I hope you enjoy you baby! Love you!
I am so sad for your loss he seemed like a great little man and I hope that your precious poppy comes soon and that you may love her just like you did Ronan. I found this blog last night (2-25-13) and i just had to keep reading it and I pray not many more people have to go through what you went through. I’ll be praying for you and your family. 🙂
I have an account on Instagram called @i_love_ronanthompson. I love your baby and you and Woody are the best parents EVER!!!
Love you, Woddy, the twins and Poppy!!! ❤❤❤
Maya:
Your story and the comments above from others with loved ones affected by cancer are heartbreaking. Along with a number of others, I learned of this blog and little Ronan through the song you and Taylor Swift co-wrote. What an amazing tribute ot your little man. In any event, I bought the song on iTunes so that the money would find its way to the right place and wonder what folks can do your children with cancer outside of giving money? I assume family members don’t want strangers visiting the cancer ward and germs are probably an issue as well. What else can folks who want to help do?
Maya,
I had never heard the song “Ronan” until one of my friend’s son asked me to download it. We played it in the car and it made my eyes instantly fill with tears. My friend lost her beautiful 12 year old daughter to cancer. Hearing the song about your beatutiful son has helped her and her son heal. She is so strong and I am amazed at how she carries on with her life. You are also a strong and wonderful woman. Your little boy was so beautiful and I want to thank you for allowing us into his life.
Hi Maya,
Learned your blog from Taylor Swift’s song “Ronan”. Ronan’s story breaks my heart everytime. 😦 I wish I knew about him two years ago so that I could have also prayed for him. He is such a beautiful kid. I know, he still is. I don’t know what to say to make you feel better. But I would like to thank you for sharing baby Ro’s life. It is so touching and inspiring.
Will pray for Ronan tonight. ❤
xoxo
-Krisha
When I heard Taylor Swift’s song to Ronan I cried because I know what it like to have someone you love have cancer, my gramma did, but I was so fortunate to have her live. I am so sorry for your loss!!! I feel so bad for you!
Sincerely,
Em
Ich komme aus deutschland bin erst 12 aber die Geschichte von Ronan ist richtig traurig und bewundernstwert wie ein so kleiner Junge mit dem Krebs umgeht .♥
Ich wünsche euch viel Glück (: ihr schafft das !♥
Love Maya Dear Woody, I saw your story straight on German television and it has really touched me. I’m very sorry for you and wish you all the best and much strength!!!
Greetings from Germany
Colett
Pam your boy was a beatiful Children, Ronan R.I.P
i cry with the Song from Taylor Swift, this Song is so beautiful.
Sorry for my bad Eglish i come from germany
Hi Maya
Im from Germany so sorry for my bad english 🙂
I just saw the TV-report about ronan and his story and what Taylor Swift did for him and you..
I just heard the song and I must say..I cried my heart out…this is so disgusting how this beautiful, innocent little boy have to die…
So I just wanted to say that you and your family are very very strong persons, keep going 🙂
I also saw that your pregnant again, so god bless this little girl.
Up from now Im gonna pray every night before I go to sleep for you , your family and especially for Ronan.
I love you 🙂
xoxo
-Inna
I have so much to stay,but I simply don’t find the right words. How painful could it be to see his own child dying.. Just saw this story on tv and couldnt hold tears. Stay strong,Ronan is proud of you.
Dear Maya, I am from Austria, Europe and saw the story of you and your beautiful son Ronan in German television today. I can´t stop crying since I saw your story. I have a son with nearly 2 years now and it´s unconceivable to me what you have to go to! Just wanted to let you know that there´s a candle lighted up for your son and your family here in Austria! And wishing you all the best for your future and the birth of your daugther! You are such a strong women!! Thinking of you!
I pray for you and your Family. You are so strong. I think he would be very proud.My thoughts are with you.
Claus from Germany
Maya and woody , Im 1 years old and Im from Germany. Today on TV a report about ronan was seen .I was so touched that I immediately got tears in my eyes . Thats the worst thing that can happen to parents .I learned today that Taylor Swift sang this beautiful song about. Ronan . I hear that song all the time but the Song is so sad . I hope you are you a little better and I hope I can someday understand that I can not do anything to help you. I find it very sad.
SORRY Im Not. Year im. 14
IM 14 years old sorry. Im online with my mobilephone
today, i watchet tv and saw your story. i started to cry and could´t stop it.
such a little angel, i´m so sorry for you!!!
i´m nurse, in autom i will start to work on a cancer unit in hospital. i worked in a hospice too, but i never heard such a story like yours.
Hello Maya.
Yesterday in German TV, was a Report about Ronan. I must cry. It was so deeply moved. I hace correctly respect for you. I hoped you are fine. I wish you a lot of luck with the new Baby. Yours story is a quite special one.
Your Mona (14 years)
hello, i am from germany I was verry interesting for this blog so I look in the internet to say you, I know that this is verry hard, and I know that I can`t comfort…but I only want say that I understand you and you pain…but imagine you, when your son survive he will be a thief or so things……I dont want that you sad, be happy bacause your son can look at you from the sky…he is certainly proudly of you, because the thinks you do are verry nice!!!
Liebe Maya
Es tut mir sehr leid was passiert ist.
Wenn ich das Lied von Taylor Swift höre
muss ich weinen weil er ein toller
Junge ist/war.
Ich Nina bewundere dein Sohn:-)
Liebe Grüße Nina<3
Bitte.Jetzt Weine ich schon wieder:-)
Ronan ist ein sehr sehr toller junge
Mein herzliches Beileid um ihren tapferen Sohn.
Ich bewundere sie, ich glaube ich wäre davor in eine Nervenklinik gekommen wenn ich von der Diagnose meines Sohnes erfahren würde. Ich bewundere sie und Ronan um ihren kämpferischen Willen ein neues Leben zu beginnen.
