Mara and the doctors came to an understanding this morning. They agreed that Mara would not suffer pain. This is the best they can do for her. The results of yesterday's tests were bad. The tumors/lesions in her brain are increasing in size, which may largely be due to the blood inside them. The doctors have detected one additional tumor in the brain. The only way to control the swelling of the lesions is with steroids. When she is on steroids, the doctors cannot use any immunization therapies. In addition, any type of chemo-therapy now would only increase the chance of bleeding in her brain lesions.
Mara had a seizure this morning when she tried to use a commode next to the bed. She is is now being administered a second anti-seizure medicine. Mara's swallowing has been problematic. She tries to clear her throat a lot. An expert in speech and swallowing issues worked with her. In the first picture, taken by Carol, she is trying several types of food with Mara. For much of the day Mara either sleeps or is extremely sleepy, as the second picture shows. Mara's new diet is called "mechanical-soft" and she only drinks thickened liquids, which she is better able to swallow. This means that solid foods are cut down to bite-size, and all other type of food like apple sauce or yogurt. She gets "thickened" tea or cranberry juice to drink.
In order to learn more about what is causing the seizures Mara has yet again been hooked up to an EEG apparatus. This time it will be a 24-hour test.
This has been a difficult day, but Mara derived great comfort from hearing all the messages that have come in via the blog. So have Carol and I, as we read them to her. These messages are really the one pleasure that Mara still gets.
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106 comments:
Dearest Mara, David & Carol,
David and Carol, I've never met either of you, but my heart always goes out to you two as well as to Mara - and never more so then this awful, trying week. You are both in my thoughts and feelings as I picture each of you keeping loving vigil by Mara's side.
Mara sweetie - I can only repeat what Liz posted yesterday. Come back to us.
Much love,
Lisa
Dearest Mara,
We have been waiting all day for news. I am reassured that your doctors are making sure that you are not in pain.
Alexander dressed up in his giraffe costume today and i thought of you in yours- his was more comfortable! This was just one the many many ways you will touch his life.
We love you so very very much and I feel so blessed to have you as my best friend. I think I will always want to wear a retainer because of you!
You have travelled as long as I have known you, and touched people all over the world. I respect and admire you so much and love you like my sister.
You are in my thoughts and prayers every moment. And we are sending you all of our love and caring.
Love and peace,
Jodi
Mara,
I'll have you in my heart this evening and together we'll hand out treats to little goblins and princesses.
I am holding you close.
Love,
Laura
Dear Mara, we just had Harry Potter and Hermione come to the door for candy. We wish they could magic all of this away. It brings back hazy memories of SAIS halloween parties and (oddly) eating pizza at Millie and Al's with you and Joachim and Elise! It was definitely the company, not the awful pizza or worse beer, which made that a good evening :-) Much love, Charles.
Mara, my dear friend,
I too am following the world that is yours with a heavy heart. And yet, I still see your beautiful self through the all the wires, caring nurses, and drug-induced sleepiness.
I also picture us upon the 13th century walls of Dubrovnik talking about the geo-politics of the Baltics and swimming carefree in the clear-blue waters of the Adriatic. A typical experience in our globle-trotting Mara's life but a never-to-be forgotten experience for me.
I am sending all my love. I know you are in great hands at SK and with your caring family. A kiss from me and Liz.
Love, Lisa
Mara,
Jenny and I are thinking of you every day and sending all our love.
Love,
David
Dear Mara,
I have been following your ordeal through the blog, and of course through Elise. I have always been inspired by your adventurous spirit and your motivation to make the world a better place through hard work and dedication to the causes you believe in. I will continue to be inspired by you - and I'm sending all my love, hope, and prayers for strength your way.
Love,
Dana
p.s. Michael and I took all of your suggestions for our Spring trip to portland, and fell in love with the place!
Mara,
We send our love to you: it's as deep as Lake Siri, as high as the Coolfont mountain ridge and as warm and cozy as Tree Top Lodge. You're in our thoughts constantly.
Carol, David and all of Mara's family: we send our love to all of you as you embrace, support and love Mara all along the way.
Love,
Charlotte and Jon
Mara,
We are so relieved you are not in pain. This week has been dreadful and I can only hope that when you are resting you can see all the thoughts, prayers and love surrounding you, David and Carol.
Miles was Thomas the Train last night for a YMCA party. He said he wanted to stop by and see you in his train. I think he thought the Y was near the hospital that you are in. I explained that you were not feeling well but that everyone was trying to help you feel better and although he couldn't visit her, we could talk to you at night when we get ready for bed.
He and I both had lots to say about you and to you and to our higher, spiritual being. Miles knew you could hear us.
We love you.
Karen and Miles
Dear Mara and Carol, and David,
We read the blog every day and have followed all of the ups and downs. We are thinking of you.
The number of comments on your blog, and the obvious affection in them, only mirror the recollections I have of you, Lisa and Kim when you were just little girls.
With our love,
Lou Thompson and Alice Galenson
Mara dear, it is a warm Halloween in Washington and I am remembering dinner with you this summer in our garden with Maria and lots of candles. You are constantly in my thoughts and in my heart. All of my love to you and to David and Carol. Sally
Mara,
You are constantly in my thoughts, I'm feeling rather OC about checking the blog (no pressure to David, Carol!)...we're distressed to hear about the setback, but I know your smile and esprit are strong.
I just returned from going trick-or-treating with the kids: Ted, the 10-year-old, wore his UFlorida basketball jersey, looking much as he does on any random school day; Katherine, the 7-year-old, was a cheerleader, which I was not terribly thrilled about but was the best possible outcome of the whole costume-selection process. The night was clear and just a tiny bit chilly, it reminded me of a slightly warmer version of the night we saw the Wallace & Gromit movie in Zagreb or the day you showed me around Sofia. I enjoyed being out and about with other people, I feel a bit isolated socially working at home.
Having family/friends with you right now is really wonderful for you, I know you draw strength from that. I know this may sound odd, but there really is a certain amount of comfort that I feel from reading the blog and more particularly the comments...I worry about you so, and it helps me to read/feel the network of love for you around the world. Although the difficulties I have had over the last year or so pale in comparison to the point of transparency, I find the reality of your network to help me believe there is a network for me, too.
Bleib stark, stay strong,
Andrew (Donna/Ted/Katherine)
Hi Mara,
Julie just called me from Morocco (yes, she was in Moscow just a week ago, but this week it is Morocco) where she can read the blog but hasn’t been able to find a computer yet where she can post a comment (an apparent shortcoming of her “crackberry”). She asked me to send a message tonight to remind you that we love you and are thinking of you every day. We recently got the photos from our wedding and there are many great shots of you-- hugging, smiling, ripping it up on the dance floor, etc. It was so great to have you there with us that weekend. With warm thoughts,
David and Jul
We had trick-or-treaters coming through the Embassy yesterday, but apparently NAFTA costumes are no longer in vogue?! It was all black Spiderman outfits, Batmans, and the odd Harry Potter costume. Charles has unfortunately jogged my memory now -- in addition to a very strange Halloween our first year at SAIS somewhere on the Hill, I also recollect an evening spent in Hell (the Adams Morgan one, that is) doing tequila shots off of people's necks....maybe some things SHOULD remain in history.
