well dear girl, just a note to say that being in that room friday with you and without you was difficult for all. it was a magnificant evening as you well know, but it was so hard for so many. we should not have been there doing what we were doing without you. i can not say enough good about your family, i so want to ease their pain.
Sharon, Torey & TJ; I’m so glad that the ball was a huge success, I wasn’t able to attend but I hope to do so at the next one. I’m looking forward to seeing pictures on the website which I know TJ will do a great job with. Always, in my thoughts & heart.
Dear Sammie (little), I read your quote, and felt the sadness in your note on the 4th of July. I’m so glad you wrote it. I want you to know I went to the Tinkerball for all of you, and believe me, Jacquie came farther than anyone could have ever imagined. She will never fall off the face of the Earth. She is “Tink” remember 🙂 Check out the pictures on the website, and those cupcakes, pure magic 🙂 Faith’s mom
Hi there! I emailed this to the jacquieforall email, but I wanted to let all the foundation supporters know about the event also. I, along with a few friends fromhigh school, decided at the beginning of the summer that we wanted to run a 5K race. We haven’t ever done long distance running before, so a 5K is our first attempt at anything of the sort. We began searching for races in the area towards the end of the summer, and came across the PERFECT race to do. It is the Mississippi Mudds 5K river race on August 15th along the Niagara River in Tonawanda. It is perfect because it benefits the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, I couldn’t have asked for something better. I know that in comparison to some of the races people have been doing, 3.1 miles isn’t too far, but its a challenge for us and we are going to do it with Jacquie in mind and as our motivation. My reason for posting this here is that we want to get tshirts made to honor Jacquie while we run and so I thought I would see if anyone else was planning to participate and would like to get a tshirt. We just want to be able to show as much Jacquie support as possible and would like to order larger quantities if people are interested. If anyone is interested in the race or in ordering a shirt, feel free to send me an email at mindylong01@gmail.com. Sharon, Torey and Tj–Everything you are doing with this foundation is a beautiful tribute to Jacquie. This is a small way we would like to honor her as well. Please know you are in my thoughts every single day. <3 Mindy
Sharon, Torey, and TJ, I wish I could have been at the Tinker-Ball, but even thougth I could not make it, please do not think that I was not thinking about you all day (as I constantly find myself doing). I think about the days that have passed, and the days that are still to come. Sharon, I still count the days too and find myself cringing over the “1 Year” marks of everything. You can always count the days, and none of us will ever mind…your Jax was well worth always counting days for. Sending my love and prayers always, God bless, Casey
I’m thrilled (and not surprised to here at all) to hear what a success the first annual tinkerball was! Jacquie just like you… your family is made up of truly amazing people. I thought of you all this weekend and I can’t wait to see pictures 🙂 I hope to make it up there next year for it! Jacquie I miss you doll. Love,Marietta
Jacquie’s Sharon, (That is how Elise still refers to you and we always will) you will forever be her wonderful mom…clearly this is not how it was supposed to go, but you continue to love, honor, care for and hold her tightly. I can see the beauty and the magic of the Tinker-ball through your description and my moms play by play. More than ever my heart aches for you, Torey, TJ, Bree and your family. I send you strength and courage to continue to take steps each day through the toughest of moments. Simply know, we are still caring and will forever care, remember and miss.Thinking of the Hirsch 4 with love and hugs. Sara and family
Sharon, Torey, TJ and to all who helped put the tinkerball together:the ball was a huge success! thank you Torey, Sharon, TJ for letting Jeremy and i be a part of it. I’ve known you all for so many years, and you are family to me. I miss Jax so much. The ball made her proud, and she was there with all of us friday night, and i know she had a blast! It’s amazing how many lives she touched, and the emotion and love that was in that room for her and for all of the family. I just wanted to say that I love you all, and thank you for letting us be included in that magical night. We can’t wait for next year! love always, Keesha
Dear Sharon, Torey, and TJ, I just wanted to say thank you so so so much for having me be apart of the TinkerBall. Last night was not only a total blast but seeing all of the people there really shows how many people love Jacquie and will never ever forget her, and how much people are willing to sacrafice to support Jacquie’s foundation. I was truely amazed and the whole entire night was an amazing success. Unfortuantly though when I came home, I just kind of cried. For two reasons actually. One reason was because watching the slide show last night and the girls performing the dance was really sad. I mean ask Torey, I was standing right next to him with tears continuously rolling down my cheeks. I know, I really didn’t know Jacquie super well, but like Joe Mesi said, he didn’t even know Jax, and he feels so connected with this whole situaton. Jacquie is such an amazing person, and I think that if you know someone or you dont, it doesnt matter. It is this simple. Knowing what she has accomplished and what she could have accomplished, and seeing how nice and giving she was you automatically sympathize because she was a young woman who had so much going for her and had to have her life taken away. The second reason was because I was so sad that the night was over. I didnt want it to end. I have been looking foward to that night for so long and now it is over. Anyways, the night was perfect and I dont think it could have been any better no matter how hard we tried. 🙂 I love you all and thanks so much for welcoming me, because last night was an amazing expirience, and I will never ever forget it. With so much love, and ALWAYS believing, Natalie Maranto 🙂
big, today i heard Swim on the radio!!!! it’s not a “radio” song — it was on the alternative rock station so it was definitely you pulling a few strings. ali even agreed.. she hasn’t heard it either… just in time to remind me that i need to keep on keeping on. i love you, i miss you, i wish i could be there tonight. sharon – i’m sure you will look absolutely stunning tonight in whatever you are wearing. and just think that every kiss on the cheek and every brush of the arm from jacquie’s favorite people are all a little bit of jac with you. i know it will never measure up — but keep your head up tonight. this is a special night for everyone and i love you all so so very much<3
i feel like almost everytime i write on here, it is me expressing how upset and sorry i am that i can’t attend one of the amazing events held in jacquie’s honor. i haven’t rsvped yes or no about tinker ball because i was somehow hoping that i could manage to squeeze it in last minute. i am the maid of honor for a fellow sorority sister, meagan santini, and back in early spring we set the date for her bridal shower and bachelorette party in rochester for july 25th. when i found out about tinker ball on july 24th i was telling myself that i could somehow manage to get all of the stuff for the wedding done, then go to tinker ball, and be back in rochester to set up etc. for the shower. but the closer the shower got, the more apparent it became that it is just not realistic. i am more than bummed about it. i know how important this day is to everyone who cares for jacquie and who wants to carry on her legacy, and i want so badly to be a part of it, and to experience it. please know that i will be there in heart and spirit. yesterday was my dad’s birthday. 3rd birthday without him. and when a lot of things are getting easier, there are some that just never will get easier. sharon, it has been over 2.5 years for me and i still have my hard/bad days. so don’t beat yourself up about your grieving process. it is just that, a process. a long, drawn out, lifelong process. i know tomorrow night will be beautiful, and will sparkle with that special twinkle that jac had everywhere she went. i wish so badly i could be there. know you are all in my heart. love, alicia <3
Hello Hirschs!I haven’t posted in a little while – not because I haven’t been thinking of you and reading your posts. I hope you got my email and were able to look at some of the pictures from the Relay for Life events. All of the events are over for the season and our region raised nearly 1 million dollars for the fight against cancer. YAY!Jax was represented at each Relay event. Her picture was in many slide shows and her name and picture on many luminaria bags. We also had bone marrow drives at each event and Jacquie’s story was told over and over and everyone who heard it was inspired. I hope that you have an AMAZING Tinker-ball this weekend. I’m so sorry I can’t be there. I am in my little’s wedding this weekend and will be at the rehearsal dinner Friday night. I know that it will be amazing though and everyone will feel Jacquie there. I think of you everyday. And I think of Jacquie even more. She inspires me constantly. Love you guys .<3 Sadie
I am so glad I can see you guys almost everyday. I’ve grown so close to this family over the recent years. You are amazing!I BELIEVE.Tink’s bracelet never leaves my wrist whether I’m working in the gym, out with my friends, at formal events, or competing in meets…its always on my wrist. <3 Demi Xenos <3
Jax…I walk through life every day with you and Elly in the peripheral of my mind. It seems thoughts of the two of you are never far from my consciousness. And I try. I try SO HARD to remember the perspective and energy with which you two tackled life, and I try my damndest to tackle every day in that same fashion. I don’t always succeed, even trying as hard as I do. I lose sight of things at times. Still…the important part is I am better than before.You and Elly were so beautiful Jax. Beautiful outside, but beautiful as well where it counts most: in your souls. I often wonder if your beauty on the outside was simply a reflection of what was inside…and so, we were all so aware of it.I admire you, I love you. I am a different person because of you.