Mein Sohn starb 2008, als er 6 war, an der Diagnose Gehirntumor. Die Ärzte haben es 2005 herausgefunden. Von da an kam er immer zur Kemotherapie, aber er musste herausgenommen werden. Die Operation war problemlos verlaufen, und mir ist ein
Stein vom Herzen gefallen. Als er entlassen wurde, an seinem 6. Geburtstag,
starb er kurz darauf an einem Herzstillstand. Für mich brach eine Welt zusammen,
die sich vor einem Tag schlagartig änderte. Mein Leben stürtzte ein, in der selben Nacht starb mein Mann an einem Schlaganfall. Mein Leben war nur noch Schutt und Schrott.
Nur mit einer 5 Jahre langen Therapie konnte ich den Schmerz des Verlustes meiner Familie etwas loslassen. Ich wollte 4 mal Selbstmord begehen. Aber für meine Familie habe ich die Schmerzen meines Lebens auf mich genommen. Sie sollten stolz auf mich sein.
Ich spende jedes Jahr 1 Millionen Euro an die Tumor- und Krebshilfe für Kinder.
Jeder Schritt schmerzt täglich, dass ich denke warum muss ich weiterleben ????
Ich verstehe ihren Schmerz deutlich.
Alles Liebe,
Elena Seifert ❤
Liebe Maya, ich habe den Bericht über Ronan im TV gesehen. Mein 3jähriger Sohn ist auch am Neuroblastom erkrankt und nur 5 Wochen nach dem MRT ist die Krankheit wieder da – unbesiegbar… Ich bin in Gedanken oft bei Ihnen. Liebe Grüße Alex
Dear Maya,
I have seen your story, Ronans story on Monday in television and I can not stop crying. I have a son, he is 1 year old now and he looks like your little baby, the same big, blue eyes, the same smile – oh my god, I am so Sorry that Ronan has to go. I have never seen Ronan before but in a special way I miss him now. You will never have an answer to the question why must such things happen on earth. Maybe god only takes the best, maybe Ronan has already fulfiled his job on earth, he has brought so much love in your family and his story reaches many people and inspirates to fight against cancer. You are the best mother a child could have !! Love from Austria, Erika
I heard the Taylor Swift song and I started digging to find out what this was all about and it just broke my heart, such a horrible tragedy to such a beautiful little boy :*( in three days it will be exactly a year that I lost my mother to cancer, being there for her, seeing her struggle each day and being so tired but keep on fighting was inspirational to me. Your story touched my heart and I pray that one day no one will suffer from such a horrific disease. Your son is a beautiful angel watching over you now and he’s up there just waiting for you guys so he can be the first to show you everything!!! God bless you and your family and what you’re doing for the cancer research!!!
Beth
P.S. I plan on naming my son Ronan 🙂
R.i.p little Ronan he was a beautiful boy, he had the most beautiful blue eyes he would have been a heartbreaker. But hes now with god I bet his spreading his wings and enjoying his new life about. Sorry for your loss hes now a beautiful angel saving a free spot for his mommy and daddy.
Hello, I would like to draw Ronan for a school project. My project is based on disabilities, disorders and sickness. Please reply back to me soon!
I cry everytime I listen to Ronans song, godbless you and your four beautiful babies ❤ love from Ireland xx
his picture will be forever my background, you’re an inspiration
stay strong. my prayers for you and your family
i hope you never ever experience something like this again
rip rockstar ronan
love from saudi ❤
I didn’t know about your story but I’ve been watching youtube videos dedicated to your child and I’m really touched by your story … I heard taylor swift’s song and it made me cry . I know grief never fade away but your son is with God now and he’s better than ever … I wish the best to you and your family … 🙂 xoxo
Ronan…. we all miss and love your beautiful and big blue eyes … R.I.P little one .. we love you to the moon and back …. greetings from Nicaragua maya . God bless you and your family too 🙂
Although I have never seen this boy in real life , I am very sad after seeing the video and pics from him. Life can be so unfair. I think everybody should hear about this wonderful but sad story.R.I.P
I think you guys are so brave and strong to have gone through so much hard times and havent given up. I love you and I haven’t even met you. I think you and your family are incredible people and I just want you too reameber that Ronan is in a better place. Now I am only 13 but when I have kids I am nameing one Ronan after your son.
I think it somewhat sad to say that I found out about this little warrior in a Taylor Swift song, but nonetheless, I pray for you, your family, everyone who’s hearts he touched and I pray especially for him. Ronan was an adorable boy, though I never met him; his eyes being his best physical feature. Hearing about him and reading your posts, it tears at me because I know how it feels to have gone through chemotherapy and radiation at 17; it’s not fun in the least; on me, nor on my parents. And since I was still a minor, the worst part by far was seeing the sweet and strong innocent faces of the kids younger than me. I felt like I didn’t deserve to have cancer because these little kids had it much worse than I did. I felt like what I had was so minimal in comparison. They were fighting harder; and at the same time, they didn’t deserve to go through this even more than me. If that makes sense; but even though it may be tough to move on from losing your little angel, no one’s saying that you have to. Memories are good, but don’t let them rule your life. The fact that you’ve found someone to take the horrible feelings away is good. You will and can do it in your own time. Just keep up hope. ❤
I am never met you or your family and am sure never will, I cant imagine what you have been through together. My little man is the same age and no idea how I would ever handle that. The blog posts make me cry every time I read one. You are all strong people. Life is unfair, something so perfect, gone. But he is watching you all each and everyday. God Bless you all
I know how you feel i lost someone to but not by cancer he was my dad and i am 11 years old he was only 42 i miss him dearly and cry everynight for him. i wish he was here. but i will always remember he is in my heart. i also know god is taking care of him and he is no longer in the pain he was i wish the best for ronan, you, my dad and myself. let god be with them.god bless you. Daddy-1969-2012
Maya,
I am so incredibly saddened by your story and sorry about your loss of your beautiful son, but also happy for you because of your amzing healthy little baby girl. I am also proud of how you have turned this into such a wonderful foundation for other families and children with cancer. When I read your blog about the bird outside your window, it reminded me of when my grandfather died. We were all devastated but there was this annoying bird outside our window tweeting CONSTANTLY and it had never come around before he died. It was the strangest thing, but some say its a good sign from your loved one that has passed. Maybe ronan sent the bird to check up on you and let you know he is watching over you. Thank you for all that you are doing for those with cancer. You are amazing. God bless you and your family
Why did this have to happen to a sweet little boy who didnt know what was coming shame to god :(!!!!
