|
Date
|
February
15, 2005 |
|
Name
|
Anna
Faulkner |
|
Email
|
amf5827@joimail.com
|
|
Home Page
|
|
|
City
|
Athens
|
|
State
|
GA
|
|
Country
|
USA
|
|
|
Comments
|
Dear
Bowens, I have been following your story for a while now and I can
honestly say that nothing has spurred me on in my own faith like your
story. I am amazed by Big Ben every time I read the updates. I praise
God for his life and for the opportunity to be part of it in a small
way. I also praise God for Eli and continue to lift him up in prayer. I
have never known such a strong, brave little boy as him. I am inspired
by these two boys and can only hope to raise my own children
(someday!)to be so bold, faithful, unwavering, and strong in the Lord.
Truly, these children are a testament to the faith of their parents. I
stand in awe of your family and lift you up daily. At the foot of the
cross on your behalf, Anna (This is the end of this message)
|
|
|
|
Date
|
February
15, 2005 |
|
Name
|
Tonia
Ernst |
|
Email
|
mternst@citlink.net
|
|
Home Page
|
|
|
City
|
Morrison
|
|
State
|
IL
|
|
Country
|
|
|
|
Comments
|
How true,
how true - The best IS yet to come. As heartwrenching as it must be to
watch your precious baby slip away from earth, better days, they are a
comin'. What a glorious day that will be, when we all get to Heanven.
Praying for peace. In His Grip, Tonia Ernst
|
|
|
|
Date
|
February
15, 2005 |
|
Name
|
Elizabeth
|
|
Email
|
|
|
Home Page
|
|
|
City
|
|
|
State
|
|
|
Country
|
|
|
|
Comments
|
Instead
of advice or words of wisdom today, I only give you my love. You don't
need anything else. Your faith is inspiring.
|
|
|
|
Date
|
February
15, 2005 |
|
Name
|
karla
leonard |
|
Email
|
kleonard@monvb.com
|
|
Home Page
|
|
|
City
|
fairmont
|
|
State
|
wv
|
|
Country
|
|
|
|
Comments
|
there are
no words of encouragement to speak right now. just know that my heart is
breaking with you. your son and family has touched my life in a way and
at a time that i cant explain. to know that i could be with GOD soon,
what a wish come true. i cant imagine the pain you feel, but your Ben
has touched me in a way that i will never forget. i cant do much for
you, but i can and will continue to pray for your family.. I LOVE YOU,
IN GODS HAND......KARLA
|
|
|
|
Date
|
February
15, 2005 |
|
Name
|
Shelley
Murnahan |
|
Email
|
smurnahan@wvgov.org
|
|
Home Page
|
|
|
City
|
Charleston |
|
State
|
WV
|
|
Country
|
USA
|
|
|
Comments
|
Tom,
Jennifer and Eli, I do not think you need any more faith because,
obviously, you have more faith and love and courage than anyone I have
ever met. I will keep you in my prayers and thoughts. I have been deeply
inspired by your story and Ben's remarkable strength and courage. He is
truly a blessing and a joy. I have heard that your sorrow is only as
great as your joy, and I am sure this is true for you all. Please know
many people are behind you and if there is anything any of us can do to
help you all you have to do is ask. Many of us in my office have placed
orders for the bracelets and hope the money is helpful to St. Jude's,
which is obviously a wonderful facility. God will take care of Ben, as
he is a precious, innocent soul. I hope you can each feel the love from
your state and your community. Your child is a miracle and an
inspiration.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Comments
|
Dear
Bowen Family, Praying for peace & comfort for you in these trying days.
Thank you for sharing Ben's story with us and thank you for sharing your
faith with us during this especially private time. You are an example of
how to have the joy of Christ Jesus in your heart regardless of the
circumstances. God bless you all, Kathy
|
|
|
|
Date
|
February
15, 2005 |
|
Name
|
Tammy
Lausten |
|
Email
|
GTinkrbel@aol.com
|
|
Home Page
|
www.caringbridge.com/pa/tylerlausten |
|
City
|
Upper
Darby |
|
State
|
Pa
|
|
Country
|
usa
|
|
|
Comments
|
I just
wanted to say how Ben has had affect on me and how he has touched my
heart so deeply,the courage that he is gives there are no words to ever
describe.....for he is the word courage in my heart! Just his will alone
is beyound amazing....Your precious little boy has changed the hearts of
alot of people who stop and read his story, he has true meaning here on
earth! My prayers i send to god in hopes he hears them for Ben, your
child is so loved. Whatever may be, will be, for god will hold Ben in
his hands to keep him safe, free and happy! Ben your such a beautiful
little boy, that you give me strength each day and for that Im thankful!