I was thinking yesterday how you knew EXACTLY what I needed when I stepped off the plane in Amman from Bangladesh in March -- the Moevenpick Dead Sea Spa! Being whisked there by you and David in your convertible was one of those pure joys that can only come from the exact combination of people and circumstances. How great it was to see you when I got off the plane! And as usual you got everything just right! Imagine being there now, hanging out at the pool, with everyone who cares about you sitting around laughing. Your love and energy have always been so infectious, that's the thing I noticed from the moment I met you way back when. I hope all of our's can be for you.
You are never out of our minds. A big hug from the other side of the world,
Love,
Luke and Chris
Mara,
After reading today's news, I sat and stared at Lisa's single posting. I froze in front of the computer. Then I typed and erased, typed and erased. No words seemed suitable or adequate or worthy of you.
Thankfully, your many lovely friends and family kept posting calming and lovely words here. Reading them has given me some courage to write something tonight.
In between attempts to type, I went to the door and replaced tears with fake smiles and happy tones to dole out candy to trick or treaters.
Each time I left the sanity of my front door and returned downstairs to the insanity on my laptop screen, I wanted to rip the cord out and throw the computer across the room. But then I looked around this basement and remembered that just a few months ago, we relaxed here to a marathon of dvds and popcorn and leftover takeout pasta. So I can't abuse these walls with my anger. Because you are part of these walls and so many happy memories I hold dear.
That your doctors are keeping you from pain is one of the small mercies in this cruel and awful week. The other mercies are Carol and David's efforts to keep us involved.
My dear, I want so badly to talk to you. I miss you so much. Love, LizMcK
Mara, Carol and David:
I check this blog on a daily basis. My heart goes out to you. Being that it is at the end of the day that I can add comments I hope you get them. My heart, prayers and tears go out to you as you walk thru this trial. I only wish I could come to you and give you a thousand hugs! Thank you Mara for making the world a better place working for peace and engagement.
Blessings,
Robbie
Dear Mara,
I am currently staying in a cheap (ish) hotel in DC and the room reminds me a little of being in a hospital - steel bed frame, lots of noise because it is right next to the elevator and people stomping up and down (having said that noone is coming and sticking needles in me so I'm not complaining!) No Halloween parties for me but I did see four horses riding down brooklyn 5th avenue with susan dressed as the four riders of the apocalypse. WHich made me smile because that is how Nick's filing system at work is (Much to the confusion of everyone who goes into his cube!!!)
So Mara that was some waffle to hopefully give you at least an internal smile.
Like everyone else I am holding you and sending you love. And so pleased that the hospital is so caring and that you are surrounded by people who love you.
There are so many things I want to say.... and they all look impersonal typed on a blog.
Mara you are the most amazing person I have ever met. Karen Scriven and I had a conversation about you a couple of weeks ago and decided that there was noone stronger than you - ever.
So much love
Anna (and Nick)
Dear Mara,
We are thinking of you so much and hoping that you managed to fill that little halloween bag we left with goodies of some kind!
You would have thought that now that we've moved out of a 360 unit condo in DC and into Brooklyn where there are 2.4 million in our borough, there would be some trick or treaters...... but NADA! They are all headed for the commercial streets. What is going on here?!?
Mara, please remember that we are now in New York and ready to do whatever, whenever you need us. David, Carol, please note: we are here and would love to help out in any way. Our landline is 347 227 8547. My cell is 718 501 0970.
We know this has been a really tough week and wishing you continued strength. We are close and sending our most positive vibes across the east river.
Love, Susan and George
Mara-
You've been like a big sister to me since I was 4, which is pretty much my entire life. Your grace, wisdom, intelligence, and just sheer NICENESS set the bar high for me. I've always looked up to you and been inspired by you. I wish I could be there with you through this incredibly difficult trial, but my thoughts are with you all the time. I love you dearly, and the world is a far better place because of you.
Much love,
Kim
Dear Mara, David and Carol
I just want send you lots of warm and loving thoughts, my heart is with you and love surrounds you.
Joan Harris
Mara,
You are in my thoughts often. You are a wonderful person and a source of strength to us. A kiss and a warm hug from us.
Love and peace,
Jaime and Laura
Mara,
Sarah, Bob and I are thinking of you.(Sarah is visiting with the girls for Halloween.) We are so appreciative of David and Carol for taking such good care of you and keeping us up to date on your progress. If good wishes and thoughts act like medicine you got the best treatment since clearly you are so loved by all.
Love,
Patty
Dearest Mara
I started writing you and accidently unplugged my computer and in the two minutes it took to reboot, there were an additional 10 postings! the force in which we are all praying, wrapping our arms around you, collectively softly stroking you, is almost audible. i have this image of the hallway outside of your hospital room. It is packed with mara adorers, we are all there in sleeping bags, keeping vigil, cozying up - even when we don't know each other, because we love you so much - have been so touched by you - are better people because of you.
Its hard for me not to go back to that moment at steep-in-brew, me in my silly ankle bells and hippie skirt and how much you were expecting me to be "Towers like". We raced around campus from the ridiculous barn (remember, complete with hay!) where you get your registration card to the zillions of classrooms and by the end - you were my friend. you brought me in from feeling alone to welcoming me into your community. i was and am - so forever grateful for how much has come from that one meeting!
I am - fervently, with all my spirit, holding you, caring for you and praying
much, much love,
nomi
I am here with my Mother and also send my love.
Sarah
Dear Marguerite Rose,
Until now, I have communicated with you in more private ways. But, it seems that other messages might not get through and it is clear that the blog entries are being read. So, I am venturing into this more public realm. I wish that I was there next to you. But, for now, I will send my words this way.
That being said, what words will I send? What words?
What can I possibly say that I haven’t already said a million times? That’s a comforting thought. I know that you know. But, I guess I am like my nana Satin, in that I always want to say it again. It just bubbles out of me. I love you! I love you! I love you!
From the very first day we played together, you have woven deeper and deeper into the fabric of my being. You are such an enormous part of who I am and you always will be. You are light years beyond friend, but I wouldn’t quite say sister either. There is no word for this. You are a sister without the sibling rivalry. What luck! How many people get one of those?
Tonight, as I was trick-or-treating, all I could think about was purple, unicorn people and, of course, the Rocky Horror Picture Show a la daddy Dave. There are so many memories, like reels and reels of home movies stacked up in my mind. I’ll close with this one:
Night has come and it’s time to sprint down the street, like so many times before. I can feel the crisp air in my face. My arms are swishing against my sides. I can hear panting and the quick smacking of feet on the ground. I’m aware of the stars and the moon. You’re standing there behind me, looking out for me. An anchor in the darkness. I reach the door, then begin the three back and forths with the porch lights. Flash (I made it.) Flash. (I’m glad you’re safe.) Flash (Too bad it’s a school night.) Flash (I know. I’m bummed.) Flash (ILY) Flash. (ILY)
And, one more thing, Mara, I know too.
Yours forever,
Kimberly Sue
Dear Mara,
I have been thinking so much lately about all of the adventures we had together as children, especially during the summer, when you came back to Green Bay to stay with your father. Do you remember how we used to sneak out of the bedroom in the middle of the night during sleepovers and raid the kitchen for enormous helpings of marshmallows and chocolate chips? Somehow, we always managed to fall asleep afterwards despite the incredible sugar high we must have had.