GOOD MORNING!! Two more full days then it’s FRIDAY!! The first ever TINKERBALL…I know everyone is as excited as I am!! I am in awe of your whole family for everything you have done to put this event together! I know that Friday will be smooth sailing and that the event will be amazing!! Can’t wait for it!! Always Believing!! xoxo Ashley
Dear Sharon, Torey, & TJ:I wanted to post here and share a short story with your family. As you rightfully know, Torey was my coach in High School Gymnastics and during that time I had watched Jacquie grow up as well, and enjoyed her presence when practicing. Last week I watched (for the first time ever) the Disney movie “Tinkerbell” with my 3 year old daughter. I wouldn’t admit it to the others in the room, or my daughter, but the real reason there were teardrops on my face by the end of the movie was that I was thinking of Jacquie. I had heard of the “Tink” references in the past, but I totally “got it” after watching that animated movie for the first time. That movie touched me in a special way, knowing the significance it has to your family and Jacquie. Dare I say: I enjoyed it 100x more than my 3 year old did, thinking back to my memories of Jacquie from ~11-15 years ago.I still am trying to meet up with TJ one of these weeks at the RR Carhop, I have been trying to make it out there but have been busy. It would be nice to catch up with him again and see his camaro, thinking back to what I remember what it started as, long ago! (I had a 91 [teal green] V6 RS Camaro back in the day too!)Take care, and I am thinking of you guys!! I hope that the upcoming Tinker Ball is a resounding success! –Doug TWNHS 95
Good Evening!!! I am sorry I haven’t written on here in a while…to be honest I have not sat down to write because over the past 2 months I have literally felt Jacquie in everything that I have been doing! I know she was at the Triathlon cheering us all on the whole way…every single member of our team (Team in Training for the Leukemia Society) did an amazing job we all finished before our goal times with minutes to spare. Renee Bowers made me a laminated picture of Jacquie to wear on my race belt and my sister got an amazing shot of it so I have to send it to you!! Then in starting my new job, all the women know Jacquie’s story and have even donated to Jumping for Jax!! And of course at the Rascall Flatts concert!!! Need I say more of course Jacquie was there…maybe a bit jealous but there lol!! Jacquie is always been in my heart, I know she is always with me but I have felt her on my shoulder in almost everything I have been doing lately…I am lucky to have this feeling!! I can’t wait for the Tinkerball it is going to be amazing!!! I LOVE YOU!!! XOXOX Ashley
Tomorrow will be 365 days since I have seen Jacquie’s beautiful smile. In many ways it makes me terribly sad, but I can remember that day ever so clearly. I remember that I tried to donate for Jax, but my veins just couldn’t support the pheresis process, and I cried as Dad and I walked to Jax’s room. I wanted so bad to help Jax and I felt like I failed because I couldn’t do this one simple thing. God gave me another way to help her, and this I am just realizing. I brought Jax some bananas because I knew they would make her laugh. As I handed them to her, I can recall Torey and Dad’s faces look at us in question as we began to laugh, I mean why would a banana be so funny? Jax and I managed to get out the story of “eeking” before tears from laughter ran down our faces. That is how I will always remember Jacquie; laughing so hard she was crying. It was a beautiful sound and sight, and one that I think of daily. As I drove through Geneseo on Tuesday, I “eeked” my peel in the same spot where Jax did every day on our way to school…right in the middle of a group of geese. I even saw two other “eeks” from others on my travels that day and I couldn’t help but laugh and should out “EEK!” just for Jax. I love you and miss you dearly Jax, and you are always in my heart.
Sharon,I will never get sick of reading your updates… you and your family are an inspiration to all of us, and continue to show just how amazing Jacquie is.Jax,All my kids look at my bracelet and ask what it is for, and I get to share your amazing story with each and every one of them. Keep shining down on all of us, especially your family… we could all use some of that tink strength.
Hi Sharon,I know its still so hard for you. We are all here for you. I am going to see Rascal Flatts this weekend at Wrigley field and I will bring Jacquie with me in my heart. I hope that one day things will get easier for you although I know things will never be the same. Please let me or one of the girls know if there is anything we can do to help you through this. Still believing,Liz
i look at your window every day….i see your star every day…i hold your family so tightly every moment. i try, but oh it is so hard sometimes to understand, to believe, to even smile, and then i remember that smile of yours …….. i love you dear girl.
Jacquie will always be a part of the Feldman’s. We love her and all of you. I want you to know, she is thought of so often in our house with love. We have amazing memories of her beautiful face and wonderful spirit. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. We will always love you all.
I went to the Rascal Flatts concert Saturday night. STAND was the second song they played. I believe Jacquie helped keep the rain away. It was a beautiful night and it made me feel like I was in my 20’s again watching everybody dance in their Western hats and boots. I don’t know if I would ever have had the style to wear my cowboy boots with shorts. The young girls who did certainly looked cute! But none of them were as cute as Jacquie in the picture of her as Mustang Sally. Just letting you know that my thoughts are with you!