I wish the best for you and you’re family! It’ll get better!
-Trinity
Maya, Woody, Boys and Poppy,
I have been reading your blog for some time now and trying to begin to feel the way you do. I have no children, but couldn’t begin to imagine the pain and loss that you feel. I do know how a piece of your hear feels missing from loosing my Best friend to Brain cancer, FU cancer. She was 36 married and had 4 children. Its funny to sit and see how the loss of a friend or family member effects everyone, even strangers. Stephanie passed away October of 2010 and touched so many people with not only her life but her Death. How unfair to take away this mother and wife at such a young age, with that being said how unfair to take one of the most beautiful children I have ever seen in my life, Ronan. It has taken me a long time to wrap my head around this cancer thing an how its doesn’t care about age or the fact that there is family and friends that will feel it, suffer and mourn for days weeks and years to come, but I have learnt that we are only dealt things in life that we are capable of dealing with. I found a song by George Strait and the verse in it sais this ” Life’s not the breaths you take, the breathing in an out, that gets you through the day ain’t what its all about, you just might miss the point trying to win the race Life’s not the breaths you take but the moments that take your breath away” This has followed me for 3 years now and I life by it every day. I look at your pictures and it reminds me of this, the memories that you made with your little man. the memories that I made with my Best friend. I wish you and your family nothing but the best, new memories with your boys and beautiful daughter, and telling and reminding them about their brother Ronan….you are one amazing and strong woman from what I have read, I wish you nothing but love
Never had the honor to meet ronan but after 2 yrs still think of that brave special guy of
ten
i just read this now i seen his beautiful photo on tumblr,and just looking into his amazing eyes made me cry for you made me hurt for you,i can not imagine what you must be feeling i am only 16 years old my name is dana and this story has made me so upset i will be praying for you tonight at 3.25 i think that is the correct time ❤ ❤ r.i.p beautiful boy
Your baby Ronan has amaaaaazing eyes. I wish I’d seen them in person. You’re lucky.
Maya. Can’t believe it’s been two years without the blue eyes! I am so sorry, I love you ❤ No wonder it's been raining all day here in Ireland. Love and kisses from rainy(thank you Ronan, hasn't rained like that in ages!) old Ireland, Oonagh 🙂 XXXXXXXX God bless you and that beautiful family of yours, that Poppy baby is amazing! Once again, I am so so sorry beyond words. F U cancer! XX
Hi I have just read your entire blog and am amazed by your strength. My neices baby has just been diagnosed with NB stage4 and understand that it’s a long rocky road. Your honesty in your blog is breathtaking and I salute you!! Your son is beautiful and I know that no words can express how I, a stranger feel for your loss. You have a beautiful family and seem to be surrounded by wonderful people.
Thank you for giving me humility again and wish you all the best for you, your husband, twins and wee baby Poppy xxx
Jacqueline, London, England xxxxx
Dear Maya,
Your story is so terrible but also inspiring. I know what it’s like to lose a loved one because of cancer and it sucks. I agree that there is no reason they should leave this earth because they deserve to be here. They are innocent people. I’m so sorry about your little boy because especially children should be her to play, live their life, and cuddle with their mamas. I hope you know that everyone thinks your story is very moving. Good luck with your foundation. Continue to work hard becuase it will pay off! My thoughts are with you. FUCK YOU CANCER!!!!!! NO ONE DESERVES TO DIE BECAUSE OF YOU!!!!!!!!
I also would like to say that Ronan is a beautiful and amazing little boy. I’m glad that Quinn is concerned about you and that Liam is a great kid and poppy is gorgeous. It’s wonderful that you have such a great family and so many friends and even strangers like me to help you through this. It’s so great that you found a way to help get anger and sadness out that also helps others.
I am so sorry this happened to you. I heard about Ronan through Taylor Swift. She is my idol, and i am a total stranger to you, but Ronan is in my heart. He was an amazing beautiful young boy, and the Swiftie family is here for you! don’t be afraid to instagram me (@taylor_swift_just) Your little boy is important to so many people. Stay strong! Our fandom is here for you!
hi, so I can not speak english so well but that’s not important.I am 18 years old and unfortunately common cancer in our family.My grandmother hate a brain tumor and my aunt has cancer. Both have failed. 8 years ago my mother got breast cancer. That was the worst time of my life. One year I had to live without my mother because her condition getting worse. I was little and have always thought that they did not make it because she had always been looking so bad. Of course I did not understand everything. The hair fell off and she was getting thinner. She ate nothing. Not go to the bathroom she could. Always connected with any machine. But they always had hope. Then it got worse. She had an accident during chemotherapy. Your vein burst. Her whole arm was burned. Then the question was how the doctors can do with further chemotherapy. Terrible. I cried every day and just wanted my mommy.Thank God they had Done it. She had survived. She went there getting better and better and today she is happy. But she kept a mental harm. She cries today when she looks at the Mirror.
