Thank you for all your thoughtful and encouraging messages. And thank you again to everyone who contributed with ideas. Many of those were used. MC's (Midnight Cupcake) friends were fantastic and came to visit her regularly even though MC could not take part in their conversations and activities anymore. She just listened and smiled. MC's family is simply amazing. They packed so much love into the time they had left with her, spending each moment together. Just a few days ago they made a special garden under MC s supervision, using roses that share her first name. A friend said the following to me today: If this was always to be [MC's] destiny, she was definitely born into the perfect family. Without using the exact quote, her mum described her passing as beautiful, peaceful and spiritual. The sadness and loss will always be felt by everyone; but this beautiful girl will always have a special place in our hearts. With a heavy heart, Bee ... View more

Heaven must have needed a perfect angel ... Midnight Cupcake passed away this afternoon ... ... View more

Dear Smiley, I believe Skype has been set up on their laptop, but Midnight Cupcake now has difficulties communicating. Her damaged short term memory lets her forget what happened 5 minutes ago. Very sad. But video messages is a great idea, and I agree they can be very entertaining and watched over and over again. I agree it is a cruel disease, no matter at what age it strikes. I just wish there was a cure and better odds. Best wishes to you and your husband. ... View more

Dear ST, They are both beautiful ideas. The finger painted fabric could be used for the quilt as well. I have lots of fabric paint. And Midnight Cupcake can do it with our help. I am amazed what great ideas I am receiving through my call for help. I didn't expect that. You are all a wonderful bunch of people. Thank you for your support!!! Bee ... View more

The patchwork quilt is a very unique idea. Like a hug. I think it is beautiful and practical. Midnight Cupcake's grandma used to be a dressmaker. I will suggest it to the family when the time is right. I also thought about the photobooks as I have done quite a few myself. But I could imagine that it will be very hard emotionally for the family to select the photos. But I will make the offer - again, when I hope the time is right. Midnight Cupcake has arrived home from hospital and apparently is very happy to finally be home. Even her mum sounds in good spirits. But she needs 24/7 care. ... View more

That is an absolutely sweet idea. I will pass this on as well. Another mum has organised a craft evening for her friends (making cushions, spelling her name), but also making cupcakes for her. You have really creative ideas. Thank you!!! ... View more

Jill, I bet you are still going through a tough time, having lost your special person only a year ago. Very sad. My other girlfriend lost her husband to kidney cancer over 4 years ago. Unfortunately I didn't know he was sick, as we had lost sight of each other a bit and they kept his illness very private. I still feel bad that I couldn't be there for her and her two little kids. But my family and I have been there for them for the past 4 years and I have seen how difficult life gets when your perfect match has been taken from you. With all my heart I wish you all the strength (and all the support you need) to get to the place in time when the memory of your loved one turns from heartbreak to cherish. Best wishes, Bee ... View more

Jill, What awesome ideas. I had to laugh at your new word creation - awesomnia. I will copy your ideas straight from your message and email them to the girl's friends. Hopefully they are still able to share lots of fun times together. The friends actually already have made up special names for each other. The girl's name is Midnight Cupcake. Thank you - much appreciated. ... View more

I am sure she is showered with lots of love and plenty of hugs. She has a wonderful family. A quote from her mum's blog: "She is so happy to be going home, to be with her family, her smile is enormous, this is her wish. We will spend every minute of every day with her filling her with love and happiness." Her little brother is taking it very hard. Family has flown in from interstate to help. The love and support is there - it is up to us now to keep her smiling. I have a daughter of similar age, she is the most precious thing to me. I don't dare to imagine how I would feel .... ... View more

Thank you ... every idea is worth a try. Unfortunately I think she is confined to her bed - not sure if a suitable wheelchair has been organised yet. The one-sided paralysis is making many activities difficult or even impossible. Photos are a great idea. I have rung the school to take funny photos of her class mates. I will also email everyone to send me photos for an album. Her friends can't wait to see her - but some of them have been sick with the cold and might have to wait a little longer. Really appreciate your input. ... View more