After Sammy died this afternoon, Becca returned home early from school. She opened the window in the room in which Sammy lay to let Sammy's spirit go free. Thank you for doing that Becca. It was one of the greatest gifts you could have given Sammy.
Yesterday was a hard day for Sammy but early in the day she still found the strength and words to let us know that she wanted lunch at Moritomo. Sammy, Bubba and I ate lunch in one of the private rooms. Sammy ate her chicken teriyaki and then sprawled out on the padded bench to rest. She wasn't feeling too well so we headed out. In the car she expressed her strong desire to go to Dairy Queen. It was too far to travel at the time so we ended up at Ballards. Sammy was not happy about it. There's gotta be a DQ in heaven and I think Sammy is working the counter making lots of blizzards and eating some butter finger blizzards on the side.
Sammy's oncologist and nurse practitiner from Dana Farber arrived at our house early this morning to check on Sammy. They would have come in the middle of the night but we held them at bay. No child should ever have cancer. If it happens, though, the sarcoma team at the Jimmy Fund is as good as it gets. Between Sammy's practitioners and the hospice nurses from Concord Regional VNA, our family was able to get through this most difficult time without feeling alienated and scared.
There is a sleepover at our house tonight. We've got the "Lotmans." Lots of happy energy in our home tonight and it feels so good.
Sammy was dressed to the nines as she left home today. A crowd of loved ones stood on the lawn to say goodbye. Sammy's driver turned on 105.5 WJYY.
I love reading the comments on the blog. Thank you for all of your kind words.
Shari and David
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108 comments:
Shari, Becca and David
I have a picture on my fridge of Sammy at Lang's with my daughters. Sammy created her own menu and had a ball! My love for you guys cannot be expressed in words, but, please know that I am always around if there is something you need. My heart is broken and I will miss Sammy so much. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. XO
Rotman Family,
I am so sorry.
I will really miss how Sammy was so sweet, and so nice.
I know she will be resting peacfully in Heaven.
Elysia W.
Rotman Family -
Our deepest sympathy for all of you ... the love you all share is amazing. Our hearts are heavy - Heaven sure has gained an incredible angel. Our thoughts & prayers are with you daily.
The Gagans
Shari, David and Becca
We all knew how special Sammy was and now heaven has its chance. We wish you much strength and love!!
- The Alfanos
You've shown such strength and understanding. Thank you for sharing and inspiring everyone around you. We will all miss Sammy so very much.
In peace,
Mitchell, Arlene, Julian and Joshua Taranow
To the Rotman family,
I have never met you but feel as though I have through my many friends in your neighborhood. Our family sends it's thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
The Provost
Thank you for remembering all of us at this terrible time for you. Last night we were just lost and suddenly Bill said we needed to go get ice cream sundaes (which we absolutely never do). I now know why. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Sammy will never be forgotten. Carol, Bill, Solomon and Ariel
Dear Shari, David and Becca
On behalf of everyone at Next Step, I want you to know how very sorry we are for your loss. Every person in our office wanted to see Sammy every time she came in so they could share and witness the grace, determination and courage which was consistently displayed by Sammy and the whole Rotman family. Personally, I learned many lessons from Sammy which has made me a better person. Thank you for the honor of allowing me to be a part of her life.
In my thoughts and prayers,
Matt Albuquerque
Shari, David and Becca,
Our deepest sympathies for you all. We will always remember Sammy for her smile and her spirited approach to life. Our prayers and hearts are with you.
The Moore Family
We send you all our love, strength, & prayers. We think of you all every day. We will miss Sammy but believe she is in heaven running around having a ball. It's their turn now for this wonderful diva. We are always here for you.
Sarah, Doug, Rebecca, Emily, and Julia Katz
To the Rotman Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I wish I had known Sammy personally, but I feel like I've been touched by her, nonetheless.
Heaven is a much better place today.
In thoughtful prayer,
Diana
Dear Shari, Becca and David,
As Jim and I got up this morning, we confessed that we feel guilty getting ready for our "normal" day...we know that today is anything but normal for you. We love you all very much, and please know that we are keeping you ALL in our hearts...When I read this mornings' blog, I'm again reminded of how special you all are and how loved you all are, and I hope you know that we all will be here, always.