I also remember, in no particular order, Jon throwing his fork across the table at dinner and just missing your eye (I think he might have mildly pierced your nose, though); picking raspberries at your dad's house for those fresh, amazing morning pancakes; hiking through the spider-filled tunnel (only YOU could have persuaded me to do that) to get from your house down to the bay; jumping on that big waterbed and playing hide the flag for hours on end with Elise and your cousins.
Later, I remember being so excited when I found out that we would be reunited at SAIS after so many years apart. Once in DC with you, I recall marveling at the incredible amount of activities you juggled with dexterity each day. There's conventional time and there's Mara time, and as this blog clearly illustrates, you have cultivated more friends, learned more languages, lived like a native in more countries and had more extraordinary experiences than most people would even dream possible in one lifetime.
I could go on and on about the many memories - most happy, some sad and difficult - I have of our friendship, but the most important thing I want to say is that my life has been immeasurably enriched by having you in it. And you need to know that, no matter what happens next, you will go on and on enriching the lives of everyone who loves and cares about you . . . and many others, too.
Sending all my love your way, as does Steven,
Eden
Dear Mara,
May God, Allah, Buddha, Pachamama, whatever divine form it might be, wrap her or his or their arms around you, together with all of us. May you feel the soft strokes of a million loving hands as you close and open your eyes this night. We are here, all of us, with you and we will continue to be here.
Didi Cosentino
"You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to
Look fear in the face...
The danger lies in refusing to face the fear, in not daring to
Come to grips with it...
You must -
Make yourself succeed every time.
You must do the thing you think you cannot do."
by Eleanor Roosevelt
Mara, this exemplies you and it's as if it was written by you to all those around the world whose lives you've touched, to all those you love and care for you.
I second Liz's gratefullness for the mercies that you are not in pain, and for you and your loved ones poignant updates and posts. You, David, your family and friends are in my prayers and have all come together in one big beating heart.
Dearest Mara,
We are thinking about you constantly and sending all our love to you.
Love, Cressy and Ben
My dearest, unique one! Mara!
I waited till very late at night for any new and went to bed without getting any. Very early this morning it's already as if the whole choir has been assembled around you. All of us, obviously, digging hard into our memories for soothing memory-pain-killers. I walk barefoot in the flat and it feels as if I were walking on a soft carpet, woven by memories, it's getting softer and thicker, I imagine so many people stand or walk, or rest on it. It's also in the air, all around, thick, but so easy to swollow, to penetrate all one's being, a Red sea of memories. I will not share any now for lack of space and time for the rest of the Mara-community, but they are all around me, a material thick wall that keeps me from collapsing. It MUST be good for you, it may be some comfort for dear, brave Carol and David, this universal memory-in-flow running all the time, all around the world. Where is the Nobel Prize for that?!!!
My only comfort now (if it is ANY comfort at all, but I guess it is) is that you don't feel pain. You've felt enough pain, you've had your share of it long enough! Yet the joy you've had and given away as an all-time gift is much more, beyond comparison!
I'm sure your brave and loving mom reads all blog-entries to you, so nothing gets lost; I'm also sure David gives you enough soft srokes to make up for all us who can't be doing it at this moment, but surely hold his hand from a distance. Carol and david, you are incredible! And you know what the best thing about that is? It's that Mara KNOWS it too! I cannot imagine anyone doing anything better, more soothing and energizing for Mara than you, two are! Be blessed and THANK YOU!
Mara, just a final line: there's NO minute I am not thinking of you, really. Each second my thoughts, and prayers, and memories and well-wishes are with you! There isn't a day I don't talk to all Bulgarian friends and family about you and give them the latest. If you have the strength to imagine most of the places we've been so happy together in Bulgaria, shoot and remember them: if nothing else, thewy'll certainly walk you softly into a healing sleep.
I'm glad you know how much we all LOVE you! This is my only comfort: that love sent your way, never gets lost!
, Zlatna
Yours forever
Dear Mara -
Marc and I add our love to the torrent that is flowing your way from all over the world. I feel like the globe is glowing with YOUR warmth and beauty -- reflected by all the stories and affection of your many, many friends.
Like so many others, I have a story of you that has a special place in my heart... Nine years ago, right about this time of year, I was planning my wedding. Much to my mother's dismay, I chose a dark blue dress. (She had images of me in white, but that's another story.) It was off-the-rack -- from Lord and Taylor, I believe...a place that another friend remembered visiting with you (in an earlier post). I think you were overseas at this time -- now I can't remember which part of the globe! One Saturday, I was in the fitting room tring to get fitted -- what the hell does that mean anyway? The dress needed some alterations, I thought, in order to "maximize my postives" and minimize the rest. Alas, the seamstress told me that, yes, the dress didn't fit me right but, no, there was nothing she could do to make it fit better. She had the gall to question why I purchased it in the first place. I, alone in the fitting room with this monster seamstress, started to bawl. A moment later, though, still crying and half-dressed, I heard a booming laugh that I knew well...could it be...Mara?! YES! You were in the fitting room next door, in town for a family wedding or something, shopping for a dress. You quickly wrapped me in a hug, dried my tears, and spirited me off for lunch. You turned a downright terrible day into an absolutely delightful one.
Thank you for all that you do to make so many of us laugh...and to make us cry because we love you and hate to have you going through this. I know that we can't turn this downright terrible into delightful, but I hope we can lift your spirits and help to ease your pain (along with those pain meds which I am so glad you are getting).
Speaking of raising your spirits...I hope the TUKU CD made it to you. Marc and I just saw him in concert on Saturday night and I was thinking of you as I soaked in his uplifting, reflective melodies. There's something about his music -- which I listened do when I was in labor and I return to often...it soothes my soul -- and I hope yours, too.
From my soul, I send you my love,
Eden (aka "The Other Eden -- Eden Allswang Bruner")
p.s. To Carol and David -- my heart aches when I think of what you must be going through. You are not alone -- as you can see, so many of us are pulling for Mara and trying to support you in your amazing support for her. Thank you for keeping the blog going and making it possible for us to connect with Mara -- and Mara's www of fans - during this very difficult time.
Mara:
The souls you have touched are numberless. The world is a better place because of you and your work. I am glad you are not in pain.
David and Carol - thank you for allowing the community of people who care so much about Mara to be together and with you at this time.
Bless you all.
Jeff
Dear Mara,
We can only echo that it is so good that are not in pain. I looked at my cell yesterday and read your last entry to me. You had just boarded the plane with Dr. Hofer, and you said that you were "ready for anything." That is the biggest gift you have given me, to be ready for it all. One way or another, the opportunities are given to us, but it's up to us to take them.
Rhys was The Thing from the Fantastic Four last night, and Radhi was a princess in a pink dress riding a white unicorn with purple eyes, a purple mane, a golden horn and long eyelashes. You would have loved them.
Dear Carol and David, all our love and strength to you. I hope that you are finding a way to continue through this difficult time. You are in our minds constantly.
Much love to all of you, and all those who read this blog, JMRR
Mara- I was just thinking... have we really known each other for 20 years? Incredible to believe I meet a soul sister just a couple doors down from me in the dorm freshman year. Lots of late night laughter and silliness. Right, quaggy?
Pain is lousy and no way should you feel it. Send it my way and I'll take it on!
Off to sleep now. Hope you are getting the same.