I don’t think of all the misery but of the beauty that still remains. The fact that Jacquie is really gone still pops in my head every single day. When I think of death, I usually think of sadness and grief, and there was when Jax passed, but because of Jacquie having cancer, and dying, she has taught so many people including me that life is a gift from God and that it can be turned upside down in a matter of seconds. She IS my hero, and I will never ever know a young woman like her who has taught me to be a better human being. I now look at life so completly different now, and I owe to Jaquie. 🙂 TINKERBALL IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!! Always and forever believing, NATALIE MARANTO
well i am back from spain & finally over the plague aka stomach flu. i’m sorry i was so MIA during my time in spain, i just wasn’t at my computer much, as can be expected. but just because i didn’t write doesn’t mean all of you weren’t on my mind 24/7, and i mean 24/7. i wore my beautiful new Jacquie for ALL tee shirt (that Sharon gave me before I left) all around Spain with pride. So many people asked who the beautiful woman on the back of my shirt was, and I had the chance to tell so many new friends all about Jacquie and her story. Also, while I was in Spain, I only had a limited clothing selection to choose from, as I did not want my suitcase to be over the weight limit and have to pay extra. So I wore what I brought numerous times, and my friends began to notice a trend: at least every 3 days I was wearing something purple! And I looked in my closet, and they were right! Subconsciously in this past year I have collected so many new purple articles of clothing: dresses, tank tops, tee shirts, etc. And there was no question in my mind how that happened. Still to this day, so many things that I do are inspired by or guided by Jac. Even though it has been 10 months, she still is such a large part of my life and of who I am. I have to go but I just wanted to let you know how much I love you all, and how strong you all are. I am constantly amazed and awed at all you do. I love you all so much and keep you in my heart at all times. Much much much love. xoxo <3 alicia <3 xoxo
I just wanted to send you guys a hug <3 "If ever there is a tomorrow we’re not together...There is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we’re apart...I’ll always be with you." Jax is still with you in your heart, although I truly know the pain of not being able to have her physically next to you... I think about you often. Love, Lauren
Jax- There is not a day that goes by that I don’t think about you. You are definitely still here with us because things happen all the time that seem to be little signs from you. Like the tink picture we found at the sorority house and so many other things I experience. The first time I met you I just wanted to be around you more! I looked up to and wanted to be like you. You are just that kind of person that people want to be around! You are beautiful, fun, smart, strong, and caring; I have looked up to you ever since I met you and I still look up to you today. You and my big are why I joined sdt and I am so thankful for that. You are also the reason i have the wondeful nickname of CZ : ) I am really sad that I didn’t get to know you better but I am just so grateful that I knew you. I know we could have been really good friends. Thats the part that hurts the most for me. I wish we just could have more time together. I just want you to know that you have a huuugeee impact on my life and that I am praying and thinking of you and your family everyday. Love & miss you always Jax- Cz
Sharon, I just read your update from yesterday, and as always it tugged at my heart. Tuesday evening, July 7th, a very special moment occurred at our home, and all members of our household were there to embrace it. Out of such a gloomy evening came a beautiful rainbow. The first thing out of my mouth was Jacquie’s name, and it touched our hearts. I found it ironic as I read your update, and you referenced Tuesday’s date. It suddenly occurred to me that Tuesday was the day that the rainbow came to vist us. We all stood and watched it with wonder after Jillian pointed it out in the sky. It gave me a warm feeling of Jacquie’s presence as a message in the sky for all to see. I can only imagine your sorrow as you fight to get through each day. My heart aches for all of you. I hope that my message of Tuesday’s rainbow can offer you hope that Jacquie’s love and beautiful smile have continued to shine through her “Rainbow Connection”. My love and God’s Blessings, Jennifer
Hey Hirsch family. Im not sure if you were aware or not but i moved up to alex bay for the summer, i’ve been here for about 3 weeks now. my sister elyse hung the tinkerball posters up for me, and that is also why i havn’t picked up my tinkerball ticket yet! but i’ll be there!! I hope everyone is doing well and that you guys had a great 4th! Love, Caitlin
my beautiful big, i can’t even think about the world in the same way anymore since you’ve passed, and for that i feel almost grateful. just like sharon so eloquently put (in so many words) – why can’t people just realize that the petty things are just not worth it in the long run?! i go to sleep with sadness, and when i dream of you, jac, i wake up with a happiness that can last for days. this last dream of you was a few days ago and i was just telling my mother.. my goodness, jac, it could have been us on some monday night just goin out for some dinner. you were talking to me and telling me advice that you knew i wouldnt take – but told me that it was alright just the same because i would learn from everything i did.. and i was crying because even in my dream i knew that you weren’t actually there, and i just wanted to tell everyone that you were really here with me, and in my dream i remember jac i remember so clearly what you said.. “just say good bye to ME, sammie.. just tell ME you love me and that is enough” and just like that even though i woke up crying because it was so real, i just feel like it’s enough to know that you are there in my dreams and i don’t need to rationalize it to anyone. ugh, jac. there were so many more things i needed you next to me for. there were so many more duties you had for me as a big, and me for your little, and i just feel cheated that those chances are far, far, gone. i wish tonight could be a motivational wall post – something to brighten spirits, but my heart is just BROKEN tonight and just when i think it’s getting better, somehow it snaps back into disrepair. i wish you were here. my god, i wish you were here with me with all of my heart and soul. if i could give one thing in the universe it would be to see you one more time, but god.. it is with the inspirational words of your family that i know that your spirit really DOES live on and i dont need to rationalize seeing you in my dreams to anyone else because other people can feel you too. my big.. i can’t even put into words all the things you’ve done for me. and im sorry that i took up so much space but i’ve just been holding my heart in for so long i had to let it out. there’s a song, jac, that ali, kelly and i found that we have printed out, that we can refer to whenever we’re feeling like we can’t go on… and it’s called SWIM and it’s so fitting because you did swim and because it just .. helps me through everything. so i leave us all with this quote… i miss you so much. “you’ve gotta swim, swim for your life swim for the music that saves you when you’re not so sure you’ll survive yea you gott swim and swim when it hurts the whole world is watching you havent come this far to fall off the earth the currents will pull you away from your love just keep your head above i found a tidal wave begging to tear down the dawn memories like bullets, they fired at me from a gun, I SWIM FOR BRIGHTER DAYS DESPITE THE ABSENSE OF SUN, choking on salt water, I’M NOT GIVING IN…. SWIM.” i know it was long.. but you have time. my god i love you so much. and you, too, sharon<3 -your little forever.
I just wanted to let you know, I tabbed over to the “about us” link and I know Jax is so happy for all the hard work , love and devotion her family gives to make her wish come true. I want to let you all know we will always “BELIEVE”. You all are amazing and it is, and always will be very important to all of us. We miss you Jax! xoxo
Dear Hirsch family, I am so happy that the Ride for Roswell went well, and I really hope to do it next time 🙂 Yesterday though, I went to go see the new movie, My Sister’s Keeper”, and I am not really sure if you are familiar with what it is about, so I will just explain. Okay, so a little girl is diagnosed with leukimia at a young age and the parents decide to have another child to be a doner of the girl who has leukimia. throughout the movie the sister who is the doner decides that she does not want to give her sister her kidneys, and if she doesnt then he sister will die. towards the end though everyone learned that the only reason why the sister didnt want to give her sister her kidneys is because the child who has cancer wants to die because she realizes how much her family is going through with her being sick. i cried at many points of the movie. sometimes because it was just too sad to watch, but other times because i remembered Jacquie a lot. Now I have a real idea of what you all had to go through. I saw the family in the movie and it looked so difficult and sad. So I just thought that I shold of shared that with you. ~Natalie Maranto