Love,
The Forrestalls
Shari, David, and Becca,
Have been thinking of you all and you are in my prayers. Although I never really got to know Sammy well, I feel like I did. I have heard wonderful stories from Mrs. P and know she was an amazing kid.
Becca-
You are a wonderful sister. I will be right here if you need anything at all.
Love, Mrs. Ireland
We want you to know you are all in our thoughts, and we know that Sammy can hear all of our prayers. You are a wonderful family, and we send you our hugs and blessings. Love, Jason, AnnMarie,Lauren and Caitlin Craven
David, Shari, and Becca,
What an extraordinary family you, along with Sammy, have built. Amidst all the difficult moments, you created so much joy for Sammy in these past years. Sammy was an inspiration to us all, and through the lives she has touched, she lives on. Our thoughts are with you at this most difficult time. Much love, Amy Messer, Jack Ruderman, Sam and Evan.
Dear Shari, David, Becca, and Sammy,
Your family experience has shaped an entire community, helping us all to appreciate what really matters in this life and giving us the hope and courage to confront our greatest fears. I am so grateful for the chance for my family to meet Sammy just last week, and to witness her squeal of delight as she greeted our new golden retriever puppy in the parking lot at Panera, offering words of advice on puppy care to my kids as the puppy lapped her face. That memory is one of so many over the past three years, to be treasured, always.
Love, Julie Bassi
Sammy,
Thank you for sharing your humor, sweetness, compassion and courage with us.
You've given us a gift that will last forever.
Sam, Matt, Robin and Howard
I am sure that many people feel the way I do and thank you for sharing Sammy's journey with all of us. We are better people knowing her through your loving entries. Her spirit has changed all who have followed her. She will be missed and your entire family will be remembered in our thoughts and prayers. Sammy is in a much happier place surrounded by the love she was shown here on earth.
Lois Daneau
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. We will always remember Sammy for her confident personality, contagious smile, and her definate fashion sense. Heaven's color scheme will likely be receiving an update soon. The love and energy of her circle of family and friends continue to amaze us.
Love to you all,
Jason, Stasia, Mark and Chris
Shari, David and Becca,
We can not even fathom what you must be going through, but please know that our thoughts and prayers continue to be with you during this most difficult time. Shari ... try and hang on to the image of how heaven was described in the book "90 Minutes in Heaven." Sammy will be waiting for all of you with open arms!!!
With all of our love and deepest sympthy,
Rich, Candy, Dina & Ricky(mascara boy as Sammy referred to him because of his long eyelashes!)
Shari, Becca, and David
My heart goes out to you all. I am so lucky that I was able to meet you. You have all been an inspiration to me and that will continue on forever. It is amazing how Sammy could touch so many lives in so many different positive ways. Sammy lives on in a countless number of people's hearts. What a wonderful young lady and what a wonderful angel she is. I believe Sammy will always be at your side. Thank you for sharing your private lives with so many people and allowing me the privilege of knowing Sammy.
Here is a poem by Allison Chambers Coxsey
A Message From Heaven
I am not so far from you,
Just a little way beyond;
Past the cares and past the pain,
Far past my early bonds.
When you feel you miss me most,
As years go drifting by;
Each memory will prove to you,
That our love will never die.
For memories are but a touch,
From the Father's gentle hand;
To heal your pain and mend your hearts,
To help you understand....
That while I left you far to soon,
I did not leave alone;
For the Father sent his angels,
To gently take me home.
Take comfort when you think of me,
Keep my love alive in your heart;
And with the warmth of each memory,
We will never be apart.
I love you all.
-Bob Blaisdell
Shari, Becca and David,
I think of my Mom every day since we lost her to cancer last March. We miss her so much but one thing everyone knew about Mom is she loved children more than life itself. So if Sammy meets up with her in heaven she'll have one more person to watch over her until we all meet again. My Mom lived almost her whole life four houses down from a Dairy Queen!!!
Our thoughts are with you. Please let us know if we can do anything.
