Without a Word_ How a Boy's Unspoken Love Changed Everything - Jill Kelly [85]
To Rick Kern, otherwise known as Maverick or Barney (short for Barnabas—Son of Encouragement): You, my dear friend and confidant, are a writer’s dream—especially a writer who never knew she could actually write. I don’t want to be on a team or fight a battle unless I know you’re going to be there, too. I can’t imagine writing anything unless I know you’ll be the first to get your hands on it. You’re an amazing writer, meticulous editor, super dad, gracious brother, and treasured friend. I thank my God every time I remember you… and I always will. Get some sleep.
To Patti Thomas: Are you kidding me? Can you believe we met when we were just thirteen years old and we’re still going strong? Patti, you are so talented. Thank you for dropping everything to take a good, long, hard look at Without a Word. I appreciate every tear you have cried to help make this memoir what it is.
To Team Hunter: From the depths of my heart I love you. We all miss you terribly. You’re family, and you always will be. Not a day goes by that I don’t think about our beloved Hunterboy, and not a day goes by that he’s not cheering each and every one of you on from the mighty grandstands of heaven. We will see him again, girls (and Robert, Justin, and Jaden)… we will. And when we do, let’s reunite the Hopesters and have a prayer party, too.
To the Hunter’s Hope Families: What a blessing it is to know you and share this most difficult journey with you. You are loved. There will be a grand reunion in heaven someday. I can hardly wait.
To our dear friends and ambassadors: You know who you are. Your companionship, confidence, love, and sincere desire to see our family rise above the heartbreak and devastation will never be forgotten. I love you and thank you for praying us through. P.S. Keep praying.
To my husband, Jim: To think that you and I have come this far… wow. I love you, Jim, and I always will. You may have been one of the toughest quarterbacks to play the game, but you were vulnerable enough to share this writing journey with me. Thank you so much for opening your heart and supporting me so eagerly. God has been so good to us. Thank you for walking through life with me. If I had the chance to do it all over again… I’d still pick you.
To my girls, Erin and Camryn: God must have been thinking about me when He made both of you. You girls make every day special. I love being your mother! Erin: Thank you for your suggestions and critiques. You are an excellent writer. Cam: Thank you for the “Keep Out While Mommy’s Writing” sign on my office door. I know it was hard, but thanks for being patient with me throughout this process. I wrote this book for you girls so you’ll always have an account of what our amazing God did for our entire family. Jesus rocks! I love you… more… just under Jesus.
To my mom and dad: I can’t even imagine where I’d be without your unconditional love, patience, and hope. Thank you for never giving up on me—never. You’ve blessed me beyond measure, and I thank God for you. Dad, it’s been hard, but I know God will bless you more than you can imagine someday. Mom, you are more like Jesus than anyone I know (except for HB, of course). For all the days you’ve taken care of me, I pray that I’ll be blessed to do the same for you. You’re an incredible woman. I love you both so much.
To my Hunterboy: Beyond words… immeasurably more than I could ever explain—I love you more than my heart can handle. See you soon, little buddy!
To Jesus: Nothing compares to You. You’re it. You’re everything. It’s all for You, because my life and all that I am and have—it’s all Yours. You’re my heart’s desire now and forever.
Appendix A
Hunter’s Hope Foundation
Hunter’s Hope Foundation was created to confront the critical need for information, awareness, and research in response to the threat of Krabbe disease and related Leukodystrophies. In addition, we strive to undergird and inspire Krabbe families as they adjust to the extreme demands of living with