All my love.
Hugs,
Evie
Dear Mara,
As long as we're all throwing some of our powerful memories into the collective healing and comfort pool here, I thought I'd add my voice. I first met you when we were all in DC for Peace Corps training, the hot broiling summer of 1991. I remember your infectious laugh, and just feeling like you were so much someone I wanted to really get to know, someone who could draw me out and make me happy. And then the crushing blow when you couldn't get on the plane, because the doctors discovered that you had strep throat!! But you got better, and joined us in Bankya a couple of weeks later, and what relief! The two years that followed that, with me in Lovech and you in Gorna Oriachovitza, were filled with books, journeys (the great Istanbul Laundry Trip), Varna, sharing crossword puzzles at the Vienna Cafe in Sofia, and most of all, just a deep and abiding friendship. A friendship which we carried on to the next country over, Turkey, where we plunged into professional English teaching life (such as it was) and eating as much "exquisite food" (remember our rule about that?) as possible. Our paths parted after that, but somehow we managed to stay friends over time and oceans. Your electric energy and spirit have much to do with that. I guess our Bulgaria and Turkey experiences are just one glistening piece of the immense jig saw puzzle that makes up your life, but I hope those days we had together, as young and beautiful :) 20-somethings in the Balkans, come to mind and make you smile as much as they do me. Please please feel better. My hands feel tied here in Istanbul, I just wish I could do something to help. Love you so much, Julia
Mara dearest, we may be in Istanbul but we are really there, wafted by magic carpets, to join the lines of souls surrounding your room and crowding the hospital corridors. Anyone there with a shining must sense the special atmosphere there, so charged with affirming vibes of focused love.
I flash on an image of you and David, at that rather bizarre New Year's Eve party here on Cebeci not yet a year ago, with the randomest assortment of people--the Turkish dancer and her hulky Haitian husband and her parents who weren't speaking to each other...the woman loathed everyone who didn't speak German (including her husband)--which left you, Mara, her sole potential lifeline. I remember how hard you tried to engage her but to no avail-- her German turned out to be antique and very shaky and she was determined to be miserable under any circumstances. But it didn't matter, it didn't dampen the evening for the rest of us, we were in high spirits...the boys with shining eyes, thrilled to sip champagne at midnight, Ronaldo showing off his peregrine falcon and Carmelo vying for your attention with a headful of hats...
And you two, Mara & David, sat like the calm center on the sofa, laughing and holding hands and just being happy like new years...enjoying the visuals, seeing the big picture, documenting some of it, and looking so beautiful.
I wish I could publish the photos of you two that evening on the sofa--but of course if everyone uploaded their cherished photos of you, the worldwide web would grind to a halt.
Carol, I have the most vivid memories of that incredible week spent together with our daughters, was it 1994? It was maybe only five days that we overlapped, but it seemed so much longer, so much richer--how we hung out while they taught, and boasted of them; and then they would take us out on the town... to the palace, the patriarchy, all those memorable food feasts at fish restaurants along the Bosphorus & at Cicek Passagi. You're in my heart now, Carol.
Don sends his prayers from Port-au-Prince, where he's gone for the Feast of All Saints, the Fete de Gede, etc (the storms knocked out computer access but we keep him apprised).
We all love you so much.
Dear Mara, David, Carol
dear dear Mara...
with all that is happening now,
we feel very, very small...,
but we also feel your strong spirit.
all my love, Stefan (Amsterdam)
Beautiful Mara,
It's hard to believe our NAFTA costume was 13 Halloweens ago (and now I'm dressing my 3 kids in costumes, though slightly more traditional ones since political humor hasn't fully developed by age 4). What a joy it was for me to find such a wonderful friend at SAIS. And your importance in my life has only grown over the years. I such special memories of days we've spent together in NY, Moscow, Berlin, Portland, and so many other places.
As with everyone else who has posted here, I feel so lucky to have you as a dear friend and am a better person because of your presence in my life. I hope your medicine offers physical relief from pain, and the outpouring of love on this blog offers some measure of emotional relief as well. No matter what happens, you will be with me always in my heart.
Niklas and I are thinking of you, Carol, David and Elise at every moment. In my mind I am holding you tight and will never let go.
I love you,
Tracy
Mara, yesterday I celebrated my second anniversary in remission. I briefly hesitated, wondering how I could possibly celebrate with such a heavy heart. Then I quickly realized, how could I not? How could I be true to your spirit if I didn't embrace every moment with vigor and enthusiasm? And if I wasn't grateful for the experiences, the friends, and the love that surrounds us? I recall our last correspondence regarding the doctor who didn't think you were taking your condition seriously enough--and how we concluded that the problem was with the doctor not taking life seriously enough! You took life seriously--and filled it with adventure, laughs, love, and good. And we will forever be better because of it. You were foremost in my mind as I raised a glass to thank friends for sharing their lives with me. Ellie
Mara,
Your grit and determination is amazing to behold. Thank you for letting us be part of the hardest times of your life. You are in my thoughts constantly.
Stefan
Dearest Mara,
someone else today already described what it was like yesterday to go to sleep without news on how you are doing. You are on our minds each and every moment, and we are so very grateful to David and Carol for taking such good care of you and still allowing us to be part of your life. The way you are facing everything is a huge lesson for all of us in life. It puts into perspective what is important in life - family, friends, love, staying true to yourself and trying to be and do your best wherever and whenever you can.
Yesterday Kiara took the toy turtle you brought her some years ago and covered it with a warm blanket so it would feel comfortable and warm and loved.
We are so glad to know you are not in pain.
I learned so much from you when I came to Berlin to step into your huge shoes, and I am so very grateful for your friendship. You should know that all of the TRANSFUSE people (and older Aspen hands like Soli from Turkey) wanted to send flowers, and were thinking of you when we assembled in Berlin.
To Carol and David: You have our greatest admiration, and our hearts go out to you as you go through these difficult times. Sending you all the love and strength we can.
Much love,
Sandra and Kiara
Hi Mara and David and Carol,here is the Dutch Connection !!
what is "thickened tea "? It sounds awful...
I'm so glad your're not in pain , Mara ! I'm glued to your blog (thanks, David!) like we all are.
We are in spirit with you and send our love to you and the ones around you.
Tante Emma sends her love as are Hermance and her family, Jaap and Elisabeth.
Jonathan is moving house so still off the internet at his new home.
Big hug, from jeroen and Ems
Hi Mara,
The past few months I’ve been spending a lot it time thinking back on Bulgaria and you. I’ve also realized that I have five life-long, real deal friends out there. All are peers, four are brothers, but you are something else (aside from being a girl) – You’re the foundation.
Looking back, Bulgaria was the best time of my life and you were the core of it. During that I time I felt that all of us who were there (and many of whom are on this blog), were a family. The conversation that always seemed to last till four and ended with someone finally saying “we HAVE to go to bed” after the Astikas or Shumensko Pivos and Teacher’s were gone – but the ideas we still popping up one after the next. The books that we would read, share, pick apart, argue about and finally judge and put down or lend to someone else. As Mark mentioned –you kicking all of our asses time and again at Travel Scrabble. Countless nights in Gorna, Pleven, Sophia, Sozople, Istanbul. Two years and I don’t think I watched a TV once. I learned more, grew more, laughed more and felt better than I had before or have since.