A breast is missing. A burned arm. And her hair is not grown properly. No matter it’s the main thing is alive.But I’m afraid to go the this horror.My uncle and my other aunt tell us that it is not doing well and we know that they make regular visits to the hospital but do not tell us what they have.Well, fate has hit me. In december i receive a knot on my shin. I went to the doctor and he says it would be merely bold. But the pain became more unbearable. I went to the doctor again. This time it should be just water retention.In in last time I could not walk and do not sleep more than ever. I had always calm pain. I went to the doctor …A tumor. On my shin. I was operated on immediately. Turned out thank god it was a good one, but the pressed my nerve away. I went a long time with crutches. Although I knew it was a good tumor-like, my psyche at the end. For me it was bad, because I always had the feeling I’m the next. I often hear the song from Ronan have to cry again.I curse almost every day this disease. Why must they take away our important people? Why …I wish we could be immune to this disease.Mother of Ronan, I wish you all the best. You continue to remain the mother of Ronan about everything that you love. The little rock star will never leave you from the side.
PS: Thanks I could post my bad time here. I wrote it during the song.
Maya, I am so sorry this happened. Might I ask a question? How old was Ronan? I hope he rests in peace. No one deserves to die of cancer!
I love to the moon and back ronan ❤
The Thompson Family,
Ever since I heard about Ronan I couldn’t stop thinking about him and I recently donated money I saved up to the humane society so now I’m saving money up to donate for cancer kids like Ronan. He is in my prayers, thoughts, and dreams. I love you to the moon and back Ro.
Love,
Kelsey Martin
A few minutes ago i turned on the song ronan by taylor swift. I thought of this little boy in every word she said. I came to this website and looking at this beautiful child made me cry. Every word in the song was touching and even though he is gone now, he will alwas live in my heart. Though i did not meet him, he is very important to me and did not deserve to go. I play the song over and over again. Each and everytime i cry knowing that this innocent sweet child has gone. I wish the best for you. Ronan can be with the angels now and be happy. I feel as if i knew him and i could say that i love him.
A few minutes ago i turned on the song ronan by taylor swift. I thought of this little boy in every word she said . I came to this website and looking at this beautiful child made me cry. Every word in the song was touching and even though he is gone now, he will alwas live in my heart. Though i did not meet him, he is very important to me and did not deserve to go. I play the song over and over again. Each and everytime i cry knowing that this innocent sweet child has gone. I wish the best for you. Ronan can be with the angels now and be happy. I feel as if i knew him and i could say that i love him.
Dear maya and woody,
I am very sorry for this beautiful blue eyed spicy monkey. He will forever be in my heart no matter what. Everyday i go throuh this inspirational blog waiting for another post. 🙂 i had heard taylors song ” ronan ” many times and just never knew who he was. I finally searched him up on january this year and ended up on your blog. I cant say that i know how it feels to lose somebody since a child shouldnt go through such a challenge in their life, i dont know any child (except ronan) -or am related to – whos suffered through any disease and died. Cancer is a b—- and shouldnt mess with any child or person. My heart goes out to your family. Im sure ronan is watching you all and always will be. Give poppy a kiss from me and hugs to liam and quin and woody. Keep in mind that there are thousands of people whos lifes have changed and keep ronan in their hearts to remind them of a brave champion. You will change this cruel world, i know you will.
Xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox FUCK YOU CANCER
Sincerely, mandy n.
I read about your site in Parents magazine, and after seeing your beautiful little boy I had to check it out. There is just something about his BEAUTIFUL eyes that draw a person in. I’m sitting here crying as I write this, as a person, a nurse, a mother, and a mother who lost one of her babies just 2 short hours after she was born. We knew our baby wouldn’t survive, but I don’t think that makes the pain any less. And just like Poppy gets you through, it is our baby’s older sister and younger brother that kept/keep me going. I’m sure Ronan is watching over your other children, just like I pray our angel is doing. I’m so very sorry you all had to experience such loss, and I will be praying for you. I can’t imagine how many people, whether they have experienced similar tragedy or not, you have been an inspiration to. God Bless.
P.S.
Sorry Anna Santana for your loss of your grandmother and aunt. Your story is quite horrific. Thank god your mother is still alive! Cancer ruined many lives and im glad to hear your mother is ok. It doesnt matter what someone looks like from the outside. What matters is of what the person is like in the inside. Hope you the best with your family.
I’m sorry for you
Little too late but keep hope and you and ronan will be safe I’m sorry…
He is a beutiful boy and I kept on looking at his pictures
I hope taylor swifts song really helped
Keep on shining like the sun , and singing like the birds
Hope this inspired you to keep on working and I know he knows you miss him
Dear Maya,
I am deeply sorry for your lost. Ronan was so cute! I just can’t even imagine the pain that you must be going through. Hope your twins are doing ok. I also am just ten years old and following your tremendous story. Poppy is so adorable! Stay strong mama Maya! Stay strong!
I followed Ronan’s Journey for over 2 years. I have a purple star tattoo in his honor. When Teddy burger Greer died I can visit my town writing his message. Increasing awareness to save these kids is my passion.. I know its not the same thing but I have to say I am appalled at what happened today in Florida. Some kids fight for their life and some are stocked by grown man and shot in the heart
Sou brasileira, meu nome é Glauciane, admiro muito a mãe do Ronan, pois ela é uma guerreira.
Quando escutei a música de Taylor Swift inspirada no menino, me emocionei, pois achei lindo o carinho que ela teve com a mãe do Ronan.
Um belo menino de olhos azuis, saiba que ele está em um lugar bem guardado lá no céu e a minha esperança é de encontrar ele e mandar um lindo recado,(que o admiro muito pelo luta que teve para vencer essa doença).
Com amor, Glauciane!
I am Brazilian, my name is Glauciane, I admire the mother of Ronan because she is a warrior.