Jax,This past Saturday was my first time riding in the ride for roswell. I was so nervous that I wouldn’t last the whole 30 miles and that I would disapppoint you. Our opening song to start the 30 mile group was “I will survive” by Gloria Gaynor…my sisters and I looked at each other, wiped our tears and laughed and said “Jacquie’s with us…let’s do this”! There were a few times in the ride where I didn’t think I could keep going but then I would think about you and everything you went through for almost a year and I knew I couldn’t let you down! I finished the ride in about 2 1/2 hours! I couldn’t walk for the next 2 days but I did it and I hope you were there with us, watching and probably laughing at us! I’m so glad and feel so honored to have been able to ride in your memory and will do it again every year with the team! After the ride was over some guys said to me and my sister how enjoyable their ride was because everywhere they looked they saw your beautiful face on someone’s shirt…they were amazed by how many people were there to support you…they said it was so easy to ride when such a beautiful girl’s face was everywhere! I thought that was so sweet and it makes me so proud to tell everyone that you’re my cousin…and still the most beautiful person I know! I love you and miss you more than anything! Please stay close to the family…it’s not getting any easier without you! I love you always! You’re forever in my heart,Kerri
When I got home today, I saw that the Spring Geneseo Alumni newsletter was sitting on my desk. As I was flipping through it, I came to the “In memory” page. I really didn’t want to look at it at all but I forced myself to. Sure enough, the first name in the students section was Jax. I was so upset and mad that her name had to be there. I have been extremely upset with cancer, especially as of late with the news that it is taking over the body of yet another very close friend. It makes it even harder knowing that he is fighting as hard as he can, just like Jax did, but cancer just doesnt seem to care. Thank you to everyone who rode on Saturday in the Ride for Roswell and raised money to hopefully find a cure for this horrible horrible disease. God bless you all, Casey
Hello Jacquie, I will never understand and it will always hurt so many of our hearts…but I know that beautiful light up the room smile lights up the world around us especially when you know of all the wonderful things your mom, dad and T J are doing with the foundation. I also noticed a small touch of change to the website- TJ you really do a fantastic job with all your endeavors. You both have proud, wonderful parents and I wish the road they have to take was so different. Thinking of the Hirsch 4, always. Love, Sara
In seeing all of the yellow shirts yesterday at the Ride, I was very curious to see such a young girl for whom everyone was riding for. Being the same age as Jacquie, I could not imagine the hard times your family has gone through. Jacquie seemed to be a fighter from what I’ve read, and it has inspired me to begin giving blood and platelets at Roswell for patients such as Jacquie who need them. She is an inspiration. I am so sorry for your loss, but with the support of all us riders yesterday and in years to come, hopefully her foundation and our effort will help to cure this disease! Michelle
Thank you for the opportunity to ride yesterday for “the beautiful Jacquie Hirsch”, that’s what the announcer said when we left the gate. It was the most beautiful day, and a very easy 8 miles. A brilliant cardinal flew right in front of me, which to me, is always a signal of my grandmother’s presence, which made me smile. The geese aren’t as attractive 🙂 Jacquie has touched my heart so deeply, as she could easily have been my daughter, same pictures in carriages and sleds, in pools and at parties, but the difference is Jacquie’s spirit lives here, that is what has inspired me. My daughter lives, and she inspires me as well, only in a different dimension. Please direct me or print Jacquie’s words that were on the tent banner. Everyone should read them carefully, and you will fell her spirit as well! As I crossed the finish line, in about a half hour (I will ride farther next year) “Mustang Sally” started playing. I just smiled, and raised my hand to heaven, and said, thanks Jax 😉
I am so touched and honored to have been able to ride for my first time at the Ride for Roswell yesterday. It was such a powerful and moving day- what a perfect tribute to Jax. During the ride, it was very easy to spot all of the Jacquie for All riders, in the bright yellow shirts with Jax’s beautiful picture on the back. Many people commented to me on how much support she has and how many people turned out to honor her. To the Hirsch family- Thank you. I feel very lucky to have been welcomed in yesterday to your team. The tent was wonderful and you all worked so hard to honor the outstanding, beautiful woman that Jacquie is. TJ- Thanks for putting together the team and for doing all the work behind the scenes. We raised over $20,000 because of YOUR encouragement!Jax- It was very difficult putting on that team shirt and riding yesterday without you. It hit me right at the starting line. It made it more real to me than ever. I miss you like crazy but I know you were giving us the sunshine and motivation yesterday. I love you and miss you always.Always believing,Maryanne Heiman (M.A.)
Sharon… I just wanted to say that on my way into work today I saw the sign on the corner or Dodge and Heim. I saw the purple letters and the word BELIEVE and many tear streamed down my face. I know that everyday is hard. It is hard for me being a survivor I can not imagine what you and your family are going though. I just want you to know again, when I am having a bad day I come to this site and Jacquie and your family give me the gift of life everytime. I am going to stop into the gym soon and make a donation to her foundation. I know that does not seem like much, but I spent the duration of my youth in those 4 walls and I need to come see you. One thing cancer has taught me is never to take one minute for granted!! I am sorry you are still hurting so bad!! Please know my thoughts and prays are with you daily!! Christine
This was my first year in ride for roswell. Mid way through the race I noticed a tee-shirt with a picture on it and I knew that I had to ride faster to catch up and see the picture. As I approched one of the riders I just started to cry. I just need to say to the family and friends of Jacquie, what a beautiful young woman she was. The entire race I rode for my personal family and Jacquie. Her web sit is touching. God bless you.
I just wanted to say good luck to all the riders at Ride for Roswell today! I know Jacquie is looking down on all of you and is so proud and honored. Not a day goes by where I don’t think about Jax. I am so blessed to be able to call her a friend. I miss you everyday beautiful girl! Hirschs- If there’s one thing I’m sure of it’s that Jacquie is watching over each of you everyday. My love and prayers are with you always!
THE RIDE FOR ROSWELL IS TOMORROW!!!! 🙂 i am so excited and proud of how much money everyone has raised. i know this year is going to be really hard for everyone but just think how proud jax is going to be. i mean come on like over 80 riders riding for her! thats awsome! well i love you all and i’ll be seeing a lot of you bright and early:) love you jax we’ll be thinking of you the entire time. <3 always, Whitney Ps. TJ --i hope you know how amazing you are and how proud jax must be to have you as an older brother. You work so hard and do an amazing job honoring her.
We have been thinking of all of you this month. We know this is a very difficult one for you. Please know, as always, our love is here for you all! Jax will never leave your side, she will always be there! xox, Indie, Pat, Anjalie and Ryan
aunt val says:
July 29, 2009 at 5:02 pm -
well dear girl, just a note to say that being in that room friday with you and without you was difficult for all. it was a magnificant evening as you well know, but it was so hard for so many. we should not have been there doing what we were doing without you. i can not say enough good about your family, i so want to ease their pain.
Sue P says:
July 29, 2009 at 3:32 pm -
Sharon, Torey & TJ; I’m so glad that the ball was a huge success, I wasn’t able to attend but I hope to do so at the next one. I’m looking forward to seeing pictures on the website which I know TJ will do a great job with. Always, in my thoughts & heart.