When we got back and I moved into that house on Garfield and somehow expected the TV to stay off and the path to pick up where we left it. I’ve spent the past 15 years trying to find our old trail and am still looking every day.
Get better Mara, I love you.
Charlie
Dear Mara,
I keep hoping the time difference will somehow be enough to let me figure out what to write but it's not working!
So I'll add a few fun memories from almost 20 years ago for you to turn over in your mind while you're stuck in bed..
Dancing salsa with Rodolfo and our German housemates in the basement of the Riemenschneiderstrasse dorm - not always the most graceful bunch but boy did we have fun!
You mixing up some fabulous guacamole to go with our tacos and refried beans to the horror of the awesome "Ossies" Kathrin and Frank.
Early morning (11am) coffee delivered to your bedside so we'll make it to class...
Tons and tons of memories since then, Margarita. You recounted many of them in your speech at our wedding last year - I have sent you dvd that includes a photo of me spitting out champagne from the shock of something hilarious and appropriately embarrassing you had just shared with the whole world!!!!
Wonderful you.
I love you and we are all sending our love and vibes and all that we can from so far away.
Kristina and Terry and the unborn babe
Hi Mara,
just spoke to Jonathan
He and Sigrid and the girls are sending their love to you and are thinking of you, David and Carol.
So: love from Utrecht !
Dag! Ems
Mara,
I wish I could be with you right this second to hug you and be by your side even though I know and feel how much comfort David and Carol have been to you all during this difficult time.
All I can continue to say is "May God be with you in every single step you take", and that you are in my daily prayers.
Miss you a lot and so does everyone else back here in Embassy Amman.
Get well soon.
Maha
My dearest Mara,
I love you. I will always love you. Let me and everyone else here carry the pain. My heart aches so profoundly right now, but it also holds you tightly. So tightly that I hope you feel a tingle every now and then. That's me. And all of the people that you have blessed in this world. We are all here, every minute, standing strong like you are --for we probably learned that from you. I could never have imagined twenty years ago how our friendship would grow as we grew and give us both so much to cherish forever. I could never imagined a frienship that is so generous with its humor, its support, its respect and its love. A frienship that has bestowed so many other friendships, creating the web of people that sustains us. Who knew all of that was possible?
You are my friend in all things impossible. We never say never or can't or won't. I love that about you. I will always love that about.
Rob
Dear Mara, Carol and David,
I read the blog every day like all of us here, hoping for a glimpse of Mara's smile. I'm so glad to hear that you aren't in pain, dear Mara. This blog is a testimony to the incredible concentration of love for you, the longing for your strength and recovery...I can imagine that energy, concentrated like millions of stars coalesced on a clear night, and it is sight and experience dazzling to behold. We love you, and wish you comfort and all the strength in the universe, Mara. Claire
Mara and David:
Gabriel and I send you lots of love from Amman. Instead of Trick or Treating, Gabriel and I went to a wedding last night...it has been so long since we both dressed-up that it was a bit like Halloween. We danced to Lebanese music and generally made fools of ourselves...
Mara, want to see you dancing...
Thanks David for keeping us in touch with Mara.
Dianne and Gabriel
Dearest Mara, my heart is full knowing that you are facing all these challenges, one after another. It is gut wrenching to hear about someone you love so much going through this. Know that we are with you all the way, and thinking about you every moment. Your energy, outlook, and vivaciousness is so precious to us, and to so many people in this world. It gives me peace to know that you are giving it your all -- even smiling at the technicians who are helping you.
Yesterday Zane was a fireman for halloween. Actually, he was the fire chief, and corrected people if they called him a fireman. He charmed everyone, even the police officers wanted a photo with him. I hope these thoughts of my little angel make you smile.
xo,
kristina
6173939Mara:
I found myself with a loss for words. I really can't do justice or improve upon the words: I love you. So many of the messages here do better than I can. So I write this with tears and say dear one peace and grace to you...
Robbie in Texas
Mara, I hope you know that everyone here in Amman has you in their thoughts and prayers. We are also here for whatever David and Carol may need. Your continual ability to take life as it comes is truly amazing and something we all aspire to have. I'm sticking to Aretha Franklin's song, "The moment I wake up, before I put on my makeup, I say a lttle prayer for you.." Love, Liz from USAID.
Hi Mara,
We all miss you in Jordan and are sending good vibes your way. Last night was the Embassy Halloween party. Each section did an excellent job decorating and 150 kids participated. We took Axl although he was too young to know what was happening. He is now big enough to wear the cute polka dotted outfit that you gave him and he looks very hip in it. Andrew asks me from time to time where the cool girl who speaks German is. He wants to He sends his greetings to you as well. We all miss you and are relieved to hear that you aren't in pain. Thank you to your family for keeping us informed and we have you all in our prayers. Ginger USAID.
Mara: You are extraordinary. Even if did not know you and all you have accomplished with such grace, enthusiasm and success, we would know how extraordinary you are from the outpouring of love that is reflected on this blog. We add our love to it.
Bobbi
Dear Mara,
I left ECF earlier today, because I wanted to be with you and I could not concentrate there anymore.
Well, in fact, we are together all the time, because I'm carrying you in my heart, in my head, and in a continual prayer.
Be peaceful inside.
Lots and lots of love from me and the family
H
Dear Mara,
I'm sending you love from Portland. You are treasured by so many people that you touched in our small little corner of the world.
Love,
Shannon
Hi Mara, look at all the amazing friends you have, I wish I could meet them all. It's not surprising you have so many cool friends since you are so open and welcoming. I'm thinking of you too and your friends and family, along with the rest of the planer. Gwen xxx
Dearest Mara:
“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’ Surely he will save you from the fowler's snare and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday. A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked. If you make the Most High your dwelling— even the LORD, who is my refuge- then no harm will befall you, no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. You will tread upon the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent. ‘Because he loves me,’ says the LORD, ‘I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him and show him my salvation.’”
(Psalm 91)
Dearest Mara, David and Carol,
I am writing from Robbie's address-- Flo and Robbie and I have been eagerly awaiting and reading your blog every day. I will add my thanks to Carol and to David for keeping us all updated when I know you are busy and distracted. It means so much to so many people as you can see. Yesterday I read it to Flo while she was nursing and I've been telling her about her cousin Mara and that I hope she will grow up to have a lot in common with one of my two favorite older cousins. Since she met you three weeks ago, that is more than a lifetime ago for her and she is not sure she remembers. But she may be the only person I know who doesn't remember meeting you and so much more about the wonderful woman you are.
We are sending all the love and strength we have and Flo sends a little baby kiss for your cheek. We love you and are thinking of you all day and all night.
love, Juliana and Flo
Hi Mara,
I hope they have succeeded in relieving all the horrible pain. I wish only that you have comfort and feel only the love that is being showered on you that you so deserve.
One of many gifts that you've given me every year is ofcourse on my/your birthday because we have the same one. You have changed the way I think about this day ever since we first discoverd this commonality back in graduate school and decided to celebrate it together. You suggested we throw ourselves a big bash and told me that in Eastern Europe, people always throw their own birthday party bash to celebrate how fabulous they are and we did just that. I still can remember cooking all day in your Mom and Gil's house on P Street and believe or not, I remember much of what we made! Carol and Gil you were so incredibly generous to open your house, kitchen and hearts to welcome me and let me celebrate our shared special day then and so many other times.