I cant even imagine the pain you are both going through as a parent,but
you are also in my heart of prayers with each minute that passes by! Ben
lots of butterfly kisses to you!
|
|
|
|
|
|
Comments
|
My
thoughts are with you as you go through this. I can't imagine a more
faithful family and your beliefs are amazing. I know it must be
agonizing to watch Ben go through this. I pray for him to be at peace. I
really don't know anything more to say other than I am thinking of you
all and wishing you didn't have to go through this. Hugs! God Bless,
Susan FOA/RA
|
|
|
|
|
|
Comments
|
My
prayers for you all today. I pray that God is visiting Ben and telling
him about the amazing things he has waiting for him when Ben wins this
fight and the beast is defeated. I pray that this tumor, who is robbing
so many of so much, is dying and knows it is no match for God's love and
the love of family and friends. I pray that God gathers those around you
who can give you what you need. I pray that Ben never has a single
second where he does not feel the immense love that is all around him. I
pray that Eli is cradled by God. I pray that God has special angels who
are on hand for Eli. I pray that Ben feels absolutely no pain and is
resting safe and sound in your family's love. I pray that in your
darkest moments you will be able to remember Ben's smile and laugh and
know that you were truly blessed by his presence. I pray that your
broken hearts are tended to and that you cherish the precious memories.
I pray so hard for a little boy I have never met. I visit this site
daily and smile as the tear
|
|
|
|
Date
|
February
15, 2005 |
|
Name
|
Jamie May
|
|
Email
|
Jaylynmay@aol.com
|
|
Home Page
|
|
|
City
|
Poca
|
|
State
|
WV
|
|
Country
|
|
|
|
Comments
|
Tom, I
saw the update you made about people believing you need to "have faith
the God could heal Ben" I do not know another family that has more
faith! That is why I follow this story. You are all such an
encouragement. You are "ROLE MODELS" when it comes to the faith that you
have and just because you as a family realize that Ben is so much more
that life or death, but a miracle!!! is only showing me that you are
such a faith driven family! God has kept his promise! With all the
prayers that has been sent out for your little one he has answered by
making something GOOD of the Devil's work! (CANCER) You as a family know
this, you have taught this to so many more and this is why your family
has not given up!! The money the wristbands have generated is miracle!
God answering yet another promise! So do not let these people say
another word to you guys! You are truly blessed people and you know
it!!! Thank You for all you have done for this work!!! You are a witness
to God's good work!
|
|
|
|
|
|
Comments
|
Today is
yet another gift from God. Thank you Ben for another reality check. When
I get too busy, frustrated and start to get down or give up, I just
check on Ol Ben and get my inspiration. I hope God allows you to see
what a blessing you have been on earth. God IS good. May he keep you in
the palm of his hand.
|
|
|
|
Date
|
February
15, 2005 |
|
Name
|
Lara
|
|
Email
|
|
|
Home Page
|
|
|
City
|
Huntington |
|
State
|
WV
|
|
Country
|
|
|
|
Comments
|
As
always, you are in my thoughts and prayers! I see the effects of Ben's
love and character in my own life everyday as my relationships with my
loved ones strengthen knowing now more than before that every minute of
life is so precious. Thank you Ben, Eli, Tom, and Jennifer! Though I
know you only in passing and through the pages of this website, you have
taught me SO MUCH!