Sigma Delta Tau mom says:
July 28, 2009 at 9:17 pm -
Dear Sammie (little), I read your quote, and felt the sadness in your note on the 4th of July. I’m so glad you wrote it. I want you to know I went to the Tinkerball for all of you, and believe me, Jacquie came farther than anyone could have ever imagined. She will never fall off the face of the Earth. She is “Tink” remember 🙂 Check out the pictures on the website, and those cupcakes, pure magic 🙂 Faith’s mom
Mindy Long says:
July 28, 2009 at 3:52 pm -
Hi there! I emailed this to the jacquieforall email, but I wanted to let all the foundation supporters know about the event also. I, along with a few friends fromhigh school, decided at the beginning of the summer that we wanted to run a 5K race. We haven’t ever done long distance running before, so a 5K is our first attempt at anything of the sort. We began searching for races in the area towards the end of the summer, and came across the PERFECT race to do. It is the Mississippi Mudds 5K river race on August 15th along the Niagara River in Tonawanda. It is perfect because it benefits the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, I couldn’t have asked for something better. I know that in comparison to some of the races people have been doing, 3.1 miles isn’t too far, but its a challenge for us and we are going to do it with Jacquie in mind and as our motivation. My reason for posting this here is that we want to get tshirts made to honor Jacquie while we run and so I thought I would see if anyone else was planning to participate and would like to get a tshirt. We just want to be able to show as much Jacquie support as possible and would like to order larger quantities if people are interested. If anyone is interested in the race or in ordering a shirt, feel free to send me an email at mindylong01@gmail.com. Sharon, Torey and Tj–Everything you are doing with this foundation is a beautiful tribute to Jacquie. This is a small way we would like to honor her as well. Please know you are in my thoughts every single day. <3 Mindy
Casey Stiokas says:
July 28, 2009 at 12:23 am -
Sharon, Torey, and TJ, I wish I could have been at the Tinker-Ball, but even thougth I could not make it, please do not think that I was not thinking about you all day (as I constantly find myself doing). I think about the days that have passed, and the days that are still to come. Sharon, I still count the days too and find myself cringing over the “1 Year” marks of everything. You can always count the days, and none of us will ever mind…your Jax was well worth always counting days for. Sending my love and prayers always, God bless, Casey
Marietta says:
July 27, 2009 at 9:28 pm -
I’m thrilled (and not surprised to here at all) to hear what a success the first annual tinkerball was! Jacquie just like you… your family is made up of truly amazing people. I thought of you all this weekend and I can’t wait to see pictures 🙂 I hope to make it up there next year for it! Jacquie I miss you doll. Love,Marietta
Sara (albuquerque) says:
July 27, 2009 at 10:50 am -
Jacquie’s Sharon, (That is how Elise still refers to you and we always will) you will forever be her wonderful mom…clearly this is not how it was supposed to go, but you continue to love, honor, care for and hold her tightly. I can see the beauty and the magic of the Tinker-ball through your description and my moms play by play. More than ever my heart aches for you, Torey, TJ, Bree and your family. I send you strength and courage to continue to take steps each day through the toughest of moments. Simply know, we are still caring and will forever care, remember and miss.Thinking of the Hirsch 4 with love and hugs. Sara and family
keesha says:
July 26, 2009 at 9:45 pm -
Sharon, Torey, TJ and to all who helped put the tinkerball together:the ball was a huge success! thank you Torey, Sharon, TJ for letting Jeremy and i be a part of it. I’ve known you all for so many years, and you are family to me. I miss Jax so much. The ball made her proud, and she was there with all of us friday night, and i know she had a blast! It’s amazing how many lives she touched, and the emotion and love that was in that room for her and for all of the family. I just wanted to say that I love you all, and thank you for letting us be included in that magical night. We can’t wait for next year! love always, Keesha
Anonymous says:
July 25, 2009 at 11:56 am -
Dear Sharon, Torey, and TJ, I just wanted to say thank you so so so much for having me be apart of the TinkerBall. Last night was not only a total blast but seeing all of the people there really shows how many people love Jacquie and will never ever forget her, and how much people are willing to sacrafice to support Jacquie’s foundation. I was truely amazed and the whole entire night was an amazing success. Unfortuantly though when I came home, I just kind of cried. For two reasons actually. One reason was because watching the slide show last night and the girls performing the dance was really sad. I mean ask Torey, I was standing right next to him with tears continuously rolling down my cheeks. I know, I really didn’t know Jacquie super well, but like Joe Mesi said, he didn’t even know Jax, and he feels so connected with this whole situaton. Jacquie is such an amazing person, and I think that if you know someone or you dont, it doesnt matter. It is this simple. Knowing what she has accomplished and what she could have accomplished, and seeing how nice and giving she was you automatically sympathize because she was a young woman who had so much going for her and had to have her life taken away. The second reason was because I was so sad that the night was over. I didnt want it to end. I have been looking foward to that night for so long and now it is over. Anyways, the night was perfect and I dont think it could have been any better no matter how hard we tried. 🙂 I love you all and thanks so much for welcoming me, because last night was an amazing expirience, and I will never ever forget it. With so much love, and ALWAYS believing, Natalie Maranto 🙂
lil sammie says:
July 24, 2009 at 4:13 pm -
big, today i heard Swim on the radio!!!! it’s not a “radio” song — it was on the alternative rock station so it was definitely you pulling a few strings. ali even agreed.. she hasn’t heard it either… just in time to remind me that i need to keep on keeping on. i love you, i miss you, i wish i could be there tonight. sharon – i’m sure you will look absolutely stunning tonight in whatever you are wearing. and just think that every kiss on the cheek and every brush of the arm from jacquie’s favorite people are all a little bit of jac with you. i know it will never measure up — but keep your head up tonight. this is a special night for everyone and i love you all so so very much<3
Alicia says:
July 23, 2009 at 1:38 pm -
i feel like almost everytime i write on here, it is me expressing how upset and sorry i am that i can’t attend one of the amazing events held in jacquie’s honor. i haven’t rsvped yes or no about tinker ball because i was somehow hoping that i could manage to squeeze it in last minute. i am the maid of honor for a fellow sorority sister, meagan santini, and back in early spring we set the date for her bridal shower and bachelorette party in rochester for july 25th. when i found out about tinker ball on july 24th i was telling myself that i could somehow manage to get all of the stuff for the wedding done, then go to tinker ball, and be back in rochester to set up etc. for the shower. but the closer the shower got, the more apparent it became that it is just not realistic. i am more than bummed about it. i know how important this day is to everyone who cares for jacquie and who wants to carry on her legacy, and i want so badly to be a part of it, and to experience it. please know that i will be there in heart and spirit. yesterday was my dad’s birthday. 3rd birthday without him. and when a lot of things are getting easier, there are some that just never will get easier. sharon, it has been over 2.5 years for me and i still have my hard/bad days. so don’t beat yourself up about your grieving process. it is just that, a process. a long, drawn out, lifelong process. i know tomorrow night will be beautiful, and will sparkle with that special twinkle that jac had everywhere she went. i wish so badly i could be there. know you are all in my heart. love, alicia <3
Sadie says:
July 23, 2009 at 1:18 pm -
Hello Hirschs!I haven’t posted in a little while – not because I haven’t been thinking of you and reading your posts. I hope you got my email and were able to look at some of the pictures from the Relay for Life events. All of the events are over for the season and our region raised nearly 1 million dollars for the fight against cancer. YAY!Jax was represented at each Relay event. Her picture was in many slide shows and her name and picture on many luminaria bags. We also had bone marrow drives at each event and Jacquie’s story was told over and over and everyone who heard it was inspired. I hope that you have an AMAZING Tinker-ball this weekend. I’m so sorry I can’t be there. I am in my little’s wedding this weekend and will be at the rehearsal dinner Friday night. I know that it will be amazing though and everyone will feel Jacquie there. I think of you everyday. And I think of Jacquie even more. She inspires me constantly. Love you guys .<3 Sadie
Demi X. says:
July 22, 2009 at 4:51 pm -
I am so glad I can see you guys almost everyday. I’ve grown so close to this family over the recent years. You are amazing!I BELIEVE.Tink’s bracelet never leaves my wrist whether I’m working in the gym, out with my friends, at formal events, or competing in meets…its always on my wrist. <3 Demi Xenos <3
ak says:
July 22, 2009 at 1:48 pm -
Jax…I walk through life every day with you and Elly in the peripheral of my mind. It seems thoughts of the two of you are never far from my consciousness. And I try. I try SO HARD to remember the perspective and energy with which you two tackled life, and I try my damndest to tackle every day in that same fashion. I don’t always succeed, even trying as hard as I do. I lose sight of things at times. Still…the important part is I am better than before.You and Elly were so beautiful Jax. Beautiful outside, but beautiful as well where it counts most: in your souls. I often wonder if your beauty on the outside was simply a reflection of what was inside…and so, we were all so aware of it.I admire you, I love you. I am a different person because of you.