When I heard the music of Taylor Swift inspired by the boy, moved me, because I thought the beautiful love that she had with the mother of Ronan.
A beautiful blue-eyed boy, know that it is kept in a place in heaven and my hope is to find him and send a beautiful message, (which I really admire the fight that had to beat this disease).
With love, Glauciane!
To Ronan’s mom, I am so sorry for everything you have went through.. I never knew about your son Ronan until I accidentally found a tag about him on Instagram, I was glad I did but at the same time I was also looking up all the videos on YouTube of him and you and the song about him, I have never cried so much in my life, I am almost 17 years old and even though I’m a boy I still cry every time I watch any video about him. I just want to say you are a great mom to all of your kids and I know Ronan knew that and left knowing that he was cared for and loved so much and even though he left it doesn’t mean he’s not with you and your family, I wish I had a Mom who was like you honestly, in my house there is so much yelling and fighting and other stuff I won’t get into but my parents are divorced and I hardly see my dad and I’ve lost my relationship with my mom, we use to do everything I would always watch scary movies with her when I was like 9 years old I’d sleep right besides her because I was so afraid that she wouldn’t wake up because of her medical problems.. This lasted til I was about 12 and I don’t regret it, now I don’t have the same relationship with her, the point I’m trying to make is that even though you lost your son it doesn’t mean he doesn’t remember all the good times he’s spent with you.. Trust me as a boy we look up to our moms in a different way than our dads.. Your the ones who carried us in your stomach for 9 months and gave birth to us.. Your the ones who took care of us when we were sick.. Your the ones who when we were afraid you’d let us sleep next to you to know we were safe and your the ones who make us look forward to having someone to call Mom or mommy or momma.. I know that Ronan loved you a lot by the way he’d act in the videos of you guys and pictures.. I can’t imagine how hard it is to loose somebody you only had a little bit of time to spend with.. Let alone have that be your own baby boy.. It’s sad how the way the world is but trust me I will never forget your son just like you won’t forget and the millions of other people who know about your son won’t ever forget. I hope you are doing good with your family and your new baby! All I can say is your doing a good job on treating your kids right and taking care of them by the Instagram pics I’ve seen of you guys camping or hiking or doing fun stuff as a family, I never had that and even if I could change having my parents back together and having a good awesome relationship with my mom… I’m to old now to say “Mommy” or “Daddy” and that’s what hits me the most, just keep up the good work on raising your family and new baby! I hope you all do good and continue to be safe and healthy same with your baby poppy lol! I also hope you weren’t to busy enough to read this… And I hope you change the way of many other kids who suffer from a disease they don’t deserve, Your son was a innocent little boy and never asked to be like how he was, the way I look at it is any kid no matter how old or young should have to go through any sort of pain or experience like that in their life! It sucks but maybe someday there will be a cure and no more kids will go through this ever again.. Ill pray for you and your family as much as I can and I hope you are having a awesome summer!!! Take care and thank you so much if you got to read this!!!!! 🙂
Dear, Tony.
Hey. I just read your comment and I immediately recognized so much of my life. I only just turned 13, but I had my innocence stolen away when I was 10. My dad’s an abusive alcoholic and I’ve never ever had the privilege to call him ‘daddy’ or ‘dada’. In fact, I only first met him when I was 3. I lived with him from ages 5-9 until he caused us to end up in a police station at midnight ON my 10th birthday. Those were the worst 4 years of my life. In fact, I’ve blocked most of it out. I barely remember any of it and what I do remember is horrible; going to school and lying to my teachers about how I got bruises and stuff, etc. I’m kind of like you, I slept in bed with my mum from ages 10-12, but I assume that’s because I was sexually abused twice and felt safe with my mum. My parents fought a lot too, my sister was constantly in and out of hospital and my mum was never home. My sister could die at any moment and I treasure her all the more for that. Though, I found this blog in a different way. My mum just got diagnosed with Liver Cancer and only has a 2% chance of living. I was heartbroken when I found out and went searching for blogs by people who are survivors of cancer or who have lost someone to cancer.
It’s even more horrible because I’m not a little girl anymore, so I’m expected to be strong for my brother and sister and Mum. I can’t cry and I can’t show any sign of pain.
Anyway, I’m ranting. The point is that I want you to know that there’s other people that can relate, so you’re not alone. And you’re an inspiration, just like Maya and Ronan.
Sincerely, Ruby.
To Ruby, that sucks so much that your mom has to go through that, my mom has heart disease but a worse kind than most people get, so I know what you mean… Ya it might not be cancer but its all the same disease really, any disease that takes someone away from being the person they can be and limit them to not being able to live their life is sucky.. I never got abused really, my dads a cop so that’s what brought on my parents divorcing and not being the mom and dad I wish they could be, I’m sorry about your dad to..I can’t imagine what that’s like for you.. I never have gone through abuse or anything but mostly verbal abuse and being cussed at when really your mom isn’t supposed to cuss at you and say really bad names to you… That’s what puts me down because really all I wanted was a regular life with a mom that was involved with my life and a family that went on trips and stuff like that, it’s to late now for me so all I can do is be a better dad and parent to my kids in the future. I really really want a son I think that’d be so awesome to teach him everything I never was taught and give him the life I know he deserves, once again I’m still a kid technically but anyone can know from a early age that they will be good to their kids and not treat them the way they were by their parents. I’m also sorry about your mom I can’t imagine what’d I’d do without my mom… Even though I think negative about our relationship because of the put downs and the backlash I get for spending time with my dad.. I still love her a lot and would hate for anything to happen to her! Your really strong and it takes a lot to tell a stranger about your life.. Most of what I’ve said doesn’t relate to this blog about Ronan, but it’s sad to see a young kid get taken from his family like that especially his mom.. I honestly think his moms the best mom I’ve seen because shes involved with her sons and new baby so much, that’s what affects me seeing all the pictures she takes of her camping with her kids or all that fun stuff normal families do, ya she lost her son but she is super strong and it takes a lot to not break down and cry everyday… I never had a family like that that’s why it gets to me I guess, but oh well, stuff happens and we learn from our parents mistakes on what not to do to our kids, I never wanted any kids but it changed when I thought about it and how cool it is to have someone who depends on you and looks up to you for everything, that’s also what made me want to be a cop because kids always look up to you and I’ve seen the smile on their faces when my dad or another cop hands them a sticker and it makes their day! To me that’s all that matters. Anyways if you ever need to talk more my Email is Atorres1496@gmail.com I’ll try my best to help you even though i don’t know you well, but we all need someone to talk to other than a family member or friend. Thank you and if Ronan’s mom ever reads these comments I want to say keep up the good work your a fantastic mom! Take care and be safe god bless you (:
Maya~ you’re the strongest woman I’ve ever heard of. Stay strong. Ronan was beautiful but he is watching over you.