I hope you are comfortable now and feeling as little pain as possible. You and your family are all in my thoughts. I love you very much!
Blanche
Mara,
I send you a big, huge hug from DC! I just returned from Jordan and saw all the great work you have done. Lucky Jordan! I went to the Dead sea and floated and mudded up and thought great thoughts of you. I hope you felt them. And now, I continue to think them and send them and wish you peace. I send another squeeze (someone deliver it, please!), and will check in later...
All my love,
Maria
Dear Mara,
You are constantly in my thoughts and I am sending you all the loving positive energy I can. I was speaking about you the other day, telling a friend how incredible you are. I said you are the kind of person who gives me hope for this world; how you touch others, how you are steeped in kindness and how the light within you is so bright you SHINE!
I am still out in Potomac (our old stomping ground) with Mom and Dad, and last night I had my first Holloween in serveral years - they didn't exactly do the trick or treating thing in Tashkent! - handing out candy to the kiddies.
It was actually a fun experience, bringing back many happy memories from childhood days. It made me grateful for loving family and friends and for the gift of being surrounded by thoes you love.
take care dear one and know I'm thinking of you always!!! love aimee
Hola, Mara!!! Greatings from Todos Santos, the home of All Saints! Hope you got Audrey's card I sent to your email address yesterday...We're thinking of you, along with Putu and Gede in Bali...We all send our prayers and love...Tomorrow is Audrey's 7th birthday, and she's having her High School Musical birthday party. Wish you could be there! She's obsessed with NYC now after our trip to your head shaving party...She wants to live in NYC.
That's all for now...We love you, and pray for good news...Jack, Linda & Audrey
Hi Mara
I had one other thought I watned to share with you today. Yesterday I went to the Mall, and walked by a bunch of new sweaters for the winter. There was one that was so big it came down to your knees. I actually laughed out loud, remembering the time we were at your house studying for some exam and you showed me you Bulgarian hand knitted sweater collection. You told me how your friend had asked you what you wanted, you said BIG, and as she knitted she kept saying, you konw , this may be too big, and you always responded, no problem the bigger the better! and then you tried it on for me. the thing came down past your knees and I laughed so hard I cried. I've always remember that "the bigger the better!" remark and it always makes me smile. Here's hoping this memory will make you smile too. Love Aimee
Mara,
Dave and I read your blog every day and want you to know how much we love you and how in awe we are of your courage and determination. We remember fondly our visits to see your folks and you and Lisa when you were little girls in Green Bay. We have seen you grow up to be the fine young woman that you are today. We have kept in touch with Gil to find out about you in addition to reading your blog. We are prayng for you and your wonderful family. Keep up the good fight! Love, Carole and Dave Wilson
Mara - I'm so honored to be your 66th commenter of the day!!! What love!!! With all the hits on your blog, you know, maybe you could make some money off a banner ad?! Sorry...trying to inject humor...I think you'd appreciate it. I love you SO much and you are my inspiration, Mara - because of your love of life, your deep genuine care for others and the world and the way you make everyone around you feel so special. I've admired you for many, many years - since Juliana said I'd think you're cool (or something like that) back when we were in high school! You've been a hero of mine for many years...I couldn't mean that any more deeply or sincerely, Mara. Love, love, love, Julie
Dearest Mara, David and Carol,
So much love and prayers are with you all, especially during this trying time.
Bless you all, and please softly stroke Mara for me. It does sound so comforting..............
Karen
Hi Mara. Just want to say how much I love you! Hang in there. You are always on my mind and all I can think about is the day I'll get sit with you and catch up and talk about all this craziness. The biggest hug and kisses all over. Chris
Hey Galaty,
I miss you so much. I don't believe that a single day has passed without thinking or talking about you. Each day at least 10 or 20 people passes to the SSO to ask about you. All of them are reading your blog but still they need to know more about you. You have touched many people here. We should have given you the Jordanian nationality and had you run for elections.
It is hard for me to communicate with you through this blog. Marina, Chantal and Mango ( the turtle) are sending you their love. Stay strong ,
George
My Beloved Mara:
Not a minute goes by that I am not keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. I feelso fortunate to be part of the group of loving friends who adore, admire and cherish you. We are all by your bedside as you struggle in your latest ordeal with courage and humor. I know of few people who spread so much goodness and humanity wherever you have roamed. It is a gift for which we are eternally grateful. I am enveloping you in the biggest of hugs. All my love,
Bobby
Dearest Mara,
I'm so very sorry about this news. Carol and David G., our hearts go out to you -- this is not the way things are supposed to be for our children. And David M., we've never met, but my love and prayers are with you, as well.
Mara, coming to better know you and your career through this blog has been such a privilege. Thank you for caring about our broken world, and for all you've done for it. Our family will never stop telling your story.
I know this is not your tradition, but I can't help being mindful that today is All Saints' Day, when we say thank you for all those who have blessed our world and our hearts, and are now "graduated." They're the role models for the rest of us -- and I think you know, Mara, that to many of us you are already in their ranks.
May your journey be peaceful, and full of love.
Peggy Sammons
Mara,
It's time to take a new tack. Since we know you are listening to these blogs, I would like to introduce a bit of humor into your life. Here are two jokes and remember that humor is healing and that is what we all are praying for:
1) Yearly Physical
A woman goes to the doctor for her yearly physical. The nurse starts with certain basic items.
"How much do you weigh?" she asks.
"115," the woman says.
The nurse puts her on the scale.
It turns out her weight is 140.
The nurse asks, "Your height?"
"5 foot 8," she says.
The nurse checks and sees that she only measures 5' 5".
She then takes her blood pressure
and tells the woman it is very high.
"Of course it's high!" she screams,
"When I came in here I was tall and slender!
Now I'm short and fat!"
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
THE JEWISH MOTHER
Did you hear about the bum who walked up to the Jewish mother on the street and said: 'Lady, I haven't eaten in three days.
'Force yourself,' she replied.
Your loving
Leah
Mara:
You're in my heart and in my thoughts darling. I remember with great fondness the backrubs we used to give each other in the cubicles at AID - I wish we could exchange the favor right now - those were the best backrubs I've ever had... Love ya, Mark
Mara,
I just learned about this blog - I have thought about you so often and wondered how you are doing. One of your USAID colleagues mentioned it (sorry, his name has slipped), then Anna gave me the details when I asked her about you. Susan and I have also spoke of you several times.
It is good to have the full story - though it looks like a very difficult struggle. We all admire your perseverance - it is a real inspiration.
Don't know if you have kept up on MC Sudan - the stuff we put in place a few years back has really taken root. It is a large and thriving program with civil society initiatives at the center. I still chuckle at your comments about sharing a tukel with KP!
We think of you often her at MC DC and, of course, wish you the best.
Randy
Mara,
I have found a way to connect to send you a message from Rabat where I, like another one of your friends posted recently, wish I could jump on a magic carpet and whisk you away to a world without wires and steroids. But since magic carpets appear to be in short supply, I am sending you all of my love and support from afar. Know that I am thinking of you every minute of the day, reliving so many fond memories of our time in Germany and other cities in Europe(making green curry in Bonn!), and sending you all of the energy I have to help you through these dark days. Know that there are people on every continent sending you love and prayers and that your fan base is wide and deep!