Love,
Theresa and Angie
Shari, David and Becca,
Through the sharing and strength of all of you, this community has had the chance to know and love a very special girl. We hope the love of those around you can now help to bring you strength and comfort in these days ahead.
Sammy, we will always have fond memories that make us smile and remember you!
Alan, Sharon, Alyssa and Nate Burgess
Dear Shari, Becca and David,
We enjoyed meeting Sammy at dancing last spring and watching her dance. She is a beautiful girl, and we are so sorry for your loss. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
With love,
Sam, Julie, Summer and Meredith Page
Shari, David and Becca,
I was at your wedding Shari and David, but, unfortunately, never had a chance to meet your children. I have been following Sammy's journey from the beginning. I wish I had been able to meet her in person. Perhaps I can meet Becca someday. She, too, seems remarkable. You are all so very inspirational.
I'm sure Sammy is a bright light where she is right now.
Cousin Linda
Becca, David and Shari - our hearts are breaking. But you have such a powerful connection as a family that will transcend all earthly bonds. I have no doubt that a new relationship with Sammy is just beginning! I'm glad she is now free of the pain and uncertainty that she lived with for so long. With all our love, Amy, Jeff, Hallie and Ahvni
To the Rotman family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Shira is sad and will miss Sammy very much. You are all in our prayers.
The Braitermans
My daughter Talia was in Sammy's bunk at camp this summer and really adored her. She said she was lots of fun to be with, funny and a good friend. I'm sure she was all that and so much more. The girls were so sad when she left early and thrilled to see her when she came to pick up Becca. Thank you for sharing her during such a difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Dear Becca, Shari, and David,
Thank you for the priceless gift of your blogs, over the past two years and especially now. Thank you for allowing us the privilege of sharing your most private thoughts and feelings through all the ups and downs. Even in this time of devastating grief and loss, you understand that there are so many of us out there who care about your family and want to know what's going on and how everyone is doing. It is easy to see the love and strength that sustained your family over the past two years, and will continue to do so. Sammy is smiling and laughing and ballet dancing in heaven, I am sure of it.
With more love than you can imagine, Sue, Doug, Jess and Tim Peterson
I have met Sammy on many occasions as she was in my son's class. She was truly a poised, delightful, dignified young lady. Her spirit will surely live on forever. My family is deeply saddened by the news of her passing. We wish you comfort, strength and peace.
We are so sorry for your loss, we only met Sammy once, but she was such an inspiration to us and to all. You are an amazing family and our thoughts and prayers are with you. Rhonda, Mike, Allison and Deanna Cohen
Shari, David & Becca,
You are in our thoughts & prayers. We have such heavy hearts. All of the wonderful things we have heard and read about Sammy show what an amazing person she was and give us inspiration to live our lives to the fullest each day.
Love,
The Herricks
Dear Shari, David and Becca,
Driving bus 8 was a more difficult task than usual this morning... I was missing two of my precious passengers. Sammy honored me with her friendship and she will be sorely missed. I find solace in the belief that she can now truly dance with the stars.
My heart goes out to you all.
Greg Anderson
Dear Shari, Becca and David,
May Sammy's rest bring you peace. You are surrounded by love.
Lisa
My family wants to thank you for your willingness to share your experience with others. Sammy is helping us to remember to love and value and celebrate what we have now.
Love The Katy Tim Jacob Rose Jera and Samuel Gibney
Shari, David and Becca,
I was so saddened to hear of Sammy's passing. She was "quite" a girl! My favorite memory was when she and I raced down the hallway at school on crutches this past spring. She won, of course. The part we both liked best was that Mrs. Hickey had told us not to do it, but we did it anyway!! Sammy will be truly missed, but how lucky I feel to have known and enjoyed being together with her. She has been and will be an inspiration to me and so many others whose lives she has touched. My prayers and solace are with all of you as now Sammy takes care of all of you from her perch above!
love, Nonnie Hall
There are no words to tell you how sorry we are. You are an amazing family! We are a lucky community, as Sammy has touched so many of us. She is missed.
We are thinking of you and wish you peace.