Dear Maya,
I’m sorry for the loss of your beautiful son. Our daughter was also diagnoised with nueroblastoma in January 1986. She went through chemo and a bone marrow transplant in TX. She remained cancer free for 14 months but cancer was found in her bone marrow in January of 1988. She died the week of her sixth birthday. Anna Laurin was our third child and was adopted from Korea. Her birthday is today and she would be 31. It is so heartbreaking to see that this terrible disease is still taking beautiful children after all this time. I was hoping that there was more success like some of the childhood luekemias. Thank you for fighting to get more funds and research done especially on this cancer. I pray for a breakthrough. Stay strong.
dear maya
im so touched i wish i met ronan. ronan was a hero and still is. ronan is so adorable the song ronan touches my heart every time i listen to it and boy i listen to it alot. ronan is a cancer patient warrior. im so sorry for your lost maya
team ronan always and forever
Maya,
Reading Ronan’s story and the painful And honest words you have written have compelled me to do something. I have a daughter who is 11 1/2 months old and she changed everything about me and my outlook on the world. I got out of the Army and decided to go to school to get my nursing degree. My husband has 8 years left in the Army and I told him tonight I want to move to Memphis TN so I can work at St. Jude research hospital. I have to do something because I cannot even begin to imagine loosing my daughter to cancer. It’s in unfathomable and should never happen. You are such a strong woman for allowing strangers into your deepest darkest moments. You and Ronan are changing things and I wanted you to know that.
I hope I can continue the message and help children suffering from cancer.
Very respectfully,
Courtney
He is actually the most beautiful child I have ever seen. I am sincere when I say he looked like an Angel. I am so very sorry for your loss. It sucks! I’m a Registered Nurse and I never knew how little of the funding received went to support research for Pediatric Cancer. It is a disgrace. I will absolutely donate! Hey, anyone know where I could get a F U Cancer tee shirt???? I’m serious! I’d love to rock that. I hope that someday the moments of sadness will trade places with the moments of laughter. I know your family will never be the same but, I hope the emotions trade places so that there is more laughter and less pain. Take Care.
Not sure where you can get an f u cancer tshirt, but this is a shirt that supports pediatric cancer research! http://www.booster.com/tyingupcancer
you were strong. Heaven is where god wanted you. Ronan & your family are still in my prayers today. You were joyful, playful, and happy all the time. you fought courageously strong without giving up. you were one strong little boy. Your mother is a strong fighter for you & you should really appreciate that which you do! Taylor Swift was amazed when she was able to write a song about your angle. i hope the best for you and your family. Ronan, you will be missed.
no matter what happenes in the future remember this beautiful brave young man is not really gone he will always be in our hearts.we all will see him someday, he will remember the love and support you gave him …and he will always be our army guy.
I’m so sorry about Ronan…… Last night I found Taylor’s song about him and I immediately became facinated by Ronan…. I’m doing a nanowrimo for English class and if Ronan’s mom could email me to let me know if she thinks it would be ok for me to use Ronan as one of the heroes in my story, I would really appreciate it. But if it’s not ok, that’s fine because I understand. My email is animalgirl2000@yahoo.com
This must hurt, more than words can describe or fix or comfort. I don’t even know how to describe what I feel after just reading a little bit. It’s crazy, because had I not read this I wouldn’t have known. A beautiful, wonderful, stong, brave, amazing, little army guy, lost his life, and I wouldn’t have even spent a second thinking about it. Worse, it’s probably happening again, right now, and now that I know, theirs nothing I can do. Maybe while I was sitting on the couch with my little brother watching Star Wars, he was too, and he was fighting cancer. How could I just sit there while Ronan was dying? Hopefully things will get better, but things will probably never be the same for you. I’m so sorry for that. This should not happen, not to anybody, and not to Ronan. And I’m sorry because I know my words are nowhere near the truth, they need to be so much stronger, they can’t possibly describe anything.
Hello! My name is Astrid. I first got to nowe the story when I heard Taylor sing Ronan on stand up for cancer. I love Taylor and that song was just so beautiful. I just wanna say I am so sorry for your hole familliy and friends. My grandad resenly past away of alzimers. It was awful I cried so much! It felt like it was never gonna end. The only reason why I could go on was that I fought stay strong. So I now the feeling and I think it is so great that you have started a foundaiton to help other people with cancer.I have seen pictures of Ronan and he was just SO beautiful and even if he is gone he is watching you over in heaven. And he is the sweetest angel ever and he is happy. You sad your self he was ALWAYS happy and that hasent chance. So even if you cant hug him or touch him he is still here. In your hearts. Even if you cant heer his voice you will never forget how his voiced sounded like. And you will never forget him. Nowon that now him will. Every birthday they will think of him and every christmas they will say Merry Christmas. So even if he is not here anymore he is not dead. He is alive in our hearts. So it is time to live for him now be happy, couse he would have wanted that.