Huer says:
July 22, 2009 at 8:41 am -
GOOD MORNING!! Two more full days then it’s FRIDAY!! The first ever TINKERBALL…I know everyone is as excited as I am!! I am in awe of your whole family for everything you have done to put this event together! I know that Friday will be smooth sailing and that the event will be amazing!! Can’t wait for it!! Always Believing!! xoxo Ashley
Ma Dukes says:
July 21, 2009 at 11:21 pm -
Jax , he’s home and no delays…. thank you very much. You will always be our ANGEL! XOXOXO
Haven’t posted in a while says:
July 20, 2009 at 3:19 pm -
Dear Sharon, Torey, & TJ:I wanted to post here and share a short story with your family. As you rightfully know, Torey was my coach in High School Gymnastics and during that time I had watched Jacquie grow up as well, and enjoyed her presence when practicing. Last week I watched (for the first time ever) the Disney movie “Tinkerbell” with my 3 year old daughter. I wouldn’t admit it to the others in the room, or my daughter, but the real reason there were teardrops on my face by the end of the movie was that I was thinking of Jacquie. I had heard of the “Tink” references in the past, but I totally “got it” after watching that animated movie for the first time. That movie touched me in a special way, knowing the significance it has to your family and Jacquie. Dare I say: I enjoyed it 100x more than my 3 year old did, thinking back to my memories of Jacquie from ~11-15 years ago.I still am trying to meet up with TJ one of these weeks at the RR Carhop, I have been trying to make it out there but have been busy. It would be nice to catch up with him again and see his camaro, thinking back to what I remember what it started as, long ago! (I had a 91 [teal green] V6 RS Camaro back in the day too!)Take care, and I am thinking of you guys!! I hope that the upcoming Tinker Ball is a resounding success! –Doug TWNHS 95
Casey Stiokas says:
July 19, 2009 at 11:10 pm -
I knew the guys of Rascal Flatts couldn’t pass up that story:) So glad it finally happened:-D
Sara (albuquerque) says:
July 17, 2009 at 7:22 pm -
Believing the Tinker-Ball will be a magnificent event in every way imaginable.Always remembering beautiful Jacquie and her family.Thinking of you all.
Huer says:
July 16, 2009 at 10:06 pm -
Good Evening!!! I am sorry I haven’t written on here in a while…to be honest I have not sat down to write because over the past 2 months I have literally felt Jacquie in everything that I have been doing! I know she was at the Triathlon cheering us all on the whole way…every single member of our team (Team in Training for the Leukemia Society) did an amazing job we all finished before our goal times with minutes to spare. Renee Bowers made me a laminated picture of Jacquie to wear on my race belt and my sister got an amazing shot of it so I have to send it to you!! Then in starting my new job, all the women know Jacquie’s story and have even donated to Jumping for Jax!! And of course at the Rascall Flatts concert!!! Need I say more of course Jacquie was there…maybe a bit jealous but there lol!! Jacquie is always been in my heart, I know she is always with me but I have felt her on my shoulder in almost everything I have been doing lately…I am lucky to have this feeling!! I can’t wait for the Tinkerball it is going to be amazing!!! I LOVE YOU!!! XOXOX Ashley
Casey Stiokas says:
July 16, 2009 at 8:55 pm -
Tomorrow will be 365 days since I have seen Jacquie’s beautiful smile. In many ways it makes me terribly sad, but I can remember that day ever so clearly. I remember that I tried to donate for Jax, but my veins just couldn’t support the pheresis process, and I cried as Dad and I walked to Jax’s room. I wanted so bad to help Jax and I felt like I failed because I couldn’t do this one simple thing. God gave me another way to help her, and this I am just realizing. I brought Jax some bananas because I knew they would make her laugh. As I handed them to her, I can recall Torey and Dad’s faces look at us in question as we began to laugh, I mean why would a banana be so funny? Jax and I managed to get out the story of “eeking” before tears from laughter ran down our faces. That is how I will always remember Jacquie; laughing so hard she was crying. It was a beautiful sound and sight, and one that I think of daily. As I drove through Geneseo on Tuesday, I “eeked” my peel in the same spot where Jax did every day on our way to school…right in the middle of a group of geese. I even saw two other “eeks” from others on my travels that day and I couldn’t help but laugh and should out “EEK!” just for Jax. I love you and miss you dearly Jax, and you are always in my heart.
Anonymous says:
July 16, 2009 at 4:21 pm -
Sharon,I will never get sick of reading your updates… you and your family are an inspiration to all of us, and continue to show just how amazing Jacquie is.Jax,All my kids look at my bracelet and ask what it is for, and I get to share your amazing story with each and every one of them. Keep shining down on all of us, especially your family… we could all use some of that tink strength.
Liz Fassl says:
July 16, 2009 at 10:42 am -
Hi Sharon,I know its still so hard for you. We are all here for you. I am going to see Rascal Flatts this weekend at Wrigley field and I will bring Jacquie with me in my heart. I hope that one day things will get easier for you although I know things will never be the same. Please let me or one of the girls know if there is anything we can do to help you through this. Still believing,Liz
aunt val says:
July 14, 2009 at 4:06 pm -
i look at your window every day….i see your star every day…i hold your family so tightly every moment. i try, but oh it is so hard sometimes to understand, to believe, to even smile, and then i remember that smile of yours …….. i love you dear girl.
Anonymous says:
July 14, 2009 at 8:42 am -
Jacquie will always be a part of the Feldman’s. We love her and all of you. I want you to know, she is thought of so often in our house with love. We have amazing memories of her beautiful face and wonderful spirit. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. We will always love you all.
Judy Redding says:
July 13, 2009 at 7:55 am -
I went to the Rascal Flatts concert Saturday night. STAND was the second song they played. I believe Jacquie helped keep the rain away. It was a beautiful night and it made me feel like I was in my 20’s again watching everybody dance in their Western hats and boots. I don’t know if I would ever have had the style to wear my cowboy boots with shorts. The young girls who did certainly looked cute! But none of them were as cute as Jacquie in the picture of her as Mustang Sally. Just letting you know that my thoughts are with you!
Anonymous says:
July 11, 2009 at 6:47 pm -
I don’t think of all the misery but of the beauty that still remains. The fact that Jacquie is really gone still pops in my head every single day. When I think of death, I usually think of sadness and grief, and there was when Jax passed, but because of Jacquie having cancer, and dying, she has taught so many people including me that life is a gift from God and that it can be turned upside down in a matter of seconds. She IS my hero, and I will never ever know a young woman like her who has taught me to be a better human being. I now look at life so completly different now, and I owe to Jaquie. 🙂 TINKERBALL IN LESS THAN TWO WEEKS!! Always and forever believing, NATALIE MARANTO
alicia says:
July 11, 2009 at 5:00 pm -
well i am back from spain & finally over the plague aka stomach flu. i’m sorry i was so MIA during my time in spain, i just wasn’t at my computer much, as can be expected. but just because i didn’t write doesn’t mean all of you weren’t on my mind 24/7, and i mean 24/7. i wore my beautiful new Jacquie for ALL tee shirt (that Sharon gave me before I left) all around Spain with pride. So many people asked who the beautiful woman on the back of my shirt was, and I had the chance to tell so many new friends all about Jacquie and her story. Also, while I was in Spain, I only had a limited clothing selection to choose from, as I did not want my suitcase to be over the weight limit and have to pay extra. So I wore what I brought numerous times, and my friends began to notice a trend: at least every 3 days I was wearing something purple! And I looked in my closet, and they were right! Subconsciously in this past year I have collected so many new purple articles of clothing: dresses, tank tops, tee shirts, etc. And there was no question in my mind how that happened. Still to this day, so many things that I do are inspired by or guided by Jac. Even though it has been 10 months, she still is such a large part of my life and of who I am. I have to go but I just wanted to let you know how much I love you all, and how strong you all are. I am constantly amazed and awed at all you do. I love you all so much and keep you in my heart at all times. Much much much love. xoxo <3 alicia <3 xoxo
Lauren Schilling says:
July 11, 2009 at 12:15 pm -
I just wanted to send you guys a hug <3 "If ever there is a tomorrow we’re not together...There is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we’re apart...I’ll always be with you." Jax is still with you in your heart, although I truly know the pain of not being able to have her physically next to you... I think about you often. Love, Lauren
sue says:
July 10, 2009 at 7:16 pm -
Jacquie, I am having a really hard time today and worrying for your family. Please come see me and give me some reassurance. I miss you!!!