Ceci, David, Jordan & Jack Vachon
Shari, Dave and Becca -
Thanks so much for sharing Sammy and your family with Jourdan, Oren, Ari and me. We feel so very lucky to have spent such wonderful times together with you. Last night as we lit a candle for Sammy we each shared a fond and funny memory. There are so many. She lives on in our hearts...always.
We love you guys -
Helene
I never got to meet Sammy, but she has touched me and everyone around me. You will never know how she helped me and I cant even imagine the joy that she brought the people around her. I am deeply sorry for your loss and I hope that your whole family has the strength to carry on. She has touched so many people that you dont even know about. Thank you for sharing her with the world.
I never got to meet Sammy, but she has touched me and everyone around me. You will never know how she helped me and I cant even imagine the joy that she brought the people around her. I am deeply sorry for your loss and I hope that your whole family has the strength to carry on. She has touched so many people that you dont even know about. Thank you for sharing her with the world.
We are so very sorry for your loss, touched by the thoughts you have shared with all of us through your postings and inspired by your strength. You have been, are now and will continue to be in our thoughts and our prayers.
Much love,
Jim, Shannon and Alice Rosenberg
My girls went to CYJ this summer and although they were not in the same bunk as Sammy they found her to be very inspirational. They couldn't get over her funny t-shirt and how she laughed at herself when slipping and falling in the mud. They thought she had the most amazing attitude and was truly a very "happy camper". I can't imagine what your family has gone through these pass two years and I have never met any of you, yet I have the utmost respect for you all.
I am sure that my girls will be very sad to her that Sammy has passed away. My entire family wishes you all peace and love in the days to come. We are sure that Sammy is in heaven smiling and laughing.
Annoymous
Sammy you will be missed...I remember camp sunshine with you as one of your volunteers. I hope your having a blast in heaven dancing and eating all your blizzards.
Love,
Julz
Camp Sunshine Volunteer winter 06
Dear Rotmans,
You are an amazing family. Sammy was such a beautiful girl. You're in our thoughts and prayers.
Dear Rotman Family,
There are no words that can offer you comfort, but know that we are thinking of you and are so sad. Sammy taught you how to live life and savor each moment - don't forget to continue doing that.
With much Love,
The Baskies
Dear Shari,
I was so glad I ran into you and Sammy at the Post Office on Monday. I so desparately wanted to switch places with her. Sammy was a hot shit! I will never forget her performance at the American Girl Fashion Show last fall. She stole the show!!! Enjoy the fond memories you have of that BEAUTIFUL little girl.
Sincerely,
Dellie Champagne
Rotman Family -
We were sad to hear of your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Sammy was something special and we are all better for having been touched by her amazing strength, determination and zest for life. We wish all of you peace....especially Sammy.
The Bressons
You have been generous to share Sammy's life with us all - I am so sorry. I did not know Sammy personnally but I have come to understand what a brave and strong girl she was through your wonderful words.
Shari, David and Becca,
Words cannot describe our sympathy for your family. My children were both blessed to have known Sammy and have learned so much from her experience.
Sammy taught us all to remember how precious life really is and that we can all face challenges and remain strong. She truly is an inspiration to everyone and will be deeply missed.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this most difficult time. We are lighting a candle today to honor Sammy's life and her journey to heaven.
Alison, Tate and Lauryn Hrinchuk
Shari, David and Becca,
You have been in my thoughts and prayers all day. Though we only met at the BHS dance for Sammy, I know Sammy touched many lives of older students here that night,as she has mine. Her spirit and energy, along with some very fun dancing skills made that night a hit. She was an amazing person who will be missed.
Colleen
BHS
I was a close camp friend of Becca's and just wanted to say how sorry I am about Sammy's passing. She was a great kid.
We are so sorry for your loss. You are all an inspiration to us. Laura can't stop looking at the picture Sammy gave her that she always carries in her wallet. Our thoughts and prayers are with you
The Montero-Sterns
I just wanted to say how sorry I am. Sammy was a wonderful, beautiful child. I admire the courage Sammy and all of you have shown. My prayer is that God will comfort you during this time.