I’m so sorry for your loss. Ronan is a beautiful baby boy. His story inspired so many people. You are so strong through all of this and I admire you for that. Thankyou for sharing your story with us. It touched me. Ronan is an angel up in heaven and he will watch over you. Even on your worst days you stayed strong and have inspired me to do the same. Thankyou. I send my love and support.
I used to never really pay attention to sick people before I became sick. I went around searching on youtube and stubble upon Ronan, I don’t have cancer. But this little boy, he has inspired me. It’s really crazy how many people take for granted on health. I am 17, this little boy is a beautiful soul. ❤ Hope you are well.. Stay strong.
Wow. The song brought tears to my eyes. I listen to it over and over. It makes me feel like I knew him.. such an amazing and strong little boy. Prayers.
i rember the song that taylor swift sung that night it was so sad i was watching it live and i saw ronan in the background and i thought he was the most beautifal baby boy in the hole entire world. the song mad tears come out of my eyes and it did not help that taylor swift was about to cry. she is my favorite singer. i have you in my prayers and hope that you and your family will be very much ok (;
I love the song that goes with ronan how loving of taylor swift to write a song with the words that you used with him by your side I listen to it at least once a day and my family has your family in our prayers!!
Hi, I’m a mexican 19 year old. I am incredibly full of emotions right now. I admire the way you are dealing with this terrible loss that I’m sure you will never forget. I am also sure that Ronan is in some cloud in heaven smiling, he is so proud of having this amazing mom that has been the strongest woman on earth since he was called to be with God forever. Blessings from Mexico.
I heard your story from taylors swift song and I cried like a baby, im so sad we lost littlle angels to this disease. Today I lost a little man because of cancer, he was 4 and he did too fought like an army guy, to be honest I dont know what to say or what to do, how to help his family and how to answer all this questions in my mind. im sitting in front of the computer crying… I just wanted to write here because its the only thing that makes sense right now. SCREW CANCER.
Maya I hope u are feeling better now I also hope that Ronan is in a better place now and R.I.P Ronan and also that everybody loves Ronan as much as u do I sure hope so I hope he Is better now and that he was a very handsome and I bet he still is R.I.P Ronan u are a good person Maya I hope your feeling better.
Maya,
I just wanted to express my condolences. I am in 8th grade and I was assigned a song analysis project and essay that included research on the writers. SInce I have been following Ronan’s story since late 2012 I immediatley decided to do the song Ronan. Since I quoted your blog I thought it would be appropriate to leave a comment. My family also has an ongoing battle with all sorts of cancers. It is heart warmng to hear your story and see your strength. I wanted to tell you that I will follow Ronan’s story until the end of time. Do you know why? Because his story will never end. RONAN LIVES ON!!! He will live on through your blog. He will live on through all those stories of the children who were gone to soon. He will live on through all those sucess stories! And lastly he will live on through all those children with those beautiful blue eyes.
FU Cancer!!!! Stay strong Maya!
when Taylor first released her song about Ronan it truly broke my heart and I wanted to know more about his story. I live in Australia and Im currently doing me year 12 High School Certificate. Your blog from the 9th of May 2011 was so devastating and deep it has inspired me for my Drama Monologue. everytime I read it, I break down in tears, its beautifully written and im so happy that you have been able to make his story so powerful and strong and that it will always live on. he is such a beautiful child, those eyes are simply mesmerizing and they will be in the back of my mind when I perform the monologue im planning to create. I want your message to reach out to people that might not be as familiar with it in my country because it is truly inspirational.
That is so true
I just want to say I will always pray and think of Ronan. I know I don’t know how that feel because I am only thirteen but I could only just imagine! Dont wory eather you will see Ronan again in heaven! Ronan was a great role model he fought the battle long in hard! He was and is stronger then me and only at the age of 3 about to be 4. I read all of your blogs during advisory and when I look up from reading I will have tears streaming down my face and people are wondering why I am so sad and I tell them and I get them to know Ronan story!!! I will always pray for you an your faimilly. I love you Ronan !!! ❤❤
I want to say Maya you are so amazing how you push yourself through so much pain i admire that you have been strong for the whole family! You are 100 with your writing and i can feel every word through your writing ! Ronan is very Lucky to have you as his mama.
i am so sorry for your lost your son was so beautiful i heard the song ronan by taylor swift and i cried so much but now ronan is in heaven with god he is an angel and one day you will get to see him again !!!
I know I don’t know you, but when I read your stories I feel like I do… Tearing u is just as painful is sobbing, as the memory will never go away. That quote is from The Fault In Our Stars. The only reason I saw that movie was to make Ronan proud… He doesn’t know me, but I hope he was watching me watch the movie so he could see that people are taking a stand to cancer. I would love to meet you someday, Maya. You are an absolute hero. You deal, with this everyday, but still go on with your life. I really admire you for that. I send all of my love to you and Ronan. Many people lose loved ones in their life, but the ones who stay strong through these hard times are the ones who amaze others with their strength.
It is so inspiring that you keep on living your life to the fullest.
Ronan was a brave little man. Stay strong, he may be physically gone but he will always be with you .He will always be an inspiration to all children fighting cancer and to those who have survived it, and for loved ones of those dealing with cancer.
Dear maya and woody I am so sorry for your loss Ronan was a beautiful boy and he was an army fighting solider! My grandma was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia October 11 2013! Stand up to cancer! My grandma is still battling leukemia. Ronan was so beautiful once again I’m sorry for you loss r.i.p Ronan you didn’t deserve to die
Hi Mr and Mrs. Thompson!