|
|
|
|
Date
|
February
15, 2005 |
|
Name
|
Karen
Potter |
|
Email
|
purple8252@aol.com
|
|
Home Page
|
|
|
City
|
Shreveport |
|
State
|
LA
|
|
Country
|
|
|
|
Comments
|
i
recently found your page as i was following links from other pages of
children i have been following for a while. Stanton Haynes, one of them,
as i am from his hometown and know his parents. Your story attracted my
attention because i have a son named Ben - age 19. We went to London a
few years ago, and he couldn't wait to get his picture taken in front of
"Big Ben" so that became his nickname too! i share your faith and belief
that "The best is yet to come" ... many prayers have been said around
the world for your Ben and other children with devastating illnesses.
even though we don't have to agree with the outcome, we aren't the ones
making the decisions. our heavenly father knows what is best for each
one of us. it's a comfort to know that HE is in charge and not one of us
emotional, fragile earthlings! Your faith speaks volumes - don't ever
let that change! Praying for your strength and comfort in Louisiana. --
another "Ben's" Mom... (p.s. sending my donation today for Big Ben bands
in honor of my two kids, Adam and
|
|
|
|
Date
|
February
15, 2005 |
|
Name
|
Megan
Eplin |
|
Email
|
megpegwv22@hotmail.com |
|
Home Page
|
|
|
City
|
Chapmanville |
|
State
|
WV
|
|
Country
|
|
|
|
Comments
|
Thinking
of you baby boy today. Saddened to see such a wonderful family face this
terrible disease but encouraged to know there is a place called Heaven
where there will be no pain. "I Can Only Imagine" what is in store for
Ben. What a beautiful site it will be. I love you Sweetie, you've been
such a blessing to me and you'll always be. Mommy and Daddy, your
amazing in EVERY way. We are all behind you. You've taught us so much.
We love you and continue to lift you up in prayer..........
|
|
|
|
Date
|
February
15, 2005 |
|
Name
|
Debbie
Sheils |
|
Email
|
debsheils@aol.com
|
|
Home Page
|
|
|
City
|
Huntington |
|
State
|
WV
|
|
Country
|
|
|
|
Comments
|
Tom and
Jennifer, Don't let the negative comments even touch you. You and I know
in our hearts that not we, but Almighty God is in control. To believe
anything else would be mocking God's power and His plan for all of us,
including Ben and your family. Our faith and belief is that God's plan
be carried out and that we know what part we are supposed to play. Ben
has played his part well, and now I pray for his peace and rest and
freedom. I love you guys very much.
|
|
|
|
Date
|
February
15, 2005 |
|
Name
|
Melissa
|
|
Email
|
mlavall2b@yahoo.com
|
|
Home Page
|
|
|
City
|
Lewiston
|
|
State
|
ME
|
|
Country
|
|
|
|
Comments
|
Ben, Eli,
Tom and Jennifer. I haven’t signed the guest book in a while but I have
been still checking it every morning and praying for your family every
day. To Ben, you are brave, you are strong and you are a teacher to so
many of us! To Eli, you are loving and caring. You should be very proud
of yourself! You are a true reflection of your family and wonderful
upbringing. To Jennifer and Tom, you should also be proud of the
beautiful family you have. You have taught your boys, as well as the
rest of us, so much. You are courageous and true and never lose site of
God’s purpose. I like arecent entry from Beth stating Ben will win this
fight and the beast will be defeated. When Ben joins God that is
winning! Also, Tammy wrote that Ben is the word courage in her heart –
how true!!! Blessings to all of you and I pray for Ben’s comfort.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Comments
|
I read
your latest update with a heavy heart - NOT because Ben is nearing the
end of his long struggle but because people are questioning your faith.
I was so surprised to read this becasue I have felt exactly the opposite
- watching you both accept and believe so strongly that God is doing
right by Ben, has allowed my faith in God to soar to new levels. I am
awed by your families trust in WHAT COMES NEXT and know that you have
all been blessed as a family to help Ben along this harrowing journey.