Shari, David and Becca,
Wow, we are so sorry to hear and our hearts and love go to you all. What an amazing family you are! Thank you for sharing your journey on the blog and showing us how grateful we are to have the ones we love so much and appreciate how lucky we are, even if it's for a short period of time. Sammy was amazing!! and we can all learn from her and she will be with us always! MUCH LOVE AND HUGS to you,
Jeanne, Bill, John, Jennifer, Brian and Moxy
To the Rotman Family,
I was saddened to hear about this. Mere words cannot express how sorry I am. As the blog says, you are going to celebrate the life of a wonderful, brave, inspiring, and beautiful young girl. You will all be in my prayers.
Len Saunders
Friend of David at Camp Young Judaea from many years ago.
Again I'm so sorry for your loss but Sammy is out of suffering and is in a better place now. My heart is broken and you are in my thoughts and prayers. I couldn't stop thinking about your whole family my brother posed a memorial for Sammy on his facebook. Becca if you ever need anything just give me a call i will always be there for you and your family!i love you guys and Sammy will be greatly missed.
with all of my love
oxoxoxoxoxoxox
Olivia Afshar
Rotman Family,
I am so sorry to hear that Sammy passed. Sammy was such an amazing little girl who is very special to me. Sammy and your family taught me so much about what it really means to be a nurse. My heart is heavy and I am sending my love and prayers your way.
Love,
Sarah
May God be with you. May He grant you peace and comfort you in this time of mourning.
Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time. The strength of your family is an inspiration to us all. -the Lehmanns.
Sammy was an amazing girl. She never cared that she looked different. She had fun, and kept going. THIS WORLD LOST SOME ONE WHO IT SHOULD HAVE KNOWN. EVEN THOUGH SHE IS ONE GIRL, SHE MADE A BIGGER IMPACT THAN MOST OF US PUT TOGETHER.
~Phoebe V.G.
Sammy was right, CANCER IS MESSIN' WITH THE WRONG DIVA, there is NO stopping the memory of sammy and all the love we had for her.
~phoebe V.G.
Dear Shari, David, and Becca,
You and Sammy have taught me and I'm sure many others a lot about living. I do believe that Sammy is in Heaven and that it is a place of peace and joy. I continue to pray for your family. George
Dear Shari, David, and Becca,
You and Sammy have taught me and I'm sure many others a lot about living. I do believe that Sammy is in Heaven and that it is a place of peace and joy. I continue to pray for your family. George
Shari, David, and Becca
So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Sammy was very special, and her spirit will live on.
Love, Paul, Diana, Cooper and Piper
Sammy mentored us all by LIVING more in her 9 years than most do in a lifetime. Love, kindness and grace surround you and may it in time bring peace. Jill U.
Shari, Becca and David,
Sammy has gone to a wonderful place where she will feel no pain and be able to dance to her hearts content! You have been so wonderful to share all of this with us. I will always remember her face and her question to you Shari at the stop light a few months back. She had so much animation in her face.."Who is that?...". It is an energy and innocence I will treasure in my memory. All my love and prayers for all of you.
Ann Potoczak
shari, david, and becca
sammy will always be with us. she was such a good friend to rachel and such an amazing person. our thoughts and prayers are with you. we miss you so much sammy
-the bucchino boys
I have to say, the fact that the weather was so beautiful today (sunny and crisp air, just gorgeous) made me absolutely certain that it's due to a certain beautiful girl up there, spreading her joy to the world. And last night when the stars were out, I just knew she was up there dancing her heart out on them.
Sammy's life affected more than anyone else could've. I'm so sorry for your loss, but I'm so happy that we got to spend time with her. Your family is loved, and all of you will be in my prayers. WE LOVE YOU!!!
You have shared Sammy with us all for the past two years. We are all better for having known her- whether in person or simply through your inspirational words. Thank you for sharing her and letting us all learn a little bit more about life from your truly courageous and beautiful 9-year old.