I am Angeli, a 16 yr old student from the Philippines 🙂 and just like the other girls, i also listen to taylor swift’s songs!! and i was in grade 9 when i first heard the song “ronan” IT WAS BEAUTIFUL.. but it became much more beautiful when i knew the meaning behind it! after that, i really wanted to help kids with cancer especially the ones that has the same case as ronan’s! and i cry every time i listen to it because it’s just sad to lose someone you love but guess what? at least heaven gained another angel, a handsome angel ❤ when i graduate and if i'll have a nice job in the near future, i would really love to help this foundation!! i also want to meet you personally.. SOON 🙂 God bless to you and your family!! Here's to Ronan ❤
Maya,
I have been reading this blog for about a year and a half now, I am so, so sorry for your loss, I can’t even imagine how terrible it must be, but heaven has earned another angel, I bet Ronan is playing happily up there, I know that I don’t really understand what that kind of pain is like (I’m thirteen) , but please know that you and your family are always in my thoughts. Knowing more about childhood cancer has inspired me to start growing out my hair so I can donate it to a child in need, thank you very much for that, You are such a brave woman, and an amazing mother I’m sure, thank you for everything you’ve done to support children with cancer.
To Ronan: We miss you. We love you. We hope you are safe.
Miska
Hi maya!
My name is maya too!i am so sorry for your loss of beautiful Ronan and I can’t even begin to amagin how to live the way you do. I’m only 12 but I still know how I can be hard to loose a child. My dad lost sister when she was three and he was 6 and my mom lost her only brother when he was in his late 20s and her early 20s. I thought you might appreciate the fact that in my school talent show I will be singing Ronan by Taylor swift and in may I will be doing a school wide fundraiser for the Ronan Thomson fundation you and your family are always in my thoughts and prayers! You have actually ment a lot to me and have humbled me ! Thank you and have a good day
I’m so sorry about your little boy. I have a little brother myself and it would just break my heart if he passed away. I just don’t know how you live what bravery and strength you have acquired over the time. I downloaded his song on my phone and every time I listen to it I want to cry. I pray for you and your family and know that he is watching over you.
I just want to say every time I hear ronans story I ball out crying I can’t imagine what u feel as its ur son I am only 13 and his story has inspired me so much more then I can but in words. For me it is never okay for a kid a child to have cancer an know that you never sure they are going to be there when u get back to them and I know u must have never wanted to leave his side. But just know God has ur beautiful baby boy he is ur angle watching down on his strong and brave mother. I haven’t meet u in person but I feel like I know u because of ur blog and I want you to know I am so proud of you. I know that may not mean much cause I am just a kid but I am so proud that u can get up in the morning and not wonder y u are living and what’s the point I have never felt the lose u have but I can only imagine keep on keeping on.
I was just looking through Taylir Swift’s songs on youtube. Then I came across the song “Ronan” and I listened to it. It made me cry so hard! Then I saw a link that said Ronan’s story! So I clicked it needing to know more about Ronan! I then just read your blog and cried more. I’m only 12 though so when I cry, it means im really sad. I just wanted to say im so sorry about you little boy. He reminds me of my little brother. Thats probably why i cried so hard.
Dear Maya I am so so terribly sorry about the death of your son. You know every time I watch Taylor Swift perform the song about Ronan I promise myself I won’t cry but I was break down crying on the floor!!!! Ronan was an innocent little child who deserved a longer life. By the way I REALLY love Taylor Swift I went to her red tour and It was so kind of her to write a song about Ronan. From Ella Murphy. By the way tell the boys, poppy and woody how sorry i am.
Hello Maya, I do not leave in your country. But in our country we had a little girl called Zoe who had cancer too (neuroblasmos) and died in 2013. Her story touched us so much. Hoping you will get in touch with their familly, they speak english and are amazing. You can find her in internet (blog) or facebook under the name of Zoe4life.org. Her mum is Nathalie Guignard. God bless your son and familly. Love
Maya,
You and Ronan have touched my soul. I am so sorry for your loss. Your blog is so brutal and honest. When my kids were born I finally knew what love is. At times I think about what it must be like to lose them (morbid but I think about it) and after reading your blog I know. It pains me so to know how much you all suffered. If you were here now I would cry with you and hug you. I wish I could bring him back, I wish I could bring all the children back. Life is so unfair. You are so brave and thank you for waking up every day even though I know you don’t want to sometimes. Thank you for fighting for Ronan and all the other children out there. You are such an inspiration and so strong
Hi Maya. I cannot stop reading your blog, even now. I read your stories, your thoughts, your narratives until my head hurts. I am sure you have been asked this question, but how as a mother, did you know it was Ronan’s time to set himself free from his battle? Keep the posts coming, keep being a warrior. xo
Dear Maya,
It is August 2015 and i have just started reading your blog and learning of your families story. If your wish with this blog is to make every parent treasure the time with their children then i want you to know that every day i look at my little ones and think of your little Ronan. I will never again wish for time on my own or wish that i could skip the terrible 2’s. i never thought i could love my children more but your story has made the love more raw and i feel it every second of every day. Thank you for continuing to share your thoughts and feelings,
Christina,
London, Uk.
Xxx
Dear Maya, Ronan, and Family,
I am a high school senior, and I am currently writing a report on Ronan Thompson and the effect of one little boy can have to an entire society. I wish nothing but the best for your family. I can’t fathom ever losing a son to childhood cancer. Ronan was a beautiful little boy, and he will forever be in our hearts. Prayers for your family and your little angel. Some day you will meet again soon. xoxo.
Dear Marya,
I’m Mahdi Alikhani 18 Yrs old From IRAN,
I read your story and I’m sorry about that , while I read the story , i couldn’t stop crying , it’s terrible. anyway I wish you all the best in your life , i love your thoughts and feelings that you write on posts.
ROCKSTAR RONAN 
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