Rest assured, Bowen family, that there are many who respect and admire
your peaceful trust and faith in Ben's future. Ben is here for a reason
and will be remembered for touching so many LONG AFTER HE IS GONE.
|
|
|
|
Date
|
February
15, 2005 |
|
Name
|
Lyn Wyatt
|
|
Email
|
glwyatt@gmail.com
|
|
Home Page
|
www.caringbridge.org/nj/justinw |
|
City
|
stratford
|
|
State
|
nj
|
|
Country
|
us
|
|
|
Comments
|
Dear
Bowens, I have been following Big Ben for months and your family is
always in my prayers.I have always been in awe of your grace, kindness
and belief.It is no wonder Ben is such a remarkable child, coming from
such loving and caring parents.Eli is in my prayers also, Lyn Wyatt NJ
|
|
|
|
Date
|
February
15, 2005 |
|
Name
|
Lighthouse Baptist Church |
|
Email
|
dmundysr@aol.com
|
|
Home Page
|
|
|
City
|
Brighton
|
|
State
|
Colorado
|
|
Country
|
UAS
|
|
|
Comments
|
Tom,
Jennifer, Eli, & Big Ben, We are praying for you. "Father, please
comfort this family, give them the strength and courage to face the
coming days. Comfort Ben Lord, release the pain and let him rest. May
his family be comforted in knowing that Missionary Ben has touched many
lives worldwide. In Jesus name we are asking these things. Amen"
|
|
|
|
Date
|
February
15, 2005 |
|
Name
|
Robin
Brunet |
|
Email
|
robinb@neptune.on.ca
|
|
Home Page
|
|
|
City
|
Bradfrord
|
|
State
|
Ontario
|
|
Country
|
Canada
|
|
|
Comments
|
Continuing to think of Ben daily, and glad to hear that he is pain free
at the moment. All the best to you all during this difficult time. Great
big hugs from Canada!
|
|
|
|
Date
|
February
15, 2005 |
|
Name
|
Tara
Whittaker |
|
Email
|
twhittaker@wmt.com
|
|
Home Page
|
|
|
City
|
Arlington
|
|
State
|
TN
|
|
Country
|
|
|
|
Comments
|
Dear
Bowen Family, Not a day goes by that I don't think of you and I continue
to pray for each of you daily. Thank you for sharing your lives with us.
Your family has been such an inspiration to all of us. Just remember
that God is with you and always will be.
|
|
|
|
Date
|
February
15, 2005 |
|
Name
|
Kecia
Reddick |
|
Email
|
r3sons@midamerica.net |
|
Home Page
|
|
|
City
|
Columbia
|
|
State
|
MO
|
|
Country
|
|
|
|
Comments
|
I have
never met your family but follow Ben's story daily. I am in disbelief
that anyone would question your faith. Your faith has touched my heart
so deeply and is one of the reasons I continue to follow your story.
Without it (your faith) your story would be too difficult for me to
endure. Two previous entries (from J. May, WV and H. Twomey, Maine) said
it best. I will continue to pray for your family's peace, comfort and
rest and I await the day in Heaven that I can meet Big Ben myself!
|
|
|
|
Date
|
February
15, 2005 |
|
Name
|
Dianne
Wallace |
|
Email
|
|
|
Home Page
|
|
|
City
|
Huntington |
|
State
|
WV
|
|
Country
|
|
|
|
Comments
|
Praying
for comfort & peace for your entire family. I feel so priviledged to
have been allowed to "know" Ben and his story.
|
|
|
|
Date
|
February
15, 2005 |
|
Name
|
Donna
Kirk-Swaffar |
|
Email
|
swaffar@doglegs.com
|
|
Home Page
|
|
|
City
|
Rossville
|
|
State
|
KS
|
|
Country
|
|
|
|
Comments
|
Dearest
Bowens, your family is one of the strongest examples of faith that I
have ever seen, let no one question that! Only those who have watched
their child face down this beast are qualified to make any sort of
statement on your faith and love. The rest, no matter how
well-intentioned, should keep their thoughts private and pray for Ben's
comfort and your strength in dealing with his battle. You have all my
best wishes and thoughtful prayer for peace and strength for whatever is
to come.
|
|
|
|
Date
|
February
15, 2005 |
|
Name
|
Melissa
McCarthy |
|
Email
|
melnjess2002@yahoo.com |
|
Home Page
|
|
|
City
|
Colorado
Springs |
|
State
|
CO
|
|
Country
|
USA
|
|
|
Comments
|
How
anyone can say you need to have stronger faith is beyond me! You are
miraculous people and I will be praying for Peace, Comfort and Strength
for you all, especially BEN! Love and hugs
|
|
Previous
Next
|
| |