Shari and Dave,
We are so sorry for your loss. What always struck me about Sammy was her smile. It was so inviting and cheery all of the time. I also remember the early days when her and Becca couldn't get enough of those 101 dalmatians. I'm so glad they always wanted to come in and visit the dogs. Or can you please drive slow by the dalmatian house. Thank you for the memories Sammy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. JM, M & C Sanderson
I've always known that children are our best teachers. Thank you, Sammy for teaching us about life and how to live day by day. Thank you Shari, David, and Becca for letting us be a part of your journey. You are truly a remarkable family, but....I've always known that. Love to you all. --lisa moore
Becca,David and Shari,
You are an amazing family and know that Sammy was born into such a loving family. She was so lucky to have you as her parents and Becca as her sister. Our thoughts are with you at this time.
Love Leslie and Paul Finger
To the Rotman family,
All of us are saddened by the news. We will always remember Sammy in the American Girl Fashion Show last year. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
The members of The Junior Service League
The old expression, "there are no words" was never more true... I am stunned by your courage of keeping the blog and getting through each day and making all of us a part of it. I, too, lost a daughter and I had none of your grace and dignity. But when the sharpness of grief eases a little with the years, I found myself closer to Wendy than ever. Sammy was a one and only and she continues to watch you so continue to face her death by honoring her life. I love you all and wish I could be there.....
Sandy Scott
Shari, David & Becca,
I know there is nothing we can really say to make things any easier for you, but please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
The Belair Family
Rotman Family
I know there is a beautiful new angel now watching over your family now...We are so sorry for your loss of sammie, your family is amazing and strong, know that there are many prayers being said for your continued healing through this horrible time. Shari if you need anything please let me know. Gabrielle would like to see becca when things quiet down maybe we could get together with the lanes. All our love and support...
love the eatons xo
Shari and family,
I was deeply saddened yesterday to receive a call from Dr. Grier with the news that Sammy had passed away.
My son, Braden, shared preschool at Shaker Road with Sammy and we remember her as a spunky girl with a wonderful enthusiasm about her. Braden was saddened to hear of your loss as well.
I knew Sammy from infancy through office visits, as well as her sister Becca. I feel fortunate to have known her.
My heart goes out to you all. Life is unfair. In my profession, I have seen this more often than I should have. I grieve for the families and then I think how many little angels there are now watching over us.
Shari, since I have talked to you often over the years, I admire your strength and courage throughout this ordeal. My sincerest thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time.
With love,
Kathy Hodgkins, R.N.
We are honored to know each one of the Rotmans. You are an incredible family and our hearts are broken for you in your loss. I hope to attend the celebration of Sammy's life, as her's was a life well worth celebrating. Love to you!
The Finches
Dear Rotman family,
I can not begin to think about how hard this is for you. I have been crying for so long and I had only known Sammy for less than a month. I went to yj and me and Sammy were soaking toe buddies. Every night we would go to the head tunk and sit on the couch soaking our toes and talking. I love Sammy and I know that I will never forget her and the love that she brought to the camp. I cannot imagine what I would have done if I had not met Sammy. She holds a very special spot in my heart and I love her so much. she must be having so much fun in heaven right now and i bet she is bringing joy to everyone there just like she did for me.
Love always,
Gabi Cortez
Dear Rotman family,
i knew sammy from before she got sick! she was very happy and always was having fun!! when she was sick that never seemed to change. sammy is in all of our prayers and we miss her so very much!!! hope you are doing all right!!
The Rotman Family,
Our family wants to extend their deepest sympathy to you at this time. Although we never really knew Sammy, we feel we got to know her through the community. We know she was one special kid!
Of the few times we saw Sammy, (she played in our neighborhood a lot)she was always filled with laughter, fun, and smiles.
We've followed your story and you are an amazing family. You give so much hope to so many families. Your strength and love is incredible.
We pray that God would give you strength, during this time. God has blessed you with those wonderful memories of Sammy. Our prayers are with you.
The Masingill Family
Dear Shari, David and Becca,
Sammy's gift of a vibrant life was one that we have had the privilege to be a part of since our girls were 3 yrs old. When at Shaker Road, Sammy welcomed Kirsten into the 3 muskateers and they became the "CREW" of four.
Sammy's sense of style and stage presence were evident even in those early days and then perfected through her life. She certainly shined her bright light to all who knew her on this stage of life.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you through this difficult time. May God's peace be with you,
Deirdre, Dave, Katrina and Kirsten
Dear Shari, David and Becca, oh and all the bunnies,
I Can't stop thinking about what y'all have been going through with in last 24 hours.