Lindsey Czapla says:
July 10, 2009 at 1:48 pm -
Jax- There is not a day that goes by that I don’t think about you. You are definitely still here with us because things happen all the time that seem to be little signs from you. Like the tink picture we found at the sorority house and so many other things I experience. The first time I met you I just wanted to be around you more! I looked up to and wanted to be like you. You are just that kind of person that people want to be around! You are beautiful, fun, smart, strong, and caring; I have looked up to you ever since I met you and I still look up to you today. You and my big are why I joined sdt and I am so thankful for that. You are also the reason i have the wondeful nickname of CZ : ) I am really sad that I didn’t get to know you better but I am just so grateful that I knew you. I know we could have been really good friends. Thats the part that hurts the most for me. I wish we just could have more time together. I just want you to know that you have a huuugeee impact on my life and that I am praying and thinking of you and your family everyday. Love & miss you always Jax- Cz
Jennifer Warnes says:
July 9, 2009 at 1:36 pm -
Sharon, I just read your update from yesterday, and as always it tugged at my heart. Tuesday evening, July 7th, a very special moment occurred at our home, and all members of our household were there to embrace it. Out of such a gloomy evening came a beautiful rainbow. The first thing out of my mouth was Jacquie’s name, and it touched our hearts. I found it ironic as I read your update, and you referenced Tuesday’s date. It suddenly occurred to me that Tuesday was the day that the rainbow came to vist us. We all stood and watched it with wonder after Jillian pointed it out in the sky. It gave me a warm feeling of Jacquie’s presence as a message in the sky for all to see. I can only imagine your sorrow as you fight to get through each day. My heart aches for all of you. I hope that my message of Tuesday’s rainbow can offer you hope that Jacquie’s love and beautiful smile have continued to shine through her “Rainbow Connection”. My love and God’s Blessings, Jennifer
Caitlin Burgher says:
July 8, 2009 at 10:29 am -
Hey Hirsch family. Im not sure if you were aware or not but i moved up to alex bay for the summer, i’ve been here for about 3 weeks now. my sister elyse hung the tinkerball posters up for me, and that is also why i havn’t picked up my tinkerball ticket yet! but i’ll be there!! I hope everyone is doing well and that you guys had a great 4th! Love, Caitlin
lil sammie says:
July 4, 2009 at 3:22 am -
my beautiful big, i can’t even think about the world in the same way anymore since you’ve passed, and for that i feel almost grateful. just like sharon so eloquently put (in so many words) – why can’t people just realize that the petty things are just not worth it in the long run?! i go to sleep with sadness, and when i dream of you, jac, i wake up with a happiness that can last for days. this last dream of you was a few days ago and i was just telling my mother.. my goodness, jac, it could have been us on some monday night just goin out for some dinner. you were talking to me and telling me advice that you knew i wouldnt take – but told me that it was alright just the same because i would learn from everything i did.. and i was crying because even in my dream i knew that you weren’t actually there, and i just wanted to tell everyone that you were really here with me, and in my dream i remember jac i remember so clearly what you said.. “just say good bye to ME, sammie.. just tell ME you love me and that is enough” and just like that even though i woke up crying because it was so real, i just feel like it’s enough to know that you are there in my dreams and i don’t need to rationalize it to anyone. ugh, jac. there were so many more things i needed you next to me for. there were so many more duties you had for me as a big, and me for your little, and i just feel cheated that those chances are far, far, gone. i wish tonight could be a motivational wall post – something to brighten spirits, but my heart is just BROKEN tonight and just when i think it’s getting better, somehow it snaps back into disrepair. i wish you were here. my god, i wish you were here with me with all of my heart and soul. if i could give one thing in the universe it would be to see you one more time, but god.. it is with the inspirational words of your family that i know that your spirit really DOES live on and i dont need to rationalize seeing you in my dreams to anyone else because other people can feel you too. my big.. i can’t even put into words all the things you’ve done for me. and im sorry that i took up so much space but i’ve just been holding my heart in for so long i had to let it out. there’s a song, jac, that ali, kelly and i found that we have printed out, that we can refer to whenever we’re feeling like we can’t go on… and it’s called SWIM and it’s so fitting because you did swim and because it just .. helps me through everything. so i leave us all with this quote… i miss you so much. “you’ve gotta swim, swim for your life swim for the music that saves you when you’re not so sure you’ll survive yea you gott swim and swim when it hurts the whole world is watching you havent come this far to fall off the earth the currents will pull you away from your love just keep your head above i found a tidal wave begging to tear down the dawn memories like bullets, they fired at me from a gun, I SWIM FOR BRIGHTER DAYS DESPITE THE ABSENSE OF SUN, choking on salt water, I’M NOT GIVING IN…. SWIM.” i know it was long.. but you have time. my god i love you so much. and you, too, sharon<3 -your little forever.