Love,
jules
Mara,
Please know that your entire Colorado family (Dick and Debby; Chip, Jenny, Bridget and Ella; Steve and Brooke; Cindi, Scott and Donovan; Melissa, Jim and Murphy) is pulling for you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your immediate family. In fact, as evidenced by this blog, the whole world is on your side! Be strong!!! And, if you need a smile, just think about that childhood photo of you, Elise, Mike and me standing on the dock in Wisconsin. :-)
We love you,
Chip (et al)
Dear Mara,
Mom just sent me the link to your blog. I'm not really sure how best to express myself here but I wanted you to know that I'm sending you my love and I'm thinking of you.
Much love,
Jessica Milman
Dear Mara,
Mom just sent me the link to your blog. I really don't know how to express myself, but I want you to know that I'm sending you my love and I'm thinking of you.
Much love,
Jessica Milman
Sweet Mara,
I am off to the airport for Thailand. I remember how excited you were for me to go. I plan to explore and meet new friends with the same warmth and excitement as you.
Will be thinking of you each moment, full of love, hugs, and smiles.
I love you.
xoxo Evie
Dear Mara,
I'm sorry I wasn't able to visit you while I was in the States during my R&R and training. Please know that I'm in constant prayer for you and your family.
Peace and love,
Cybill
Dear Mara, David, David and Carol,
You are all in my thoughts and prayers as you have been through this whole ordeal. What a gift this blog is to those around the world who are following your journey. Thank you so much for letting us join you, even those like me who have been slow to leave you comments in return. I'm just a little technophobic.
A quote from a Relay for Life shirt I have:
"What cancer cannot take from you...
It cannot take away your Faith
Shatter your Hope
or Lessen your Love
It cannot destroy true Friendship
Invade the Soul
or take away Eternal Life
It cannot conquer your Spirit"
Your blog shows us all how true this is. Your spirit shines through your words, the words of those who love you, the luminous photos.
I'm proud to be related to you, Mara. Your life has been rich with all that matters. Keep on shining, dear.
Love,
Sally
Mara,
I am laying on the couch and thinking of the thousands of moments we have spent together in laughter.
Remember when we would keep each other motivated on those funky soft-on-the-knees treadmills in the RRB? That day we got the staff to let us change the TV channel and watch Dr. Phil instead of CNN kept us working out a lot longer! (but they never let us do it again!)
The first few times we worked out together you cracked me up. There you were in the locker room, bending over your gym bag and asking outloud in earnest, "Should I put on the sports bra WITH the boobs or without?"
I dragged you once to a Tai Chi class thinking it would give us some variety. But I don't think we made it to the end because it was hard to supress disrespectful fits of laughter at that boring instructor who....moved....slower....than.... Ancient custom perhaps, but not what we were looking for that day.
And then there was the hasty sketch I made in my palm pilot, inspired by your difficulty of keeping your towel from drooping to your waist. We decided we should design a book of humor entitled, "Things you can't do without breasts," and we'd solicit funny drawings from other women who survived breast cancer and market it as a stocking stuffer for Christmas!
Mara, from the moment we met you taught me so many things. You told me how important laughter was to you during your treatment for breast cancer. You told me how important it was NOT to always be made to feel like the patient. Your candor made it so easy and comfortable for me to understand how to ask questions, how to be your friend, and how to reach out to others when they were sick.
The gym time anecdotes are but one small example of how your friendship has meant so much to me and how you have forever and profoundly changed my life.
There are so many more I want to tell you.
Love,
LizMcK
Dear Mara,
I am sending you my love and everything I can do to will you through. You have the strongest presence I have ever seen, and you are in my thoughts all the time.
Love,
Anne
Bloggers! I have an idea that might help us all, and will most certainly let Mara know what HUGE footprints she has left. It seems everyone has been touched by Mara's generosity and kindness. So, let's help her out--Everyone, go out and find something, anything nice to do for someone, anyone, just because. Then come back and post what you did, for whom, and to what effect. Since we have such a big presence, in so many places, it will be an international Mara Day. And an even wider cirle of people around the world will smile because of Mara.
Mara, in Kyiv there is a sweet old lady on the street corner whose hands won't be so cold this winter because of you. Ellie
Liz McK's comment reminded me of one typical Mara moment: I was on an evaluation with Mara and Richard Blue a couple years ago. We had, of course, met in DC a few times to go over stuff for the eval, but due to different travel schedules we hadn't seen Mara in a while and she was joining us in Budapest. So, she meets us downstairs for dinner, Richard makes some innocuous comment that she seems to have lost some weight, and Mara's response was, "Oh, no, I just decided not to wear my breasts tonight." WH-WH-WHAAAA?! We were floored.
Andrew
Mara,
This little box I am typing in is not adequate to hold all the words I would like to say. To read the words of other people who have left messages on this site is such a powerful testimony of who you are in this world. A deep thank you for the joy with which you meet life head on. May all the words here turn into beams of soft light, infusing and cradling you with warmth and love.
Pam
Dear Mara,
These days you are never far from my thoughts. I thought you might enjoy hearing from some of your old colleagues at Mercy Corps. I'm sharing thoughts and messages from people in the cubicle farm around me, so here goes:
Simon Miller: Hey Mara, I think of you a lot and miss you a lot. Wishing you well.
(Simon has decided to make a shift in career and is planning on leaving Mercy Corps by the end of the year. Its been close to 6 years since Simon began his career with Mercy Corps on the Civil Society desk, working with you and Sarah).
Jerry Dines: Mara, you're in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you get well and be well.
(These days Jerry is a happy go lucky member of the Food Resources team.)
Minda Hedges: Mara you are an amazing woman and I wish you a speedy recovery.
(Minda is doing an amazing job juggling her time between a Masters program and working for the Resource Development team. She recently got married and is now Minda Hedges Seibert)
Jim White: Mara, I hope you get better soon. We are all looking towards the day when you're back in Amman and working with all of us on important Civil Society issues.
(Jim is the Regional Program Director for what we lovingly call C2K: From Caucasus to Korea (including Central Asia). So both Simon M (who is backstopping Korea) and I report to Jim.)
Aimee Pedretti: Mara, you mean so much to so many people here at Mercy Corps. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
(Aimee is now the Director of the Human Resources team and doing a great job. While talking of Amys, Amy Bernardi is now the Director of International Finance and Amy Palmer is our Controller.)
Brandy Westerman: Mara, you've touched so many people around the world. We are all thinking of you and your family.
(Brandy is in Portland these days. She is expecting her second baby in mid-November. Dylan (her son) is a big boy now -- all of 4 years. Yesterday, he dressed up as batman for Halloween.)
By the way, I'm pregnant too with a due date of mid-January. So Brandy and I are keeping each other company as we waddle about the office. Both Brandy and I are expecting boys, but just recently another colleague got a huge surprise on delivery day when a boy arrived instead of the girl they had been expecting. So you never know it can still be a surprise. We'll keep you posted.
We all love you Mara and we are all praying for you in our own ways. You are the most courageous and amazing person that I've ever known. You've taken every challenge in your stride. I'm rooting for you.
Love,
Najia
Mara,
I have been mulling over what to say, and all I can come up with is "Thanks."