It broke my heart to tell Lindsey yesterday afternoon before her soccer game
about the passing of a beautiful young angel that is a beautiful pink butterfly that will always a have a very special in many person's hearts.
Here is a quote that may be fitting for you're "angle Sammy".
" The difference between people and angles is only in our point of view. The path of an angel is basically the same as the path of an ordinary person - it's just a different altitude."
with love,
xoxox
Shari, Dave and Becca,
We just wanted to write to tell you how sorry we are for your loss. While we didn't personally know Sammy, we share the very special bond of CYJ with her. Our thoughts are with your family and Sammy will remain in our prayers always.
Love,
Melissa Rappaport and Mikey Glazer, CYJ Alumni
Dave, Shari and Becca,
Pam and I are here in Los Angeles thinking about Sammy – someone we didn’t know – and thinking about the two of you as parents and what you are going through. Unfortunately, it seems as if we have all lost someone to cancer…….. no matter what their age may be. Pam and I do not have children and we can not even fathom what you are feeling accept that Sammy is in a better place now and out of pain.
I think we all know that it will take some time before life gets back to some kind of routine…but one of the things you should know is that we have your back and all of us are here for you anytime. Some of us have never met, some of us will hope to meet …but in the meantime, our prayers and thoughts are with you. We share our love and passion for life with you and hope that Sammy is happy and comfortable now. We only send our love and friendship.
Love always,
Robby and Pam Jacobs
CYJ
PS We can be reached 24/7 at (310) 798-3414 or jakecubs@hotmail.com
To the Rotman Family,
Two years ago as we were leaving Shari you came over and we cried in my driveway as you shared the news about Sammy. I've been checking the blog from time to time down here in VA and my prayers were with you and your family throughout the entire journey. It sounds like Sammmy touched so many lives and gave others with cancer such strength and hope. You really are an amazing family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Sending lots of love, The Weaver Family
To the entire Rotman Family,
We send our deepest condolences, thoughts and prayers to you all. We thank you for sharing your beautifully written blog for all to see and to share your journey in some way.
Through your written words, everyone's posts, and all that Erica shared about Sammy over the summer and these last weeks, we are in awe of her shining, strong spirit. You are a true model of grace, courage, strength, and deep family love.
Wishing you the strength to get through these unimaginably difficult days ahead.
The Titlebaums
Shari and the Rotman family, my thoughts and prayers are with you. You and your family are stong and have a lot of love and support. Sammy is now your angel, she will always be on your shoulder.
Tammy Montambeault
Hi Rotmans,
Just wanted you to know we're thinking of you this morning, and sending you all our warm thoughts and hugs...wishing you a day surrounded by love and support.
Love,
The Forrestalls
Rotman family:
Please know that you have my sincerest condolences for your loss.
In the brief time we shared with you and Sammy at Massachusetts General Hospital as roommates, we felt a strong bond with you.
Sammy will always be in my thoughts and prayers and I wish you all the strength and support you can muster.
All my best,
Mike Williams
Shari, Becca and David,
Our prayers are with you all in this most difficult time! I know that Justine and Sammy did not get together again after the hospital but Sammy made a lasting impression on Justine for life! Justine told me this morning that she is the bravest person she has ever known and that she is happy she is not in pain anymore. Justine also said, she knows that she will be one of her angels!!
Justine also wanted me to let you know that Sammy is the bravest person she knows and that Sammy has helped her through many of her days when life seemed so hard. I look forward to seeing you and hugging you all and thank you for such a beautiful daugther. I know she has taught many people a lesson a two about life!! If there is anything at all we can do please let us know, we would be more than happy to help you!
Much love to you all,
Jane and Justine Williams
978-974-9227
I sent Sammy a note on Wed. at 2:00...It didn't get to the blog, it just disappeared into space...gone.
Now I think I know where it went..