Kim says:
July 1, 2009 at 8:51 pm -
I just wanted to let you know, I tabbed over to the “about us” link and I know Jax is so happy for all the hard work , love and devotion her family gives to make her wish come true. I want to let you all know we will always “BELIEVE”. You all are amazing and it is, and always will be very important to all of us. We miss you Jax! xoxo
Anonymous says:
July 1, 2009 at 8:44 pm -
Jax, I am so glad you got your “Tink” balloons. I miss you so much! Ma Dukes
Anonymous says:
June 30, 2009 at 12:20 pm -
Dear Hirsch family, I am so happy that the Ride for Roswell went well, and I really hope to do it next time 🙂 Yesterday though, I went to go see the new movie, My Sister’s Keeper”, and I am not really sure if you are familiar with what it is about, so I will just explain. Okay, so a little girl is diagnosed with leukimia at a young age and the parents decide to have another child to be a doner of the girl who has leukimia. throughout the movie the sister who is the doner decides that she does not want to give her sister her kidneys, and if she doesnt then he sister will die. towards the end though everyone learned that the only reason why the sister didnt want to give her sister her kidneys is because the child who has cancer wants to die because she realizes how much her family is going through with her being sick. i cried at many points of the movie. sometimes because it was just too sad to watch, but other times because i remembered Jacquie a lot. Now I have a real idea of what you all had to go through. I saw the family in the movie and it looked so difficult and sad. So I just thought that I shold of shared that with you. ~Natalie Maranto
cousin kerri says:
June 30, 2009 at 12:17 pm -
Jax,This past Saturday was my first time riding in the ride for roswell. I was so nervous that I wouldn’t last the whole 30 miles and that I would disapppoint you. Our opening song to start the 30 mile group was “I will survive” by Gloria Gaynor…my sisters and I looked at each other, wiped our tears and laughed and said “Jacquie’s with us…let’s do this”! There were a few times in the ride where I didn’t think I could keep going but then I would think about you and everything you went through for almost a year and I knew I couldn’t let you down! I finished the ride in about 2 1/2 hours! I couldn’t walk for the next 2 days but I did it and I hope you were there with us, watching and probably laughing at us! I’m so glad and feel so honored to have been able to ride in your memory and will do it again every year with the team! After the ride was over some guys said to me and my sister how enjoyable their ride was because everywhere they looked they saw your beautiful face on someone’s shirt…they were amazed by how many people were there to support you…they said it was so easy to ride when such a beautiful girl’s face was everywhere! I thought that was so sweet and it makes me so proud to tell everyone that you’re my cousin…and still the most beautiful person I know! I love you and miss you more than anything! Please stay close to the family…it’s not getting any easier without you! I love you always! You’re forever in my heart,Kerri
Casey Stiokas says:
June 29, 2009 at 9:32 pm -
When I got home today, I saw that the Spring Geneseo Alumni newsletter was sitting on my desk. As I was flipping through it, I came to the “In memory” page. I really didn’t want to look at it at all but I forced myself to. Sure enough, the first name in the students section was Jax. I was so upset and mad that her name had to be there. I have been extremely upset with cancer, especially as of late with the news that it is taking over the body of yet another very close friend. It makes it even harder knowing that he is fighting as hard as he can, just like Jax did, but cancer just doesnt seem to care. Thank you to everyone who rode on Saturday in the Ride for Roswell and raised money to hopefully find a cure for this horrible horrible disease. God bless you all, Casey
Sara (albuquerque) says:
June 29, 2009 at 6:57 pm -
Hello Jacquie, I will never understand and it will always hurt so many of our hearts…but I know that beautiful light up the room smile lights up the world around us especially when you know of all the wonderful things your mom, dad and T J are doing with the foundation. I also noticed a small touch of change to the website- TJ you really do a fantastic job with all your endeavors. You both have proud, wonderful parents and I wish the road they have to take was so different. Thinking of the Hirsch 4, always. Love, Sara
Anonymous says:
June 28, 2009 at 2:54 pm -
In seeing all of the yellow shirts yesterday at the Ride, I was very curious to see such a young girl for whom everyone was riding for. Being the same age as Jacquie, I could not imagine the hard times your family has gone through. Jacquie seemed to be a fighter from what I’ve read, and it has inspired me to begin giving blood and platelets at Roswell for patients such as Jacquie who need them. She is an inspiration. I am so sorry for your loss, but with the support of all us riders yesterday and in years to come, hopefully her foundation and our effort will help to cure this disease! Michelle
Sigma Delta Tau mom says:
June 28, 2009 at 12:41 pm -
Thank you for the opportunity to ride yesterday for “the beautiful Jacquie Hirsch”, that’s what the announcer said when we left the gate. It was the most beautiful day, and a very easy 8 miles. A brilliant cardinal flew right in front of me, which to me, is always a signal of my grandmother’s presence, which made me smile. The geese aren’t as attractive 🙂 Jacquie has touched my heart so deeply, as she could easily have been my daughter, same pictures in carriages and sleds, in pools and at parties, but the difference is Jacquie’s spirit lives here, that is what has inspired me. My daughter lives, and she inspires me as well, only in a different dimension. Please direct me or print Jacquie’s words that were on the tent banner. Everyone should read them carefully, and you will fell her spirit as well! As I crossed the finish line, in about a half hour (I will ride farther next year) “Mustang Sally” started playing. I just smiled, and raised my hand to heaven, and said, thanks Jax 😉
M.A. says:
June 28, 2009 at 9:35 am -
I am so touched and honored to have been able to ride for my first time at the Ride for Roswell yesterday. It was such a powerful and moving day- what a perfect tribute to Jax. During the ride, it was very easy to spot all of the Jacquie for All riders, in the bright yellow shirts with Jax’s beautiful picture on the back. Many people commented to me on how much support she has and how many people turned out to honor her. To the Hirsch family- Thank you. I feel very lucky to have been welcomed in yesterday to your team. The tent was wonderful and you all worked so hard to honor the outstanding, beautiful woman that Jacquie is. TJ- Thanks for putting together the team and for doing all the work behind the scenes. We raised over $20,000 because of YOUR encouragement!Jax- It was very difficult putting on that team shirt and riding yesterday without you. It hit me right at the starting line. It made it more real to me than ever. I miss you like crazy but I know you were giving us the sunshine and motivation yesterday. I love you and miss you always.Always believing,Maryanne Heiman (M.A.)
keesha says:
June 27, 2009 at 11:21 pm -
i believe.. i love and miss you jax, every day. hirsches- you mean the world to me. i love you all.
christine seiders says:
June 27, 2009 at 10:37 pm -
Sharon… I just wanted to say that on my way into work today I saw the sign on the corner or Dodge and Heim. I saw the purple letters and the word BELIEVE and many tear streamed down my face. I know that everyday is hard. It is hard for me being a survivor I can not imagine what you and your family are going though. I just want you to know again, when I am having a bad day I come to this site and Jacquie and your family give me the gift of life everytime. I am going to stop into the gym soon and make a donation to her foundation. I know that does not seem like much, but I spent the duration of my youth in those 4 walls and I need to come see you. One thing cancer has taught me is never to take one minute for granted!! I am sorry you are still hurting so bad!! Please know my thoughts and prays are with you daily!! Christine
Kelly says:
June 27, 2009 at 4:31 pm -
This was my first year in ride for roswell. Mid way through the race I noticed a tee-shirt with a picture on it and I knew that I had to ride faster to catch up and see the picture. As I approched one of the riders I just started to cry. I just need to say to the family and friends of Jacquie, what a beautiful young woman she was. The entire race I rode for my personal family and Jacquie. Her web sit is touching. God bless you.
Melissa Lewis says:
June 27, 2009 at 11:04 am -
I just wanted to say good luck to all the riders at Ride for Roswell today! I know Jacquie is looking down on all of you and is so proud and honored. Not a day goes by where I don’t think about Jax. I am so blessed to be able to call her a friend. I miss you everyday beautiful girl! Hirschs- If there’s one thing I’m sure of it’s that Jacquie is watching over each of you everyday. My love and prayers are with you always!
Anonymous says:
June 26, 2009 at 10:28 pm -
THE RIDE FOR ROSWELL IS TOMORROW!!!! 🙂 i am so excited and proud of how much money everyone has raised. i know this year is going to be really hard for everyone but just think how proud jax is going to be. i mean come on like over 80 riders riding for her! thats awsome! well i love you all and i’ll be seeing a lot of you bright and early:) love you jax we’ll be thinking of you the entire time. <3 always, Whitney Ps. TJ --i hope you know how amazing you are and how proud jax must be to have you as an older brother. You work so hard and do an amazing job honoring her.
The Christie’s says:
June 25, 2009 at 6:32 pm -
We have been thinking of all of you this month. We know this is a very difficult one for you. Please know, as always, our love is here for you all! Jax will never leave your side, she will always be there! xox, Indie, Pat, Anjalie and Ryan
Amanda Cavarella says:
June 24, 2009 at 10:39 pm -
Thinking and praying for you ALL each and everyday. Always believing <3Amanda