Thanks for paving the way for me at TET Lomonosov. Of course, the kids knew more English than I did when I took over your classes.
Thanks for teaching me the difference between "our" and "are". I really try to pronounce them correctly, but occassionally I fall back on my lazy pronunciation.
Thanks for introducing me to Dimo and Toni, Zlatna and Ludmil, Kina and Ivan, and all the other great Bulgarians that became my friends too.
Thanks for forgiving me for leaving the water on at your Istanbul apartment, which flooded the apartment below. (I think I just admitted to doing it, but you still acted like you believed me when I denied it.)
Thanks for showing me and my parents Istanbul.
Thanks for staying up late at night sitting around the kitchen table and talking with me (and Charlie, and whoever else was present).
Thanks for encouraging me to read, think, and stand behind my thoughts.
What I really mean, is thanks for being my friend. You have enriched my life (and my vocabulary). For that I am forever thankful.
Love Mark Thompson
Hello Step-In-Law-Sister, Aunt Mara to Julia
Glad to know that the physical pain is being handled as best as possible. Of course, we're thinking of you ALL THE TIME. I'll send your Mom a picture of Julia in
her Halloween splendorthat she can show you. I got off easy this year. Julia wanted to be a "karate girl". She wore her Tai Kwan Do uniform . And that was it! No makeup-nothing. I'd love to find out if your very creative and industrious Mom made some awesome costumes for you when you were a kid. Dollars to Doughnuts she did.
Reading these beautiful messages that are genuinely heartfelt and ring true of the Mara we know, I have to wonder if you were really ever a student at SAIS or working when you were overseas. I actually think you were The American Ambassador to Friendship and Partying! What fun! You have so many wonderful friends who sincerely love you! And deservedly.
We wish you more pleasures in your day today and have an even better day tomorrow. We're keeping the faith
Love
Gwen Drew and Julia
Mara
Dearest Mara,
I held you close as I walked in the forest this morning - deep, fresh air embracing and peaceful. Your amazing spirit inspires...and you have taught me and so many others so much through your kindness, wisdom, warmth and honesty. I embrace you, I hold you in light, I try to model your example, we are all with you. You have touched and helped the lives of SO many. I love you. I give my love to your David and mother who are there with you these days as well. I'm thinking of you and I am sending you miles de abrazos y besos, Paula
Dearest Mara,
mum and dad, Tom and me we are all with you all of the time. Even if it is only in our minds and thoughts. Just wanted to let you know this.
Send you much love and hugs...
Dany and the rest of the Kohls family
Mara!!
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love from holland (keep david occupied with something, will you ?otherwise he'll get gobbling coockies or pies or something; probably chocolates. ) (not good)
love ems
Mara,
I wanted to let you know that Ted and I have been keeping you in our thoughts and prayers, as has my mom in Cleveland and my sister in Las Vegas. You are such a fabulous person with an infectious energy! I always love being around you even though we don't know each other that well. I am so glad Julie introduced us.
Love,
Janelle
Dear Mara,
We've been thinking about you and your mom almost constantly. As much as it goes against the natural order for this to happen, having the same person who brought you into this world help you leave it enables you to be surrounded by the most profound and encompassing love that there is in this world. I hope you are on a truly painless and peaceful journey now. We continue to send love to both of you. == Win and Alan
Dear Mara,
Dearest dearest Mara, I was so deeply saddened to read of the latest set back -- I wish so much to visit you and to give you some of my energy to help you through this terrible time. I am so glad that you are relatively pain free and that Carol and David are there to be with you, to stroke your arm and just to send via them our love, our hope and our deepest deepest wishes that you get well. Mara, you are such a giving person and I know our worldwide group has given you comfort, solace nd strength. I think of you each day and send love, hugs and best wishes. Take care my dear. We are all waiting for the day that you are home. Sarah
Dearest Mara, You are one of the most amazing women that I have ever known. You have so many people in your life that love and absoutely adore you and I am so priviledged and honored to call you a close friend. I love you dearly and always will. Liz Hume
PS I am going out to buy a mont blanc pen right now just like the one we got you on your birthday!
Dear Mara,
This is a message from me and all of us. First, from my mom, Grace, who doesn't have access to the Internet: to say that she loves you and is so glad to have shared that special time with you in Portland at the Susan J. Komen Race for the Cure. I have kept her up to date over the past 2 months and just called her now. She asked me to write on her behalf from California...And from us in Jackson, Miss.: We love you so much and have had you in our thoughts daily. Memories of times with you in Madison, in Green Bay, and for Mike, of course, so many treasured memories from childhood, adolescence, and beyond...
You are such an amazing woman/person/cousin/friend/human being/peace-builder that as others have said, words do not do justice to your being and spirit. We have told Liam (who will turn 4 on Nov. 19) all about you. You are kindred spirits in your zest for life, your incredible wit and verbal/language ability, and your magical, electric smiles.
David, Carol, Elise, and all the family who've been by Mara's side throughout this time: We think of you, too, so often, and send love and peace and light to you.
Mara, please know how much we love you and will always.
Love,
Tanya (Newkirk) and Mike (Galaty),
Liam Galaty, Grace Newkirk
My Dear Mara,
Words can't express how much you mean to us all. You are always in my thoughts. I send my love to you and your family.
love you,
janet k.
Hi Mara:
I'm now in Colombia and an announcement came in through the Globe about you. I'm really saddened about your condition and feel powerless to do anything to make things better.
You'll get a laugh out of knowing that today I'm responding the the DFID CSCF comments on the fourth proposal that I've submitted. I remember working with you and Sarah on the first one during my first month at Mercy Corps - and interrupting Cathy Radcliff in Scotland as she was drinking her second or third glass of wine while we hammered her with questions.
I learned a lot from you about Civil Society in Mercy Corps and it continues to pay off - and we're helping lots of IDPs in Colombia with our CS programming.
Hang in there, Mara - my love, thoughts and prayers are with you.
Gary
Dear Mara,
Maybe I shouldnt leave a post. We've never met, but I wanted to let you know that your energy and full hearted grab on life's adventures has reached out further than people you have meet. For the last 10 years I have been friends with Elise (one of her American girlfriends in Stockholm) , and your adventures have several times been our converstation when we gather. Im a sucker for the love story, and my favorite was - now she is going to Amman. You are amazing, exciting, inspiring. Love from all of us you haven't meet but have touched. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Leslie
Mara,
Let me add my voice to the chorus of Mercy Corps friends sending love your way. I have sent emails but heard you may not be getting them. My heart is with you every second. My mind races back to tender memories--of you throwing your (prosthetic) boob back and forth to our Women 2 Women's group in Guatemala, showing off your new one to me in Petra, and exchanging sagas, tears, hopes and dreams.
You were and always will be a pivotal part of the Mercy Corps family. We love you and send you all the peace you have worked so hard for in this world.
Love Alissa (and Neal, somewhere on an airplane...)
Mara,
We have all been thinking of you in the mission. You have been in our thoughts and I was telling my kids today and they remember you from the one time they saw you outside Beit Bawadi, when we all met at the farmers market. My daughter remembers your pretty hair. You made an impression on all of us, young and old and we all remember your sense of humor. All of us are praying here for you and you are in our thoughts.
Lots of hugs,
Poonam
You are in my thoughts. I will think of you and smile whenever I hear good music!
lots of love brenda
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