Sammy and I are going to meet at DQ, just like you said. As heartbreaking as this is, Becca knew, and Sammy's spirit is in and surrounds us all. With love, Jude
Hey Rotman Family - This is Janey's cousin Margie. I have been following your journey through Janey and you are all inspiring. I can't even tell you how sorry I am. Becca - You are an amazing sister and you will always have Sammy with you as you go through what will be a very long and special life. You will feel her with you every step of the way. She may even be a pain in the neck once in a while! I'm thinking of all of you.
Margie
David, Shari and Becca
We only just met Sammy in February. We knew Becca from Tokyo Joe's days. Sammy was a vivacious and upbeat young lady...never one to complain. We had a blast at the Friendly's cast party after Guys & Dolls as she sat at our table bantering with her dad and us. When Elena saw her photo and article in the Bow Times she pulled out Sammy's cell# and reminded me again that they needed to get together to play. The calls went unanswered. I had no idea what to tell Elena and figured life just got busy. Little did we know. I am sitting here alternately crying and smiling as emotions run through me. Tonight I will have to break the news to Elena. She may want to leave her own message. We are so glad we got to know Sammy even for such a short time. We'll be seeing her on the other side in the "Father's house." Our love and prayers go out to you all.
The Coventry's
Duane, Diane & Elena
You guys-
so much is going on it is overwhelming.
But i just want to say,
every breath taken, and every heart pounding is thanks to Sammy,
She is a miracle.
SHIRA
Shari, David and Becca,
Words seem inadequate to express the sadness we feel about Sammy’s passing. It is abundantly clear that her spirit touched so many. May your hearts find courage, comfort and peace.
“Perhaps they are not the stars, but rather openings in Heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know that are happy.” Author Unknown
The Zepeda Family - Debbie (Finkle), Scott and Zoe
Sammy was a very great girl and she still is and what becca did for her was the kindes thing ever
Shari, David and Becca,
I am so very sorry for your loss. Meeting Sammy this summer was one of the best things that has every happened to me. She taught me so much in such a short time. She taught me how to be brave, confident, happy, and she taught me how to live.... She will remain in my heart forever. Sammy inspired many people at CYJ this summer. I am so happy that I was able to be a part of her life.
Becca, you are so wonderful and brave. You truely have inspired me to be a better sister and friend. My thoughts are with you every day.
"as long as we live, they too shall live, for they are apart of us, as we remember them"
Sara Zakar
CYJ Head of Girls Area
I did not know Sammy personally, however, whenever I picked my son up at school, I would see her come down the hall with the biggest, brighitest most infectious smile ever...you could not help but smile yourself. Sammy touched everyone, even those of us who never had the pleasure of knowing this beautiful girl personally.....Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.....
Rotman and Libenson Family,
You are all in my prayers. God holds Sammy, and every one of you, in the palm of His hand.
With love and peace,
A Chickering Friend
Rotman Family,
Thank you for sharing Sammy with us this summer at CYJ. She was an amazing girl and touched so many lives in the short weeks she spent at camp. She will never be forgotten and I hope Becca will continue to come to camp every summer to be a part of the amazing CYJ family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love,
Steph Machado
Dear Rotman Family,
I am thinking of you all often and can't help but think of Sammy's bright smile and wonderful spunk. I saw her often last year when she was in third grade- I teach in the room next to where she was. I always marveled at her great attitude and determination. She is certainly an angel! Elaine Mielcarz
Hi Rotmans,
I'm sure you didn't sign up to be an inspiration and source of strength to all you know (and some you don't). But that's what's happened. I hope all the love you're getting back surrounds you and acts as a cushion during these days.
Sammy and all of you have been top of mind and heart these past few days, even more than before. We all are with you, always.
Debbi, Andrew, Logan, Milo and Eli
Our Deepest sympathy for all of you . Our thoughts and prayers are with your family
The Genests
"The tide recees, but leaves behind bright seashells on the sand.
The sun goes down, but gentle warmth still lingers on the land.
The music stops and yet, it echoes on in sweet refrains...
For every joy that passes, something beautiful remains"
My thoughts and prayers are with you every moment.
Love,
A fan of Sammy
our condolences to you and your family- sammy was a true fighter this summer and taught us a lot. We thank her for that.
With Love,
Friends from YJ
thinking of you... Sammy's memory lives on.... She is special angel looking down...
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